Steel stairs are more durable, thermally insulated, and more fire-resistant than wood, making them perfect for use in many buildings, hospitals, and other structures. Here are four safety factors to ensure that your steel stair designs will last and ensure the safety of everyone using it.
Effective Weight Carrying Capacity
Designers must make sure they’re making stairs that can accommodate weight-carrying traffic.
This is calculated using the formula for the weight on a step.
The weight on any step is calculated by multiplying the weight of the person who is on that step by the length of that step, then dividing by the length of that step.
For example, if the weight of the person on either end of a step is 150 pounds, and each step is 10 inches long, then each step will hold 150 pounds per inch.
Proper Stair Dimensions
The stairs should be built, so they are safe for a person to ascend or descend without the use of a handrail.
For example, there should be a minimum clearance of 4 inches from the top of the stair to the floor below.
The reason for this is that steel stairs are typically used for interior staircases, so their design requirements are often different than exterior steps. A minimum clearance of 4 inches is recommended to ensure that people with mobility issues will not bump into the stair railings or hit their shins on the underside of the stair treads.
Non-Slippery or Abrasive Stair Surface
Stairs that have non-slippery or abrasive stair surfaces provide a safe and comfortable surface to walk on. Slippery or non-abrasive surfaces could cause slips and falls, which can cause serious injuries.
Aesthetically-Pleasing and Useful Handrails
Aesthetically pleasing handrails are crucial for handrail safety in staircases because they make the staircase safer and easier to view. Plus, it adds to the property’s interior aesthetics. When a person is ascending or descending a stair, they often need to grip the handrail for support and can easily find it if it stands out among the rest.
Get The Best Steel Stairs for Your Needs
You can always count on us at Scarboro Steel Works to provide you with the best steel stairs available. Contact us today to learn more about everything that we can do for you.
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