Escalators

Escalators are designed and built in accordance with very stringent safety standards.

Unfortunately, accidents always occur, most of them stemming from improper use.

Hold the handrail

An escalator is a machine with moving parts. Holding the handrail will enable you to avoid falling if you lose your footing or the escalator stops abruptly. From the standpoint of risks, falls account for 75% of accidents involving escalators.

Keep an eye on young children

Young children should always be accompanied by an adult on an escalator. If they are too small to hold the handrail, hold their hand. You must also ensure that they stay away from the edge of the escalator and help them get off the escalator cautiously.

Pay attention to what you carry

Do not carry cumbersome objects that block your view or prevent you from holding the handrail.

Strollers and suitcases can also cause accidents when you get on and off an escalator. If you fall, the people behind you risk falling in turn and injuring themselves.

Do not use an escalator when:

• it is stopped (doing so makes you dizzy and you can fall);
• you are carrying items that prevent you from holding the handrail;
• you are using crutches, a walker or a wheelchair;
• you are carrying a stroller;
• you are barefoot or wearing open sandals, flip-flops or Crocs;
• when you are wearing roomy, long garments (they can get caught between the steps). Not only might you be disrobed on the spot but you run the risk of falling and making other people fall.

Pay attention to escalators when:

• you are wearing bifocal lenses;
• young children are with you;
• you move slowly, e.g. you have difficulty lifting your feet.

Escalators, moving sidewalks and good manners

• On moving sidewalks, which are often found in airports, immobile passengers must stay on the right and allow people who are walking (and in a hurry) to pass on the left.
• Do not run or jump. Do not sit down on an escalator or a moving sidewalk.
• Keep an eye on young children, for their own safety and that of other users.
• Once you leave the escalator or the moving sidewalk, keep moving to make way for the people behind you.