Imagine walking up and down stairs in a busy office building or a crowded mall. Knowing the right commercial stair dimensions is super important to keep these places safe and easy to use. Commercial stair dimensions usually range from 44 to 60 inches wide, providing plenty of room for people and making it easier to evacuate in emergencies. Adding carpet stair treads can also make stairs safer and more comfortable by giving them a non-slip surface.
What Is the Size of Commercial Stairs?
Commercial stairs are usually wider than the stairs you find at home because they need to handle more people. The standard width for commercial stairs is typically between 44 and 60 inches. This width allows people to move comfortably and lets several people use the stairs at the same time.
What Is the Rise and Run of Commercial Stairs?
The rise and run of commercial stairs are key to making them safe and easy to use. The rise is the height of each step, and the run is the part where you place your foot. For commercial stairs, the rise is usually between 4 and 7 inches, and the run is around 11 to 12 inches. These measurements help prevent the stairs from being too steep and make them comfortable to walk on.
Stair Handrail Dimensions
Handrails are a must-have for safety, especially in commercial buildings. Here are some basic stair handrail dimensions:
Height
The handrail height should be between 34 and 38 inches above the stair tread. This is measured from the front edge of the tread to the top of the handrail.
Clearance
There should be at least 1.5 inches of space between the handrail and the wall to give people enough room to hold on.
Continuity
Handrails should run the full length of the stairs without any breaks. They should also extend a bit beyond the top and bottom of the stairs for extra safety.
What Is the IBC Code for Commercial Stairs?
The International Building Code (IBC) sets the rules for commercial stair dimensions to keep everyone safe. Here are some key IBC requirements:
Width
Commercial stairs should be at least 44 inches wide if they serve an area with 50 or more people. If fewer people use the stairs, they can be at least 36 inches wide.
Tread and Riser Dimensions
The riser height should not be more than 7 inches, and the tread depth should be at least 11 inches. These dimensions help prevent tripping and make the steps comfortable to use.
Handrails
Handrails are required on both sides of the stairs and must meet the height and clearance requirements mentioned earlier.
Landings
Stairs must have landings at the top and bottom. Landings should be as wide as the stairs and at least 36 inches long.
Comparing Residential and Commercial Stair Dimensions
While residential stair width dimensions are usually between 36 and 42 inches wide, commercial stairs need to be wider to handle more people. The rise and run are also different, with commercial stairs having a longer run and possibly a shorter rise to suit different needs and safety standards.
Additional Safety Features for Commercial Stairs
Non-Slip Treads
Using non-slip materials on the steps can greatly reduce the risk of falls, especially in places with a lot of foot traffic.
Visual Markings
Adding visual markers, like contrasting colors or textures on the edge of steps, can help people see the stairs better, which is especially useful in dim lighting.
Lighting
Good lighting is crucial for stair safety. Make sure the stairs are well-lit with no dark spots that could hide the steps.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the right dimensions for commercial stairs is key to making sure they are safe and easy to use. From the width to the rise and run, every detail matters. By following these guidelines, you can design stairs that work well for everyone. Whether you’re building new stairs or updating old ones, keeping these dimensions in mind will help you meet all the rules and keep people safe.
