If you frequently use escalators, you’ll notice that the sides of the steps have two rows of stiff nylon bristles resembling a brush, extending along the escalator. So, what is the purpose of these brush bristles?
Escalators are commonly used in many places, especially in shopping malls and tall buildings. If you’ve ever used this type of automatic stairway, you will observe that on both sides of the steps, there are two thick and stiff nylon rows resembling brushes that run along the escalator.
Many people believe that these two rows of brushes are intended for cleaning shoes, so they often rub their feet against them to clean, unaware of the actual purpose of these brush bristles.
Many people are still unaware of the true purpose of the brush bristles along the sides of the escalator. (Photo: Getty).
Specifically, the stiff nylon bristles on the escalator are designed to reduce the risk of objects getting stuck between the step and the side of the escalator. This brush part acts as a shield, preventing users’ shoes, dresses, or other clothing from getting caught in the gap between the step and the escalator’s side, thus avoiding serious accidents.
When users’ feet brush against this bristle section, it creates a discomfort or serves as a warning that they are standing too close to the edge of the escalator while in motion. This prompts users to stand back from the brush to ensure their safety. In addition to these bristles, many escalators also have yellow or red painted stripes at the edges of the steps to signal hazardous areas where users should avoid placing their feet.
Some older escalators do not have the two stiff nylon strips on the sides of the steps, but instead feature painted markings to warn users about foot placement.
Standing too close to the escalator edge can lead to dangerous accidents. (Photo: Reddit).
However, in reality, this brush section serves more as a warning than a genuine protective barrier. Many people still mistakenly believe that this brush is for cleaning shoes or even know its real purpose but deliberately place their feet in it while using the escalator for shoe cleaning. This is a dangerous action that can lead to serious accidents when using the escalator.
There have been numerous serious accidents related to escalators, with children being the primary victims. Many mischievous children, when using escalators, either intentionally or accidentally place their feet too close to the escalator edge, causing their feet to get stuck in the gap between the escalator and the handrail, which can result in their feet being crushed by the escalator.
Not only do foot entrapments occur, but careless use of escalators can also lead to other accidents such as losing balance and falling, or, if not careful, getting their heads caught at the upper floor…
Therefore, users need to have safety knowledge when using escalators. Absolutely do not let children, elderly individuals, or first-time escalator users go alone, and they should have someone accompany them for support to avoid potential accidents.
It is also important to remember that the brush section at the foot of the escalator is not intended for cleaning shoes but rather serves as a warning sign for users to place their feet in safe positions when using the escalator.
