In a rather unusual move aimed at enhancing public safety, the city of Nagoya in Japan has introduced a ban on people walking on escalators. This ordinance came into effect on October 1 and requires individuals to stand still on escalators in various public places, including train stations, office buildings, and shopping centers. What sets this regulation apart is that it imposes no penalties for its violation.
Traditionally in Japan, escalator etiquette dictates that people stand still on the left side, reserving the right side for individuals who prefer to walk up or down the escalator. However, authorities in Nagoya are now encouraging people to stand still on either side when using escalators at train stations and other public facilities.
The decision to implement this ordinance was prompted by several incidents of people losing their balance on escalators, causing collisions with others. There have also been accidents involving commuters attempting to run up or down escalators, posing risks to individuals with disabilities or injuries who rely on crutches or walking canes.
According to Japan Times, between 2018 and 2019, a total of 805 escalator accidents in Japan were categorized as resulting from “improper use.”
To educate the public about the new ordinance, the Nagoya City government has posted informative posters at major train stations. These posters feature cartoons illustrating escalators along with messages like “Let’s stop and get on both right and left” and “When using escalators, stop and use both the right and left sides. It’s my duty!”
It’s worth noting that Nagoya is the second city in Japan to introduce such an ordinance. In October 2021, Saitama Prefecture also implemented a ban on any movement while riding escalators. The ordinance required locations with escalators to display signage asking riders to refrain from walking or running on them.
The initiative reflects a broader commitment in Japan to enhance safety and promote public etiquette, particularly in high-traffic areas such as train stations and shopping centers. While the absence of penalties for violating the ordinance might seem lenient, the emphasis is on raising awareness and encouraging responsible escalator use to reduce accidents and improve the overall safety of these public facilities.
By urging individuals to stand still on escalators, authorities aim to create a safer and more orderly environment for commuters and shoppers, addressing concerns related to accidents and ensuring that everyone can use escalators without undue risk or inconvenience.
