An initial confrontation with an escalator can be daunting. Unlike many other forms of transportation, escalators are designed to move continuously, relying on a user’s ability to step on or off a moving surface. This dynamic staircase design evolved from a never-built “revolving stairs” patent in 1859 to the current flexible metal horizontal slat, track design. Throughout its many iterations, it has retained the concept of a continuous, belt-driven loop designed to move groups of people between building floors with little waiting time [and continue to function as a static staircase in the event of motor failure].
Typically, escalators rise at an angle of approximately 30 degrees and move at a speed of 1-2 feet per second. The speed and angle of ascent are critical factors when determining practical applications since safety is a primary concern. If either of these factors becomes extreme, the danger of injury to passengers can rapidly increase. Entanglement of clothing or footwear with moving parts is also cause for concern.
Just as it’s not unusual to find escalators in many public and private facilities, their ubiquitous presence in a variety of forms has been incorporated into our daily lives. Some escalators are mechanical devices, easily understood and obvious, while others are more subtle and insidious. When seen in contrast to a roller-coaster, for instance, an escalator appears relatively benign but is that always the case? While a roller-coaster signals drastic change and anticipation of a sudden decline, the other, although possibly accompanied by a descending companion, moves at a well-measured, comfortable and constant angle and speed.
For most of us, our eyes glaze over when economic forecasts, cost of living and price indexes are reported. They are usually relegated to the world of economists and number geeks. However, whether we recognize it or not, we are all on a world escalator that is constantly moving. Some movements are worldwide such as climate change while others can either be widespread or limited to a particular region or country – job growth, currency value, inflation. In any event, recognition of the movement is, at times obscured by the smooth functioning of the escalator behind these patterns. It is hard to recognize or respond when the ride is smooth and the angle of ascent moderate. However, even an escalator requires some agility and expertise as well as regular maintenance. Otherwise, unwanted, even disastrous consequences of a roller-coaster ride will result.
We are currently in the throes of an escalator experience that has inexorably carried us to new heights of technological progress, but its angle and speed have become seriously unbalanced. As a result, inflationary pressure, housing, climate and a host of corollary social problems have arisen akin to a roller-coaster ride that requires a secure seat belt and steady nerves. While a wild ride, filled with conflicting sensations of trepidation and angst, repair is possible and with it, a return to a more benign escalator ride. However, in our society, it is up to citizens to demand responsibility from their leadership in fiscal and organizational matters. Is this the best moment for inflationary raises in the public sector?
