Wide, shiny bright steps that move. Thick rubber handles. Sides that you can see yourself in. A moving playground? No, an escalator. A child can make a game out of almost anything and escalators are no exception. Although you know that an escalator is not a toy, many children do not. Following these simple guidelines will make the ride more pleasant and safe for children.
Schindler Ltd. (Ireland)
E4 Centrepoint Business Park
Kids on lifts
The rules for riding lifts are about the same for kids as they are for adults.
It's a good idea for children to be especially careful around the doors.
Kids should never put their hands or feet into the area between the moving door and the adjacent door jamb.
Kids should never to try to stop a closing door by putting their hand or foot in its path.
Kids on escalators
When riding with a small child, hold his or her hand, or carry the child in one arm while holding the handrail with the other. Help children step onto and off of the escalator.
Do not allow children to sit on escalator steps - clothing or fingers can get caught.
Never let children ride on or play with the handrail.
Don't allow children to use an escalator unattended.
Don't allow children to walk or run up the "down" escalator or down the "up" escalator.
Don't let children drag their feet along an escalator's sides. No matter how tempting it is to make that distinctive "squeaky noise," a child's foot can become caught between the step and the side panel, causing serious injury.
Never take a stroller on an escalator. Use the elevator instead.
Ideas for building owners & managers
Keep an eye out for unsafe riding practices (by kids or adults) and take action to avoid accidents.
Don't place things adjacent to the escalators that will attract children.