National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) chairman Lee Lam Thye said the move was important to reduce accidents involving escalators in shopping complexes.
“This measure needs to be implemented, especially during peak hours and school holidays,” he said in a statement today.
He added that NIOSH viewed seriously any accidents, especially those involving children.
Yesterday, a boy almost lost his fingers after his hand was trapped in an escalator at a shopping complex in Tampoi, Johor.
The victim, who had to endure the pain for about an hour, was rescued by firemen and taken to the Sultanah Aminah Hospital for treatment.
It is the responsibility of the building owners or management to ensure the escalators are in good condition.