Frasers Property Singapore, BCA pilots magnetic bollards for escalator safety in malls

Nine in 10 escalator incidents recorded in 2023 were due to user behaviour.

Frasers Property Singapore and the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) introduced magnetic bollards to encourage the safe use of mall escalators.

The four-month pilot of the magnetic bollards in Tampines 1 saw an approximately 50% reduction in passengers with prams, trolleys, and bulky items.

Prams and trolleys pose safety risks on escalators as their wheels may jam escalator steps, leading to sudden stops that can result in injuries to escalator users.

The magnetic bollards minimise potential equipment damage, including damage to escalator steps caused by wedged wheels. 

Magnetic bollards can be removed during emergencies for an unobstructed pathway.

According to BCA statistics, 97% of reported escalator incidents from January to October 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.

“We are constantly looking at ways to enhance our malls to create a safe, inclusive, and conducive environment for the community. We are happy to work with BCA on piloting Singapore’s first-of-its-kind magnetic bollards to augment escalator safety,” Tan Kee Yong, COO of Retail at Frasers Property Singapore, said.