Stepping up escalator safety

Whether it is safe to use an escalator or elevator is a question that is now on many people's minds after a young woman was killed on Sunday when the panel at the top of an escalator gave way beneath her.

Reportedly, there were 49 accidents involving escalators or elevators nationwide in 2014, which resulted in the deaths of 37 people. The accident rate is not that high given the millions of escalators and elevators in the country. Yet, the fact that the majority of accidents took place because of poor or non-existent maintenance suggests that some of the deaths could have been avoided.

With an increasing number of elevators or escalators being in service for many years, proper maintenance is essential to ensure their safety.