The world of infrastructure in Thailand is about to experience a seismic shift—quite literally! The Office of Industrial Product Standards is gearing up to catapult escalators and moving walkways into the spotlight as new, regulated titans in the battle for public safety. These trusty movers, frequently whirring in the bustling realms of malls, airports, and train stations, are getting an upgrade in resilience. Come October 2025, they must showcase their prowess to withstand the earth’s occasional hiccups—or face the music!
Why the focus on these mechanical marvels? It’s the rising dance of earthquakes that has Thailand on its toes. Safety standards are no longer just buzzwords but essential building blocks in metropolises shaken by seismic surprises. And now, “with great responsibility” comes the need to follow international guidelines to minimize potential damage—hats off to modernity!
Wanchai Phanomchai, the harbinger of industrial reform and Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, is on the mission to ensure these newcomers meet the rigour of ISO standards. So, brace yourselves! Manufacturing and importing big-wigs are on the clock to hit those high notes or otherwise pay the piper when the new standards take full effect.
This thrilling revelation found a stage on April 3, when the Office facilitated an enlightening seminar for 92 power players—manufacturers, importers, and distributors were all ears. They are preparing for the mighty TIS 3778 Part 1-2567 certification, where safety and cutting-edge technology mingle under the spotlight, courtesy of the Bangkok Post.
The regulations make the jump from a static checklist to smart, adaptive systems. Think earthquake detection intricately fused to escalators’ and moving walkways’ electrical grids—an advanced tech tango. Imagine this: as the earth gives a little rumble, these systems give a sharp intake of breath, halting operations to ensure your journey up remains as uneventful as your morning commute (minus the coffee snafu).
As if this protection weren’t enough, mechanisms are in place to hold firm, preventing the escalators from doing the twist out of their moorings, with lengths and angles finely tuned to their concrete habitats. These machines are given to the whims of brakes breaking, steps bowing, and objects misadventuring into their combs no more. They’ll shut down and hunker down at the slightest irregularity, echoing the noble duty of saving grace through proactive measures.
Meanwhile, amidst the high-stakes game of standards, the chaos of construction looms. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra weighs heavy with accountability following the dramatic fall of the 30-floor State Audit Office building. Grim resolve settles in the air as arrest warrants loom over the responsible entities. Her stern pledge resounds: no stone shall be left unturned in the pursuit of justice following the Chatuchak catastrophe and its neighboring Myanmar quake.
In a cascade of events acting as a clarion call for better safety protocols everywhere, Thailand marches towards stricter frameworks and relentless improvement. As these adjustments weave their way into the architectural fabric of the nation, rest assured, Thailand’s vibrancy shall remain an unyielding panorama, bolstered perhaps by a slightly larger spring in its step up the escalators!
This all sounds like sensationalism to me. Thailand has never been that seismic, why are we getting these new measures out of nowhere?
Actually, recent studies have shown increased seismic activity in Southeast Asia. It makes sense to adopt these precautionary measures now.
I’m all for safety, but won’t these changes make escalators more expensive for the average consumer?
It’s always better to be prepared than to face disaster unprepared. Think of it as investing in future safety.
Why bother with spending so much money? How often do escalators actually collapse during earthquakes?
It’s called peace of mind. If just one accident is prevented, it’s worth it.
Preventive reforms seem fine but are there robust checks to ensure their effectiveness?
I think this is a fantastic initiative. Other countries should take note and follow suit before it’s too late.
What I’m worried about is enforcement. How can they ensure all these standards actually get followed by the manufacturers?
That’s a valid concern. Regulations are only as strong as their enforcement mechanisms.
Government oversight and independent audits could be integral solutions.
A giant leap for safety on escalators sounds like overkill, they’re not that dangerous.
I challenge that. When they fail, escalators can cause severe injuries. Better safe than sorry.
Exactly, Ricky. People often forget they’re blissfully unaware of potential dangers.
Does anyone know if the ISO standards are really necessary or could some local adaptations be equally effective?
International standards ensure consistency and high safety levels. Local adaptations could lead to discrepancies.
That makes sense. I just wonder about flexibility in unique scenarios maybe.
Embedding earthquake detection into the electrical grid sounds high-tech and futuristic. I love it.
I agree, bringing technology into our everyday infrastructure is exciting. It’s nice to see proactive safety steps.
Let’s hope this enthusiasm for seismic-safe infrastructure doesn’t wane in a year’s time.
Safety measures are good, but shouldn’t the public be educated on escalator safety as well? That would also decrease accidents.
Great point! Education along with engineering solutions would create more comprehensive safety protocols.
Exactly, that’s where governmental workshops can play a huge role, enlightening both manufacturers and the public.
Wonder how this will impact the design of escalators. Will they be less aesthetically pleasing?
Good question! Function might take precedence over form, but I trust designers to find a balance.
I’m here for the tech, not really about earthquakes. It will be cool to see how innovative this will make the industry.
Tying this to the State Audit Office building collapse seems a little unfair, different circumstances and risks are involved.