You’re probably not the only one who has washed their shoes on the brushes that run up either side of an escalator. However, as you may have suspected, they are not designed for that purpose.
According to TikTok user Buddy the Elf, escalators may be dangerous and intimidating for individuals who have never used one before. Some of us may have even tripped and fallen on one of the rough steps, requiring stitches.
As a result, one might conclude that the extra black nylon bristles connected to each escalator you use have a purpose. The bristles really serve as a safety element. While they are unlikely to save you from falling if you start jogging about, they will assist prevent any other accidents from occurring. The escalator’s safety brushes assist prevent shoes or clothing from becoming trapped between the moving stairs and the balustrade skirt.
Simply said, if the brushes were not present, one’s garments would become stuck, which is not something anyone wants to experience. They also serve as psychological barriers. When someone senses anything touching their legs, they rapidly shift aside to avoid snagging their garments or shoes.
According to the ‘Untold Facts’ TikTok account, “One of the biggest reasons for escalator mishaps is people getting their clothes and bags stuck in them when they stand too close to the sides.”
The floor brushes on escalators are not for show.
This prompted a viewer to write, “I got my floor-length dress caught in an escalator and it left oil/grease stains on it that I could never remove.” Another reader remarked, “Just recently, my husband assisted a lady who got her skirt stuck on the escalator.” A third person added, “Escalators still scare the s*** out of me.” My kids make fun of me because I still use the stairs.”
As it turns out, such skirt deflectors in escalators were not regarded essential until the A2 amendment, which arrived in 2004. And, to be honest, the usefulness and preventive measures do soothe some of the worries individuals experience while standing on an escalator.
