Got Escalators? Pay Attention!

As of 9-1-2009, if a unit does not comply with the step/skirt index the inspectors are to write is as a violation and depending on the age of the equipment, if the index is above a specified level, the unit shall be removed from service until the unit's step/skirt index is brought below that specified level. The actual code language from Section 8.6 is below:

8.6.8.3.3 The escalator step/skirt performance index shall be one of the following, whichever is applicable:

(a) ≤ 0.15

(b) ≤ 0.25 for escalators installed under ASME A17.1a-2002 and later editions and when a skirt deflector device complying with the requirements of 6.1.3.3.7 is provided

(c) ≤ 0.4 for escalators installed under ASME A17.1-2000 and earlier editions and a skirt deflector device is provided

Here is what (a), (b) and (c) above mean:

(a) ≤ 0.15 "Any escalator, regardless of age, that has a step/skirt performance index of 0.15 or less, is in compliance and does not require skirt deflectors (skirt brushes)."

(b) ≤ 0.25 for escalators installed under ASME A17.1a-2002 and later editions and when a skirt deflector device complying with the requirements of 6.1.3.3.7 is provided. "Any escalator installed when the ASME A17.1b-2003 code was in effect (12-1-2003) shall have skirt deflectors (skirt brushes) installed when the step/skirt performance index is between 0.16 and 0.25 and the index shall not exceed 0.25 under any circumstances."

(c) ≤ 0.4 for escalators installed under ASME A17.1-2000 and earlier editions and a skirt deflector device is provided. "Any escalator installed prior to the effective date of the ASME A17.1b-2003 code in Texas (12-1-2003) shall have skirt deflectors (skirt brushes) installed when the step/skirt performance index is between 0.16 and 0.4 and the index shall not exceed 0.4 under any circumstances."

The TDLR has deemed that units that have a step/skirt index above those permitted in (b) and (c) are imminent hazards to the using public and shall not continue to be operated until adjustments/repairs are made to bring the index below 0.25 or 0.4 depending on the installation date (see the Act for a description of how to determine the installation date) and code which applies.

As of 9-1-2009, units that do not have skirt brushes and have a step/skirt index above 0.15 but below the maximum levels specified in 8.6.8.3.3(b) or (c) shall be cited as violations and handled just like any other violation. Units that have a step/skirt index that exceeds the maximum levels specified in (b) or (c) shall be removed from operation until brought into compliance.

Pay close attention to the step/skirt index if you haven't been doing so already.

Questions: Call Lawrence Taylor-TDLR at 512-539-5725 Phone, 512-585-5411 Cell