Let's call it
escalator etiquette. While not the biggest issue on the transit
system, one of the ways to be considerate of other riders is to make
sure you're not blocking the escalator.
As reader Mark
Petrie of Toronto writes, it would help smooth pedestrian flow
through busy stations if people were encouraged to take the
escalators. When riders head for the stairs, "it slows things
immensely and is very frustrating for those moving in the opposite
direction."
For the
escalator to be an attractive option, people have to keep moving on
it -- at least on the left side. Most TTC riders who want to rest a
spell simply stand to the right. How do we inspire more people to be
attentive like this -- and without getting upset if not everyone
complies?
Several readers
write via email that TTC instructions on escalators to "Stand Right,
Walk Left" are too modest and often ignored. One asked if the TTC
could print or emboss the instructions vertically on the moving
handrails as a "constant reminder".
Guy Bisaillon
of Toronto suggests that "useless TTC self-promotion ads" be
replaced with more informative posters, and also to "paint one side
of the steps red and the other side green" and possibly leaving the
edges yellow.
Anita Cloutier
of Toronto suggests "Have a speaker system replay the message about
where to walk or stand. Maybe even have it play in different
languages, with English being the most frequent, of course." She
also proposes that TTC representatives could distribute "a
non-judgmental card that explains the courtesy rule and why it's
good for everyone."
Sandy Z. of
Toronto writes that it might help to install "overhead signs reading
only 'STAND' (with an arrow pointing down at the escalator) placed
above the right hand side. Aside from that, I think the TTC has to
undertake a general 'Keep to the right' campaign."
Where there is
not room for a sign overhead, how about underfoot? Kristina Groeger
writes, "As a longtime civil enforcement officer of the 'walk left
stand right' campaign, I always thought putting a huge vinyl sign at
the bottom of the escalator ... would work." She even sent me a
quick sketch showing a message that could be affixed to the floor,
much like advertising decals.
Frederick
Harrison of Etobicoke suggests that people with baby strollers or
large items should be encouraged to use existing alternatives. He
writes, "Perhaps effective signage pointing out the elevators might
reduce the number of strollers on escalators."
Simple,
consistent signs would make a difference, especially in older subway
stations. Perhaps the creative thinking of riders can help the
transit system devise not only clear markings, but effective slogans
to inspire courtesy -- and not just on escalators. In the near
future, I'll be looking for your suggestions on how to promote
transit etiquette.
While I have
your attention, please let me know what you think about announcing
upcoming stations over the public address system on subway trains.