Figures released by Metro Trains show that there was an average of 20 slips, trips and falls on escalators per month across Melbourne’s rail network in 2022. There were 225 incidents in total in that period.
So far in 2023 there have been 54 incidents.
Metro said that of the incidents that occur, 45 per cent of passengers need first aid treatment and nearly 20 per cent of passengers need further assistance from emergency services.
On some occasions, more than one passenger was injured during an incident.
Metro said incidents are often the result of people rushing, not practising escalator, stair or platform etiquette, and carrying bikes, scooters or trolleys on escalators and stairs instead of using elevators.
Busier platforms as a result of an increase in patronage and major events across Melbourne is leading to a bigger risk of safety incidents on escalators, stairs and platforms, making it even more important for passengers to stay alert.
This risk grows even bigger during the colder months.
A new campaign from Metro is highlighting the risks of using escalators and stairs and is calling on passengers to take simple steps to keep themselves and others safe.
Metro said that the vast majority of incidents that occur on the network are entirely preventable and are reliant on passengers:
- paying attention to others and their environment
- taking their time (don’t rush)
- holding onto the handrail.
In the new campaign, Metro uses stark x-ray images showing some of the serious injuries that can occur to highlight the dangers of escalators and to encourage passengers to practice safe behaviours while travelling on the network.
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