For the album by Sam Gopal, see Escalator (album)Early escalator, Luna Park, Coney Island, 1909. It is preferred that there is a staircase next to the escalator if the escalator is the primary means of transport between floors. Escalator components An escalator being repaired at Town Hall station in Sydney, Australia A "freestanding" escalator reveals its inner components through the transparent truss. Also visible: exposed drive gears (center) for steps and handrail drive (left) View of escalator steps on continuous chain An escalator equipped with a "bellows" handrail. EtiquetteMain article: Escalator etiquetteSee also: Right- and left-hand trafficRiders stand to the right on this escalator in Umeda Osaka , JapanIn most major countries, there is an expectation that escalator users wishing to stand will keep to one side to allow others to overtake them.