Information Bulletin: Deteriorated escalator/moving walk power cables & supervisory cables

Attention: Licensed elevating contractors, building owners, and property managers

Topic: Deteriorated escalator/moving walk power cables and supervisory cables

On some escalators and moving walks the insulation on the three-phase power cables and/or the supervisory cables has deteriorated to a point where the lines/wires become brittle. This can lead to the insulation breaking and potentially exposing the metal conductors. These cables can be found connecting the main disconnect to the controller, the controller to the motor, and/or the supervisory circuits to the truss components. The exposure of the metal leads increases the chance of severe electrical shock, fire, escalator failures, or miss-operations (see Figure 1 and 2).

Figure 1:

Figure 2:

While performing regular maintenance on escalators and moving walks, certified individuals should pay special attention when inspecting wiring, and check for deterioration or damage. If any deterioration or damage is found, certified individuals must take appropriate action to ensure safe operation. 

 

 

Nav Chahal
Acting Safety Manager, Elevating, Passenger Ropeway, and Amusements

 

References:
Safety Standards Act
Electrical Safety Regulation
Elevating Devices Safety Regulation
Safety Standards General Regulation