Escalators and moving walkways provide convenience and efficiency in transportation, but it's important to prioritize safety while using them.
12 Vital Tips for Safely Navigating Escalators and Moving Walkways
According to Boost Security, here are 12 vital safety tips to keep in mind to prevent accidents and ensure a secure experience:
- Proper Footwear: Avoid using escalators or moving walkways while barefoot or wearing soft or rubbery shoes that can get stuck. These types of shoes are responsible for the majority of escalator-related accidents.
- Secure Shoelaces: Always tie your shoelaces before stepping onto an escalator or moving walkway to avoid tripping hazards.
- Positioning: Stand in the center of the escalator steps or moving walkway, away from the sides. Loose or bulky clothing and footwear can get trapped, leading to accidents. Also, refrain from leaning, resting your possessions on the handrail, sitting, or running on escalators or moving walkways.
- Face Forward and Hold the Handrail: Face forward and firmly hold the handrail throughout the ride for stability and balance.
- Attention with Bifocals: If you wear bifocals, pay extra attention to your footing when stepping on and off escalators or moving walkways.
- Mindful Exiting: When reaching your destination, pay careful attention and promptly step off the escalator or moving walkway. Quickly move away from the exit area, as other passengers may be close behind.
- Children's Safety: Carry infants or young children in one arm while leaving your other hand free to hold the handrail. Always hold the hand of an older child when using escalators or moving walkways. Never allow children to play on the steps or ride the escalator improperly.
- Avoid Oversized Objects: Do not ride escalators with canes, wheelchairs, electric scooters, strollers, walkers, carts, bicycles, large suitcases, or any other oversized objects or wheeled vehicles. Remember that one hand should always be available to hold the handrail.
- Operating Condition: Never use an escalator that is not in operation or appears to be malfunctioning. Prioritize your safety and seek an alternative route.
- Emergency Preparedness: If possible, familiarize yourself with the location of the escalator's shutoff buttons in case of an emergency. Being prepared can help mitigate risks and ensure a timely response.
Woman's Leg Amputated After Getting Trapped in Moving Walkway at Thai Airport
While escalators and moving walkways provide convenience, recent incidents have highlighted the importance of adhering to safety precautions. In a tragic accident at Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport, a 57-year-old Thai woman had her leg amputated after becoming entangled in a moving walkway.
According to CNN, the incident occurred in the airport's domestic passenger terminal, prompting a thorough investigation to determine the cause and improve safety measures.
Airport authorities emphasized the need to cover medical expenses and compensate the affected individual. Moving forward, a fact-finding committee will be established to ensure impartiality and transparency in investigating the incident. All moving walkways at the airport have been suspended temporarily as engineers conduct safety checks.
While accidents can occur unexpectedly, adhering to the provided safety tips and staying vigilant can significantly reduce the risk of escalator and moving walkway incidents. Prioritizing safety benefits not only individuals but also contributes to creating secure environments in public spaces.
