Staircases are a crucial element of accessibility in buildings, as they enable vertical movement between floors. As a result, they are one of the most common architectural features where accessibility issues arise.
Staircases primarily pose an obstacle for wheelchair users, making it essential to provide an elevator in buildings with multiple floors or a basement. In outdoor areas, a ramp is recommended alongside the stairs; if that is not feasible, an appropriate lifting platform should be installed.
However, staircases themselves must also be properly designed to ensure safe and accessible use for people with mobility impairments who do not use wheelchairs, as well as for blind and visually impaired individuals, the elderly, children, and others. The staircase flight must be straight, and each flight should not have more than 16 steps (exceptionally 20). For general safety, steps must have uniform height and depth, with a tread depth of at least 30 cm and a maximum height of 15 cm (exceptionally 26 cm × 18 cm).
Steps should not have overhanging treads, or if they do, the overhang must be minimal. The risers must be closed to prevent tripping hazards. A minimum width of 120 cm is required, or a clear width of at least 100 cm between handrails (exceptionally down to 80 cm for existing buildings). Any staircase rising more than 60 cm above ground level must be equipped with handrails on both sides, positioned at a height between 85 and 100 cm, which should be continuous and extend at least 30 cm beyond the first and last step.
Handrails must contrast with their surroundings and be equipped with raised markings indicating floor levels and evacuation directions. For blind and visually impaired individuals, contrasting markings on handrails, as well as on the first and last steps (preferably also on all intermediate step edges), are crucial to reducing the risk of falls. Staircases must be well-lit to ensure clear visibility of height differences.
A properly designed staircase ensures safe and unobstructed use for all user groups, contributing to better accessibility and quality of life in the built environment.