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Vertical
Analysis LLC
6801 Marlboro
Pike
Forestville
Maryland 20747
1(800)447-3344
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| Falls |
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| Falls, accounting
for 75% of all accidents, occur at the entrance and egress of escalators,
often at the interface between stationary and moving surfaces, and also
at intermediate points due to loss of balance.
The code calls for a number of features to help prevent falls. These include: Visual contrast between the step and comb; step demarcation lights; handrails; and controlled braking. Riders obeying the ridership rules (holding the handrail) may have an effect on the number of falling related injuries. However, in most applications, (airports, stations, malls, etc.) where people are carrying bags, it is unlikely that the rules will be completely adhered to. Any maintenance issue resulting in the unnecessary activation of a safety device may be a contributory factor in falling accidents. |
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| Safety Devices - How do they affect falls? |
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| It is clear that
since the turn of the century, conceptually escalators have not changed.
In recent years the most significant differences have been the addition
of various safety devices.
Safety devices are often used to provide a solution to a problem. The definition of a safety device is a device which has been designed to react to unpredictable conditions - accidents. An airbag is good example of a safety device. A maintenance device, however, is designed to react to a predictable condition, for example a low washer fluid light. There are in excess of 15 safety devices on an average escalator.
Imagine what might happen if your airbag went off when you were low on washer fluid. Now consider what might happen to the passengers on an escalator that stops without warning in 6" to 8" of travel. If escalators are maintained correctly these devices should be virtually redundant. When safety devices are used as an alternative to adequate maintenance their effect can actually be detrimental. Comment: If a rider is not holding the handrail while an emergency stop is initiated, there is a high probability he will fall. If the emergency stop was caused because of inadequate maintenance, not an unpredictable condition, is it the riders fault? But, even if the rider is holding the handrail, there is still an increased probability of causing injuries. Consequently proper maintenance is paramount in enhancing safety. The Vertical Analysis Escalator Safety Program is designed to detect many of the conditions that are likely to cause safety related shutdowns, consequently improving reliability and enhancing passenger safety |
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