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STATUTORY INSTRUMENTS

(Draft) S.I. No. XXX of 2011

(Draft) BUILDING REGULATIONS (PART K AMENDMENT)


REGULATIONS 2011

(Prn. )
S.I. No. XXX of 2011

BUILDING REGULATIONS (PART K AMENDMENT)


REGULATIONS 2011

I, PHIL HOGAN, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, in
exercise of the powers conferred on me by sections 3 and 18 of the Building Control
Act 1990 (No. 3 of 1990), hereby make the following regulations: -

Citation

1. (1) These Regulations may be cited as the Building Regulations (Part K


Amendment) Regulations 2011.

(2) These Regulations and the Building Regulations 1997 (S.I. No. 497 of
1997) may be cited together as the Building Regulations 1997 to 2011 and
shall be construed together as one.

Commencement

2. Subject to Regulation 3, these Regulations shall come into operation on 1 January


2012.

Application

3. These Regulations shall apply to works, or buildings in which a material


alteration or change of use takes place, where the works, material alteration or
change of use takes place, as the case may be, on or after 1 January 2012 except
where: -

(a)
(i) a planning application had been made on or before 31 December
2011 for planning permission or approval pursuant to the Local
Government (Planning and Development) Act 2000 (No. 30 of
2000), and where substantial work has been completed by 31
December 2013; or

(ii) a notice pursuant to the provisions of Part 8 of the Local


Government (Planning and Development) Regulations 2001 (S.I.
No. 600 of 2001) has been published on or before 31 December
2011, and where substantial work has been completed by 31
December 2013; or
(b) a Fire Safety Certificate or a Disability Access Certificate under the
Building Control Regulations (S.I. 496 of 1997), in respect of the works
or buildings, has been granted on or before 31 December 2011, and
where substantial work has been completed by 31 December 2013.

Amendments to the Building Regulations 1997

4. The Building Regulations 1997 are amended by substituting for Part K of the
Second Schedule the following: -

“PART K

STAIRWAYS, LADDERS, RAMPS AND GUARDS

Stairways, ladders and ramps. K1 Stairways, ladders and ramps shall be such as
to afford safe passage for the users of a
building.

Protection from falling. K2 In a building, the sides of every floor and


balcony and every part of a roof to which
people normally have access shall be
guarded to protect users from the risk of
falling therefrom.

Vehicle ramps, floors and roofs. K3 In a building, the sides of every vehicle ramp
and every floor and roof to which vehicles
have access shall be guarded against the risk
of vehicles falling therefrom.

Application of this Part. K4 The requirements of this Part only apply to


stairways, ladders and ramps which form part
of the structure of a building.”

Given under my Official Seal,

XX May 2011.

PHIL HOGAN,

Minister for the Environment, Community


and Local Government.
EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This note is not part of the Instrument and does not purport to be a legal interpretation.)

These Regulations amend Part K (Stairways, Ladders, Ramps and Guards) of the
Second Schedule to the Building Regulations 1997. The operational date of the
Regulation is 1 January 2012, subject to the transitional period cited.
Draft Building Regulations 2011

Draft Technical Guidance Document K

Stairways, Ladders, Ramps and


Guards
© Government of Ireland xxxx
Contents

Page
Introduction 2
Transitional arrangements 2
The Guidance 2
Existing buildings 2
Technical specifications 2
Materials and workmanship 3
Interpretation 3

Part K - The Requirement 4

Section 1
Stairways ,Ladders and Ramps 5
Introduction 5

Sub-section 1.1 5
Stairways and Ladders 5
Rise, going and pitch 5
Construction of steps 6
Headroom x
Widths of stairs x
Length of flights x
Landings x
Loft conversions x
Fixed ladders x
Handrails x
Guarding x
Further guidance x

Sub-section 1.2 x
Ramps x

Section 2
Pedestrian and Vehicle Barriers 1x
Introduction 1x
Pedestrian guarding 1x
Vehicle barriers 1x

Appendix A (informative) xx

Standards and publications other references 1x

1
Building Regulations 2011
Technical Guidance Document K
Stairways, Ladders, Ramps and Guards
Introduction
(ii) a notice pursuant to the provisions
This document has been published by the
of Part 8 of the Local Government
Minister for the Environment, Heritage and
(Planning and Development)
Local Government under article 7 of the
Regulations 2001 (S.I. No. 600 of
Building Regulations1997. It provides
2001) has been published on or
guidance in relation to Part K of the Second
before 31 December 2011, and
Schedule to the Regulations. The document
where substantial work has been
should be read in conjunction with the
completed by 31 December 2013,
Building Regulations1997 - 2011, and other
or
documents published under these
Regulations.
(c) a Fire Safety Certificate or a Disability
Access Certificate under the Building
In general, Building Regulations apply to the
Control Regulations, in respect of the
construction of new buildings and to
works or buildings, has been granted on
extensions and material alterations to
or before 31 December 2011, and
buildings. In addition, certain parts of the
where substantial work has been
Regulations apply to existing buildings
completed by 31 December 2013.
where a material change of use takes
place. Otherwise, Building Regulations do
“Substantial work has been completed”
not apply to buildings constructed prior to 1
means that the structure of the external walls
June, 1992.
has been erected.
Transitional arrangements
The Guidance
In general, this document applies to works,
The materials, methods of construction,
or buildings in which a material change of
standards and other specifications
use takes place, where the works or the
(including technical specifications) which
change of use commence or takes place, as
are referred to in this document are those
the case may be on or after 1 January
which are likely to be suitable for the
2012. Technical Guidance Document K -
purposes of the Regulations. Where works
Stairways, Ladders, Ramps and
are carried out in accordance with the
Guards, dated 1997, also ceases to have
guidance in this document, this will, prima
effect from that date. However, the latter
facie, indicate compliance with Part K of the
document may continue to be used in the
Second Schedule to the Building
case of works, or buildings in which a
Regulations. However, the adoption of an
material change of use takes place where –
approach other than that outlined in the
guidance is not precluded provided that the
(a) the works commence or change of use relevant requirements of the Regulations
takes place, as the case may be, on or
are complied with. Those involved in the
before 31 December 2011, or
design and construction of a building may
be required by the relevant building control
(b) the works, or buildings are the subject
authority to provide such evidence as is
of – necessary to establish that the requirements
(i) a planning application made on
of the Building Regulations are being
or before 31 December 2011 for
complied with.
planning permission or approval
pursuant to the Local
Government (Planning and Existing buildings
Development) Act 2000, and In the case of material alterations or
where substantial work has changes of use of existing buildings, the
been completed by 31 adoption without modification of the
December 2013, or guidance in this document may not, in all

2
Building Regulations 2011
Technical Guidance Document K
Stairways, Ladders, Ramps and Guards
circumstances, be appropriate. In Materials and workmanship
particular, the adherence to guidance, Under Part D of the Second Schedule to
including codes, standards or technical the Building Regulations, building work to
specifications, intended for application to which the Regulations apply must be carried
new work may be unduly restrictive or out with proper materials and in a
impracticable. Buildings of architectural or workmanlike manner. Guidance in relation to
historical interest are especially likely to compliance with Part D is contained in
give rise to such circumstances. In these Technical Guidance Document D.
situations, alternative approaches based on
the principles contained in the document In this document, a reference to a section,
may be more relevant and should be sub-section, part, paragraph or diagram is,
considered. unless otherwise stated, a reference to a
section, sub-section, part, paragraph or
Technical Specifications diagram, as the case may be, of this
Building Regulations are made for specific document. A reference to another Technical
purposes, e.g. to provide, in relation to Guidance Document is a reference to the
buildings, for the health, safety and welfare latest edition of a document published by the
of persons, the conservation of energy and Minister for the Environment, Heritage and
access for people with disabilities. Local Government under article 7 of the
Technical specifications (including Building Regulations, 1997. Diagrams are
harmonised European Standards, used in this document to illustrate particular
European Technical Approvals, National aspects of construction - they may not show
Standards and Agrément Certificates) are all the details of construction.
relevant to the extent that they relate to
these considerations. Any reference to a Interpretation
technical specification is a reference to so In this document, a reference to a section,
much of the specification as is relevant in sub-section, part, paragraph or diagram is,
the context in which it arises. Technical unless otherwise stated, a reference to a
specifications may also address other section, sub-section, part, paragraph or
aspects not covered by the Regulations. diagram, as the case may be, of this
document. A reference to another Technical
A reference to a technical specification is to Guidance Document is a reference to the
the latest edition (including any latest edition of a document published by the
amendments, supplements or addenda) Minister for the Environment, Heritage and
current at the date of publication of this Local Government under article 7 of the
Technical Guidance Document. However, if Building Regulations, 1997. Diagrams are
this version of the technical specification is used in this document to illustrate particular
subsequently revised or updated by the aspects of construction - they may not show
issuing body, the new version may be used all the details of construction.
as a source of guidance provided that it
continues to address the relevant
requirements of the Regulations.

3
Stairways, ladders, ramps and guards

Part K - The Requirement

Part K of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations 2011, provides as follows:

Stairways, ladders and ramps. K1 Stairways, ladders and ramps shall be such as to afford
safe passage for the users of a building.

Protection from falling. K2 In a building, the sides of every floor and balcony and
every part of a roof to which people normally have
access shall be guarded to protect users from the risk
of falling therefrom.

Vehicle ramps, floors and roofs. K3 In a building, the sides of every vehicle ramp and every
floor and roof to which vehicles have access shall be
guarded against the risk of vehicles falling therefrom.

Application of this Part. K4 The requirements of this Part only apply to


stairways, ladders and ramps which form part of
the structure of a building.

This Technical Guidance Document is


divided into two sections.

Section 1 relates to the Requirement K1 and


is divided into two parts.

Sub-section 1.1 deals with stairways and


ladders and sub-section 1.2 deals with
ramps.

Section 2 relates to the Requirements K2 and


K3.

This Document refers to safety glazing in the


context of stairways, ramps and guards. For
general advice in relation to safety glazing,
refer to Technical Guidance Document D.

4
Section 1
Stairways, Ladders and Ramps

Stairways, ladders and ramps. K1 Stairways, ladders and ramps shall be such as to afford
safe passage for the users of a building.

"pitch" means the angle between the pitch


line and the horizontal;
Introduction
1.0 Requirement K1 applies to the design "rise" means the vertical distance between
and construction of stairways, ladders and the top of a tread and the top of the tread,
ramps. It does not apply to steps or access landing or ramp next above or below it;
routes outside a building other than the
circumstances set out in paragraph “stairs” means a succession of steps and
1.1.3. landings that makes it possible to pass on
foot to other levels;
Additional requirements may be necessary
for access routes which form part of:- "tapered step" means a step, the nosing of
which is not parallel to the nosing of the step
or landing next above it;
(i) means of escape in case of fire (see
Technical Guidance Document B);
"tread" means the upper surface of a step.

(ii) means of access for people with


disabilities (see Technical Guidance 1.1.3 In the case of steps immediately
Document M). outside an external door of a building:

(a) where there are three steps or less,


Refer to Appendix 1 of this document for only the recommendations in Table 1
informative guidance on these apply; and
considerations. (b) where there are more than three steps,
all the provisions of this sub-section
Reference should be made to Technical apply.
Guidance Document D for guidance in
relation to manufacturing and other For stepped approaches to entrances which
tolerances applicable to building components are suitable for ambulant disabled people,
generally. see Technical Guidance Document M –
Access and Use. Section 1.1.3.5, (2.1.3.5
Sub-section 1.1 where necessary) and 3.1.2.5. Refer to
Appendix 1 of this document for informative
Stairways and Ladders guidance on these considerations.
1.1.1 Paragraphs 1.1.2 to 1.1.20 give some
guidance on good practice insofar as it
relates to non-complex buildings of normal Rise, Going and Pitch
design and construction. 1.1.4 In any stairs –

(a) all of the steps should be of appropriate


1.1.2 In this sub-section – dimensions and be of suitable
construction,
"flight" means the part of a stairway or ramp
between landings; (b) all steps should have the same rise,

"going" means the horizontal distance (c) all parallel steps should have the same
between the nosing of a tread and the nosing going,
of the tread or landing next above it;
(d) all tapered steps should have the same

5
Section 1
Stairways, Ladders and Ramps
going.

Diagram 1 shows how to measure the rise


and going of a step.

Table 1 contains recommendations on


minimum and maximum rise, minimum and
maximum going based on BS 5395-1:2010.

To ensure that the steps are suitably


proportioned and comfortable to use, the rise
and the going should be considered together.
For comfortable gait the sum of twice the rise
plus the going (g + 2r) should be between
550 mm and 700 mm.

Table 1 Rise, going and pitch


Stairs Rise (r) (mm) Going (g) (mm)
Gait (g + 2r)
Min. Max. Min. Max. Min Max.
4
Private 150 200 250 400 550 700
6
Semi- 150 180 250 450 550 700
public
7
Public 150 180 300 450 550 700
Note:
1. Private stairs means stairs used by a limited number of people who are generally very familiar with
the stairs, e.g. the internal stairs in a dwelling.
2. Semi-public stairs means stairs used by larger numbers of people, some of whom may be unfamiliar
with the stairs, e.g. in factories, offices, shops, common stairs serving more than one dwelling or
apartment.
3. Public stairs means stairs used by large numbers of people at one time, e.g. in places of public
assembly.
4. For stairs, which are intended to satisfy the needs of ambulant disabled people see Technical
Guidance Document M – Access and Use. For external stepped approaches to dwellings immediately
outside an external door the rise may be reduced to 100 mm.
5. If a single flight, not connected to another flight by a landing or winders, has 3 steps or fewer the rise
of each step may be a minimum of 100 mm.
6. For existing Semi-public stairs the maximum rise should not be greater than 190 mm.
7. For existing Semi-public and Public stairs the minimum going should not be less than 250 mm.

6
Section 1
Stairways, Ladders and Ramps
on plan, the back edge of the tread next
Diagram 1 Measuring rise Par.1.1.4 below it by at least 16 mm. For steps in a
and going building providing access for people with
disabilities reference should be made to
Technical guidance Document M – Access
and Use. Refer to Appendix 1 of this
document for informative guidance on these
considerations.

1.1.8 A stairway with open risers should,


unless it is unlikely to be used by children
under five years of age, be constructed so
that a 100 mm diameter sphere cannot pass
through the opening between adjacent
treads.

Headroom
1.1.5 Any series of three risers or less
occurring at a change of level in a floor, 1.1.9 Headroom over the whole width of
balcony or roof and such like, need only any stairs, measured as shown in Diagram
comply with Table 1. The other provisions of 2a, should generally be not less than 2 m. In
this sub-section do not apply in such cases. the conversion of a loft where space is
limited, headroom measured at the centre of
1.1.6 The varying tread width of a tapered the stairs should be not less than 1.9 m but
step can cause people to misjudge distances may reduce to not less than 1.8 m at the side
and can lead to falls. For this reason, the use of the stairs as shown in Diagram 2b.
of tapered steps should be avoided. If it is
necessary to use them, they should
preferably be situated at the bottom of the
stairs.
Diagram 2a Measuring Par 1.1.9
Public stairs should not contain tapered headroom
steps.

Where consecutive treads are used, a


uniform going should be maintained. For
tapered treads, the going should conform
with par. 1.1.4 when measured as follows:

(a) if the flight is narrower than 1000 mm,


measured in the middle, and

(b) if the flight is 1000 mm or wider,


measured 270mm from each side.

In addition, the going at the narrow end


should be a minimum of 50 mm.

Construction of steps

1.1.7 Steps should have level treads.


Steps may have open risers but in such
cases the nosing of any tread should overlap,

7
Section 1
Stairways, Ladders and Ramps
Diagram 2b Reduced head Par 1.1.9 Length of Flights
height in loft
conversions 1.1.11 There should not be more than
sixteen risers in any one flight. A flight
containing one or two risers in private stairs
should be situated at the bottom of the stairs.
For stairs suitable for use by ambulant
disabled people, see guidance in Technical
Guidance Document M.

1.1.12 In places of assembly to which large


numbers of people have resort, there should
be no more than two consecutive flights each
having a maximum of twelve risers, without a
change in direction of at least 30° between
flights (see Diagram 3).

Diagram 3 Change of Par1.1.12


direction in
places of
assembly
Widths of Stairs

1.1.10 Private stairs should have a clear


width of not less than 800 mm however; in
certain circumstances they may need to be
wider (See Technical Guidance Document M
– Access and Use, Section 3.3.2.2).

In the case of semi-public and public Landings


stairways, designers should bear in mind the 1.1.13 A level landing should be provided at
requirements for stairs which: the top and bottom of every flight except that
a landing may not be necessary between a
(a) form part of a means of escape. flight and a door if the total rise of the flight is
Reference should be made to Technical not more than 600 mm and the door slides or
Guidance Document B – Fire safety; opens away from the steps. The landing may
include part of a floor. The width and going
(b) provide access suitable for ambulant of the landing should be at least as great as
disabled people. Reference should be the smallest width of the flight.
made to Technical Guidance Document
M – Access and Use. 1.1.14 Landings should be clear of
permanent obstruction. A door opening on to
Refer to Appendix 1 of this document for a landing should be so positioned that there
informative guidance on these will be a clear space of at least the full width
considerations. of the flight between the door swing and the
flight. In the case of private stairs, the landing
at the bottom of a flight may be reduced in
length provided a clear space of at least
400mm is maintained between the flight and
the door swing (see Diagram 4 for examples).

8
Section 1
Stairways, Ladders and Ramps
Diagram 4 Landing next to Par. 1.1.14 vertically above the pitch line, and between
door - private 900 mm and 1100 mm above the landing,
stairs and give firm support. A handrail may form
the top of the guarding if the height is suitable
(refer to Diagram 5). The handrail should be
so constructed and fitted as to be capable of
being readily gripped by hand and safely
used. Handrails may not be necessary
beside the two bottom steps of private stairs.

Guarding

1.1.18 Stairs should be guarded at the sides


(see Diagram 5), except where the total rise
is no more than 600 mm, in which case
guarding may not be essential. Suitable
guarding would include a wall, screen
(including glazing), railing or balustrade.
Loft Conversions
1.1.19 Guarding should be designed and
1.1.15 Spiral stairs with goings less than built in such a way that it does not present
recommended in Table 2 of BS 5395 Part 2 : unacceptable risks of accidents in service.
1984 and alternating tread stairs would not Where guarding contains glazing, it should be
normally be regarded as acceptable. safety glazing in accordance with the
However, they may be considered in the recommendations of BS 6262-4: 2005. In
conversion of a loft where space is limited i.e. addition, unless the stairs are unlikely to be
where there is not enough space to used by children under five years of age,
accommodate stairs satisfying 1.1.1 to 1.1.14 guarding should be so constructed that a 100
above and the stairs serves only mm diameter sphere cannot pass through
accommodation which will be used any openings in the guarding. Guarding
infrequently and, where the accommodation should be designed in such a way as to
includes only one habitable room. discourage young children from climbing it.
Features in the guarding that might provide a
Alternating tread stairs should be in straight foothold should be avoided e.g. horizontal
flights, have handrails on both sides and the rails.
treads should have slip resistant surfaces.
The goings and rises for the wider parts of Where a cut string is used, the triangular
the steps should conform with par. 1.1.4. space formed by tread and riser is allowable,
provided the bottom edge of the balustrade is
Fixed Ladders not more than 50 mm above the nosing line.
This does not apply to stairs in dwellings and
1.1.16 A fixed ladder should have fixed common stairs in blocks of flats.
handrails on both sides. It should not be
used as the primary access to a habitable 1.1.20 The heights of guarding are set out in
room. Diagram 5.

Handrails

1.1.17 Stairs should have a handrail on at


least one side if it is 1000 mm wide or less. It
should have a handrail on both sides if it is
wider. The top surface of the handrail should
be between 900 mm and 1000 mm measured

9
Section 1
Stairways, Ladders and Ramps
Further Guidance Guidance Documents B - Fire Safety applies.
For ramps providing access for people with
1.1.21 Further guidance on stairways and disabilities reference should be made to
ladders is given in the following:- Technical guidance Document M – Access
IS 158: 1987 Closed String Wood Stairs and Use.

BS 5395-1: 2010 Stairs, Part 1, Code of 1.2.5 A ramp less than 1000 mm wide
practice for the design of straight stairs and should have a handrail on at least one side. It
winders; should have a handrail on both sides if it is
wider. There is no need to provide handrails if
BS 5395-2: 1984 Stairs, ladders and the rise of the ramp is not greater than 600
walkways, Part 2 Code of practice for the mm. For handrails on ramps providing
design of helical and spiral stairs; access for people with disabilities refer to
Technical guidance document M – Access
BS 5395-3: 1985 Stairs, ladders and and Use.
walkways, Part 3 Code of practice for the
design of industrial type stairs, permanent Handrails should be at a height of between
ladders and walkways; 900 mm and 1000 mm, measured vertically,
and give firm support. A handrail may form
BS 6180: 2011 Barriers in and about the top of a guarding if the height is suitable.
buildings, Code of practice; The handrail should be so constructed and
fitted as to be capable of being readily
I.S. EN 1991-1-1:2002 Eurocode 1: Actions gripped by hand and safely used.
on structures – Part 1-1: General actions –
densities, self-weight, imposed loads for 1.2.6 A landing should be provided at the
buildings (including Irish National Annex top and bottom of every ramp. Landings
2005) should be level, except where they are
formed by the ground, in which case they
I.S. EN 14975:2006+A1:2010 Loft ladders. may slope up to 1: 50 provided that the
Requirements, marking and testing. ground is suitably paved. A landing may
include part of a floor. The width and length
Sub-section 1.2 of the landing should be at least as great as
the smallest width of the ramp and doors
Ramps should open away from landings.

1.2.1 A ramp should be so constructed that However, a door swing may encroach on
the slope does not exceed 1:20, except in the landing space at the bottom of the ramp in a
case of an individual flight the length of which dwelling as described in par. 1.1.14.
is not greater than 9 m, when the slope may
be greater. Under no circumstances should 1.2.7 Ramps and their landings should be
the slope exceed 1:12. guarded at the sides in the same way as
stairs (see pars. 1.1.18 to 1.1.20)
1.2.2 Ramps and their landings should
have clear headroom throughout of at least
2000 mm (see Diagram 2).

1.2.3 A ramp should be clear of permanent


obstructions. A door should not swing across
the sloping part of any ramp.

1.2.4 Ramps should have a clear width of


not less than 800 mm. In the case of private
dwellings, semi-public and public buildings,
the guidance contained in Technical

10
Section 1
Stairways, Ladders and Ramps

Diagram 5 Guarding design Par. 1.1.20


Building and location Strength Height

Stairway, ramp 900 mm


Refer to I.S. EN
Single family
Landing 1991-1-1 900 mm
dwellings
Floor, balcony, 1100 mm
roof
Stairway, ramp 900 mm
Factories & Refer to I.S. EN
warehouses Landings and 1991-1-1 1100 mm
(light traffic) edges of floor

Other
residential, 900 mm for
Refer to I.S. EN
institutional, flights,
All locations 1991-1-1
educational, elsewhere
office and 1100 mm
public buildings
530 mm in front 800 mm (h1)
of fixed seating
Refer to I.S. EN
Place of
All other 1991-1-1 900 mm for
assembly
locations flights,
elsewhere 1100
mm (h2)

900 mm for
Refer to I.S. EN
flights,
Retail shop All locations 1991-1-1
elsewhere
1100 mm

11
Section 2
Pedestrian and Vehicle Barriers

Protection from falling. K2 In a building, the sides of every floor and balcony and every
part of a roof to which people normally have access shall be
guarded to protect users from the risk of falling there from.

Vehicle ramps, floors K3 In a building, the sides of every vehicle ramp and every
and roofs floor and roof to which vehicles have access shall be guarded
against the risk of vehicles falling therefrom.

Introduction mm above external ground level and is less


than 800 mm in height above internal floor
2.1 BS 6180:1999, gives advice on level (See Diagram 6).
general design and construction of
balustrades and protective barriers in and Where a window is capable of being opened,
about buildings. special care must be taken to ensure that the
guarding must remain in place and effective
Paragraphs 2.2 to 2.9 give some guidance on at all times.
good practice insofar as it relates to non-
complex buildings of normal design and Diagram 6 Guarding design Par 2.4
construction. at window
Pedestrian Guarding

2.2 Guarding should be provided to the


sides of any part of a raised floor, gallery,
balcony, roof or any other place to which
people have access (unless access is only
for the purpose of maintenance or repair).
Guarding should also be provided to the
sides of raised floors of vehicle parks in
buildings, ramps used for vehicle access,
sunken areas next to buildings and any
similar area where it is necessary for the
safety of persons in or about a building.
Guarding may not be essential where the
total difference in levels is 600 mm or less.
Guarding need not be provided to places
such as a loading bay or a stage where it
would be incompatible with normal use.

2.3 Suitable guarding would include a


wall, screen (including glazing), railing,
parapet or balustrade. Guarding should be at
least the height shown in Diagram 5 and
should be capable of resisting the horizontal
force given in I.S. EN 1991-1-1:2002 applied
at the height shown in Diagram 5.

2.4 Guarding should be provided for any 2.5 Guarding should be designed and
window, the sill of which is more than 1400 built in such a way that it does not present

12
Section 2
Pedestrian and Vehicle Barriers
unacceptable risks of accidents in service. Diagram 8 Barrier siting Par. 2.7
Where guarding contains glazing, it should be
in accordance with the recommendations of
BS 6262 - 4: 2005 Glazing for Buildings - Part
4: Code of practice for safety related to
human impact. All glazing in a building below
the level of 800 mm (See Diagram 7) should
be in accordance with the recommendations
of BS 6262 - 4: 2005.

Diagram 7 Guarding Par 2.54


containing glazing
2.8 Any wall, parapet, balustrade or
similar obstruction may serve as a barrier.
Barriers should be at least the height shown
in Diagram 9 and should be capable of
resisting the forces set out in I.S. EN 1991-1-
1:2002 Annex B.

Diagram 9 Barrier Design Par. 2.8

2.6 Unless the building is unlikely to be


used by children under five years old,
guarding should be so constructed that a 100
mm diameter sphere cannot pass through
any openings in the guarding. . Guarding 2.9 In a vehicle park, which will not be
should be designed in such a way as to used by vehicles moving at speeds of more
discourage young children from climbing it. than 16 km/h, barriers should be capable of
Features in the guarding that might provide a resisting forces set out in I.S. EN 1991-1-
foothold should be avoided e.g. horizontal 1:2002 Annex B. If the vehicle park will be
rails etc. used by vehicles moving at a higher speed
than 16 km/h, the relevant recommendations
Vehicle barriers of BS 6180: 2011 should be followed.
2.7 If vehicles have access to a floor, roof
or ramp which forms part of a building,
barriers should be provided to any edges
which are level with or above the floor or
ground or any other route for vehicles (see
Diagram 8).

13
Appendix A (Informative)
Table A.1 External stairs outside buildings (other than dwellings)
Note: This table offers informative guidance ONLY and provides assistance in determining some of the key
criteria of stairs design. It is NOT a substitute for indicating compliance with the Building Regulations.
Building Part K Stairways, Part B - Fire
Part M – Access and Use
Regulations Ladders, Ramps Safety
Requirements and Guards
Application of Requirement K1 Applies to:
Building DOES NOT apply Designer decision required below
1. the approach route(s) to the Refer to Section
Regulations to steps or access on function of stairs under
accessible entrance(s) (Refer to 1.2.6 ‘External
and provision routes outside a 1.1.2 of TGD M 2010 for the Escape Routes’ of consideration.
building other than
of external defined approach routes); TGD B for provision
where steps are
steps/ stairs 2. the circulation routes around a of external escape
immediately
outside a building (Refer to 1.1.2 for the stairways.g
outside the external
defined circulation routes)
building: door of a building.
TGD M 2010
Criteria No. Reference/
TGD K 2011 New Existing
and TGD B 2006 Stairs designed for: relevant
buildings buildings
description TGD
Section 1 Section 2 c
1. Stairs width 1200 (min) As wide as Refer to 1.3.4 and Circulation/ Egress (both) B (See across)
As required by between walls, possible but not 1.3.5 for determining
(For landing TGD B or TGD M Ambulant disabled only M (See across)
upstands, strings less than 1000 widths of stairways
width see Note See across ⇒ and 1000 (min) mm between (but not less than 800 The wider of B
k below) btwn handrails handrails. c mma). Any combination of above
and M
2. Max rise of 1800 mm (max) 1800 mm (max) Circulation/ Egress (both) K (See across)
16 rises or 18 rises or 18 rises or 18 rises No additional Ambulant disabled only
flight between where going 350b requirements M (See across)
where going 350 where going 350
level landings Any combination of above
(min)b (min)b
Circulation/ Egress (both)
No additional
3. Rise (r) 150 – 180h 150 - 180 150 – 180 Ambulant disabled only 150 – 180h
requirements
Any combination of above
Circulation/ Egress (both) K (See across)
4. Going (g) S-Public: 250 - 450j No additional
300 - 450 250 (min) c Ambulant disabled only
(mm) Public: 300 – 450j requirements M (See across)
Any combination of above
Circulation/ Egress (both)
5. Gait (g + 2r) No additional No additional No additional
550 - 700 Ambulant disabled only 550 - 700
(mm) requirements requirements requirements
Any combination of above
Allowed (max Circulation/ Egress (both) Allowed
16mm overlap of No additional Ambulant disabled only
6. Open risers Not allowed Not allowed
requirements
nosing and 100mm Not allowed
Any combination of above
gap to open riser
Circulation/ Egress (both) Avoid
7. Tapered No additional
Avoid Not allowed Not allowed Ambulant disabled only
treads requirements Not allowed
Any combination of above
Circulation/ Egress (both) ≥ 2000
8. Headroom
≥ 2000 ≥ 2100 ≥ 2100 ≥ 2000 Ambulant disabled only
(mm) ≥ 2100
Any combination of above
Provision as per K Circulation/ Egress (both) B (See across)
Provide handrails Both sides of all Both sides of all ≤ 1000 – one side
where > 3 risers. stairs flight stairs flight only; Ambulant disabled only
9. Handrail
≤ 1000 wide – one regardless of regardless of > 1000 – both sides.
provision side only; number of number of If width of stairway is Both sidesde
Any combination of
> 1000 – both sides risers.d risersd > 1800 mm provide a above
central handraile
900 – 1000 840 – 1000 Circulation/ Egress (both) K (See across)
900 – 1000 above
above flight pitch above flight
pitch line of flight
10. Handrail line and 900 – pitch line and No additional
and 900 – 1100 Ambulant disabled only
height 1100 above 840–1100 over requirements
above intermediate M (See across)
intermediate intermediate
landing
landing landingc Any combination of above
Notes:
a
Method of measurement as per Para B1.0.10(c) Methods of Measurement – Width “(iii) a stairway is the clear width between walls or balustrades,
(strings and handrails intruding not more than 30 mm and 100 mm respectively may be ignored.”
b
In places of assembly to which large numbers of people have resort, there should be no more than two consecutive flights each having a maximum of
twelve risers, without a change in direction of at least 30° between flights;
c
Section 2 provides additional guidance on the minimum provisions for certain elements and features of existing buildings where it is not practicable to
achieve the provisions set out in Section 1.
d
If width between handrails > 2000 mm then divide stairs into channels not less than 1000 mm and not > 2000 mm.
e
In such a case the stairwaywidth on each side of the handrail needs to be considered separately for the purpose of assessing stairway capacity.
g
External escape stairways should be sufficiently protected from the weather and is adequately protected from a fire in the building (see 1.3.9 TGD B).
h
For existing Semi-public stairs the maximum rise should not be greater than 190 mm.
j
For existing Semi-public and Public stairs the minimum going should not be less than 250 mm.
k
Top and bottom landings should be level and at least as great as the smallest width of the flight determined by Criteria 1.

14
Appendix A (Informative)

Table A.2 Internal stairs in buildings (other than dwellings)
Note: This table offers informative guidance ONLY and provides assistance in determining some of the key
criteria of stairs design. It is NOT a substitute for indicating compliance with the Building Regulations.
Part K -
Building
Stairways, Part M – Access and Use Part B - Fire Safety
Regulations
Ladders, Ramps
Requirements
and Guards
Designer decision required below
Application of In multi-storey buildings (two Refer to Section 1.3
ALL internal stairs storeys or more) at least one set of ‘Design for Vertical on function of stairs under
Building consideration.
(as required) in a stairs suitable for ambulant disabled Escape’ of TGD B for
Regulations
building must people should be provided to access provision escape stairs
and provision comply with Part K. all floors above or below entrance in a building. (Also refer
of internal level. to 1.4.15- Provisions for
stairs. people with disabilities)

TGD M 2010
Criteria No. Reference/
TGD K 2011
and Existing TGD B 2006 Stairs designed for: relevant
description New buildings TGD
buildings
Section 1
Section 2 c
As required by 1200 (min) Ba (See
1. Stairs width As wide as Circulation/ Egress (both)
TGD B or TGD M between walls, Refer to 1.3.4 and 1.3.5 across)
possible but not
(For landing (only if stairs upstands, strings for determining widths M (See
less than 1000 Ambulant disabled only
width see Note suitable for and 1000 (min) of stairways (but not across)
mm between
h below) ambulant disabled between less than 800 mma). The wider of
handrails.∆ Any combination of above
people). ⇒ handrails. Ba and M
2. Max rise of Circulation/ Egress (both) 16 rises b
No additional
flight between 16 rises b 1500 mm (max) 1500 mm (max) Ambulant disabled only 1500 mm
requirements
level landings Any combination of above (max)b
No additional Circulation/ Egress (both)
3. Rise (r)
150 – 180 f 150 - 180 150 – 180 requirements Ambulant disabled only 150 – 180
(mm) Any combination of above
No additional Circulation/ Egress (both) K (See across)
4. Going (g) S-Public: 250–450 g
300 - 450 250 mm (min) c requirements Ambulant disabled only M (See
(mm) Public: 300 –450 g
Any combination of above across)
No additional Circulation/ Egress (both)
5. Gait (g + 2r) No additional No additional requirements
550 - 700 Ambulant disabled only 550 - 700
(mm) requirements requirements
Any combination of above
Allowed (max No additional Circulation/ Egress (both) Allowed
16mm overlap of requirements Ambulant disabled only
6. Open risers Not allowed Not allowed
nosing & 100mm Not allowed
Any combination of above
gap to open riser
No additional Circulation/ Egress (both) Avoid
7. Tapered
Avoid Not allowed Not allowed requirements Ambulant disabled only
treads Not allowed
Any combination of above
Circulation/ Egress (both) ≥ 2000
8. Headroom
≥ 2000 ≥ 2100 ≥ 2100 ≥ 2000 Ambulant disabled only
(mm) ≥ 2100
Any combination of above
Provision as per K. B (See
Provide handrails Both sides of Circulation/ Egress (both)
Both sides of all ≤ 1000 – one side only; across)
where > 3 risers. all stairs flight
9. Handrail stairs flight > 1000 – both sides
≤ 1000 wide – one regardless of Ambulant disabled only
provision regardless of If width of stairway is >
side only; number of Both sidesde
number of risers d 1800 mm provide a
> 1000 – both sides risersd Any combination of above
central handraile
840 – 1000 K (See
900 – 1000 Circulation/ Egress (both)
900 – 1000 above above pitch line across)
above pitch line
pitch line of flight of flight and
10. Handrail of flight and 900 – No additional
and 900 – 1100 840 – 1100 Ambulant disabled only
height 1100 above requirements M (See
above intermediate above
intermediate across)
landing intermediate Any combination of above
landing
landing c
Notes:
a
Method of measurement as per Para B1.0.10(c) Methods of Measurement – Width “(iii) a stairway is the clear width between walls or balustrades,
(strings and handrails intruding not more than 30 mm and 100 mm respectively may be ignored.”
b
In places of assembly to which large numbers of people have resort, there should be no more than two consecutive flights each having a maximum of
twelve risers, without a change in direction of at least 30° between flights;
c
Section 2 provides additional guidance on the minimum provisions for certain elements and features of existing buildings where it is not practicable to
achieve the provisions set out in Section 1.
d
If width between handrails > 2000 then divide stairs into channels not less than 1000 and not > 2000 mm.
e
In such a case the stairwaywidth on each side of the handrail needs to be considered separately for the purpose of assessing stairway capacity.
f
For existing Semi-public stairs the maximum rise should not be greater than 190 mm.
g
For existing Semi-public and Public stairs the minimum going should not be less than 250 mm.
h
Top and bottom landings should be level and at least as great as the smallest width of the flight determined by Criteria 1.

15
Appendix A (Informative)

Table A.3 Dwellings
Note: This table offers informative guidance ONLY and provides assistance in determining some of the key
criteria of stairs design. It is NOT a substitute for indicating compliance with the Building Regulations.
External Stairs Internal Stairs
(See Notes 4 for Requirements of Part B Fire Safety) (See Notes 1 to 3 for Requirements of Part B Fire Safety)
Building Part K - Stairways, Part M – Access and Part K - Stairways,
Part M – Access and Use
Regulations Ladders, Ramps and Use Ladders, Ramps
Requirements* Guards and Guards
Application of Requirement K1 DOES Where it is not All internal stairs in a Where there is no habitable
Building NOT apply to steps or practicable to provide dwelling must comply room at entry level, the stairway
Regulations and access routes outside a the required level, gently with Part K. providing acess to the storey
building other than where sloped or ramped containing the main living room
provision of stairs.
steps are immediately approach to a dwelling should comply with the
outside the external door entrance from the point following:
of a building. of access, a stepped
approach may be used.
Technical Guidance Documents
TGD K 2011 TGD M 2010 TGD K 2011 TGD M 2010
Criteria Section 3 Section 3
(Dwellings) (Dwellings)
1. Stairs width (mm)
800 (min) between 900 (min) between 800 (min) between
(For landing width handrails handrails handrails
900 (min) between handrails
see Note 5 below)
2. Max rise of flight
between level 16 No. rises 1800 mm (max) 16 No. rises 1800 mm (max)
landings
3. Rise (r) (mm) 150 – 200 100 – 150 150 – 200 ≤ 175
4. Going (g) (mm) 250 – 400 ≥ 280 250 – 400 ≥ 280
5. Gait
550 – 700 550 – 700 550 – 700 550 – 700
(g + 2r) (mm)
No additional
6. Open risers Allowed
requirements
Allowed No additional requirements
7. Tapered treads Avoid Avoid Avoid Avoid
8. Headroom (mm) 2000 (min) 2100 (min) 2000 (min)6 No additional requirements
Provide handrails where a) Where > 3 risers ⇒ Provide handrails where a) Where 3 or more risers
> 3 risers. continuous both > 3 risers. provide continuous handrail
9. Handrail sides; both sides;
provision ≤ 1000 – one side only; b) Where going ≥ 750 ≤ 1000 – one side only;
> 1000 – both sides mm handrails need > 1000 – both sides
not be provided.
900 – 1000 above pitch 900 – 1000 above pitch 900 – 1000 above pitch
900 – 1000 above pitch line of
10. Handrail height line of flight and 900 – line of flight and 900 – line of flight and 900 –
flight and 900 – 1100 above
(mm) 1100 above intermediate 1100 above 1100 above
intermediate landing
landing intermediate landing intermediate landing
Notes:
1. For dwelling houses with no floors more than 4.5m above ground level (Purpose Group 1(a)) refer to 1.5.2 of TGD B for additional
considerations on stairway design.
2. For dwelling houses with one floor more than 4.5m above ground level (Purpose Group 1(b)) refer to 1.5.3 of TGD B for additional
considerations on stairway design.
3. For dwelling houses with more than one floor more than 4.5m above ground level (Purpose Group 1(b)) refer to 1.5.4 of TGD B for
additional considerations on stairway design.
4. For Duplex dwellings, Purpose Group 1(c) refer to 1.3.9 of TGD B for specific requirements for external escape stairs.
5. Top and bottom landings should be level and at least as great as the smallest width of the flight determined by Criteria 1.
6. In the conversion of a loft where space is limited, headroom measured at the centre of the stairs should be not less than 1.9 m but may
reduce to not less than 1.8 m at the side of the stairs;

16
Standards and publications

I.S. 158: 1987 Closed String Wood Stairs

BS 5395-1: 2010 Stairs Part 1, Code of


practice for the design of straight stairs and
winders

BS 5395-2: 1984 Stairs, ladders and


walkways, Part 2 Code of practice for the
design of helical and spiral stairs AMD 6076,
Corrigenda C2 + C3 2009

BS 5395-3: 1985 Stairs, ladders and


walkways, Part 3 Code of practice for the
design of industrial type stairs, permanent
ladders and walkways AMD 14247
(Partially superseded by the I.S. EN ISO
14122-1:2001 Safety of machinery.
Permanent means of access to machinery.
Choice of fixed means of access between
two levels.
I.S. EN ISO 14122-2:2001 Safety of
machinery. Working platforms and
walkways.
I.S. EN ISO 14122-3:2001 Safety of
machinery. Permanent means of access to
machinery stairways, stepladders and guard-
rails.)

BS 6180: 1999 Barriers in and about


buildings, Code of practice. AMD 13292
(This document is currently under review and
is due to be updated in 2011 with removal of
information and references conflicting with
the Eurocodes)

BS 6262 – 4: 2005 Glazing for Buildings -


Part 4: Code of practice for safety related to
human impact

I.S. EN 1991-1-1:2002 Eurocode 1: Actions


on structures – Part 1-1: General actions –
densities, self-weight, imposed loads for
buildings (including Irish National Annex
2005)

I.S. EN 14975:2006+A1:2010 Loft ladders.


Requirements, marking and testing

17

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