Two escalator scares in a week rattle Hong Kong after China death

Two incidents of escalator malfunction in Hong Kong within three days have sparked fears of a repeat of a horrific accident in China where a 30-year-old mother lost her life in an escalator collapse after pushing her toddler to safety.

The China tragedy on July 26 saw the woman’s body swallowed up and crushed by the treads of the escalator, leaving many concerned and confused about how safety mechanisms could have allowed this to happen. 

CCTV footage of the escalator incident in China: 
 

Although escalator deaths and injuries are rare, two recent incidents in Hong Kong this week have rattled the public. 

Yesterday, a young woman and her baby escaped injury when their stroller got caught between the escalator steps and the platform, reports Ming Pao Daily. 

A witness said a passerby had to press the emergency button to stop the still-moving escalator. 

The stroller’s two rear wheels were completely destroyed, but thankfully the mother and baby safely left the scene. 

Chairman of the Hong Kong General Union of Lift and Escalator Employees, Tse King-wa, warned that those carrying large items or using strollers are strongly advised to use the elevator rather than the escalator. 

Another incident occurred last Sunday in Times Square mall in Causeway Bay. A photo of a damaged escalator was posted online, showing broken pieces scattered across the bottom step. The image went somewhat viral and has further provoked safety concerns.

However, an investigation by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department reports that the escalator in question had undergone regular maintenance, and that no malfunction had occurred. 

The damage was a result of the “normal activation of the escalator’s safety protection mechanism” after someone had acted inappropriately and triggered the response… apparently. 

Please mind your step, or use the stairs. Your lovely pert butt will thank you for it anyway.

Photo: Franko Lun via Facebook