Stair landing design requirements. Door swing shall not reduce effective standing area on the landing to less than 18 inches (45. The 7th Edition (2020) update to the Florida Building Code: Residential is a fully integrated publication that updates the 6th Edition 2017 Florida Building Code: Residential using the latest changes to the 2018 International Residential Code® with customized amendments adopted statewide. Jan 6, 2025 · The IBC sets forth comprehensive requirements for commercial building design and construction, including those related to exterior steel stair towers. (6) Metal pan landings and metal pan treads, when used, shall be secured in place before filling with concrete or other material. The overall size of the stair landing will depend on the deck stairs width, but I’ll show you how to build a stair landing to span a 3-foot 8-inch stairway. Platform and Landing Requirements Compliance with OSHA’s platform and landing requirements rounds out the list of important standards for industrial stairs and platforms. Except during stairway construction, foot traffic is prohibi-ted on skeleton metal stairs where permanent treads and/or landings are to be installed at a later date, unless the stairs are fitted with secured temporary treads and landings long enough to cover the entire tread and/or landing area. Several components are looked at such as stair width, headroom, riser and tread heights. Nov 24, 2023 · Want to learn about residential stair code? These codes include treads, risers, handrails, landings, and more. Jul 2, 2024 · International Building Code (IBC) has requirements for stairs regarding width, headroom, height, tread depth, landings, and more. 2. Stair treads shall be no less than 11 in (280 mm) wide, measured from riser to riser. Every stairway serving any building or portion thereof shall conform to the requirements of this Section. Nov 18, 2024 · Staircase design is an important aspect of architectural planning, requiring careful consideration of dimensions, angles, and landings to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance with building codes. Florida Building Code Administrative Chapter 1 is included. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design, construction and arrangement of means of egress components required to provide an approved means of egress from structures and portions thereof. Handrails at the top of stairways must extend 12” minimum horizontally above the landing beginning directly above the first riser nosing or be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight (§505. 2 Treads and Risers. If you are contemplating the use of one of those stair designs, please contact the Building Division. This minimum measurement applies for domestic and residential exterior staircases which serve less than 50 occupants Apr 5, 2022 · Exterior Stair Width Requirements The required width measurement of a stair tread is a minimum 36 inches. Building Deck Stairs - How to design and build stairs for decks using international building codes. Doors opening onto a Sep 11, 2025 · Landing Requirements for Exterior Doors specify that doors must not swing over the top step of an interior flight of stairs unless a landing is provided. This measurement is taken from the far end of one tread to the opposite end of the same tread, either from left to right or right to left when facing the stairs head-on. What is a Stair Landing? Landings in a stair is a level floor or platform constructed at a location where the direction of stairs changes, between flights of the stair, or at the top of stair flight. The minimum clearance shall be maintained the full width of the stairway and landing per FBC-R 311. 402. IBC (International Building Code) standards address safety and health concerns for public buildings. There are 3 broad categories of buildings with different IBC stair code requirements: IBC Commercial stair code requirements (Assembly, offices, businesses, educational, mercantile, utility, and miscellaneous) IBC Industrial stair code requirements (Factory, industrial, manufacturing, high-hazard Stair landings shall be at least 20 inches (50. Stairways shall have a minimum headroom clearance of 80 inches measured vertically from a line connecting the edge of the nosing. Understanding these requirements ensures compliance with regulations and enhances the safety of stair users in commercial spaces. 8 cm) in depth. Mar 21, 2013 · Ken Rich, representing Weber Design Group, seeks clarification of code requirements regarding a residential circular stair design as indicated in the attached “Diagram A”. Stairway landings and platforms are at least the width of the stair and at least 30 inches (76 cm) in depth, as measured in the direction of travel; 1910. The International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Building Code (IBC) set the standards for exterior stairs. Jan 25, 2023 · A summary of stairway and staircase code requirements, including treads, risers and handrails, from the building and residential codes. Porches shall be designed and constructed as completely freestanding, self-supporting Building a stair landing for exterior deck stairs can be done with basic tools and inexpensive building materials. This handout will provide basic information for RESIDENTIAL (R3) stairs, handrails, and guardrails. The nosing is defined as the leading edge of a stair tread, or in some cases, the part of the stair tread that hangs over the stair riser. There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. Before you decide on which code to comply with, it’s important to understand their differences. 5 inches (787 mm) where a handrail is installed on one side and 27 inches (698 mm) where handrails are provided on both sides. It includes a detailed summary of commercial stair code requirements, industrial stair code requirements, OSHA stair requirements, and many other standards for stairs. This visual guide simplifies complex technical stair code language using drawings and renderings that exceed the limitations of often misunderstood terminology. 25 (b) (5) See full list on access-board. Because circular and spiral stairs are rarely used in residential construction, those types of stairs are not covered in this handout. g. Code-minimum landings also don’t always have to be square. Mar 7, 2025 · The IBC provides a comprehensive set of guidelines for stair design, covering everything from riser height and tread depth to handrail requirements and landing dimensions. Every landing shall have a minimum depth, measured parallel to the direction of travel, equal to the width of the stairway or 48 inches (1219 mm), whichever is less Those are the ADA, IBC, and OSHA stair landing code requirements, so, if you’re wondering how to build landing for stairs, learning the codes is your first step. The members have started developing new code the previous year to further improve the minimum standards and basic prescriptive design methods for common, residential stair and handrail construction. Note that when looking for residential stair standards, one must look at the International Residential Code (IRC). 2 (2) are updated for new design wind speeds and hip or gable roof profiles. This section exempts exterior bulkhead enclosure stairways from the landing stairway and handrail requirements where this stairway is not the only way out of a basement. The requirements for stair and ramp handrails in this document are for adults. Its priority is to protect public health and safety. 6 Stairway landings. Exception: A floor or landing is not required at the top of an interior flight of stairs, including stairs in an enclosed garage, provided that a door does not swing over the stairs. The Structural Engineer of Record (SEOR) rarely designs typical stair systems. 1 shall comply with 4. ) Explore a searchable database of US construction and building code. Jul 9, 2024 · Learn the Differences Between IBC and OSHA Stairs? OSHA Stair Requirements IBC Requirements for Metal Stairs and Work Platforms International Building Code Guidelines overview for commercial buildings and common stairs in buildings. Sep 17, 2020 · This guide will help stair designers understand the many different building codes and standards for stairs. Doors opening onto a These sections give requirements on design criteria such as egress width and capacity, allowable riser height, allowable tread depth, headroom, landing size, and stair construction. STAIRS, LANDINGS, HANDRAILS, AND GUARDS This handout is intended only as a guide. Accessible routes shall consist of one or more of the following components: walking surfaces with a running slope not steeper than 1:20, doorways, ramps, curb ramps excluding the flared sides, elevators, and platform lifts. Effective 1. Updated Wind Speed maps match IBC and ASCE 7 maps. Mar 13, 2021 · Exterior stairs have special requirements and considerations for design and construction. ADA Stair Nosing Compliance There are also guidelines regarding the nosing on stairs, as outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act. May 7, 2024 · 6. This is a fully integrated custom code based on the 2018 International Residential Code. 7 provides this information: Height: Top of handrail gripping surface shall be mounted between 34 inches (34" = 864mm) and 38 inches (38" = 965mm) above stair nosings. Dec 13, 2022 · Building stairs can be one of the most challenging aspects of building a deck. In general, the standards require the following: When there is a break in elevation of 19 inches (48 cm) or more and no ramp, runway, embankment or personnel hoist is available, employers must provide a stairway or ladder at all worker points of access. (See Section 3214 for stair rail and handrail specifications and Section 3234 for industrial stairways). (a) Application. How do building codes regulate stair treads and landings for commercial buildings? Building codes specify the minimum and maximum dimensions for stair treads and landings in commercial buildings. 9. Jul 4, 2023 · 7 Steps to Follow on How to Build a Stair Landing for A Deck Step 1: First, Determine the Size of The Landing. Component and cladding wind pressures in Table R301. For the most current adoptions details go to International Code Adoptions The 2018 IBC contains many important changes such as: Accessory storage spaces of any size are now permitted to be classified as part of the occupancy to which Practical guide to staircase design with clear explanations, diagrams, and global code comparisons—covering residential and public stairs, lighting, safety rules, key terms, and common design mistakes. Mar 17, 2021 · Synopsis: Intermediate stair landings can help solve house-design quandaries. Buildings or portions thereof shall be provided with a means of egress system as required by this chapter. Live loads applicable to porch floors and stairways shall be not less than forty (40) psf. The scope of the International Building Code® (IBC®) includes all buildings except detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories. CBC provisions provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property, and public welfare by regulating and controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use and occupancy, location, and (a) General. Feb 24, 2025 · Discover key commercial stair code requirements, including dimensions, handrails, and safety standards to ensure compliance. The 2010 Standards set minimum requirements – both scoping and technical – for newly designed and constructed or altered State and local government facilities, public accommodations, and commercial facilities to be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities. Structural Design When it comes to the structural design of stair stringers and treads, the code does not provide prescriptive design tables. Adding a landing can allow for greater heights between floors, for example, or can be used to eliminate a required handrail. Every landing shall have a minimum depth, measured parallel to the direction of travel, equal to the width of the stairway or 48 inches (1219 mm), whichever is less. In general, concentrated forces control the design of treads and other horizontal components subject to direct foot traffic, while uniform loads control the design of stringers, and other structural framing that support treads and landings. Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the landing to less than one-half the required width. Stairs required to be accessible by 4. Handrails shall be measured vertically from the top of the gripping surface of the handrails to the stair nosing. Such headroom shall be continuous above the stairway to the point where the line intersects the landing below, one tread depth beyond the bottom riser. This section covers all stairways (including standard, spiral, ship, and alternating tread-type stairs), except for articulated stairs (stairs that change pitch due to change in height at the point of attachment) such as those serving floating roof tanks, stairs on scaffolds, stairs designed into machines or equipment, and stairs on self-propelled motorized equipment. The 2021 IBC® contains many important changes such as: Puzzle rooms (escape rooms) are now defined and regulated as special amusement areas, requiring compliance with Section 411 and special means of egress requirements. Why Stair Compliance Matters Proper stair design isn’t just about safety—it’s about meeting legal code. 1011. The figure below shows the basic dimensional constraints, click on the image for a larger copy. 25 stairs requirements for alternating tread stairs General OSHA stair requirements 5 Compliant fall protection 2 3 (5) Unprotected sides and edges of stairway landings shall be provided with railings. OSHA regulations mandate the provision of platforms or landings at the top and bottom of stairways to facilitate safe entry and exit. 2 Components. This minimum measurement applies for domestic and residential exterior staircases which serve less than 50 occupants When it comes to commercial stair standards, the International Building Code (IBC) establishes the minimum requirements for stairs to insure a level of safety to the public. The International Residential Code (IRC) requires that the landing be at least as wide as the stairway and a minimum of 3 feet deep. Height or Rise of Staircase The “rise” of a staircase refers to the overall height from the bottom of the stairs to the top. PHOTO 3. General Requirements These rules specify when employers must provide stairways and ladders. , elementary schools), a second set of handrails at an appropriate height can assist them and aid in preventing accidents. The landing must also not slope more than 1/4 inch per foot. Jan 6, 2024 · When building or renovating a home, a landing for stairs is needed if the staircase changes direction, exceeds a certain height, or leads to an exterior door. 1* Minimum Number. In this article, we’ll look at the requirements and standards for fixed stairways, ramps and walkways. A landing extending the width of the stair and measuring a minimum of 36 inches in the direction of travel is required at the top and bottom of every stairway. See my detailed guide here! Every landing shall have a minimum depth, measured parallel to the direction of travel, equal to the width of the stairway or 48 inches (1219 mm), whichever is less. Where the stairway has a straight run, the depth in the direction of travel shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm). Get some great ideas about your next home addition remodeling project. Exterior landings, decks, balconies, stairs and similar facilities shall be positively anchored to the primary structure to resist both vertical and lateral forces or shall be designed to be self-supporting. Deck design now considers snow load, tributary area for footing and post height, and guard details. This measurement is essential for positioning and placing landings, which help break up long flights and reduce strain on users. Open risers are not permitted. 7. This code applies to all buildings except detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories. For each stair specification & code citation we include links to in-depth articles providing more details. Stairs that are poorly designed or too dimly lit pose a safety hazard, while stairs that are uniform in their dimensions and built according to code are comfortable and safe to ascend and descend. 4. Where doors or gates open on a stairway, a landing platform shall be provided. 1910. Stair, railing, guardrail, handrail, landing & platform building design & build specifications: summaries of stair and railing code & design specifications quoted from model building codes. POST a QUESTION or COMMENT about this article topic. The width of landings, measured perpendicularly to the direction of travel, shall be not less than the width of stairways served. Luckily for all concerned, modern building codes for stairs are very straightforward, and the principles for exterior and interior stairs are identical. Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the landing by more than one-quarter the required width. com. Sep 17, 2021 · Many factors go into the design of safe egress stairs Mar 17, 2022 · The International Business code (IBC) is critical for architects and designers to understand when it comes to handrails and guardrails building codes. There is flexibility in design, allowing for doors to open onto landings with up to two steps down. The International Residential Code (IRC), which often syncs up . Chapter tabs are also included. Every landing shall have a minimum width measured perpendicular to the direction of travel equal to the width of the stairway. Determine the minimum landing dimensions that are required based on occupant load. R311. Aug 21, 2025 · Curious how deep and wide a stair landing actually needs to be to meet safety and ADA rules? This post breaks down everything you need to know about stair landing size, where they’re required, and how building codes and accessibility laws define their limits. Oct 23, 2020 · In today's environment of delegated design, stair manufacturers must provide a complete design and engineering service for steel egress stair systems. Failing to comply with OSHA or ADA stair regulations can result in penalties, accessibility issues, or increased liability. Are your stairs compliant? There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. 72 cm) in depth. When children are the principal users in a building or facility (e. 5 inches (114 mm) on either side of the stairway PHOTO 2. 5 Landing, deck, balcony and stair construction and attachment. All components of an accessible route shall comply with the applicable requirements of Chapter 4. 25 STAIR COMPLIANCE OSHA 1910. Key IBC requirements for exterior stair towers include: Egress Requirements Exterior steel stair towers must provide safe and accessible means of egress for building occupants and visitors. Understanding the exterior stairs code requirements helps OSHA requirements can be complex, but ErectaStep's compliance experts simplify the key points into an easy-to-scan article. The width of landings shall be not less than the width of stairways served. Code regulations are consolidated by state and city for easier navigation. This video talks about the ADA and IBC requirements for stairs. The same techniques apply to building a staircase landing that spans up to 6 feet, depending on your levels of comfort Buildings or portions thereof shall be provided with a means of egress system as required by this chapter. This includes; stair treads and risers, nosings, handrails, handrail profiles, handrail extensions, landings, head clearances and IBC building occupancy types for stairs IBC classifies buildings according to their occupancy use. In this post we Feb 17, 2022 · With the help of the members of NADRA, the 2022 edition of the International Residential Code (IRC) is now officially complete and ready for printing. The building codes for exterior stairs establish the criteria for design, use, location, and construction of outdoor stairs. Learn what you should consider and how to build deck steps with Decks. Effective Date: December 31, 2023 Stairs - ADA Compliance 4. 25(b)(2) Vertical clearance above any stair tread to any overhead obstruction is at least 6 feet, 8 inches (203 cm), as measured from the leading edge of the tread. Learn the key differences between stair steps and landings, including building code regulations and design considerations for safe and functional staircases. It shall not be considered a complete set of requirements. Read on to learn more about how to keep your Building Deck Stairs - How to design and build stairs for decks using international building codes. The locations of landings in May 30, 2024 · Conclusion Landings are essential components of commercial stair design, providing safe and efficient transitions between flights of stairs. 9 Stairs. Stairs with landings - this page will show you how to design and build stairs with landings Dec 27, 2024 · This article explores what stair landings are, their essential functions, the situations in which they are needed, and the standards governing their dimensions and layout. What are the construction requirements for building stairs in wood-frame structures? IBC 2015 Section 1011. (b) Except during stairway construction, foot traffic is prohibited on skeleton metal stairs where permanent treads and/or landings are to be installed at a later date, unless the stairs are fitted with secured temporary treads and landings long enough to cover the entire tread and/or landing area. Table of Contents List of building codes and standards for stairs Purpose of each building and stair code agency OSHA Except during stairway construction, foot traffic is prohibited on skeleton metal stairs where permanent treads and/or landings are to be installed at a later date, unless the stairs are fitted with secured temporary treads and landings long enough to cover the entire tread and/or landing area. Dec 30, 2024 · Key Components and Guidelines for Staircase Design A. gov There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. For the purposes of determining the allowable number of Jan 1, 2023 · JLC Field Guide: Stairs Building codes strictly govern all aspects of stair construction, including a stair's rise and run, the height and shape of guardrails and handrails, and the headroom above the steps. The IBC (International Building Code) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulate stair safety requirements (depending on usage) in the Apr 5, 2022 · Exterior Stair Width Requirements The required width measurement of a stair tread is a minimum 36 inches. IBC-compliant stairs are intended for areas accessible to the general public and their design is based on building type and occupancy. Although various building authorities started The California Building Code (CBC) contains general building design and construction requirements relating to fire and life safety, structural safety, and access compliance. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 3305 (a). When there is only one point of access between 1011. The requirements of this Part are to be read in conjunction with where a building is located in an and contains an external stairway or ramp. On any given flight of stairs, all steps shall have uniform riser heights and uniform tread widths. Design criteria for railings are prescribed in Section 1620 of these safety orders. Each stair tread is (a) Requirements for the design and construction of all structural elements of porches and stairways and railings are contained in the California Residential Code, except as otherwise provided by this article. It is much more complex, but these are the general codes related to stairs. Handrails shall not project more than 4. 10. Stay up to code! Feb 14, 2018 · A simple guide for ADA stair landing requirements. Staircases - design requirements Building Regulations Part K (Protection from falling, collision and impact) covers the design of staircases, this article looks at how these regulations and other design issues apply to staircases in domestic dwellings. 9 Stairs. Code expert Glenn Mathewson explores the code provisions for stairway landings and explains the requirements of the code, and how Building owners and facility managers frequently ask questions when adding or replacing stairs in their facilities about compliance to code. Spiral stairs must meet the vertical clearance requirements in paragraph (d)(3) of this section. Residential Stair Landing Codes As you begin crafting a staircase with a landing in your home, residential codes step in to make sure each climb feels secure and safe. Nov 2, 2009 · Every landing shall have a minimum depth, measured parallel to the direction of travel, equal to the width of the stairway or 48 inches (1219 mm), whichever is less. Specific requirements for deck guardrails were added. and the minimum clear width of the stairway at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings, shall not be less than 31. Understanding stair landing requirements is crucial for architects, engineers, contractors, and building owners. Void of editorial comment they are an essential tool to accurate understanding and visualization of the The Eighth Edition (2023) update to the Florida Building Code: Residential is a fully integrated publication that updates the Seventh Edition 2020 Florida Building Code: Residential using the latest changes to the 2021 International Residential Code® with customized amendments adopted statewide. 2). Find out what's going to work best, while saving you money by watching some of our helpful videos. 4. Homeowners, Industry Professionals, and Regulators alike have praised the SMA Visual Interpretations of the Stair Building Code. mcfp 1c9 1jbpiqg wfj b5 1kgwc njek gidq bgos niig