We use escalators all the time in office buildings, shopping malls and train stations. They are so commonplace we often forget to consider any health and safety precautions. Most escalators in public places are properly installed and regularly monitored. However, between mechanical failures and human error, things can go wrong on escalators.
If you have experienced an injury on an escalator, you should seek advice and go to a doctor for further support.
Here are the most common causes of escalator accidents.
Wet or slippery steps
The UK is known for its wet weather, and this leads to a lot of slippery surfaces. People get onto escalators with wet and muddy shoes all the time. This can make the steps slippery, muddy, and much more dangerous to board. The appropriate authorities should display signs to warn people about the slippery steps in wet conditions. You are likely to see more of these signs in the colder months with rain and snowstorms.
Overcrowding on the escalator
Escalators can become overcrowded in very busy locations. For example, many train stations at rush hour can become chaotic, and escalators start getting overcrowded. People will stand on one side of the escalator while others rush to climb the stairs on the other. Some people will ignore the presence of overcrowding and continue to bring heavy luggage onto the escalator. The escalator can come to an abrupt stop due to overcrowding, and people may lose their balance.
Improper installation
A complex system of heavy machinery powers escalators. A faulty wire or spontaneous problem can lead to the escalator suddenly stopping. In some cases, escalator faults may be down to an issue with the initial installation.
Loose or missing parts
Every escalator has a comb plate at the entrance and exit points. Comb plates can come loose over time, and clothing can get caught in the damaged part. The escalator handrail can also start to slow down over time and come to a sudden stop when the steps are still moving. Proper maintenance of the handrail can prevent this from happening and causing severe injury. A rider may be caught off guard by the handrail stopping and fall down the escalator as a result.
Furthermore, the escalator stairs can become worn out over time. A maintenance team should inspect any wear and tear on the steps and replace damaged parts before they cause a bigger issue. Unfortunately, this maintenance doesn’t always happen, and broken escalator steps can injure riders.
So, who is responsible for elevator and escalator accidents?
The owner of the building should ensure proper maintenance and safety inspections are carried out regularly. However, it is also the rider’s responsibility to behave sensibly on the escalator and to follow safety guidelines.
Escalators are usually safe and easy to board. Look out for any warning signs, and proceed with caution.