In our everyday lives we use machines that make our lives much easier and more productive. We have cars, traffic lights, elevators and escalators and so much more. Computers have control of over 70% of such machines nowadays. Because of the level of advancement that man has accomplished in terms of technology we tend to place our trust on machines too easily at times. What would happen if a machine that is already part of your daily life suddenly breaks on you, and worse puts you in harm’s way?
In this article we will discuss the 3 most common escalator parts malfunctions that could actually claim casualties and how they can be avoided.
Since that riding escalators is undeniably part of our daily life already, be careful whenever riding one. A well maintained escalator will also not have any clanking noise should It really be working properly.
In this article we will discuss the 3 most common escalator parts malfunctions that could actually claim casualties and how they can be avoided.
- Sudden Stops and Lurching – A very dangerous situation to be in, when an escalator is stopping abruptly and will move almost instantaneously in an uncontrollable pattern spells trouble. There are times when the lurching of the escalator ends up as an uncontrollable full speed run caused by the control system failing in the motor and the step chains allowing the escalator to move at speeds to fast for people to take a jump for safety. These chains are usually found in the step drive system, a system that consists of two chains that are directly paired to the main drive gear which makes them move around. The step chain usually works like a bike chain, they form a loop from the main drive gears on top of the escalator to the tension gear where the escalator turns around at the bottom of the escalator by using link pins and also these chains are connected to the step wheels in which they pull the steps. Best way to avoid this is to make sure that escalators are well inspected from regularly and well maintained.
- Comb Plate Entrapment – A comb is a section or steel plate with teeth that mesh with the Step cleats at the boarding and landing areas, preventing any foreign objects like fingers or feet from getting caught between the moving steps and floor plate. More common to children being allowed by their parents to ride the escalator alongside them but mindlessly allowing their kids to play with the combplates or the corners of the escalator step platform where there is a high tendency that a foot or hand may get trapped. Many security videos available in the internet show escalators trapping the legs of young ones. This can be avoided if parents would pay more attention to their kids whenever they’re on the escalator.
- Broken Sensors – Whenever an escalator sensor is having difficulty scanning a person for either on the way up or down, better not ride it. Broken sensors could lead to issue no. 1 up on top. A broken sensor could make the escalator go haywire and can potentially harm people. A broken sensor requires the attention of the contractor or installer who maintains the platform. Regular maintenance should be observed to keep the machine in tip-top shape.
Since that riding escalators is undeniably part of our daily life already, be careful whenever riding one. A well maintained escalator will also not have any clanking noise should It really be working properly.