The British Standards Institution (BSI) has published this British Standard, which is an updated version of BS 5395-1:2000. BS 5395-1 is a code of practice that gives recommendations for the design of stairs with straight flights, including landings and winders for all types of building and industrial walkways. In the UK, there are over 500 deaths each year from stair related accidents in the home, and it is estimated that a further 250,000 non-fatal accidents take place on stairs in the home each year. In addition, there are approximately 100,000 accidents on stairs in leisure environments and more than 1,000 in the workplace each year.
The most important aspects of stair design affecting the safety of users are the tread dimensions. If a going is too small to easily place a significant proportion of the foot upon, it increases the likelihood of an overstep. Research suggests that large oversteps, coupled with the type of material on the stair nosing, can lead to a slip in descent. If there are no suitable handrails, or the person cannot reach them in time, this slip can lead to a serious incident.
To buy the publication, visit the BSI website
