Escalators
Escalators provide a method of moving building users quickly between levels.
Location and identification
The escalator should be located in a logical position which is easily recognisable.
Some people feel anxious about using escalators and prefer to use alternatives such as stairs, ramps or lifts. An alternative means of vertical access should therefore always be provided and the location of these routes should either be readily apparent or clearly sign posted.
People who are blind or have low vision may only be able to find an escalator by way of tactile or auditory cues.
Design considerations
- Attention can be drawn to an escalator by using higher levels of local illumination.
- The use of different floor finishes can assist in finding the escalator.
- Where escalators are installed in pairs ensure that the up escalator is always on the same side and predictable within the building.
- Where building restrictions prevent the co-location of stairs, lifts, ramps and escalators ensure appropriate signage is installed to direct building users to other options.
Ease of use
The design of the escalator should accommodate its convenient and easy use by all building users.
It is sometimes difficult to determine the direction an escalator is moving or whether it is stationary.
The direction of the escalator can sometimes be picked up by observing the contrasting markings on the moving handrail.
The approach to an escalator should be level and wide enough for all building users.
When approaching the end of the escalator, building users will need to adjust to the new floor level and a sufficiently long level moving section will help this.
There is no design requirement as to which side to stand or walk. It is possible that building users follow the conventions of the road rules they are most used to. In New Zealand people are likely to stand on the left to allow people to pass them on their right.
Design considerations
- Ensure the direction of movement of the escalator is clearly indicated with a sign at the top and bottom.
- Ensure circulation space leading to an escalator has even predicable floor levels and of sufficient width for use by people with small children or carrying packages.
- Ensure that the top and bottom of the escalator is tactually and visually contrasting to the general floor surface.
- Provide contrasting indicators on the moving handrail.
- Ensure the escalator is wide enough for its predicted use.
- Ensure there is a clear visual indication of the junction between moving and stationary floor surfaces.
- Provide lighting under the handrails where possible.
- Ensure the clear headroom is sufficient and maintained through the full length of the escalator.
- Provide guidance as to which side to stand and which side to walk.
- Ensure the level moving sections are sufficiently long to allow users to adjust the position of their feet prior to vertical movement, and then prepare themselves to walk off.
Building Code requirement
Building Code clause D2 Mechanical installations for access:
D2.3.1 Mechanical installations for access shall: (a) move people safely, and stop and hold as required for the normal use of the installation, for all loads up to and including 25% in excess of the rated load, b) not (produce excessive acceleration or deceleration,
D2.3.2 Mechanical installations for access shall be provided with: (a) adequate control over normal use, to ensure people’s safety throughout any operation involving starting, stopping or changing the direction of travel, (c) adequate lighting and ventilation for both normal and emergency use.
Escalator safety
The design of the escalator should make its use as safe as possible.
Stepping on to an escalator means transferring from a stationary surface to a moving one.
Changes in speed should occur safely and predicatably so people can keep their balance and feel comfortable.
As the escalator progresses, the level moving surface changes into a stepped moving surface. It is important that people have their feet in the right position before this point. There should be clear indications provided of the extent of each tread.
People may want to hold the moving handrail to steady themselves. It is important that this is within reach, easy to hold and is moving at the same speed as the steps.
When approaching the end of the escalator, people need to be aware of the upcoming transition to a stationary surface. People who are blind or have low vision, or others who are distracted, may not be aware that this is approaching.
In the event of a power failure, an escalator turns into a long steep staircase with varying riser heights and sharp nosings. An alternative means of changing levels in the event of a failure or in an emergency should be available.
In the event of power interruptions, an escalator may stop and start without warning.
An escalator can run in either direction; therefore safety provisions need to work for both directions of travel.
Design considerations
- Select the speed of movement and the angle of the escalator to make access easy and safe.
- Ensure the footway at both ends of the escalator is long and wide enough and provides both visual and tactile warning.
- Ensure adequate headroom is available.
- If movement sensors are used to detect the approach of users on demand escalators, ensure the change in speed occurs safely and predictably and without inconvenience to passengers.
- Ensure escalator step treads have a matt, non-reflective, and non-slip finish.
- Ensure the leading or trailing edge of each step has a visually-contrasting band extending the full width of the step. Provide a means of visually identifying the nosings.
- Ensure the moving handrail is synchronised with the speed of the escalator, is comfortably within reach and extends past the end of the moving section.
- Ensure emergency stop controls are clearly identified and within reach of all users.
- Ensure safety provisions work for both directions of travel.
Building Code requirement
Building Code clause D2 Mechanical installations for access:
D2.3.1 Mechanical installations for access shall: (a) move people safely, and stop and hold as required for the normal use of the installation, for all loads up to and including 25% in excess of the rated load, b) not (produce excessive acceleration or deceleration,
D2.3.2 Mechanical installations for access shall be provided with: (a) adequate control over normal use, to ensure people’s safety throughout any operation involving starting, stopping or changing the direction of travel, (c) adequate lighting and ventilation for both normal and emergency use.