Why Do Escalators Have Those Strange Brushes on the Sides?

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Why Do Escalators Have Those Strange Brushes on the Sides?

If you’ve ever ridden an escalator, you’ve probably noticed the odd-looking brushes lining the sides near the base of the steps. They resemble the kind of brushes you’d use to clean your shoes—but clearly, that’s not their purpose. So what are they actually for?

As it turns out, those side brushes are a subtle but crucial safety feature designed to protect riders from injury. Let’s break it down.

The Real Purpose of Escalator Brushes

The brushes are officially known as escalator skirt brushes. They’re placed along the skirt panels—the sides of the escalator that run parallel to the steps. Their main function is to keep loose clothing, shoelaces, bags, or even body parts away from the edge of the steps where they meet the side panel.

This is important because the gap between the moving steps and the stationary skirt panel is one of the most dangerous parts of an escalator. If something gets caught in that gap, it can lead to serious injuries.

A Psychological Deterrent

Interestingly, the brushes aren’t designed to physically stop anything from entering the gap—they’re not strong enough to push objects away. Instead, they work as a psychological deterrent. When your foot or clothing brushes against the bristles, the sensation makes you instinctively move away from the edge.

This simple feedback mechanism reduces the chances of entrapment, especially in high-traffic areas like malls, airports, and train stations.