MTR steps up escalator safety with tech, promo video

The MTR Corporation has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing escalator safety through a multi-pronged approach combining technology, public education and on-the-ground support from safety ambassadors.

As part of this year's escalator safety campaign, the railway operator has released a new promotional video aimed at raising awareness among passengers.

Cheris Lee, Deputy Director of Operating and Metro Segment, said on Wednesday that the MTR records approximately 500 escalator-related accidents annually, with elderly passengers accounting for roughly half of those incidents.

In the first six months of this year alone, 233 cases were reported — 60 percent of which were attributed to passengers losing balance while walking, being jostled by others or carrying bulky items.

To tackle the issue, Lee said the company has been increasingly turning to technology in recent years.

"We will use the big data to find out which are the [most] stations that have more escalator accidents," she said.

"Also, we have installed cameras at some of our escalator landings to find out whether there are any small coins or screws that may jam into the escalators, and they will send an alarm to our station controllers, asking them to handle [it],"

In addition, the MTR has reduced the speed of some escalators, particularly those previously running at relatively high velocities that posed a greater risk for older passengers.

Lee noted that this measure has already yielded positive results.

Beyond technological upgrades, the company said it would continue to deploy safety ambassadors at stations to engage directly with passengers.

The MTR is also reaching out to schools and community organisations to educate both children and the elderly on safe escalator usage, ensuring that safety remains a shared responsibility.

Edited by Tony Sabine ...