To Protect You, Escalator Brushes Are a Necessity.
For safety reasons, the bristles on the sides of many modern escalators were installed. While it may appear that they are cleaning the steps, they are actually there to serve as a warning to escalator riders.
The brushes were installed to deter users from standing too close to the escalator’s side and to warn them that clothing should not be pulled along the escalator’s side. The bristles serve as a warning mechanism to avoid snags that can cause significant damage.