General Question

flo's avatar

What is used to measure make sure escalators are fast enough, but not dangerously fast?

Asked by flo (13313points) July 3rd, 2021

For perfectly fit people speed may not be a problem, but for people with mobility is reduced, fragile, etc. it needs to be slow enough for them not to have to decide to take the stairs. What is the safe speed limit? A link would be appreciated.

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2 Answers

kritiper's avatar

I would guess average walking speed.
People with mobility issues already know to use the elevator.

kritiper (25757points)“Great Answer” (4points) Flag as…
Zaku's avatar

Below are three sources on the subject, in roughly increasing levels of detail. The general answer from the first one is:

“Escalator speeds vary from about 90 feet per minute to 180 feet per minute (27 to 55 meters per minute).”

https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/engines-equipment/escalator1.htm

https://www.energycodeace.com/site/custom/public/reference-ace-2019/index.html#!Documents/1011escalatorsandmovingwalkways.htm

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280244278_Escalator_Electronic_OverspeedUnderspeed_Detection_Unit

Zaku (30571points)“Great Answer” (5points) Flag as…

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