27 Nov 2023
Singapore’s first-of-a-kind magnetic bollard at escalator landing in Tampines 1 to promote safer use of the escalators.
SINGAPORE, 27 NOVEMBER 2023
Frasers Property Singapore piloted Singapore’s first-of-its-kind magnetic bollards at Tampines 1, to encourage safe use of escalators in its shopping malls. The four-month pilot project conducted in collaboration with the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) from April to July 2022 has yielded positive results. Escalators equipped with magnetic bollards saw approximately 50% reduction in the number of passengers with prams, trolleys and bulky items. The implementation of magnetic bollards was also coupled with highly visible signages near the escalators to redirect shoppers with prams and trolleys to lifts, promoting safe riding.
Prams and trolleys pose safety risks on escalators as their wheels may jam escalator steps, leading to dislodgment and sudden stops that can result in injuries to escalator users. Recognising these safety risks, the team at Tampines 1 sought to enhance escalator safety by installing magnetic bollards. These bollards differ from ordinary fixed bollards as they are easy to install and can be positioned in close proximity to escalators, effectively deterring access by prams and trolleys.
Besides improving escalator safety, the magnetic bollards also minimise potential equipment damage, including damages to escalator steps caused by wedged wheels. The bollards are designed to be sturdy and resistant to prevent dislodgment, offering greater flexibility than conventional fixed bollards. They can be removed during emergencies for an unobstructed pathway.
Mr Tan Kee Yong, Chief Operating Officer of Retail, Frasers Property Singapore, said: “Frasers Property's Purpose – Inspiring experiences, creating places for good. – drives us to seek innovative solutions that elevate the user experience at our properties. We are constantly looking at ways to enhance our malls to create a safe, inclusive and conducive environment for the community. We are pleased to pilot Singapore’s first of its kind magnetic bollards to augment escalator safety, with the support of BCA.”
BCA’s Group Director for Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Group, Mr Teo Orh Hai commended Frasers Property’s effort in promoting safer escalator use in their malls by installing the magnetic bollards. “We are glad that Frasers Property took the initiative to implement solutions to improve the safety of their visitors in their malls. Most escalator incidents in shopping malls involve passengers carrying bulky items such as prams and trolleys. We hope to see more responsible mall owners follow suit to implement similar safety measures for their visitors.”
Building on the success of the pilot project, Frasers Property Singapore has extended the installation of magnetic bollards to Causeway Point, The Centrepoint, and Tiong Bahru Plaza. Frasers Property Singapore will continue to collaborate with BCA to explore more solutions to enhance escalator safety.
According to BCA statistics, 97% of reported escalator incidents from January to October 2023 were due to user behaviour. About 17% of these incidents involved individuals carrying bulky or heavy items, such as pushing prams or trolleys on escalators.
As part of continuing efforts to promote safe use of escalators, an upcoming escalator safety workshop supported by BCA and Frasers Property Singapore will be held at Century Square on 2 December 2023. Organised by escalator manufacturer Schindler, the event aims to educate young children about escalator safety practices. More information can be found here.