In many industries, getting workers to elevated work areas safely is a top priority. Traditionally, ladders have been the go-to solution for workers needing to access higher levels. But in many cases, stairs might be the better option—especially with the recent updates to OSHA’s ladder requirements. Making the switch could improve safety and efficiency on your site. Let's dive into why stairs might be your best choice, and how to ensure you’re in full compliance with OSHA 1910.25.
The Benefits of Switching to Stairs
Stairs come with several advantages that ladders just can't match:
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Enhanced Stability and Safety: Stairs provide a more stable footing, reducing the risk of falls.
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Higher Weight Capacity: Stair systems can carry heavier loads, which is especially important for sites with a lot of equipment.
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Fewer Training Requirements: Workers need less training to use stairs than ladders, which can improve overall productivity.
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Better Accessibility: Stairs are more accessible for all workers, including those with mobility challenges.
However, making the switch to stairs isn’t always straightforward. Not every worksite has the space or clearance for a stair system that meets OSHA’s standards. Let’s break down the key requirements of OSHA 1910.25 to see if this is the right move for your business.
Key OSHA Stair Requirements You Need to Know
1. Guardrails and Fall Protection
Stairs are considered a walking-working surface, and like any other surface at height, they must be equipped with fall protection if the height exceeds 4 feet. OSHA requires handrails, stair rail systems, or guardrails on unprotected edges to prevent falls. If your stair system has more than four risers, handrails are mandatory—even if the stairs are enclosed on both sides.
2. Vertical Clearance
OSHA mandates that there must be at least 6 feet 8 inches of vertical clearance above any stair, including the top platform. This ensures workers have enough headroom, whether they’re tall or carrying equipment. For spiral staircases, the required headroom is slightly less at 6 feet 6 inches.
3. Tread Width
To ensure comfort and safety, OSHA requires a minimum tread width of 22 inches for standard stairs. This allows workers to place their feet comfortably on each step. If you’re installing spiral stairs, the tread width must increase to 26 inches. For tighter spaces, ship stairs have a more compact minimum width of just 18 inches.
4. Load Capacity
Each stairway must be capable of supporting at least five times the anticipated load. For example, if you’re expecting two workers to carry a piece of equipment, the stairs must be strong enough to support the combined weight of the workers and equipment—five times over. Even for lighter loads under 200 pounds, the stairs must still support a concentrated load of 1,000 pounds.
5. Angle of Installation
Stairs must be installed at an angle between 30 and 50 degrees from horizontal. This is the standard for most stair systems to provide a safe, comfortable climb. For ship stairs, however, the angle is much steeper, ranging from 50 to 70 degrees, making them more like a ladder.
6. Riser Height
Uniformity in riser height is crucial for safety. OSHA requires that riser height be consistent throughout the stairway, with a maximum of 9.5 inches per riser. This applies to both standard and spiral stairs. For ship stairs, the rise between treads can range from 6.5 to 12 inches.
7. Tread Depth
Like riser height, the depth of each tread must be consistent. For standard stairs, the minimum tread depth is 9.5 inches. Spiral stairs, due to their circular shape, have a minimum tread depth of 7.5 inches, measured from a point 12 inches from the narrower edge. Ship stairs require a minimum tread depth of just 4 inches.
8. Swinging Doors and Platforms
If a swinging door or gate opens onto the stairs, OSHA requires a platform to prevent workers from being knocked backward. The platform must be wide enough to accommodate the full swing of the door without reducing the available walking space to less than 22 inches.
Is Switching to Stairs Right for Your Worksite?
While stairs offer plenty of benefits, including better safety and accessibility, transitioning from ladders to stairs is not always a simple decision. It involves financial costs, design changes, and adherence to stringent OSHA regulations. Before making the change, it’s important to consider the space requirements and determine whether your site can accommodate a stair system that complies with OSHA standards.
If you think stairs could be the solution for your worksite, the next step is to review OSHA 1910.25 in detail and consult with a fall protection expert. A thorough evaluation of your site will help you determine the best course of action and ensure that you’re keeping your workers safe while staying compliant with the law.
For Expert Advice
If you're considering a switch to stairs or need assistance with understanding OSHA’s requirements, give us a call at 303-537-5832. Our team at Colorado Safety Supply is here to help you assess your worksite and find the best solution for your safety needs.
Explore Our Ladders Collection
If you're also in need of quality ladders that meet OSHA standards, check out our Ladders Collection. We offer a wide range of options to fit your specific needs, from industrial to more compact solutions. Whether you choose ladders or stairs, we have the tools to keep your site safe and compliant.
