Short Flight Stairs: Standards and Safety Expert Overview

This article addresses some of the relevant standards and safety features used to improve the safety of short flight stairs and single step transitions.
 

Short Flight Stairs & Single Step Transitions

Single step transitions and short flight stairs have long been acknowledged as potential hazards. Without clear markings or features to make them more noticeable, they can easily be overlooked, leading to a risk of falling. However, there are effective measures that can be implemented to reduce the likelihood of accidents when these features are present.

Single Step Transitions in the Real World

Pedestrians typically scan ahead in the direction of their travel, not directly in front of their feet. Low elements in the path of travel are often overlooked and are commonly associated with missteps, resulting in injury. (see picture below)

Small Changes Can Be Inconspicuous.

Relevant Standards

Standards for stair design are defined in building codes, fire codes and property maintenance codes. Stair standards are further defined by publications from various professional organizations. Examples below:

ASTM publishes nationally recognized standards that provides design, construction, and minimum maintenance guidelines for both new and existing buildings and structures. It establishes the key requirements for creating safe walking surfaces. According to these standards, short flight stairs are defined as stairs with three or fewer risers, and it recommends that such stairs be avoided whenever possible.  

Guidelines for Stair Safety, a study published by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in 1979, outlines minimum standards for the safe design, construction, and maintenance of stairs. These guidelines caution against single-riser stairs, as they are often not reliably identified by pedestrians, particularly in descent.

The Life Safety Code is a nationally published model code that provides minimum safety requirements for building elements, including means of egress. As early as 1994, the code explained how steps spanning small elevation differences go unnoticed and create conditions conducive to missteps.

Safety Components

Architects utilize specific design features to increase the safety and utility of the built environment. While codes vary from region to region, the following design features are generally applicable to short flight stairs and may be relevant to your case.

1. Landing and tread edges should be made conspicuous.
2. In two riser stairs, minimum tread depth requirements may apply.
3. A sloping handrail within 30” of the travel path improves conspicuity and may be required.
4. In some scenarios a ramp should be use instead of a step.
5. Local codes may require additional or different safety features.

Our architectural experts can determine if the stairs/walkways in your case were appropriately designed, constructed, and maintained.

Premises Safety Expert Investigations

The premises safety team at Robson Forensic investigates matters involving the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of residential, institutional and commercial premises. All of our experts are highly qualified, but depending upon the unique facets of your case, one expert may be better suited to assist with your investigation. 

For more information submit an inquiry or call us at 800.813.6736.

Featured Expert

Cody I. Pless, AIA, NCARB, CPSI

Architecture, Construction & Premises Safety Expert

Cody Pless is a Registered Architect with nearly 20 years of experience in architectural design, construction, site planning, and project management. He has project experience in a variety of building… read more.