DOSH S’wak director: Escalators, lifts must have certificate of fitness

SIBU: A total of 834 escalators and 2,177 lifts are registered with Department of Occupational Safety and Health ( DOSH) Sarawak, DOSH Sarawak director Dr Nor Halim Hasan disclosed Thursday.

She pointed out that a certificate of fitness ( CF) is required to operate these facilities.

“And this CF is valid for 15 months. These lifts and escalators must be re- certified by DOSH prior to its CF expiry,” he said on Wednesday.

“As of today ( Dec 12), based on our record, we have issued 26 notices due to non- conformity of our Lift and Escalator Regulation 1970, Factories and Machineries Act,” Nor Halim added.

He also pointed out that there had been two incidents this year - both involving public/shoppers while using escalators.

“After investigation by DOSH, we found that the root cause for both incidents were negligence of the public while using the escalators,” Nor Halim said, adding they were not focused while riding the escalators which caused them to trip and fall.

According to him, the maximum penalty for not registering lifts and escalators with DOSH is a fine up to RM100,000 or two years’ imprisonment.

For other non- compliance with lift and escalator safety regulation, a maximum fine of RM50,000 or one year’s imprisonment is imposed, he added.

“With Christmas holidays just around the corner, we anticipate a sharp increase in the number of people using escalators at shopping malls.

“I would like to advise and remind the public to adhere to the safety rules and regulation while using the escalators. The public can refer to these rules and instructions depicted either on the side glass of the escalator or the landing floor plate before stepping on the travelling escalator steps,” Nor Halim advised.

Among the important rules to be observed, he pointed out, are children using escalators must be assisted by adults and one should stand within the yellow demarcation line in the travelling steps.

“Public are advised to focus and not view their smartphone while using the escalators. Trolleys and prams are not allowed onto escalators. Instead, they should be moved on lifts,” he added.

A file photo showing practical training for children on safe use of escalators during the Safety and Health (SH) Week 2017. The programme was organised by DOSH Sibu in collaboration with Sanyan complex to improve awareness of escalator safety among children and parents.