Cool Project Review:
Making Escalators Safer for Travelers: Custom Bollard Solution for Alstom at Port Authority NY/NJ
Alstom, a global leader in the transportation industry, specializing in the development and manufacturing of rail systems and services, was tasked by the Port Authority of NY/NJ with enhancing passenger safety around escalators. Escalator areas can become a hazardous area when passengers attempt to load baggage carts onto the moving stairs. These carts, being top-heavy and hard to maneuver, pose a significant tipping risk, potentially causing injury to both the cart user and to passengers below. Preventing such incidents is critical for ensuring overall passenger safety. In addition, addressing the need for efficient escalator closures during maintenance was another key challenge that required a thoughtful solution that had to work in conjunction with their initial safety concerns. Space constraints and specific floor conditions made traditional portable stanchions unsuitable, leading to the need for a custom, tailored solution.
FUN FACT: The first working escalator was invented in 1892 by Jesse Reno. It was implemented at Coney Island in Brooklyn, NY.
Why Visiontron?
- Known for our hands-on approach and passion for working with our clients, we collaborated directly with Alstom and operations teams.
- Utilizing over 60 years of knowledge and experience, we designed a layout compliant with safety and maintenance standards.
- Our MINI-SOCKET® Base Mounts provided a permanent solution with a small and unobtrusive footprint.
- We accommodated the busy and “always on” nature of the bustling travel hub and installed the custom posts and retractable belts stanchions around their schedule to minimize impact to their daily operations.
Impact
This installation not only improved safety of travelers and employees, but will also set a precedent for using escalator bollards at other airports. The permanent, low-profile solution meets strict safety requirements while offering flexibility in operation.
Key Takeaway
Escalator bollards, such as Visiontron’s RETRACTA-BELT® Retractable Belt Stanchions and bollards with MINI-SOCKET® Base Mounts, offer a smart, customizable solution for passenger safety and efficient escalator maintenance. This successful installation at Port Authority is a model for similar applications in other airports and high-traffic venues.
For more information about our products and services, please contact us at www.visiontron.com | 631-582-8600
1 A bollard is a short, sturdy vertical post designed to enhance security by preventing vehicles and other larger transport mechanisms (luggage carts, etc.) from entering restricted areas or colliding with buildings and pedestrian zones.
2 MINI-SOCKET® BASE for RETRACTA-BELT® and CLASSIC POST products: Protected by USPTO Utility Patents #9,719,272, #1,0184,261 and 11,414,883.
Visiontron’s Role
Going up? Going Down? Either way safety is top priority.
An idea so simple, yet important, we had to install it in multiple locations.
Retractable belt barriers can be implemented during maintenance or downtime to ensure safety with clear messaging.
Our installers leave it better than they found it. No muss, No fuss..
Featured Crowd Control Products:
Need more information?
