Dubai Municipality has called on owners of buildings, shopping centres and markets to secure escalators in their premises by installing protection as part of efforts to reduce accidents resulting from children attempting to hang or climb over them and getting their clothes stuck.

The Health and Safety Department at Dubai Municipality recently organised a workshop to discuss the conditions, specifications and safety requirements of escalators in public places. The workshop was conducted as part of the municipality's keenness to implement the highest standards of safety for the escalators and to ensure a safe environment for people in all public places.

The workshop was opened by Redha Salman, Director of Health and Safety Department, in the presence of Sultan Al Suwaidi, Head of Occupational Safety Section, and Yousef Al Jasmi, Head of Inspection Bodies Accreditation Section at the Emirates International Accreditation Centre.

Salman pointed out that all elevators, escalators, moving walkways and conveyor belts must have a certificate of examination and compliance with the safety requirements from a company recognised by the Accreditation and Compliance Centre, subject to a periodic renewal.

Salman reiterated details of a circular issued by Hussein Nasser Lootah, Director-General of the Municipality, regarding enhancing the safety standards of escalators and providing additional protection, based on the provisions of Local Order No. 11 of 2003 on Public Health and Community Safety in the Emirate of Dubai.

He said that the municipality hopes to get full commitment and contribution from all in implementing the local order. "We urge people not to violate the local order which may result in fines, punishments and legal procedures," said Salman.