What Are the Current UK Building Regulations for Staircases?

Staircase Width and Height Recommendations

Staircases are a vital part of any home and it is important to adhere to the latest building regulations when constructing them. In the UK, the building regulations set out the requirements for the design and construction of staircases so they are safe to use. This article will discuss what the current UK Building Regulations are for staircases.

The UK Building Regulations set out a specification for the width and height of staircases. The minimum recommended width for a staircase is 800mm with a tread dimension of 250mm or greater. Additionally, the handrails must be provided on both sides of the staircase if it is wider than 600mm. The maximum height between landings for two flights of stairs should not exceed 3.6m. The maximum riser height should not exceed 220mm, with a minimum of 150mm. 

Maximum and Minimum Step Height in the UK

The UK Building Regulations also set out guidelines for the minimum and maximum step height for staircases. The maximum height for a single step is 220mm, with the minimum being 150mm. Where multiple steps are present, the riser height should be uniform throughout, with the maximum height not exceeding 220mm. The tread depth should never be less than 220mm and should ideally be as close to 300mm as possible. It is also important that the stair nosings protrude no more than 16mm from the front of the step.

Head Height Stair Regulations

Head height is another factor that needs to be taken into consideration when constructing a staircase in the UK. The minimum head clearance for a person on the staircase should be 2m. If there is a handrail present, then the head height should not be less than 2.1m. This will ensure that people using the staircase have enough headroom to pass through safely and without causing injury.

Handrail Staircase Regulations in the UK

The UK Building Regulations also set out specific rules regarding handrails on staircases. The handrail should run continuously along the staircase on both sides, with no gaps more than 1m apart. Additionally, the handrail should be placed between 900mm and 1000mm from the pitch line of the staircase, with the top of the handrail being between 900mm and 1000mm above the pitch line.

Landing Building Regulations

The regulations for landings are just as important as those for staircases. The width of the landing should be the same as the width of the staircase, with this width increasing to 1500mm if the staircase is wider than 900mm. The minimum distance between the handrails on the landing has to be at least 500mm. Additionally, any door openings at the top or bottom of the staircase should be cleared by at least 500mm.

In conclusion, there are several regulations that should be followed when constructing a staircase in the UK. It is important to ensure that the staircase adheres to all the regulations specified in order to ensure safety and prevent injuries resulting from incorrect construction. By following these UK Building Regulations for staircases, you can help to create a safe and secure environment in your home.