Have you ever noticed the small brushes on the sides of escalators? They are not just for cleaning! These brushes serve an important safety purpose.

The brushes, also called escalator skirt brushes, help prevent accidents. When people stand too close to the side of an escalator, their shoes, clothes, or bags can get caught between the moving steps and the fixed side panels.

This can be very dangerous. The brushes act as a gentle reminder to keep feet and objects away from the edges.

Escalators have a small gap between the moving steps and the side panels. If something gets stuck in this gap, it can cause the escalator to stop suddenly or even lead to injuries. The brushes create a small barrier that makes people naturally move away from the edges, reducing the risk of accidents.

Another reason for these brushes is to prevent small debris like dust, paper, or dirt from getting stuck in the gap. While they do not fully clean the escalator, they help keep it running smoothly by pushing away small objects.

Even though the brushes look soft, they serve a serious purpose. Next time you step on an escalator, remember that these simple brushes are helping to keep you safe. So, always stand in the middle, hold the handrail, and avoid letting your shoes or bags touch the sides. Safety first!