Two weeks to implement safety rules on escalators

dubai — Grace period of two weeks will be given to building owners and shopping malls to readjust their escalators’ safety, a Dubai Municipality official has said.

Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director-General of the Dubai Municipality, has issued a circular requiring all buildings and shopping centres to provide adequate safety requirements to ensure public safety and not to jeopardise the lives of children.

Khalid Mohammed Sharif, Assistant Director-General for Environment, Health and Safety Sector, said the circular stressed on the protection of children from the risks of accidents that may be caused by the lack of adequate safety requirements on escalators.

Escalators must be secured by installing a cover to protect the upper conveyor belt and provide the required protection at the starting area of the conveyor belt where children sometimes cling or climb onto, or getting their clothes stuck with them.

Redha Salman, Director of Health and Safety Department, said a minimum of Dh1,000 fine will apply for those who do not abide by the circular in the coming two weeks.

He said certain standards were previously put in place, but the circular will put matters under surveillance. The circular aims to reduce risks that can result from the lack of safety requirements on the escalators.

The circular also pointed out that all elevators, escalators, and moving passageways must have a certificate of examination and compliance with the safety requirements of a company accredited by the Emirates International Accreditation Center.

Sharif appealed to all those responsible for the buildings, shopping centres and markets to report violations and to adhere to the circular.