BY GABRIEL LIHAN
KUCHING: The Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has called on the public to always be aware of information regarding escalator safety.
DOSH director Dr Nor Halim Hasan said escalator accidents have been quite common lately because a lot of people are out and about for Raya shopping.
Halim said that the common causes of escalator accidents are when people lean on the railings, stand while facing the opposite direction, play with the escalator skirts or safety brushes, and wear floor-length clothes.
“Be careful when going up and down the escalator and avoid sitting on it.
“Use the elevator if you are using a wheelchair or bringing along a baby stroller or a shopping trolley”.
Halim also said that parents or caretakers are advised to carry their children when using the escalator.
“Also be careful with loose shoelaces, scarves and floor-length clothes. They may get caught in the escalator, and it may cause injuries”.
Halim also urged the public to adhere to the safety measures of escalators to avoid further mishaps.
“Members of the public should press the safety switch, which is located at the upper and lower ends of the escalator, in case of emergency”.
He added that parents must always keep an eye on their children, especially when going shopping during festive seasons to ensure that they are always safe.
