Safe Work Near Escalators and Moving Walkways

Key Hazards

• Pinch points at moving steps, belts, plates, or handrails
• Trips or falls while stepping on or off moving surfaces
• Public entering the work area
• Tools or materials caught in moving equipment
• Unexpected startup during maintenance or inspection
• Poor barricading around stopped or exposed equipment

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Escalators and moving walkways create hazards because they move people and equipment through a public space. Workers may be exposed to moving parts, pinch points, public traffic, and unexpected startup.

Before work begins, workers should determine whether the escalator or walkway must be shut down, barricaded, locked out, or controlled by qualified personnel.

Moving steps, handrails, comb plates, side panels, floor plates, and drive areas can create pinch or caught-in hazards. Hands, feet, tools, cords, and loose clothing should be kept clear.

Public protection is important. Cones, barricades, signs, tape, or attendants may be needed to prevent pedestrians from entering the work area or stepping onto equipment being serviced.

Tools and materials should be controlled so they do not fall into moving parts or create trip hazards on landing areas. Small objects can damage equipment or cause a person to stumble.

Workers should use caution when stepping on or off moving walkways or escalators. Carrying materials, looking down at tools, or walking backward can increase fall risk.

Maintenance work may require lockout or other energy control procedures. Workers should not assume that stopped equipment is safe unless startup and movement are controlled.

Safe work near escalators and moving walkways depends on separation, communication, and equipment control. Protect the public, control movement, keep tools clear, and follow site procedures.

Safety Reminders

• Determine whether shutdown or lockout is required.
• Keep hands, feet, tools, and clothing away from moving parts.
• Barricade the area to protect the public.
• Control tools, cords, and materials near landings.
• Do not assume stopped equipment cannot restart.
• Use caution when stepping on or off moving surfaces.
• Report damaged plates, handrails, or unsafe conditions.

Ask the Crew

• Is the escalator or walkway running, stopped, or locked out?
• Are pinch points and moving parts controlled?
• Is the public protected from the work area?
• Could tools or materials enter moving equipment?
• What procedure controls unexpected startup?