Move with the Grooves on Escalators

TORONTO, Nov. 5 /CNW/ - Get ready for National Elevator Escalator Safety Awareness Week, starting November 8 to 14, 2009, by learning the ups and downs of escalator safety. The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA), along with the elevating devices industry, want you to Move with the Grooves to ensure your next escalator ride is a safe one.

Escalators remain one of the safest modes of mechanized transportation; however, injuries can happen if used improperly. Did you know that a key cause of escalator incidents in Ontario is due to user behaviour? Many have involved falls, resulting from the rider losing balance, entrapment in the mechanics of escalators caused by clothing, footwear or suitcases, and use of mobility devices or strollers.

While TSSA works closely with industry to ensure escalators are safe for public use, you as the rider play a key role in ensuring your own safety.

Follow these simple steps each and every time you ride an escalator:

    
    -  Hold the handrail firmly and step on and off with care.

    -  Stand in the middle of the step and face forward.

    -  Keep feet, loose clothing and shoe laces clear of grooves and sides.

    -  Attend to children and hold their hands.

    -  Keep packages/handbags at a minimum and away from handrails.

    -  Use an elevator, where available, when travelling with a stroller or
       mobility device.
    

"Escalators are moving machinery and should be treated with respect," says Rene Karavas, Acting Director of Elevating and Amusement Devices Safety Program. "While a tremendous amount of care goes into the design and operation of these devices, riders must take certain precautions. Safety is up to you too."

During National Elevator Escalator Safety Awareness Week, watch for TSSA's escalator safety awareness campaign in Toronto's transit system, as well as major shopping centres and office buildings within the province. Move with the Grooves and put your best (safety) foot forward.

For these and other important public safety tips, visit www.safetyinfo.ca.

About TSSA

TSSA is an innovative, self-funded, non-government organization focused on delivering public safety services. It provides not-for-profit regulatory safety services in industry sectors such as elevating devices, amusement devices, ski lifts, fuels, boilers and pressure vessels, operating engineers, and upholstered and stuffed articles. The organization's vision is to be the world leader in public safety services.

SOURCE TECHNICAL STANDARDS AND SAFETY AUTHORITY

For further information: For further information: Bernadette Celis, Public Education Advisor, Public Relations and Communications, TSSA, Telephone: 1-877-682-8772; Email: media@tssa.org; For more information on the Technical Standards and Safety Authority, please visit www.tssa.org