There was a time when our Nanjing Metro system, as well as others in China, was in its infancy and a state of confusion. With the debate over metro-escalator etiquette recently reignited, clarity as to the official position has emerged, as well as some good-sense safety.
Earlier this month, Chengdu Metro received a message from a local citizen calling for the promotion of the “Walk on the Left & Stand on the Right” concept. Chengdu Metro replied that the idea is no longer advocated.
But why, given that it was once regarded as a symbol of civilisation and a practical means to ease congestion on metro systems during peak periods?
The answer essentially comes down to safety. Zhang Xindong is Director of the Electromechanical Technology Centre at the Jiangsu Special Equipment Safety Supervision and Inspection Institute. And according to Zhang, “Walk on the Left & Stand on the Right” presents a number of hidden risks.
Zhang says long-term load bearing on one side will accelerate the wear of an escalator and even cause it to tilt. People scattered on both the left and right sides of an escalator obviates the effect.
In addition, the step height of an escalator is not suitable for walking. Standards stipulate that the design height of stairs in public places should be 13-18 centimetres. On escalators, step heights are anywhere from 21 to 24 centimetres. Given the steps are moving, once someone falls accidentally, a stampede during peak hours is easily the result.
Then there is the issue of clothing. With the arrival of summer, so more people take to wearing Crocs and long skirts. Both are potential hazards on escalators, as the Yangtze Evening News reports.
Regarding the former, there have been previous stories of Crocs being “bitten off” by the gap between the moving steps of escalators. This is down to the material of the shoes which is quite soft, creating greater friction with the steps of escalators.
For long skirt lovers, special attention should be paid to the hem of the skirt to prevent it from being caught by the moving escalator. The steps or the lift are the safe alternatives. The lift is also the recommended choice for those with a pram/stroller.
The public are also finally reminded as to the red emergency-stop button. Those who witness a dangerous situation emerging should shout out for help to ask others on the escalator to press the red button. They are located near the top and bottom of every escalator, with additional buttons along long escalatorsas necessary.
