AIIMS Jammu Conducts Awareness Session on “Safe Use of Elevator and Escalator”

Jammu, July 15, 2024 – All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jammu recently held an enlightening awareness session on the “Safe Use of Elevator and Escalator,” aimed at educating its staff on the efficient and secure use of these essential facilities. The session was conducted in collaboration with ACIL (Ahluwalia Contracts (India) Limited) and Johnson Lifts and Escalators.

Recognizing that the use of lifts can be daunting for some individuals, due to various reasons such as lack of prior experience, past incidents of being stuck due to power failures, or distressing news stories, AIIMS Jammu took proactive steps to address these concerns. With a workforce of nearly 1,000 supporting staff, many of whom are not entirely comfortable using elevators in the institution’s multistoried towers, this initiative aimed to mitigate their fears and enhance operational efficiency.

The session featured Mr. Balwinder Kumar, Senior Engineer at Johnson Lifts and Escalators, who shared his vast experience and expertise with hospital attendants, security staff, and other supporting personnel. His comprehensive address covered crucial aspects of elevator safety, including practical guidance on rescue operations in the unlikely event of a lift malfunction. He reassured participants that the lifts installed at AIIMS Jammu are designed to automatically reach the nearest floor and open the doors in case of power failure or other operational faults. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of remaining calm and managing oneself and others during such situations.

The key points on the safe use of elevators highlighted during the session included: Supervise children and do not leave them unattended. They may use the lift as a joyride, which is inappropriate and should be avoided. Always pay attention to signage by following posted instructions and warnings in and around the elevator. Allow passengers to exit before entering, and keep hands, feet, and belongings clear of closing doors. Press the desired floor button once, as repeated pressing does not speed up the process. In case of emergency, use the emergency button or phone inside the elevator to call for help and remain calm. Avoid overcrowding by not exceeding the maximum capacity of the elevator to ensure safe operation.

Prof (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Jammu, highlighted the significance of this program, stating, “Ensuring the safety and comfort of our staff is paramount. This awareness session is a critical step towards creating a safe and efficient working environment. By addressing the common fears associated with using elevators, we aim to empower our workforce with the knowledge and confidence to use these facilities without hesitation. It is through such initiatives that we uphold our commitment to the well-being and holistic development of our staff.”

The ED & CEO commented, “I’ve noticed people using lifts to travel just one floor, which is detrimental to health. An inactive lifestyle, such as this, is linked to various diseases. While the convenience of lifts is undeniable, it is important to use them judiciously to promote a more active and healthier lifestyle.”

The event was well-received by the participants, who appreciated the practical advice and reassurance provided. AIIMS Jammu remains committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all its employees, ensuring that they can perform their duties with utmost efficiency and confidence.