The Etiquette and Safety of Using Escalators: Understanding Why People Stand Still

One common frustration many face is the seemingly pointless practice of standing still on escalators, especially in the middle. This article aims to clarify the reasons behind this behavior and the safety and etiquette considerations associated with using escalators.

Design Intent: Making Escalators Accessible and Effortless

Escalators were originally designed to facilitate easier movement for people who struggle with stairs, be they due to disability, fatigue, elderly age, or carrying heavy items. Their primary purpose is to help individuals move upwards or onwards without the need for physical exertion. However, some people seem to misconstrue their use by continuing to walk or climb even when others are stationary.

Escalator Etiquette: Stand on the Right, Walk on the Left

A common rule found in many places is to stand on the right side of the escalator and walk on the left. This allows for efficient use of the space, maximizing the number of people who can move through the escalator. Typically, there is only a 15 to 20-second difference between walking up the escalator and waiting for the next one. However, stairs are often an alternative for those in a hurry.

Nonetheless, some individuals choose to stand in the middle, which can be not only annoying but also dangerous. This practice not only hinders the flow of traffic but increases the risk of accidents, particularly for those moving at a slower pace or who might be less able to judge speed and distance accurately when moving up and down.

Protecting Safety and Accessibility

For safety reasons, it is advisable to stand still when using escalators. This is especially important for those starting from stairs that are already moving. Entering the moving stairs while already in motion can make it difficult to judge your speed and the distance remaining, potentially leading to falls at the end when attempting to step off. Similarly, moving around stationary individuals can create a hazardous situation, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited visibility. When younger, I would stride up empty escalators but now, as I’ve grown older and become more concerned about my health, I choose to stand still and appreciate the convenience.

Purpose Beyond Speed: Escalators Without Walkers

It’s worth noting that escalators are not designed to be sprinting tracks. Historical evidence suggests that some places have even placed warning signs to advise people to stay still. While not everyone adheres to this rule, it serves to highlight that the primary function of escalators is to facilitate movement without exertion, not to be used as a competitive speed test.

Escalators for Everyone

The ultimate goal of escalators is to be a barrier-free system that caters to all, ensuring that wheelchair users, elderly individuals, and those with disabilities can use them safely and without strain. In crowded situations like busy terminals, the unwritten rule of standing on the right and walking on the left often gets overlooked, leading to endless escalators with no one in a hurry using them for walking. An example of this is Terminal 21 shopping mall in Bangkok, where the numerous levels by escalator serve more as a convenience for those who choose to take the stairs instead.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, the practice of standing still on escalators is a matter of safety, respect for others, and respect for the design intent of these machines. By adhering to basic etiquette and understanding the purpose of escalators, we can ensure that everyone can use them efficiently and safely.