The drive system for escalators and moving walkways is one of the key elements in the overall reliability of the system. It must be able to ensure that the conveyor belt is turning at the same speed as it is travelling up and down. It should also be able to cope with the various load conditions, from light passenger traffic to very heavy freight transport, without loss of control or malfunction. The new system does not use chains but rather an electric motor and transmission mechanism. This makes it cleaner, longer-lasting, easier to maintain and more resistant to outdoor conditions than traditional systems.

The power for the system is supplied by a squirrel-cage asynchronous triphasic motor, which is also more cost-effective. Its design is compatible with a wide range of different conveyor systems, allowing it to be integrated into any type of building or public infrastructure. This type of system is particularly suited to large shopping malls, airports, exhibition centers and transport change-over stations.

A moving walk is a power-driven continuously moving surface similar to a conveyor belt that inclines between 5 and 15 degrees from the horizontal. They are used to transport wheeled carts and other bulky goods in a multilevel store or to rooftop parking areas in airports and rail or ship transportation terminals. They are also useful for people with mobility problems who would have difficulty using escalators.

These machines have a metal walking surface over rollers, which can be made of either a solid or a rubber material. The rubber-surfaced units are known as 'Pallet Type' whereas those with a solid metal surface are called 'Step (Pallets) Type'. Both types of conveyor have grooves and notches on the walking surface to prevent slipping. They are often supplied with an anti-slip coating.

At the boarding area, photoelectric posts installed on both sides of the pit will detect a passenger and start the conveyor automatically. Depending on the model, this feature can be supplemented with additional safety devices. These include a monitor switch for the handrail speed, a break-in detector and skirting anti-clamp devices. In addition, a device to detect if a step is missing from the conveyor can be included.

Some models have a skirt switch on the side of the conveyor to allow passengers to operate it with their hands. It is important to check the status of the switches regularly and adjust them if necessary, to avoid accidents and downtime due to incorrect settings. The braking system is also an important element to inspect and service. If it is not working properly, an escalator can quickly become unsafe and cause injuries to passengers. This requires a thorough inspection, which should include checking that the brake controller is operating correctly and that it has sufficient air pressure in the accumulator. The system should also be inspected for signs of loose or damaged components. This inspection should be carried out by a qualified technician. Often, this will be an engineer or electrical technician from the manufacturer.