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What are the AS standards for stairs?

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What Are the Stair Dimensions Required by the Australian Standard AS 1657-2018?

The Australian Standard AS 1657-2018 specifies minimum tread depths of 185mm, ensuring adequate foot space on each step. Additionally, the tread depth shouldn’t be more than 30mm shorter than the going (the horizontal distance from one step’s nosing to the next). Uniformity is crucial: all risers (vertical distance between steps) and goings within the same flight of stairs must maintain consistent dimensions, with a tolerance of ±5mm.

Understanding AS 1657-2018: Staircase Dimensions and Tolerances in Detail

The Australian Standard AS 1657-2018 sets out specific requirements for stair dimensions to guarantee safety and usability. Let’s delve deeper into these requirements.

Tread Depth and Going

  • Tread Depth (TD): Each stair tread must have a minimum depth of 185mm. This ensures there’s sufficient space for a person’s foot to comfortably and safely rest on the step.
  • Going (G): The going is the horizontal distance from the nosing (front edge) of one tread to the nosing of the next tread. The tread depth shouldn’t be more than 30mm shorter than the going. This relationship between tread depth and going helps maintain a consistent and comfortable stride when using the stairs.

Uniformity

  • Risers and Goings: All risers and goings within the same flight of stairs must be uniform in dimension. This consistency prevents unexpected changes in step height or depth, which could lead to trips or falls.
  • Tolerance: A tolerance of ±5mm is allowed for riser and going dimensions. This acknowledges that slight variations may occur during construction but ensures that these variations remain within a safe and acceptable range.

Additional Considerations (Not Explicitly Stated in the Excerpt)

Beyond tread depth, going, and uniformity, AS 1657-2018 likely covers other critical aspects of stair design, including:

  • Riser Height: The standard likely specifies a maximum riser height to ensure steps aren’t too tall, making them difficult to climb.
  • Stair Width: A minimum width is probably required to allow for safe and comfortable movement of people, and potentially the passage of furniture.
  • Headroom: The standard may stipulate minimum headroom clearance to prevent people from hitting their heads on ceilings or other obstructions.
  • Handrails: Requirements for handrails are likely included to provide support and stability for users.
  • Landings: Landings might be mandatory at specific intervals in longer staircases to offer resting points and changes in direction.

Importance of Adhering to AS 1657-2018

Compliance with AS 1657-2018 is essential for constructing safe and functional staircases in Australia. By following these standards, builders and designers can ensure that their staircases meet the necessary safety requirements and provide a comfortable and user-friendly experience for all.