An escalator is only as safe as the care and common sense exercised by people who use this iconic conveyance. As a way to remind escalator riders to be careful, the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) cites the first anniversary of the tragic April 8, 2013, King County Metro escalator death. The department’s press release — L&I calls for greater safety on anniversary of escalator tragedy — notes that more than 60 people have suffered escalator injuries since the death last year at the University Street Station in Seattle. 
“People have a lack of understanding how what they’re doing can lead to a hazard,” said Jack Day, chief elevator inspector for the department. “It happens very fast.” Day also pointed out that:
- People should remember their responsibility to use conveyances safely.
- Building owners should remember their obligation to make sure their escalators and elevators are well-maintained.
Most injuries happen when people carrying packages or luggage on an escalator lose their balance. Sometimes, too, the crowding and pushing of bad-mannered fellow travelers can actually morph the escalator into a veritable combat zone. L&I states that 70 percent of those 60 injuries since the tragic death could have been avoided if the injured person had only been using the handrail.
You can find more information about rider safety by reviewing details at the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation. Interactive activities for young people and other safety-education materials are featured at this website.