Is this standard mandatory for all old escalators?

It serves as a guideline for safety improvement. Its mandatory application is determined by local statutory authorities, insurance requirements, or the building owner's safety policy.

What is the most critical safety upgrade mentioned?

Preventing entrapment at the skirt by installing skirt deflectors/brushes is considered a high-priority measure (Clause 5.5.3).

Does this code require replacing the entire escalator?

No, it focuses on retrofitting specific safety components and implementing measures to improve the safety of the *existing* installation, not complete replacement.

Can I pick and choose which safety measures to apply?

Measures should be chosen based on a formal risk assessment of the specific escalator. Annex A provides a negotiation procedure to determine which measures are reasonably practicable to implement.

IS 17900 Part 1

: 2022

Safety Rules for the Construction and Installation of Escalators and Moving Walkways — Part 1: Construction and Installation

CurrentSpecializedSafety CodeBIMMEP · Lifts, Escalators and Mechanical Handling

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This standard provides safety rules for improving the safety of existing escalators and moving walkways, aiming to elevate them to a level comparable with modern safety standards. It details a process for identifying hazards through risk assessment and lists specific technical solutions and upgrades. This code is intended for owners, maintenance entities, and inspection bodies to progressively enhance the safety of older installations.

Specifies safety rules for the construction and installation of new escalators and moving walkways.

Quick Reference Values

Minimum illumination at comb lines50 lux

Maximum gap between skirt and step4 mm per side

Maximum gap between successive steps6 mm

Skirt panel stiffness test force300 N over an area of 25 cm²

Minimum upstand height of step25 mm

Handrail speed deviation from steps0% to +2%

Practical Notes

This standard is not for new installations, which are covered by IS 17900 (Part 1). Its purpose is retrofitting safety features on older units.

A thorough risk assessment of the specific unit is the first and most critical step before applying the recommended measures from Table 1.

Prioritization of upgrades is key. High-risk items like skirt deflectors, additional emergency stops, and comb-plate impact devices should be addressed first.