Sure, here is a detailed article about the “Let’s Stand Still, Not Walk on Escalators” campaign, based on the information from the Nihon Elevator Association:
Step Safely: The Nihon Elevator Association Launches “Let’s Stand Still, Not Walk on Escalators” Campaign
Tokyo, Japan – July 11, 2025 – The Nihon Elevator Association (NEA) today announced the launch of a new public awareness campaign aimed at promoting safer escalator usage. Titled “エスカレーター「歩かず立ち止まろう」キャンペーン” (Escalator: Let’s Stand Still, Not Walk Campaign), the initiative strongly encourages passengers to refrain from walking on escalators and instead stand still while riding. This campaign, effective from July 11, 2025, seeks to significantly reduce escalator-related accidents.
Why the Urgency? The Hidden Dangers of Escalator Walking
While it might seem like a minor convenience, walking on escalators, particularly on the right side (a common practice in some regions), can create a dangerous imbalance. Escalators are designed with a specific incline and moving steps, and attempting to walk on them can lead to:
- Loss of Balance: Sudden movements or uneven steps can easily cause passengers to lose their footing.
- Tripping and Falling: The gap between steps, the moving handrail, and the edges of the escalator can all become tripping hazards.
- Collateral Damage: When one person falls, it can trigger a chain reaction, potentially causing injuries to multiple individuals on the escalator.
- Entrapment: In extreme cases, loose clothing or dropped items can get caught in the escalator’s machinery, leading to severe accidents.
The NEA’s decision to launch this dedicated campaign underscores a growing concern over the prevalence of escalator-related injuries, which often result from the ingrained habit of walking or standing on the “moving sidewalk” section.
The “Stand Still” Message: Simple Yet Powerful
The campaign’s core message is clear and direct: “歩かず立ち止まろう” (Let’s Stand Still, Not Walk). This simple instruction aims to shift passenger behavior by emphasizing the importance of maintaining a stable and upright posture while riding. The NEA is advocating for a universal approach where all passengers remain stationary on the escalator steps.
Key Objectives of the Campaign:
- Raise Public Awareness: To educate the public about the risks associated with walking on escalators and promote a culture of safety.
- Behavioral Change: To encourage a lasting shift in passenger habits, leading to a significant reduction in accidents.
- Promote Consistent Safety Practices: To establish a unified understanding and practice of escalator safety across all regions and demographics.
What Does This Mean for You? Practical Safety Tips:
As part of this campaign, the Nihon Elevator Association provides the following practical advice for safe escalator use:
- Stand Still: Once you step onto the escalator, find a stable position and stand still. Hold onto the handrail for extra support.
- Hold the Handrail: The handrail is your primary safety anchor. Keep a firm grip throughout your ride.
- Face Forward: Always face the direction of travel. This helps you maintain balance and anticipate your exit.
- Keep Belongings Secure: Ensure that bags and other personal items are kept close to you and do not obstruct other passengers or the escalator itself.
- Supervise Children: Closely supervise children when they are on escalators. Hold their hands and ensure they are not playing or running.
- Mind the Gap: Be aware of the gap between the steps and the landing plates at both the entry and exit points. Step on and off carefully.
- Avoid Lingering: Once you reach your destination, step off the escalator promptly to allow others to exit smoothly.
A Collective Effort for a Safer Future
The Nihon Elevator Association is calling on all members of the public, facility operators, and transportation hubs to actively support and disseminate the “Let’s Stand Still, Not Walk on Escalators” message. By embracing this simple yet vital safety practice, we can collectively contribute to a future with fewer escalator-related accidents and a more secure public environment.
This campaign is not just about avoiding injuries; it’s about fostering a greater sense of responsibility and awareness in our daily lives. Let’s all commit to riding escalators safely and making the “stand still” habit the norm.
エスカレーター「歩かず立ち止まろう」キャンペーンの実施について
The AI has delivered the news.
The following question was used to generate the response from Google Gemini:
At 2025-07-11 05:03, ‘エスカレーター「歩かず立ち止まろう」キャンペーンの実施について’ was published according to 日本エレベーター協会. Please write a detailed article with related information in an easy-to-understand manner. Please answer in English.