Escalators and Elevators
Escalators and elevators are widely used by workers and the general public in places such as office buildings, shopping malls, and airports. There are also workers who perform routine inspections and maintenance on escalators and elevators. Even though this can be a quick and convenient way to access different levels, it can also expose those who ride them or work on them to hazards like:
- Moving parts/pinch points
- Enclosed or confined spaces
- Electrical
- Falls/tripping
- Sprains and strains
This could lead to injuries requiring hospitalization or in some cases even death.
For workers who perform inspections and maintenance, an employer can prevent serious injuries by:
- Identifying hazards for each job task
- Providing and ensuring use of the right personal protective equipment(PPE) based on hazards identified
- Developing and implementing an Accident Prevention Program(APP) that addresses job hazards
- Holding safety meetings
- Providing necessary training on LOTO, machine guarding, PPE use, and other safe work practices
For workers and the general public, hazard can be prevented by:
- Building owners conducting inspections and routine maintenance
- Building owners posting safety instructions.
- Using handrails when riding on an escalator.
- Being alert when getting on and off escalators and elevators.
- Making sure shoes with laces are tied.
Related Topics
- Accident Prevention Program
- Confined Space
- Electrical workers
- Elevators ( Licensing)
- Fall Protection, Fall Restraint & Fall Arrest
- First Aid
- Grain Handling Facilities
- Guard Rails (Railings)
- Job Hazard/Safety Analysis (JSA/JHA)
- Ladder Safety
- Lighting
- Lockout/Tagout
- Machine safety
- Manlifts
- Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Portable Fire Extinguishers
- Portable power tools
- Recordkeeping And Reporting
- Slips, Trips and Falls (Same elevation)
More help from L&I
For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.
