Preventing falls
On the stairs
Handrails should be provided to at least one side and two sides when over 1000mm wide. Handrails should be continuous, extending the full length of the stairs including around any winding sections and be positioned so that the top of the rail is 900-1000mm from the pitch line of the stairs. They should also be easy to grip and hold onto.
Guarding is necessary to both sides of staircases and all guarding (such as balustrading on stairs and on landings) should not be easily climbable and free of gaps of 100mm and above.
Stair treads and rises should be between 280-360mm and 100-180mm respectively.
Stair carpets should be in good condition and well secured.
There should be enough headroom to avoid stooping and all sections of the stairs should be well lit without shadows or glare to avoid slips or trips. They should also have two-way or automatic lighting. Items that could cause serious injury upon impact like protrusions / obstructions or non-safety glass should also be removed or suitably covered.
Last updated: 17/04/2025 12:41
