Understanding EN 115: Safety Standards for Escalators and Moving Walks

What is EN 115?

EN 115 is a series of European Standards that specifically address the safety requirements for escalators and moving walks. The primary standard, EN 115-1, focuses on the safety rules for the construction and installation of these systems, while additional parts, such as EN 115-2, provide guidelines for the maintenance and inspection of existing installations. The goal of EN 115 is to ensure that escalators and moving walks are designed and maintained in a way that minimizes the risk of accidents and malfunctions, providing a safe and efficient means of transportation.

Key Provisions of EN 115

1. Design and Construction Requirements
   
   • Structural Integrity:EN 115 mandates that escalators and moving walks be constructed with materials and components that ensure structural integrity under all operating conditions. This includes the use of robust materials for steps, treads, balustrades, and handrails, as well as the proper alignment and secure attachment of all parts.
   
   
   • Load Capacity:The standard specifies the maximum load capacities for escalators and moving walks, ensuring that they can safely transport the expected number of passengers without risk of mechanical failure. Load calculations must account for both static and dynamic loads, including the weight of passengers and any additional forces generated during operation.
   
   
2. Safety Devices and Features
   
   • Emergency Stop Buttons:EN 115 requires that all escalators and moving walks be equipped with easily accessible emergency stop buttons. These buttons must be clearly marked and located at both ends of the system, allowing passengers or maintenance personnel to quickly halt operation in the event of an emergency.
   
   
   • Safety Sensors:The standard mandates the installation of safety sensors that detect obstructions, abnormal movement, or other hazardous conditions. These sensors must automatically stop the system if a dangerous situation is detected, preventing accidents and injuries.
   
   
   • Speed Monitoring:EN 115 specifies that escalators and moving walks must be equipped with speed monitoring systems that ensure the system operates within safe speed limits. If the speed exceeds or falls below these limits, the system must automatically shut down to prevent accidents.
   
   
3. Passenger Safety Provisions
   
   • Handrail Design:The standard requires that handrails on escalators and moving walks be continuous and synchronized with the movement of the steps or tread. Handrails must be designed to provide a secure grip, with no gaps or obstacles that could cause passengers to lose balance.
   
   
   • Step and Tread Design:EN 115 mandates that the steps and treads of escalators and moving walks be designed to prevent slipping, tripping, or entrapment. This includes requirements for step height, width, and surface texture, as well as the use of comb plates to minimize the gap between steps and the landing.
   
   
   • Lighting and Signage:The standard specifies that adequate lighting must be provided on and around escalators and moving walks to ensure that passengers can see clearly and navigate the system safely. Additionally, warning signs and instructions must be clearly visible to guide passengers and inform them of safe usage practices.
   
   
4. Maintenance and Inspection Requirements
   
   • Regular Inspections:EN 115 emphasizes the importance of regular inspections to ensure that escalators and moving walks remain in safe operating condition. This includes routine checks of all mechanical and electrical components, as well as inspections of safety devices and sensors.
   
   
   • Preventive Maintenance:The standard requires that preventive maintenance be performed according to a schedule that reflects the usage and environmental conditions of the system. Maintenance activities must include lubrication, adjustment, and replacement of worn or damaged parts to prevent malfunctions and extend the lifespan of the system.
   
   
   • Documentation and Record Keeping:EN 115 mandates that detailed records of all inspections, maintenance activities, and repairs be kept. These records are essential for tracking the condition of the system, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and providing evidence of proper maintenance in the event of an incident.
   
   
5. Emergency Procedures and Training
   
   • Emergency Response Plans:The standard requires that emergency response plans be in place for escalators and moving walks, detailing the procedures to follow in the event of a malfunction, accident, or fire. These plans must include instructions for safely evacuating passengers and shutting down the system.
   
   
   • Staff Training:EN 115 mandates that all personnel responsible for operating, maintaining, or inspecting escalators and moving walks receive appropriate training. This training must cover the safe operation of the system, the use of emergency stop buttons and other safety devices, and the procedures for conducting inspections and maintenance.
   
   

Why EN 115 Was Developed

EN 115 was developed in response to the need for standardized safety requirements for escalators and moving walks, which are widely used in public spaces and are subject to heavy usage. Before the introduction of EN 115, there were no consistent guidelines for the design, construction, and maintenance of these systems, leading to variations in safety practices and an increased risk of accidents. This standard provides a unified framework for ensuring that escalators and moving walks are safe, reliable, and capable of meeting the demands of high-traffic environments.

The Importance of Compliance

1. Enhancing Passenger Safety
   
   • Preventing Accidents:Compliance with EN 115 significantly reduces the risk of accidents on escalators and moving walks by ensuring that these systems are equipped with the necessary safety features and are properly maintained. This includes preventing common hazards such as slips, trips, entrapments, and falls.
   
   
   • Supporting Safe Operation:The standard’s requirements for safety sensors, emergency stop buttons, and speed monitoring systems ensure that escalators and moving walks operate within safe parameters, providing a secure environment for passengers.
   
   
2. Protecting Building Owners and Operators
   
   • Reducing Liability:Compliance with EN 115 helps protect building owners and operators from liability in the event of an accident. By adhering to the standard’s requirements for design, construction, and maintenance, they can demonstrate that they have taken all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of the system.
   
   
   • Extending System Lifespan:Regular maintenance and inspections, as mandated by EN 115, help extend the lifespan of escalators and moving walks by preventing malfunctions and addressing wear and tear before it leads to more serious issues. This reduces the need for costly repairs and replacements.
   
   
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
   
   • Mandatory in the EU:Compliance with EN 115 is mandatory for all new escalator and moving walk installations in the European Union. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties, including fines and restrictions on building occupancy.
   
   
   • Certification and Building Approvals:Escalators and moving walks must be certified as meeting EN 115 requirements to obtain necessary building approvals. This certification process ensures that the system meets all required safety standards and is fit for use in public spaces.
   
   

How BRONZE LIFT Ensures Compliance with EN 115

At BRONZE LIFT, we are committed to designing, installing, and maintaining escalators and moving walks that fully comply with EN 115. Our systems are built to the highest standards of safety and reliability, with robust materials, advanced safety features, and comprehensive maintenance programs. We work closely with building owners and operators to ensure that our systems enhance the safety and functionality of their spaces. Additionally, we offer ongoing support and training to ensure that all personnel are equipped to operate and maintain these systems in accordance with EN 115 requirements.

Conclusion

EN 115 is a critical standard for ensuring the safety and reliability of escalators and moving walks in public spaces. By understanding and complying with its provisions, building owners and operators can protect passengers, reduce liability, and ensure the long-term functionality of their transportation systems. Contact BRONZE LIFT today to learn more about how we can help you meet and maintain compliance with EN 115 in your building’s escalators and moving walks.