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Signed by Alessandra Morais | Technical, Safety and Quality Director at Atlas Schindler
In an increasingly verticalized world, elevators and escalators have become indispensable elements for daily transportation. More than 2 billion people use elevators every day in the world, and this number is only going to grow. Although it is an industry that invests in advanced technologies, the guarantee of safe use of equipment does not only lie with manufacturers, installers or maintenance companies, but also with passengers.
Data from the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT) from 2022 indicate that around 20% of elevator incidents in Brazil are caused by misuse. This means that 1 in 5 could be avoided if passengers followed safe usage practices. The indicator highlights the importance of educational campaigns and awareness actions to promote security in the country. Adopting simple measures makes all the difference, such as:
1. Pay attention to warnings and instructions: Read and follow the signs and instructions on the equipment. It is also recommended to watch the queue and wait your turn for both the elevator and the escalator.
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2. Respect the indicated maximum capacity: Pay attention to the indicated load limit, whether in the elevator or on the escalator, to avoid sudden stops of the equipment.
3. Always use the elevator: If you are carrying any object such as boxes, suitcases, baby strollers, shopping carts or similar items, never use the escalator.
4. Be careful when boarding and disembarking: Wait for people to leave before entering the cabin or for them to be on the step above on the escalator. This prevents possible trips or falls.
5. Responsible behavior: Avoid risky attitudes in these files, it can be dangerous at any age.
6. Elevators are not toys: Adults are responsible for children. It is their role to guide children in correct use, without playing games that could be dangerous. Additionally, children under 10 should not use the elevator or escalator alone.
7. Communication in case of problems: When detecting any unusual situation, immediately activate the emergency button or contact the maintenance team. Do not try to resolve the issue on your own.
8. Do not interrupt the closing of the door or step with objects that are not permitted: Call the elevator or wait patiently on the escalator, contributing to operational efficiency and smooth passenger flow.
In situations where passengers are trapped in the elevator, managers and doormen can follow the recommended procedures:
- Reassure passengers by informing them that the rescue or maintenance professional has already been called.
- The elevator cabin is safe and has air vents, meaning passengers cannot leave without assistance.
- Wait for the arrival of the technician or professional from the Military Police Fire Department.
- In situations of power outage, avoid carrying out technical interventions on the equipment.
Furthermore, investing in quality periodic maintenance and timely modernization is crucial to ensuring user safety. These practices, in addition to preventing accidents and failures, increase the useful life of equipment, reduce costs and energy consumption, improve performance and aesthetics, value heritage and benefits for sustainability.
Therefore, the safety of elevators and escalators is a shared responsibility. By following recommended practices, passengers want a safer and more efficient environment.
