You might already know this, but Japan has unwritten rules on how to ride escalators. Most people stand on one side and leave the other side open for those in a rush. But a campaign is now underway in Tokyo Station to change that idea in the name of safety.
(Railway staff)
"Do not walk on the escalator, stand in two lines."
The Tokyo office of East Japan Railway, or JR East, started the promotion on Monday at one of the capital's busiest transport hubs. About 1,500 escalator incidents were reported in Japan in 2013 and 2014.
During the campaign, workers are asking passengers to stand still on escalators. The goal is to prevent falls and make escalator use more efficient. Signs and messages on floors, walls, and handrails, instruct commuters on the new rules.
Officials hope that all passengers will embrace the new safety rules by the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.
◆underway進行中で
◆transport hub交通拠点
◆handrail手すり
◆embrace受け入れる、応じる
