Which component prevents damage when the escalator unit moves past its terminal landings?

• A. Hoistway Limit Switches
• B. Manual Relief Valve
• C. Platform Control Wiring
• D. Drive Types

Answer: (A)

Hoistway limit switches are the devices that stop the escalator if it tries to move beyond its top or bottom landing. They’re wired into the drive circuit and activated when the car reaches an end, either by a contact on the moving car or by a fixed actuator in the hoistway. When triggered, they interrupt the drive or signal the controller to brake, ensuring the unit stops within the landing and protecting the steps, rails, and drive components from damage due to overshoot. The other components don’t provide end-of-travel protection: a manual relief valve relates to hydraulic systems, platform control wiring handles normal operation signals, and drive types describe how the drive system is arranged rather than preventing overtravel.