People Are Only Just Realizing the Reason Why Escalators Have Brushes on the Side
If you’ve ever ridden an escalator, you’ve probably noticed the stiff, black bristles lining the sides where the moving steps meet the stationary metal skirting. For years, many people assumed they were just there to clean the sides of the escalator or to brush dust off their shoes.
But the real reason is much more important — and it’s all about safety. Here’s the truth behind those mysterious brushes. 👇
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. Always follow safety guidelines when riding an escalator.
🔬 The Real Reason for the Brushes
1. They Are a Safety Device, Not a Cleaning Tool Those brushes are officially known as “deflector brushes” or “skirt brushes.” Their primary purpose is to prevent your feet, clothing, or shoes from getting caught in the gap between the moving steps and the stationary side panels.
2. They Warn You to Keep Your Distance The bristles are designed to be stiff and uncomfortable if you brush against them. This is intentional — it’s a tactile warning to keep your feet away from the edge.
3. They Prevent Serious Accidents If your shoe or clothing gets caught in the gap between the step and the side panel, it can be pulled in, leading to serious injury. The brushes act as a barrier, reducing the risk of this happening.
4. They Are Not for Cleaning While they may brush off some dust, cleaning is not their purpose. They are a safety feature mandated by escalator safety standards.
What you should do:
Stand in the center of the step, away from the edges.
Hold the handrail for balance.
Avoid loose clothing that could get caught.
Never let children sit on the steps or play near the brushes.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What are the brushes on the side of an escalator for? They are safety devices designed to prevent feet, shoes, and clothing from getting caught in the gap between the moving steps and the side panels.
Are the brushes meant to clean shoes? No — they are not cleaning tools. They are a safety feature.
Why are the brushes so stiff? The stiffness is intentional — it acts as a warning to keep your feet away from the edge.
What happens if you ignore the brushes? If you press your foot against the edge, your shoe or clothing could get caught in the gap, leading to serious injury.
Are escalator brushes required by law? Yes — in many countries, escalator safety standards require the installation of deflector brushes.
Do all escalators have brushes? Most modern escalators have them. Older ones may not, which is why safety regulations have been updated over time.
Can children get hurt by the brushes? Children should be supervised on escalators. They should not play with or touch the brushes.
What should I do if my clothing gets caught? Press the emergency stop button immediately and seek help. Do not try to pull the clothing out forcefully.
Are escalator brushes dangerous? They are not dangerous if used properly. They are a safety feature designed to protect you.
How can I stay safe on an escalator? Stand in the center, hold the handrail, avoid loose clothing, and never sit on the steps.
