Some 70 shopping mall managers from within Perak were briefed on the rules and proper usage of lifts and escalators during the Elevator and Escalator Awareness Campaign organised by the Perak Department of Occupational and Safety Hazard (DOSH).
The campaign, held on Thursday, July 20 at Ipoh Parade, was prompted following two recent incidents. In one, an elderly couple were left traumatised after being trapped for nearly 26 hours in a lift at a shopping mall in Meru, Ipoh.
Perak DOSH director, Ir Mohd Hatta Zakaria announced that these were the only reports his department had received this year.
“After what happened at the Mydin shopping complex, we’ll no longer compromise on those who fail to ensure that their escalators and lifts are well maintained, or in good working condition.
“Action will be taken against owners and contractors appointed to maintain the facilities,” he said.
During the two-hour briefing, specialists from TMS Engineering Sdn Bhd spoke at length on the subject matter.
According to Mohd Hatta, in 2016 his department prosecuted 67 owners for negligence while another 129 were issued compounds worth RM1.1 million.
“This year, four compounds worth RM8000 had been issued while one case is awaiting trial. All are related to poor maintenance of escalators and lifts,” he disclosed.
Mohd Hatta advised the public to exercise caution when using these modes of conveyance.
“Keep a close watch on your kids. Take heed of the instructions displayed to avoid any untoward incidents,” he added.
For more information on safety guidelines for elevators and escalators, readers can log on to DOSH’s official website at www.dosh.gov.my.
