Key Design Features

Stairs

• Set back 900mm from path of travel
• Opaque risers
• Nosing not project beyond riser
• Nosing profile 5mm radius/chamfered
• Nosing strip 50-75mm/ full width/max 15mm from edge/30% Luminance Contrast
• If nosing not set back ≤ 10mm down riser
• TGSIs
• Rise 150-165mm; going 275-300mm preferred

Stair handrails

• Continuous
• Both sides
• Follow angle of stairway
• Extend 1 tread depth parallel nosing line +300mm horizontally
• Extend 300mm past top riser
• Extension NOT required for continuous handrail at intermediate landing
• Not encroach
• 30-50mm cross section circular/elliptical
• Top of handrail 865 – 1000mm
• Handrail ends returned to wall fl oor post
• 50mm clearance between handrail and adjacent surface
• No obstruction to hand movement
• If handrail not continued ‘dome button’ 150mm from end
• Handrail achieve 30% luminance contrast from wall

Summary of Recommendations

• Deterring anti-social use with handrail rings conflicts with accessibility. It can be addressed by providing handrails on each side of the staircase which are continuous. The handrail proximity to the side should prevent anti-social use as there is no room to slide.
• If buildings are refurbished building owner may seek to place TGSIs on the footpath and project handrails over the footpath. If no policy exists then a policy should be made with regards to placement of TGSIs on footpaths for features such as stairs and ramps. TGSIs can pose a trip hazard and placement in trafficked areas such as footpaths should be discouraged with the onus placed onto the building owner to provide a compliant building.
• For public realm stairs and ramps if TGSIs (and/ or compliant handrails) cannot be provided it is important to include as many accessible features as possible to mitigate risk. Contrasting handrails with a dome button and contrasting nosings can assist as can good colour contrast of surfaces and lighting. Design decisions should be documented with justifications to support non-conforming design outcomes. This may be important in the event of a claim under the DDA.
• Shadows on steps can create visual confusion for users. Whilst shadows cannot be avoided it is a reminder of the importance of luminance contrast for nosing strips handrails etc for safety in use.
• Mitigation strategies are also necessary where there are accessibility/ heritage conflicts.

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