The panel assembly on each side of an escalator that supports the handrail, encloses the mechanical components, and forms the structural side closure between the landing plates, constructed from glass or solid panels.
Full Definition
The escalator balustrade is both a structural and safety element. Panel types: (1) Glass — toughened or laminated safety glass, typically 10–15 mm thick, providing visibility into the mechanism; (2) Solid deck — steel, aluminium, or composite panels with opaque finish. EN 115-1 requirements: minimum balustrade height 0.85 m above step tread (measured vertically); exterior face must be smooth with no handholds or footholds that allow climbing; anti-climb devices (inclination panels, anti-slide strips) are required on the exterior deck to prevent riding. The skirt panel is the lower portion adjacent to the step edge; EN 115-1 limits the gap between skirt and step to ≤4 mm to prevent entrapment. The deck board (exterior panel above handrail at landing level) must support 1.5 kN/m² distributed load. Interior deck panels must not create entrapment hazards. Balustrade lighting (LED underlit glass panels) enhances visibility and passenger confidence in modern installations.
