Standing and walking on escalators

Summary

This pattern is for anyone who rides escalators in public places. It describes where to stand, how to get on and off safely, and when to choose the lift instead.

Recommendation	Why?
Stand on one side and leave the other free for people walking, following the local custom.	Which side is for standing differs between countries and even cities, so do what the signs and the people around you do.
Follow any sign that asks everyone to stand still on both sides.	Some operators ask for this because walking causes falls and standing on both sides moves more people at busy times.
Hold the handrail.	Escalators can stop suddenly, and the handrail is what keeps you upright when they do.
Step on and off deliberately, and look down as you reach the comb plate.	Most escalator falls happen at the ends, where the steps flatten out.
Move away from the exit as soon as you step off.	People behind you are still being carried forward and can’t stop.
Hold children’s hands and keep them standing in the middle of the step, facing forward.	Small feet and soft shoes can be caught at the sides of the steps.
Keep loose clothing, long scarves and shoelaces clear of the step edges.	They can get caught where the steps meet the sides or the comb plate.
Use the lift for prams, wheelchairs and luggage trolleys where signs say so.	A heavy or wheeled load can roll backwards and knock over the people below you.

Context

This pattern suits escalators in transport hubs and shopping centres, where crowds and hurrying people meet.

It does not suit moving walkways, which have their own signs, or narrow single-width escalators where nobody can pass. It also isn’t for anyone who feels unsteady on moving steps: if that’s you, use the lift or stairs without hesitation.

There’s a trade-off between letting people walk past and moving the most people safely. Standing on one side lets those in a hurry get by, which is the custom in many places. But some operators ask everyone to stand on both sides, for safety and capacity. This pattern says follow the local custom and the signs, rather than insisting on one rule everywhere.

Usage

Before stepping on: check which side people are standing on, and look for signs about strollers, luggage or standing. If you have a pram, a large suitcase or a trolley, use the lift instead, as described in Riding an elevator.

Riding: stand on the standing side, hold the handrail and keep your bag in front of you or on the step beside your feet, not in the walking lane. If you walk, walk steadily and don’t push past people who haven’t moved over.

Getting off: watch for the end of the steps, step off with a slight lift of the foot, and keep walking. Stop to check your phone or the map only once you’re well clear of the exit.

If something goes wrong: every escalator has an emergency stop button at the top and bottom. Use it if someone falls or something is caught, and call for help.

References

The signs at the escalator and the station or centre operator’s instructions set the local rules, including which side to stand on and whether walking is allowed.