Following the horror scene at a Bangkok mall on Monday when shoppers were forced to run up a broken escalator to avoid getting stabbed by pieces of metal, the Elevator Association of Thailand has given its expert opinion on what caused it.
Accidents on escalators, including the fatal ones in China, stem from the use of substandard parts and lack of proper maintenance, according to Adisai Taengtong, secretary-general of the Elevator Association.
The elevator expert added that maintenance should be undertaken by the contractors who installed the escalators because they are familiar with the product. However, most shopping malls or commercial buildings use freelance entrepreneurs to save on cost.
Adisai insisted that a standard escalator is strong enough to hold the weight of 500 – 600 kilograms per square meter.
Meanwhile, the Building Safety Management and Inspection Association offered some pro tips on how to use an escalator safely, Thai PBS reported.
How to use an escalator:
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Do not allow children to use escalators alone, and watch your children closely while using an escalator.
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Watch out for your shoelaces and long skirts, which may get stuck in escalator parts.
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Do not use a cane or a walker while riding an escalator.
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Mind your feet when stepping on or off an escalator.
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Always hold on to the handrail.
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Do not put heavy objects onto escalators.
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Do not run or sit on an escalator.
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Just be careful, seriously.
Phew, glad they cleared that up.
