Technical Booklet H Stairs Ramps Guarding and Protection From Impact October 2012

Guidance
Department of Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012

Finance and
Personnel
www.dfpni.gov.uk
Te c h n i c a l
Booklet H
Stairs, ramps, guarding and
protection from impact
October 2012
Contents
page
Introduction
Technical Booklets 3
This Technical Booklet 3
Protected buildings 4
Other legislation 4
Part H Regulations 6
Guidance – Performance and introduction to provisions
Stairs, ladders, ramps and their landings 9
Guarding 10
Vehicle loading bays 10
Protection against impact from and trapping by doors 11
Protection from collision with open windows, skylights or ventilators 11
Section 1 General
Definitions 12
Visual contrast 13
Section 2 Access routes to buildings

General 14
Ramps and complementary steps on access routes to buildings other than dwellings 15
Ramped approach 15
Ramped approach with complementary steps 15
Ramps and steps on access routes to dwellings 19
Section 3 Stairs
Common provisions for all stairs 21
Additional provisions for private stairs and common stairs in blocks of dwellings 25
Additional provisions for stairs in buildings other than dwellings 30
Spiral or helical stairs in dwellings 33
Technical Booklet H: 2012 Stairs, ramps, guarding and protection from impact 1
Stairs and fixed ladders providing access for maintenance 33
Section 4 Ramps in buildings
Ramps in dwellings 34
Ramps within common areas of a block of dwellings 35
Ramps in buildings other than dwellings 36
Section 5 Guarding
General 39
Guarding of spiral or helical stairs in a dwelling 41
Stair or fixed ladders 41
Vehicle barriers 41
Section 6 Vehicle loading bays

Loading bays 42
Section 7 Protection against impact from and

trapping by doors
Doors and gates 43
Section 8 Protection from collision with open windows,

skylights or ventilators
General 44
Appendix Publications referred to 45
2 Stairs, ramps, guarding and protection from impact Technical Booklet H: 2012
Introduction
Technical Booklets
This Technical Booklet, which takes effect on 31st October 2012, is one of a
series that has been prepared by the Department of Finance and Personnel
(the Department) for the purpose of providing practical guidance with
respect to the technical requirements of the Building Regulations (Northern
Ireland) 2012 (the Building Regulations).
At the back of each Technical Booklet is a list of all the Technical Booklets
that have been prepared and published by the Department for this purpose.
The guidance given in a Technical Booklet includes performance standards

and design provisions relating to compliance with specific aspects of the
Building Regulations for the more common building situations.
If the guidance in a Technical Booklet is followed there will be a presumption

of compliance with the requirements of those Building Regulations covered
by that guidance. However, this presumption can be overturned, so simply
following the guidance does not guarantee compliance. For example, if a
particular circumstance is not one of the more common building situations
the design provisions given in the Technical Booklet may not be appropriate.
There are likely to be alternative ways of demonstrating compliance

with the relevant requirements of the Building Regulations other than
by following a design provision given in a Technical Booklet. There is
therefore no obligation to adopt any particular provision set out in a
Technical Booklet, should you decide to comply in some other way.
However, you will have to demonstrate that your alternative solution
meets the relevant requirements of the Building Regulations by those
other means.
This Technical Booklet
Requirements
The guidance contained in this Technical Booklet relates only to the
requirements of regulations 56, 57, 58, 59 and 60. The work will also have
to comply with all other relevant requirements of the Building Regulations.
Materials and workmanship

Any building work which is subject to requirements imposed by Part A of the
Building Regulations should be carried out in accordance with regulation 23
of those regulations. Guidance on meeting these requirements for materials
and workmanship is given in Technical Booklet B which supports Part B.
The Building Regulations are made for specific purposes, primarily securing
the health, safety, welfare and convenience of people and for the
conservation of fuel and power. Standards and technical approvals are
relevant guidance to the extent that they relate to these purposes. However,
they may also address other aspects of performance such as serviceability,
or aspects which although they relate to health and safety are not covered
by the Building Regulations.
Named standards
Where this Technical Booklet makes reference to a named standard, the
relevant version of the standard is the one listed in the Appendix. However,
if this version has been replaced or updated by the issuing standards body,
the new version may be used as a source of guidance provided that it
continues to address the relevant requirements of the Building Regulations.
Diagrams
The diagrams in this Technical Booklet supplement the text. They do not
show all the details of construction and are not intended to illustrate
compliance with any other requirement of the Building Regulations. They
are not necessarily to scale and should not be used as working details.
Protected buildings
District councils have a duty to take account of the desirability to preserve
the character of protected buildings when carrying out their functions under
Building Regulations. Therefore, where work is to be carried out to a
protected building to comply with Part H or any other Part of the Building
Regulations, special consideration may be given to the extent of such work
for compliance where it would unacceptably alter the character or
appearance of the building. Protected buildings are defined in Article 3A(2)
of the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) Order 1979 (as amended).
Other legislation
The provisions of this Technical Booklet relate to the requirements of
Building Regulations and do not include measures which may be necessary
to meet the requirements of other legislation. Such other legislation may
operate during the design or construction stages or when a building is
brought into use and can extend to cover aspects which are outside the
scope of the Building Regulations.
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations (Northern

Ireland) 1993
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations (Northern Ireland)
1993 (the Workplace Regulations) contain some requirements which affect
building design. The main requirements are now covered by the Building
Regulations, but for further information see – The Workplace Regulations
and the Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Approved Code of Practice
and Guidance published by TSO.
The Workplace Regulations apply to the common parts of flats and similar
buildings if people such as cleaners, wardens and caretakers are employed
to work in these common parts. Where the requirements of the Building
Regulations that are covered by Part H do not apply to dwellings, the
provisions may still be required in the situations described above in order to
satisfy the Workplace Regulations.
Part H Regulations
Part H (comprising regulations 54 to 60) of the Building Regulations, which sets out the
requirements for stairs, ramps, guarding and protection from impact, has been
replicated for the convenience of the user of this Technical Booklet and is taken directly
from the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012.
Any person who intends to demonstrate compliance with the Building Regulations by
following the guidance given in this Technical Booklet is advised to ensure that the
regulations below, are current on the date when plans are deposited or notices given to
the district council.
As Part A (comprising regulations 1 to 21) of the Building Regulations sets out the
interpretation along with the procedural requirements relating to the application of the
regulations, the Department advises that all Parts of the Building Regulations are read
in conjunction with Part A of those regulations.
The Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 and any subsequent amendment/s
may be viewed by following the links from the Department’s website at
“www.buildingregulationsni.gov.uk”.
PART H
Stairs, ramps, guarding and protection from impact
Application and interpretation

54.—(1) Subject to paragraphs (2) to (6), this Part shall apply to any building or part of a
building.
(2) The requirements of regulation 56 shall only apply where a stair, ladder or a ramp and
landings—
(a) forms part of the building;
(b) that does not form part of the building, is provided to comply with the requirements of
Part E or Part R; or
(c) provides access to an entrance or exit of the building and the general ground level
immediately outside that entrance or exit.
(3) The requirements of regulation 57(1) shall not apply—
(a) to the extent that compliance therewith would unreasonably obstruct normal movement
to, into, out of or within any building;
(b) in relation to the two steps at the bottom of a stair where the landing from which the
stair rises does not require guarding in accordance with that paragraph;
(c) in relation to a flight within a stair with a total rise of less than 600 mm;
(d) in relation to a sunken area less than 600 mm in depth; and
(e) in relation to a roof or other place to which access is solely for maintenance purposes
provided that either—
(i) access is infrequent; or
(ii) any fall would be—
(aa) less than 2000 mm; or
(bb) to an area which does not present a hazard.
(4) The requirements of regulation 57(2) shall not apply in relation to a car showroom, a
garage within the boundary of a dwelling, or a single storey building comprising two or more
garages each of which has an area not exceeding 40 m2.
(5) The requirements of regulation 59 shall not apply to—
(a) a dwelling; and
(b) a door or gate which is part of a lift.
(6) Insofar as they relate to a dwelling, the requirements of regulation 60 shall only apply to
a window, skylight or ventilator which opens over a public route of travel.
(7) For the purposes of this Part access to any place is infrequent if it takes place on average
on less than one occasion a month during the course of a year.
(8) In this Part—
“Balcony” includes a gallery;
“Barrier” includes a wall or screen;
“Flight” means that part of a stair or ladder between landings that has a step or a continuous
series of steps;
“Ladder” means a fixed ladder having a flight with a pitch greater than 55º;
“Landing” means a platform situated—
(a) at the top or bottom of a stair, ladder or ramp; and

(b) between consecutive flights of stairs;
“Ramp” means an inclined surface which provides a route of travel; and
“Stair” means a flight or flights (other than a ladder) and landings that make it possible to
pass on foot to another level or levels.
Provision of stairs in dwellings

55. Within every dwelling of more than one storey there shall be provided between such
storeys access by means of a stair complying with the relevant provisions in this Part:
Provided that nothing in this regulation shall require the provision of a stair to any storey
within a dwelling if that storey is used only as general storage accommodation.
Stairs, ladders, ramps and landings

56. In a building or within the boundary of a building a stair, ladder and a ramp and its
landings, shall offer reasonable safety to people using them.
Guarding
57.—(1) A stair, ladder, ramp, floor, balcony, landing, platform and any roof or other place to
which people normally have access (including access for the purpose of maintenance) and a
sunken area next to a building, shall, where it is necessary to protect people approaching,
accessing, moving between levels within or exiting that building from the risk of falling, be
adequately guarded with a barrier which does not present a hazard.
(2) Any part of a building which is a vehicle ramp, floor or roof to which vehicles have access
shall, where it is necessary to protect people, be adequately guarded with a barrier which does
not present a hazard.
Vehicle loading bays

58. A vehicle loading bay shall be designed and constructed to minimise the risk of people in
it from being struck by a vehicle.
Protection against impact from and trapping by doors
59.—(1) In any building a door or gate which—
(a) is across a main route of travel; or
(b) can be pushed open from either side,
shall have a means to ensure that people approaching it have a clear view of the space on the
opposite side.
(2) In any building a door or gate which slides or opens upwards shall have a means to prevent
it from sliding into or falling on any person.
(3) In any building a powered door or gate shall have a means to prevent it trapping any
person and a means to open it in the event of a power failure.
Protection from collision with open windows, skylights or ventilators

60. Reasonable provision shall be made to minimise the risk of people colliding with an open
window, skylight or ventilator when moving in or about a building.
Guidance – Performance and introduction to provisions
Stairs, ladders, ramps and their landings

General
0.1 Provisions for accessibility to and within a building are given in Part R.
Provisions for fire safety are given in Part E. A stair or a ramp and its
landings provided –
(a) so that people may move to, out of or within a building; or
(b) to comply with Part E or Part R,
must comply with the relevant requirements of Part H.
Performance
0.2 It is the view of the Department that the requirements of regulation 56 in
Part H will be met when a stair, ladder, ramp and its landings afford
reasonable safety to people who use them. As there is a correlation
between ease of use and safety, a stair or ramp that offers passage without
undue effort or exertion further reduces the potential for an incident that may
result in injury.
An appropriate level of safety can be achieved by different standards of

provision, depending on the circumstances; for example, in a building to
which the public are admitted, the standard of provision may be higher than
in a dwelling, to reflect the lesser familiarity and greater number of users.
Where access is required only for the purpose of maintenance, greater care
can be expected from those gaining access, and it would be reasonable that
less demanding provisions could satisfy the requirement.
Introduction to provisions in Section 2

0.3 This Section of the guidance deals specifically with various aspects of the
geometry and safety features for –
(a) ramps and complementary steps on access routes to buildings other
than dwellings; and
(b) ramps and steps on access routes to dwellings.
Introduction to provisions in Sections 3 and 4

0.4 The guidance in Section 3 is concerned with various aspects of the
geometry and safety of stairs and certain ladders. This includes common
provisions for all stairs and additional provisions for –
(a) private stairs;
(b) common stairs in blocks of flats; and
(c) stairs in buildings other than dwellings.
Provisions are also given for spiral and helical stairs in a dwelling and stairs
and ladders used solely for the purpose of providing access for maintenance
in buildings other than dwellings.
The guidance in Section 4 deals with various aspects of the geometry and
safety features of ramps and their landings.
Guarding
Performance
Part H will be met if, in order to reduce the risk to the safety of people in or
about buildings –
(a) pedestrian guarding is provided in buildings which is capable of
preventing people from being injured by falling from a height;
(b) vehicle barriers are provided which are capable of resisting or
deflecting the impact of vehicles.

provision for guarding, depending on the circumstances; for example, in a
building to which the public are admitted, the standard of provision may be
higher than in a dwelling, to reflect the lesser familiarity and greater number
of users.

0.6 The guidance in Section 5 is concerned with reducing the risk of people
falling from a height. This includes provisions for guarding flights, ramps,
landings and raised floors. This Section also contains guidance in relation to
protecting people whenever vehicles have access to a building.
Vehicle loading bays

Performance
Part H will be met if, in order to reduce the risk to the safety of people in or
about buildings, loading bays are provided with an adequate number of exits
or refuges which enable people to avoid being struck or crushed by
vehicles.

0.8 The guidance in Section 6 deals specifically with reducing the risk to the
safety of people in loading bays. This includes the provision of suitable exits
or refuges which enable people to avoid being struck or crushed by
vehicles.
Protection against impact from and trapping by doors
Performance
Part H will be met if, measures are taken to prevent doors and gates
presenting a safety hazard whenever they are opening or closing. Such
measures include –
(a) ensuring a clear view of the space on the opposite side of the door to
that of the users approach in order to reduce the risk of the door
striking someone;
(b) where a door slides or opens upwards, adequate means are provided
to prevent such a door sliding into or falling onto anyone; and
(c) where there is a powered door or gate, there should be suitable
means to prevent someone being trapped by such a door or gate and
a means to open it should the power fail.

0.10 The guidance in Section 7 deals with reducing the risk of people being
struck by, or trapped by, doors or gates when they are opening or closing.
Protection from collision with open windows, skylights

or ventilators
Performance
Part H will be met if windows, skylights or ventilators can be left open
without the danger of people colliding with them.
This could be achieved by –
(a) installing windows, skylights or ventilators, so that projecting parts are
kept away from people moving in or about a building; or
(b) installing features which guide people moving in or about a building
away from any open window, skylight or ventilator.

provision, depending on the circumstances; for example, in a building to
which the public are admitted, the standard of provision may be higher than
in a dwelling, to reflect the lesser familiarity and greater number of users.

0.12 The guidance in Section 8 is specifically concerned with reducing the risk of
people colliding with open windows, skylights or ventilators.
Section 1 General
Definitions
1.1 In this Technical Booklet the following definitions apply –
Dwelling – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 2 in Part A of the

Building Regulations.
Entrance storey – means the storey which contains the principal entrance
for the dwelling.
Flight – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Going (in relation to a step) – the depth of the tread less any overlap with
the next tread (see Diagram 1.1).
Habitable room – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 2 in Part A

of the Building Regulations.
Ladder – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Landing – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Principal storey – the storey nearest to the entrance storey which contains
a habitable room, or if there are two such storeys equally near, either such
storey.
Private stair – a stair in or intended to be used by only one dwelling.
Ramp – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Retail building – shop, department store, supermarket, public house,

restaurant with or without assembly area, cafe, hairdresser, wholesale self
selection trading, public area of a bank, building society, betting shop.
Rise (in relation to a step) – the height, including the thickness of the tread
(see Diagram 1.1).
Small room – any room in a dwelling having a floor area not exceeding
4 m2.
Stair – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Step – in a dwelling, does not include any threshold which has a height not
exceeding 40 mm in the case of an internal doorway or 75 mm in the case
of an external doorway.
Surface width – the width of a stair or ramp, measured at the tread of a
step or the surface of a ramp, between any enclosing walls, strings,
upstands, kerbs or guarding.
Tapered tread – a tread which has a greater width at one side than at the
other and a going which changes at a constant rate throughout its length.
Diagram 1.1 Measuring rise and going
see paras 1.1, 3.4 and 3.14 going

open rise
nosing
open rise
treads should top surface of tread
overlap at
least 16 mm rise
riser top surface of tread
going dimension
to be measured
from nosing to nosing
going
closed rise
Visual contrast
1.2 Visual contrast is the perception of a difference visually between one
element of a building and another by reference to their light reflectance
values.
Light reflectance value (LRV) is the total quantity of visible light reflected by
a surface at all wavelengths and directions when illuminated by a light
source.
For people with adequate vision, differences in the nature or the intensity of
colour provide adequate visual contrast. Unfortunately, this is not the case
for all people who are visually impaired. The main feature of a surface,
which appears to be strongly correlated with the ability of visually impaired
people to identify differences in colour, is the LRV. Differences in LRV can be
used to assess the degree of visual contrast between the surfaces of
elements such as handrails, step nosings, etc.
The LRV scale runs from 0, which is a perfectly absorbing surface that could
be assumed to be totally black, up to 100, which is a perfectly reflective
surface that could be considered to be the perfect white. Because of
practical influences in any application, black is always greater than 0 and
white never equals 100.
A difference in LRV of 30 points or more allows a degree of variability that is

required to provide reasonable visual contrast.
Section 2 Access routes to buildings
General
2.1 Section 2 gives guidance on appropriate levels of safety and convenience
for all users where a ramp or a ramp and complementary steps are to be
provided as an access route or part of an access route to a building.
2.2 This Section is presented as follows –
Ramps and complementary steps on access routes to buildings other than

dwellings; and
Ramps and steps on access routes to dwellings.
Ramps and complementary steps on access routes to
buildings other than dwellings
Ramped approach
Ramps on access routes

2.3 Ramps on access routes should comply with the provisions given in
paragraphs 4.14 to 4.25. See Diagram 2.1.
However, where an external ramp has a crossfall, that crossfall should have
a maximum gradient of 1:40.
Ramped approach with complementary steps

2.4 Visually impaired people risk tripping or losing their balance if there is no
warning that there is a change in level. Tripping is most hazardous at the
head of a flight of steps when a person is descending. The warning should
be placed sufficiently in advance of the hazard to allow time to stop and not
be so narrow that it might be missed in a single stride.
2.5 People who wear callipers or who have stiffness in hip or knee joints are
particularly at risk of tripping or catching their feet beneath nosings. People
with a weakness on one side or with a sight impairment need the
dimensions of the tread to be sufficient for them to be able to place their feet
square onto it. If the going is towards the upper end of the dimensional
range, the flight may rise to a greater height without the need for an
intermediate landing, as the tread is sufficiently deep to allow a person to
stand and rest at any point within the flight.
An example of a ramped approach with complementary steps is given in

Diagram 2.1.
Where complementary steps and a ramp share a surface containing their

respective notional landings, it is preferred that the tactile warning surface
be located clear of the ramp landing.
Diagram 2.1 Ramped approach with complementary steps
see paras 2.3 and 2.5
handrails and guarding

not shown for clarity C
A
top landing
of ramp
C
D
top landing
of flight
corduroy
hazard
bottom
warning
landing
surface
B bottom height of kerb at open
landing side of ramp not less
of ramp than 100 mm
A length of ramp(s) C landing length

maximum length of ramp - 10 m where at top and bottom - not less than 1200 mm,
the gradient is 1 in 20 between ramps - not less than 1500 mm
B surface width of ramp(s) D surface width of steps
not less than 1500 mm not less than 1200 mm
Complementary steps
2.6 Steps should have a uniform –
(a) rise of not less than 150 mm and not more than 170 mm; and
(b) going of not less than 280 mm and not more than 425 mm.
2.7 A flight of steps should have not less than 2 rises or more than –
(a) 12 rises where the going of each step is less than 350 mm; or
(b) 18 rises where the going of each step is 350 mm or more.
2.8 A flight should have a surface width of not less than that given in
paragraph 3.32.
2.9 Steps should also comply with the guidance given in paragraphs 3.33
to 3.35.
2.10 To assist a person who is weaker on one side and a visually impaired
person, steps should have a suitable continuous handrail on each side
complying with the provisions of paragraphs 3.37 to 3.43.
2.11 To give advance warning of the change in level, a tactile corduroy surface
should be provided on the top and bottom landings of complementary
steps. See Diagram 2.2. The size of this surface should be –
(a) 800 mm deep when the approach to the steps is head on; or
(b) 400 mm deep when the approach to the steps is not head on.
In either case, the surface should extend not less than 400 mm beyond
each side of the steps and be located not less than 400 mm from the
nearest nosing. See Diagram 2.3.
Diagram 2.2 Corduroy tactile warning surface tiles
see para 2.11
20 mm
rib
20 mm
30 mm
gap
6 mm
tile rib profile
2.12 Where there is access onto any intermediate landing from other than the
complementary steps, a tactile corduroy surface 400 mm deep should be
provided in accordance with Diagram 2.3 (b) or (c).
Diagram 2.3 Complementary steps tactile warnings
see para 2.11 and 2.12
not less than

400 mm
corduroy hazard
warning surface stair width
corduroy hazard warning surface not less than
to extend not less than 400 mm at 400 mm
each side of the flight (unless the
landing is bounded at a distance
of less than 400 mm by a return
wall) and stop 400 mm from the
nearest nosing corduroy hazard warning
400 mm surface to the top and bottom
corduroy hazard landings should be 800 mm deep
warning surface where the approach to the
steps is head-on and 400 mm
deep where the approach is
not head-on
bottom landing
400 mm not less than
(a) tactile warning 400 mm
stair width
not less than
400 mm
not more than
1200 mm and
not less than
800 mm top landing
corduroy hazard
400 mm
warning surface 400 mm
visual contrast
to tread and riser 400 mm
400 mm
bottom landing
400 mm
(b) external steps showing side access onto
intermediate landing and having not less than
not less than
800 mm from the access to the top and bottom 400 mm
of flights
stair width
not less than
400 mm
corduroy hazard less than

warning surface 800 mm top landing
less than
800 mm corduroy hazard
400 mm warning surface
visual contrast
continuous handrail
to tread and riser
opposite access
bottom landing
400 mm
(c) external steps showing side access onto intermediate

landing and having less than 800 mm from the access to
the top and bottom of flights
Ramps and steps on access routes to dwellings
Ramped approach
2.13 A ramped approach should have –
(a) a surface which is firm and even;
(b) an unobstructed width not less than 900 mm;
(c) a ramp or ramps not exceeding –
(i) 10 m in length where the slope of the ramp does not exceed
1 in 15; or
(ii) 5 m in length where the slope of the ramp does not exceed
1 in 12;
(d) landings with an unobstructed length of not less than 1200 mm;
(e) headroom complying with the provisions of paragraph 4.7; and
(f) handrails complying with the provisions of paragraph 4.8.
Stepped approach
2.14 A stepped approach should have –
(a) a flight or flights with an unobstructed width of not less than 900 mm;
(b) a rise of not more than 1800 mm in each flight of steps;
(c) steps with a uniform rise of not less than 75 mm and not more
than 150 mm;
(d) steps with a uniform going of not less than 280 mm (which in the case
of tapered treads should be measured at a point 270 mm from the
narrow end);
(e) steps that are not open and have a suitable profile such that the risk of
tripping is reduced. See Diagram 2.4;
(f) a maximum of 16 steps in a flight;
(g) landings with an unobstructed length of not less than 900 mm; and
(h) a suitable continuous handrail (see paragraph 2.15) on one side of the
flight and at an intermediate landing where the flight comprises three
or more steps.
2.15 A stepped approach should have a suitable handrail which –

(a) is at a height measured vertically of –
(i) 900 mm above the pitch line of a flight of steps; and
(ii) 1000 mm above the surface of a landing; and
(b) extends not less than 300 mm horizontally beyond the top and bottom
nosings of a flight of steps.
Diagram 2.4 External step profiles
see para 2.14

15 – 25 mm
15 – 25 mm
60°
minimum
Section 3 Stairs
General
3.1 This Section gives guidance on appropriate levels of safety and
convenience for all users where a stair is to be provided so that people can
move between levels or storeys in a building.
Provisions are also given for a stair or a fixed ladder providing access solely
for the purpose of maintenance.
Common provisions for all stairs

3.2 A private stair or a common stair in a block of dwellings, should comply with
the provisions of paragraphs 3.4 to 3.28.
3.3 A stair, other than a private stair or a common stair in a block of dwellings,
should comply with the provisions of paragraphs 3.4 to 3.11
and 3.29 to 3.43.
Pitch
3.4 The pitch of a flight is controlled by limiting the rise and the going.
Diagram 3.1 shows how to measure the pitch and what is meant by the pitch
line. Diagram 1.1 shows how to measure the rise and going (for steps with
tapered treads see also paragraph 3.20).
Diagram 3.1 Measuring angle of pitch

pitch line - a notional line
see para 3.4
connecting the
nosings of all treads
in a flight
angle of pitch line

pitch
horizontal
3.5 Subject to paragraph 3.12 the relationship between the dimensions of the
rise and going is that twice the rise (R) plus the going (G) i.e. (2R + G)
should be between 550 mm and 700 mm. The rise and the going are given
in Table 3.1.
Table 3.1 Rise and going
Rise Going
Category minimum maximum minimum

(mm) (mm) (mm)
Private stair 75 220* 220*
A common stair in a block of 75 170 250

dwellings
A stair in any building (other than 150 170 250

a private stair or a common stair
in a block of dwellings)
Note:
A stair within more than one category should be constructed to the more onerous
standard.
* see also paragraph 3.12.
3.6 In a flight, the steps should all have the same rise and they should all have
the same going.
3.7 Where the landing of a stair is formed by the ground and slopes across the
width of the flight, then the rise of the step should be measured at the mid
point of the width of the flight. See paragraph 3.11.
3.8 Steps should have level treads which extend for the full width of the flight.
Headroom
3.9 A stair should have a clear headroom of not less than 2000 mm over its full
length and width.
Headroom is measured vertically from the pitch line of the flight and the
level of the landing. See Diagram 3.2(a).
For roofspace conversions in a dwelling, where it can be demonstrated that

there is not enough space to achieve a clear headroom of at least 2000 mm,
it would be reasonable for a stair to have headroom as shown in
Diagram 3.2(b).
Diagram 3.2 Measuring headroom
2.8
see para 3.9
not less
than 2000 mm minimum
headroom
not less
than 2000 mm
not less
than 2000 mm
landing
pitch line
flight
landing
(a) headroom to be achieved under normal circumstances
not less
than
not less
1900 mm
than
1800 mm
half width
of stair
(b) reduced headroom for roofspace conversions
Change of direction
3.10 A stair of more than 36 rises in consecutive flights should have at least one
change in direction between flights of at least 30° (see Diagram 3.3).
Diagram 3.3 Change of direction
see para 3.10
not less than

the stair width flight
flight
stair landing
width angle at
least 30o
Landings
3.11 Landings should be level unless they are formed by the ground at the top or
bottom of a flight where they may have a gradient not greater than –
(a) 1 in 20 in the case of a private stair; or
(b) 1 in 60 for all other stairs.
Landings formed by the ground should be paved or otherwise made firm.
Additional provisions for private stairs and common stairs in
blocks of dwellings
Pitch
3.12 The pitch of a private stair should not exceed 42°, therefore it is not possible
to combine a maximum rise with a minimum going.
The rise and the going are given in Table 3.1.
Width of flights
3.13 The minimum unobstructed widths for a flight, in a private stair and a
common stair in a block of dwellings, are given in Table 3.2 and should be
measured in accordance with Diagram 3.4.
Table 3.2 Widths of flights in a private stair and a common stair in

a block of dwellings
Minimum unobstructed
Category width
(mm)
Private stair
(a) providing access to one room only (not being a kitchen
or living room) or to a bathroom and a water closet 600
(b) other than (a) above* 800
A common stair in a block of dwellings 1000

Note
* where the private stair
(a) is part of the circulation route within the entrance storey; or
(b) gives access to the circulation route within the principal storey,
the unobstructed width should be not less than 900 mm.
Diagram 3.4 Measuring the width of a private stair and a common

stair in a block of dwellings
see para 3.13

wall/ wall/
W
guarding guarding
W W = unobstructed widths
see Table 3.2
W
newel
post
minor intrusions such

as string/skirting and
newel may be ignored
Construction of steps
3.14 A private stair may have steps with open rises, but the treads should then
overlap each other by at least 16 mm. See Diagram 1.1.
A private stair which has open rises, should be constructed so that a

100 mm diameter sphere cannot pass through the open rises.
3.15 A common stair in a block of dwellings should have steps with rises that are
not open, step nosings which are distinguishable, through permanent
contrasting brightness and have a suitable profile such that the risk of
tripping is reduced. See Diagram 3.9 (b).
3.16 The number of rises in a flight should be a maximum of 16 and a minimum

of 2. However, notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 3.19, a single
step may be provided –
(a) at the bottom of a stair in a dwelling;
(b) at an entrance to a dwelling;
(c) between any enclosed porch, outhouse or conservatory and the
remainder of a dwelling;
(d) where it provides access to a small room; or
(e) between a garage and a dwelling.
Landings
3.17 A landing should be provided at the top and bottom of every flight.
The width of a landing should be not less than the width of the stair.
The going of a landing should be not less than –

(a) in a private stair, the width of the flight; and
(b) in a common stair in a block of dwellings, 1200 mm clear of any door
swing onto them.
Part of a floor may be considered as a landing.
3.18 To afford safe passage a landing should be clear of any obstruction.

However, in a private stair –
(a) a door may swing across a landing at the bottom of a flight but only
where it will leave a clear space of at least 400 mm across the full
width of the flight. See Diagram 3.5; and
(b) a door to a cupboard or duct may swing across a landing at –
(i) the bottom of a flight; and
(ii) the top of a flight where it will leave a clear space of 400 mm
across the full width of the flight. See Diagram 3.6.
Diagram 3.5 Landings next to doors
see para 3.18(a)
width of flight width of flight
up up
at least at least
400 mm 400 mm
landing landing
door
door
Diagram 3.6 Cupboards onto landings
see para 3.18(b)(ii)
cupboard
400 mm up
minimum
up
3.19 A landing need not be provided between an external flight and a doorway if
the rise of the flight is not more than 600 mm and the door slides or opens
away from the steps.
Where there is a single step between a garage and a dwelling, a door may
open out over the step when the door, in the closed position, has some part
of its thickness in line with the riser of the step.
Steps with tapered treads

3.20 Where steps have tapered treads, the going should be measured as
follows –
(a) if the width of the flight is less than 1000 mm, measure in the
middle or;
(b) if the width of the flight is 1000 mm or more, measure 270 mm from
each side.
(See Diagram 3.7.)
Diagram 3.7 Measuring tapered treads

stair width
1000 mm
going (not more
than maximum or or more
less than minimum)
stair width
less than
1000 mm
50 mm minimum
equal equal tread width at
narrow end width
landing length
measure going at centre of measured on
tread centre line
measure from curved stair
line, even when tread is in
rectangular enclosure
270 mm 270 mm
stair width less than 1000 mm stair width 1000 mm or more
3.21 The narrow ends of consecutive treads should be on the same side of the
stair and have a going of not less than 50 mm. See Diagram 3.7.
3.22 The rise and the going measured at the positions, in paragraph 3.20 (a) or
(b) whichever is appropriate should be within the limits given in
paragraphs 3.5 and 3.12 and Table 3.1.
3.23 Where a stair consists of straight and tapered treads, the going of the
tapered treads should be not less than the going of the treads on the
straight flight.
Handrails
3.24 Flights in a private stair with a total rise of more than 600 mm and a
common stair in a block of dwellings, should have a continuous handrail that
gives firm support and a firm grip and be located –
(a) on at least one side where the stair is less than 1000 mm wide; or
(b) on both sides where the stair is 1000 mm wide or more.
Where only one handrail is required on a flight with tapered treads, it should
be located on the outer side of the flight.
3.25 Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 3.24, where a private stair –

(a) is part of the circulation route within the entrance storey of a dwelling;
or
(b) gives access to the circulation route within the principal storey of a
dwelling,
the stair should have a continuous handrail on each side.
3.26 Handrails are not required beside the two steps at the bottom of a private
stair.
3.27 Handrails should be at a height between 900 mm and 1000 mm measured

vertically above the pitch line.
Handrails may form the top of guarding.
3.28 To give warning of a change in level i.e. the start or finish of a flight, the
handrail to a common stair in a block of dwellings, should extend
horizontally for a distance of not less than 300 mm, along the top and
bottom landings.
Additional provisions for stairs in buildings other than dwellings
3.29 Paragraphs 3.4 to 3.11 and 3.30 to 3.43 apply to a stair other than a private
stair or a common stair in a block of dwellings.
Pitch
3.30 The rise and the going are given in Table 3.1.
3.31 There should be not less than 2 rises and not more than 12 rises in each
flight.
There may be exceptional circumstances where a different rise or greater

number of rises in a flight is more appropriate e.g. where there are
dimensional constraints imposed by an existing building.
Width of flights
3.32 A flight should have a surface width of not less than 1200 mm.
Where a handrail protrudes into the surface width of a flight by more

than 100 mm, the surface width should be increased accordingly. In any
case, the maximum protrusion of a handrail into the surface width of a flight
should be 110 mm.
A flight of steps which has a surface width wider than 1800 mm, should be
divided into flights which are not wider than 1800 mm. The minimum surface
width of 1200 mm then applies to each flight. See Diagram 3.8.
Diagram 3.8 Dividing wide flights

see para 3.32 divisions of flights should
have a surface width of
if surface width is wider than 1800 mm not less than 1200 mm
then the flight should be divided
handrail
dividing
flight
flight before being divided flight after being divided
Construction of steps
3.33 So a visually impaired person can appreciate the extent of the stair and
identify individual treads, steps should have step nosings which are
distinguishable through suitable permanent visual contrast. The width of
this permanent visual contrast should be not less than 50 mm and not more
than 60 mm to all treads and risers.
3.34 Anything fixed or fitted to a tread or riser should not create a trip hazard.
3.35 Steps should have rises that are not open and have a suitable profile such
that the risk of tripping or people catching their feet beneath the nosing, is
reduced (see Diagram 3.9).
Landings
3.36 A landing should be provided at the top and bottom of every flight.
The width of the landing should be not less than the width of the stair.
To afford safe passage, the unobstructed length of each landing should be

not less than 1200 mm clear of any door swing onto it.
Part of a floor may be considered as a landing.
Diagram 3.9 Details of stairs
see paras 3.15, 3.35, 3.39 and 3.40
not less than

300 mm
landing
not less than
not less not less than 900 mm and
than 300 mm 900 mm and not more than
not more than 1100 mm
1000 mm above
pitch line
landing going not less
not less than 250 mm
than 900 mm not more than
and not more rise not less than 12 rises in any
than 1100 mm 150 mm and not flight
landing more than 170 mm
(a) stairs and handrails
going not
less than
250 mm
not more not more
rise not less than 25 mm than 25 mm
than 150 mm overlap overlap
and not more
than 170 mm
60°
minimum
Note: excessive rounding of the nosings

reduces the effective going
(b) examples of suitable step profiles
Handrails
3.37 A suitably designed handrail can help prevent people losing their balance
when on the stair and can also assist users to ascend by pulling themselves
up the stairs.
Handrails may form the top of guarding where the required height of the
handrail aligns with the required height of the guarding.
3.38 A stair should have a suitable continuous handrail on each side.
3.39 A handrail should be at a height measured vertically of –

(a) not less than 900 mm and not more than 1000 mm, above the pitch of
a flight; and
(b) not less than 900 mm and not more than 1100 mm, above the surface
of a landing.
See Diagram 3.9.
Where it is decided to provide a second lower handrail, for use by children

and people who are short in stature, that handrail should be 600 mm above
the pitch of the flight. However, this second lower handrail must not impinge
on the protection against falling provided by any necessary guarding.
3.40 To give warning of a change in level i.e. the start or finish of a flight, each
end of a handrail should extend horizontally for a distance of not less
than 300 mm, along the top and bottom landings of a stair, be closed and
terminate in a suitable way so that –
(a) it does not project into a route of travel; and
(b) it reduces the risk of clothing being caught.
See Diagram 3.9.
3.41 Handrails should be rigidly supported in a way that avoids impeding the
users grip.
A handrail should be –
(a) not less than 50 mm and not more than 60 mm clear of any adjacent
side or enclosing surface wall, or guarding, etc.;
(b) not less than 50 mm clear from the underside of the handrail to any
cranked support; and
(c) not more than 50 mm beyond the outer edge of a flight of steps, to the
inner side of the handrail.
See Diagram 3.10.
3.42 The surface of a handrail should be distinguishable through suitable visual

contrast from the background against which it is seen.
3.43 Handrails should allow users to make a power grip around the whole
handrail. A noncircular handrail with a broad horizontal face is as easy to
grip as a circular handrail and gives better hand and forearm support.
A handrail should have a suitable profile that is gripped easily. Suitable

handrail profiles include circular and oval. (see Diagram 3.10).
Diagram 3.10 Examples of suitable handrails
circular handrail
40-50 mm diameter
not more
than 50 mm
50-60 mm
not less
than 50 mm
side wall
or guarding
of ramped
or stepped
access
not more than 110 mm projection
into the surface width of a ramp
or flight of steps
non-circular handrail
50 mm wide with
rounded edges
15 mm
min. 38 mm
radius
not less
than 50 mm
Note: To be suitable for all to use, the profile

of a handrail should incorporate the above features
Spiral or helical stairs in dwellings

3.44 In a dwelling, a spiral or helical stair should be designed and constructed in
accordance with BS 5395: 2.
Stairs and fixed ladders providing access for maintenance

3.45 A stair or a fixed ladder in a building other than a dwelling, providing access
solely for the purpose of maintenance should be designed and constructed
in accordance with either BS 5395: 3 or BS 4211.
Section 4 Ramps in buildings
General
4.1 This Section gives guidance on appropriate levels of safety and
convenience for all users where a ramp is to be provided as a means of
circulation within a building.
Ramps in dwellings
Gradient
4.2 A ramp should have a gradient not steeper than 1 in 12 and should be
uniform throughout its length. See Diagram 4.1.
Width of ramps
4.3 The minimum width for a ramp should be the same as that for a flight in a
private stair, see paragraph 3.13 and Table 3.2.
4.4 The length of a ramp measured on plan, should not exceed 10 m. See
Diagram 4.1.
Landings
4.5 Landings should be level and be provided at the top and bottom of a ramp.
See Diagram 4.1.
The width and length of a landing should be not less than the width of the
ramp. Part of a floor may be considered as a landing.
4.6 Ramps should be clear of obstructions and landings should be clear of

obstructions other than those described in paragraph 3.18.
Headroom
4.7 Ramps and associated landings should have a clear headroom of not less
than 2000 mm over the length and width of the ramp.
Headroom is measured vertically from the slope of the ramp and the level of
the landing. See Diagram 4.1.
Diagram 4.1 Ramp design
see paras 4.2, 4.4, 4.5, 4.7, 4.12 and 4.22
clear headroom for guarding see Section 5

2000 mm minimum height of guarding as for stairs
2000 mm
minimum
maximum
slope 1 in 12
landing 10 m maximum landing
length of landings to be at least

equal to the width of the ramp
Handrails
4.8 A ramp or a series of ramps with a total rise of more than 600 mm should
have a continuous handrail that gives firm support and a firm grip –
(a) on at least one side where the ramp is 1000 mm wide or less; or
(b) on both sides where the ramp is more than 1000 mm wide.
Handrails should be at a height between 900 mm and 1000 mm measured

vertically above the surface of the ramp.
Handrails may form the top of guarding.
Ramps within common areas of a block of dwellings
Length and gradient

4.9 A ramp should be not more than –
(a) 10 m in length where the gradient of the ramp does not
exceed 1 in 15; or
(b) 5 m in length where the gradient of the ramp does not
exceed 1 in 12.
Width of ramps
4.10 A ramp should have a surface width of not less than 1200 mm. Where a
handrail is provided, the width at handrail level may be reduced to not less
than 1000 mm.
Landings
4.11 Landings should be level with an unobstructed length of not less
than 1200 mm.
Headroom
Handrails
4.13 A ramp should have a suitable continuous handrail on each side if the
horizontal length of the ramp is more than 2000 mm.
Handrails should be at a height between 900 mm and 1000 mm measured

vertically above the surface of the ramp, give firm support and allow a firm
grip.
Ramps in buildings other than dwellings

4.14 Gradients of ramps should be as shallow as practicable as steep gradients
may not be safe or convenient for all people.
The following provisions apply to a ramp which is not in a dwelling or in a

block of dwellings.
Length and gradient

4.15 The maximum length of a ramp is dependent upon its gradient. Table 4.1
gives the maximum length of a ramp for a given gradient.
There may be exceptional circumstances where a different gradient of ramp

to that shown in Table 4.1 over a short distance is more appropriate e.g.
where there are physical constraints imposed by an existing building.
Table 4.1 Maximum length and rise of ramps

Maximum length of ramp Maximum rise of ramp
Gradient of ramp
(m) (mm)
1:20 10 500
1:19 9 474
1:18 8 444
1:17 7 412
1:16 6 375
1:15 5 333
1:14 4 286
1:13 3 231
1:12 2 166
Width of ramps
4.16 A ramp or ramps and landings should have a surface width of not less
than 1500 mm.
Where a handrail protrudes into the surface width of a ramp by more

than 100 mm the surface width should be increased accordingly. In any
case the maximum protrusion of a handrail into the surface width of a ramp
should be 110 mm.
A ramp which has a surface width greater than 1800 mm, it should be
divided into ramps which are not greater than 1800 mm. The minimum
surface width of 1500 mm will then apply to each ramp. See Diagram 4.2.
Diagram 4.2 Dividing wide ramps

divisions of ramp should
see para 4.16
have a surface width of
if surface width is wider than 1800 mm
then the ramp should be divided
handrail dividing
ramp
ramp before being divided ramp after being divided
Construction of ramps
4.17 The surface of a ramp should –
(a) be firm;
(b) reduce the risk of slipping; and
(c) be distinguishable, through suitable visual contrast, from that of its
landings.
A ramp and its landings should have similar surface frictional characteristics.
4.18 A ramp should have a raised kerb on any open side (except where it would
obstruct normal use). The raised kerb should –
(a) be not less than 100 mm high; and
(b) be distinguishable, through suitable visual contrast, from that of the
surface of the ramp and landings.
Landings
4.19 Wheelchair users need adequate space to stop on landings, to open and
pass through doors without having to reverse into circulation routes and to
avoid the risk of rolling back down slopes.
A landing should be provided at the top and bottom of a ramp.
A landing should be level, however, it may have a gradient along its length
not steeper than 1 in 60.
The unobstructed length of a landing should be not less than 1200 mm.
Where a landing is between two ramps, it should have an unobstructed
length of not less than 1500 mm.
4.20 Where the ramped access or circulation route consists of three or more
ramps, the intermediate landings between each ramp should have an
unobstructed length of not less than 1800 mm and a surface width of not
less than 1800 mm.
4.21 Where a ramp does not have a clear line of sight between its top and bottom
landings, it should be divided into two ramps such that there is a clear line of
sight between the intermediate landing and the top and bottom landings.
The intermediate landing should have an unobstructed length of not less
than 1800 mm, and a surface width of not less than 1800 mm. This will allow
enlarged landings to be used as passing places.
Headroom
Handrails
4.23 A ramp or ramps and landings should have a suitable continuous handrail on
each side complying with the provisions of paragraphs 3.39 to 3.43.
4.24 A handrail should be at a height measured vertically of –

(a) not less than 900 mm and not more than 1000 mm above the surface
of a ramp; and
(b) not less than 900 mm and not more than 1100 mm above the level of
a landing.
4.25 To give warning of a change in level i.e. the start or finish of a ramp, a
handrail should extend horizontally for a distance of not less than 300 mm
along the top and bottom landings of a ramp except at an intermediate
landing that is not more than 1800 mm in length where it should extend the
full length of the landing.
Section 5 Guarding
General
5.1 Paragraphs 5.2 to 5.4 do not apply to –
(a) guarding to a spiral or helical stair in a dwelling;
(b) guarding to a stair or a fixed ladder, in a building other than a dwelling,
providing access solely for the purpose of maintenance; and
(c) a vehicle barrier.
Design of guarding
5.2 The design of guarding should be such as to minimise the risk of people
falling, and of rolling, sliding or slipping through gaps in a barrier.
A wall, glazing, parapet, balustrade or similar construction may serve as

guarding.
A sunken area next to a building is an area adjoining the building and

includes a light well, access to a basement and similar areas. Guarding
should be provided to that part of a sunken area which is within 3 m of the
building.
5.3 The height of guarding should be measured vertically from the level of a
floor or landing, the surface of a ramp or the pitch line of a flight.
However, the top of a portion of any balustrade guarding a landing at the top
of a flight or ramp, may be continuous with, and at the same angle as, the
top of a balustrade guarding that flight or ramp.
5.4 Guarding which is provided at the locations given in Table 5.1 column (1)
should be –
(a) of a height not less than that given in column (2); and
(b) capable of resisting the horizontal force given in column (3) applied at
a height of 1100 mm irrespective of the actual height of the guarding
(see Diagram 5.1).
Diagram 5.1 Guarding

see para 5.4
horizontal
force at
1100 mm
Table 5.1 Minimum height and strength of guarding
Minimum Minimum
Location of guarding height+ horizontal
force/metre
run
(mm) (kN/m)
(1) (2) (3)
Dwellings
(a) guarding a flight, ramp, landing or floor within a
900* 0.36
dwelling
(b) guarding an external flight or ramp 900 0.74
(c) guarding a level for the purpose of maintenance 1100 0.36
(d) guarding not described in (a) to (c) 1100 0.74
Retail buildings
(a) guarding a flight or ramp 900 1.50
(b) guarding a level for the purpose of maintenance 1100 0.36
(c) guarding not described in (a) or (b) 1100* 1.50
Other buildings
(a) guarding a flight or ramp where crowd loading will
900 0.74
not occur
(b) guarding a flight or ramp where crowd loading† will
900 3.00
occur
(c) guarding not described in (b) where crowd loading†
1100* 3.00
will occur
(d) guarding a floor immediately in front of fixed seating 800 1.50
(e) guarding a level for the purpose of maintenance 1100 0.36
(f) guarding not described in (a) to (e) 1100* 0.74
Notes:
+ In the case of a flight or ramp the height should be measured from the pitch line
of a flight or the surface of a ramp.
* This may be reduced to 800 mm at openable windows or glazing at changes of
level. The glazing may be designed to act as guarding, in which case separate
guarding would not be required. In a roofspace conversion to a dwelling, a roof
window (rooflight) that is required to comply with Part E may have this height
reduced to 600 mm.
† Crowd loading will occur in parts of buildings where people assemble in large
numbers such as theatres, discotheques, cinemas, sports halls, assembly halls,
shopping malls and similar areas.
Infill panels
5.5 Where infill panels are provided they should be designed and constructed in
accordance with the relevant clauses of BS 6180.
5.6 Where a building or part of a building is likely to be used by children under 5

years of age the guarding should be constructed so that a 100 mm diameter
sphere cannot pass through any opening in it other than a triangular
opening formed by a tread, a rise and the bottom edge of the guarding if
that bottom edge is not more than 50 mm above the pitch line. The guarding
should also be constructed so that a child cannot readily climb up it.
Guarding of spiral or helical stairs in a dwelling
5.7 In a dwelling, guarding to a spiral or helical stair should be designed and
constructed in accordance with BS 5395: 2.
Stair or fixed ladders

5.8 Guarding to a stair or a fixed ladder in a building other than a dwelling
providing access solely for the purpose of maintenance should be designed
and constructed in accordance with either BS 5395: 3 or BS 4211.
Vehicle barriers
5.9 In a building where vehicles have access to a floor, roof or circulation ramp,
guarding should be provided to any edge of such area that is above the level
of any adjacent floor, ground or route for vehicles.
Such guarding should –

(a) not present a hazard e.g. by containing projections on the impact face
of the barrier; and
(b) be designed and constructed in accordance with BS 6180.
Section 6 Vehicle loading bays
Loading bays
6.1 A loading bay should be provided with at least one exit point from the lower
level (preferably near the centre of the rear wall).
6.2 A wide loading bay (with space for 3 or more vehicles) should be provided
with at least –
(a) two exit points, one at each side; or
(b) an exit point and a refuge,
which people can use to avoid being struck or crushed by a vehicle. See
Diagram 6.1.
Diagram 6.1 Wide loading bays

see para 6.2
exit point at steps
wide loading bay
refuge
Section 7 Protection against impact from and trapping
by doors
Doors and gates

7.1 A door or gate –
(a) across a main route of travel; or
(b) which can be pushed open from either side,
should have, towards the leading edge of the door leaf, zones of visibility as
shown in Diagram 7.1.
7.2 Any side panel that is more than 450 mm wide and is adjacent to a door or
gate, that is required by paragraph 7.1 to have zones of visibility, should
also have zones of visibility. See Diagram 7.1.
Diagram 7.1 Zones of visibility

not less than not less than side panel
150 mm 150 mm more than
150 mm wide
1500 mm
1150 mm minimum minimum

zones of zones of
800 mm visibility visibility
500 mm
7.3 A door or gate that slides or opens upwards should have a device to stop it
falling in a way that may cause injury.
7.4 A power operated door or gate designed and constructed for vehicular traffic
should have –
(a) a pressure sensitive edge or other suitable device, which operates the
power switch to prevent users being caught or trapped;
(b) a readily identifiable and accessible stop switch; and
(c) provision for manual or automatic opening in the event of a power
failure.
7.5 A power operated door or gate designed and constructed for pedestrian use
should –
(a) incorporate a safety stop or door reactivating device to prevent the
door striking a person passing through if the door begins to close; and
(b) revert to manual control or fail safe in the open position in the event of
a power failure.
Section 8 Protection from collision with open windows,
skylights or ventilators
General
8.1 Where any part of a window, skylight or ventilator, when open, could project
more than 100 mm horizontally into a space less than 2000 mm above the
ground or floor it should be –
(a) fitted with a suitable device to restrict the projection in normal use to
not more than 100 mm; or
(b) marked by a suitable feature such as –
(i) a distinguishable barrier or rail not less than 1100 mm high;
(ii) a high relief surface; or
(iii) a landscape feature,
which extends to at least the maximum projection of the window, skylight or

ventilator (see Diagram 8.1).
8.2 In rooms or spaces used solely for maintenance of the building and access
to those rooms or spaces is infrequent, it may be appropriate only to
highlight any projecting part of a window, skylight or ventilator to make it
easier to see.
Diagram 8.1 Marking by a barrier or high relief surface
see para 8.1
projection of more projection of more

than 100 mm than 100 mm
protection should
be provided if
less than 2000 mm
above ground
protection
or path level
should be
provided if projection of
less than more than
2000 mm 100 mm
above floor
level high relief
surface
barrier or rail
not less than
1100 mm high
(a) marking by a barrier (b) marking by a high relief surface
Appendix Publications referred to
BS 4211: 2005 Specification for permanently fixed ladders
BS 5395 Stairs
Part 2: 1984 Code of practice for the design of helical and spiral stairs
AMD 6076
Part 3: 1985 Stairs, ladders and walkways. Code of practice for the
design of industrial type stairs. AMD 14247
BS 6180: 2011 Barriers in and about buildings Code of practice

DFP Technical Booklet B: 2012 Materials and workmanship
Technical Booklets
The following list comprises the series of Technical Booklets prepared by the
Department for the purpose of providing practical guidance with respect to
the technical requirements of the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland)
2012.
Technical Booklet B Materials and workmanship
Technical Booklet C Preparation of site and resistance to

contaminants and moisture
Technical Booklet D Structure
Technical Booklet E Fire safety
Technical Booklet F1 Conservation of fuel and power in

dwellings
Technical Booklet F2 Conservation of fuel and power in buildings other

than dwellings
Technical Booklet G Resistance to the passage of sound
Technical Booklet H Stairs, ramps, guarding and protection from

impact
Technical Booklet J Solid waste in buildings
Technical Booklet K Ventilation
Technical Booklet L Combustion appliances and fuel storage

systems
Technical Booklet N Drainage
Technical Booklet P Sanitary appliances, unvented hot water storage

systems and reducing the risk of scalding
Technical Booklet R Access to and use of buildings
Technical Booklet V Glazing
Any person who intends to demonstrate compliance with the Building

Regulations by following the guidance given in a Technical Booklet is
advised to ensure that the guidance is current on the date when plans are
deposited or notice given to the district council.

Technical Booklet H Stairs Ramps Guarding and Protection From Impact October 2012

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Technical Booklet H Stairs Ramps Guarding and Protection From Impact October 2012

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Guidance

Department of Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012

This Technical Booklet 3

Guidance – Performance and introduction to provisions

Stairs, ladders, ramps and their landings 9

Vehicle loading bays 10

Protection against impact from and trapping by doors 11

Protection from collision with open windows, skylights or ventilators 11

Section 2 Access routes to buildings

Ramped approach with complementary steps 15

Ramps and steps on access routes to dwellings 19

Common provisions for all stairs 21

Additional provisions for stairs in buildings other than dwellings 30

Spiral or helical stairs in dwellings 33

Section 4 Ramps in buildings

Ramps within common areas of a block of dwellings 35

Ramps in buildings other than dwellings 36

Section 6 Vehicle loading bays

Section 7 Protection against impact from and

Section 8 Protection from collision with open windows,

Appendix Publications referred to 45

The guidance given in a Technical Booklet includes performance standards

If the guidance in a Technical Booklet is followed there will be a presumption

There are likely to be alternative ways of demonstrating compliance

This Technical Booklet

Materials and workmanship

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations (Northern

Application and interpretation

(aa) less than 2000 mm; or

(bb) to an area which does not present a hazard.

“Landing” means a platform situated—

(a) at the top or bottom of a stair, ladder or ramp; and

Provision of stairs in dwellings

Stairs, ladders, ramps and landings

Vehicle loading bays

Protection from collision with open windows, skylights or ventilators

Stairs, ladders, ramps and their landings

must comply with the relevant requirements of Part H.

An appropriate level of safety can be achieved by different standards of

Introduction to provisions in Section 2

Introduction to provisions in Sections 3 and 4

An appropriate level of safety can be achieved by different standards of

Introduction to provisions in Section 5

Vehicle loading bays

Introduction to provisions in Section 6

Introduction to provisions in Section 7

Protection from collision with open windows, skylights

An appropriate level of safety can be achieved by different standards of

Introduction to provisions in Section 8

Dwelling – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 2 in Part A of the

Flight – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Habitable room – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 2 in Part A

Ladder – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Landing – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Private stair – a stair in or intended to be used by only one dwelling.

Ramp – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the

Retail building – shop, department store, supermarket, public house,

Stair – has the meaning assigned to it by regulation 54 in Part H of the