Station mechanic accidentally speeds up escalator causing a passenger to fall

Location: Surrey

Regulated industry sector: Elevating devices - Escalator or moving walkway

Incident overview

Incorrectly adjusted sensors caused an escalator to not detect a passenger approaching. A station mechanic noticed the slow speed attempted to assist the passenger by passing their foot across the sensor. This activated the unit out of power save mode, increased the speed, and caused the passenger to fall backwards and receive minor injuries to their hand.