Dear MEL Topic Readers,
China takes a ‘stand’ on escalator etiquette
Escalators are designed to transport a large number of people between
floors in buildings or levels in structures. Escalator users are advised to
stand still and hold the handrail because walking on escalators increases the
risk of accidents and can disrupt the flow of traffic for other users. Also, walking
on one side and standing on the other can cause the escalator to operate
unevenly, potentially leading to mechanical issues. In fact, the steps of escalators
are higher than ordinary staircase. However, in many regions, including Western
countries, China, and Japan, people often stand on the right side of escalators
and walk on the left (except for Tokyo where people stand on the left side to
leave the right side open for those who want to walk or pass by). Now, Chinese
authorities say walking on escalators is unsafe, uneconomical, and inefficient,
and it is safer and more efficient if people stand on both sides. This way,
escalators can carry more people and cause fewer accidents and mechanical troubles.
To remind people of this new etiquette, some escalators are painted with yellow
footprints side by side in every other step. Those who are in a hurry to catch a
train or attend a meeting are advised to walk up or down the stairs.
Watch the video about a new escalator guideline for 1.4 billion people.
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