OSHA-compliant stair systems must meet these standards:
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Uniform riser height, no more than 9-1/2 inches
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Minimum tread depth of 9-1/2 inches
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Minimum width of 22 inches
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Handrails that withstand 200 lbs. of force or more
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Structural capacity to support a 1,000-lb. concentrated load
These requirements reduce fall risks—the leading cause of construction fatalities—and help employers avoid penalties of up to $165,514 per violation.
Falls from elevation claimed the lives of 1,069 construction workers in 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That represents over one-third of all construction deaths. As 2026 brings intensified OSHA enforcement with expanded inspection capacity, every job site stairway represents both a liability and a safety imperative.
What Makes Stairs OSHA Compliant?
The regulations under 29 CFR 1926.1052 are specific:
Load Requirements: Every stair must support at least 1,000-lb. concentrated loads and five times the anticipated live load. This covers worst-case scenarios when equipment shifts or multiple workers cluster on landings.
Dimensions: Maximum riser height is 9-1/2 inches with uniform heights throughout (variations under 1/4 inch). Tread depth must be at least 9-1/2 inches. Minimum width is 22 inches between barriers.
Handrails: Stairways with four or more risers need at least one handrail supporting 200 lbs. of force in any direction. Height must be 36-37 inches from the tread surface.
Landings: Must be as wide as the stair and at least 30 inches deep.
Why 2026 Enforcement Matters
Higher Penalties: Violations now cost $16,550 per serious offense and up to $165,514 per willful violation.
Targeted enforcement continues: OSHA is still prioritizing high-risk industries (construction, manufacturing, warehousing, healthcare) and repeat offenders.
Multi-Employer Liability: Even if you didn't install a non-compliant system, you can be cited if your workers use it under OSHA's Multi-Employer Citation Policy.
FORTRESS® OSHA Stair System
The FORTRESS OSHA Stair System from EZ-ACCESS® delivers turnkey compliance:
Adjustable Heights: The 3-riser stair adjusts from 23 to 34 inches (compliant at 25-1/2 and 34 inches). The 4-riser stair adjusts 27-1/2 to 42-1/2 inches (compliant at 34 and 42-1/2 inches). Platform and riser legs adjust independently to accommodate uneven ground conditions.
American-Made Materials: Aircraft-quality aluminum withstands weather extremes without rusting or corroding. Components weigh under 50 lbs. for safe one-person handling.
Integrated Safety: Slip-resistant extruded treads with permanent traction, hardware-free handrail installation, and OSHA-compliant safety pins. One person can install the stair system in under an hour.
Installation Best Practices
Site Assessment: Check ground conditions and verify 6 feet, 8 inches of overhead clearance.
Level Installation: Set the top platform level first, then adjust each riser leg.
Regular Inspections: Daily visual checks on active sites. Weekly documented inspections checking connections, handrails, and tread surfaces.
Seasonal Maintenance: Use plastic shovels (never metal) and magnesium chloride ice melt (never use rock salt on aluminum).
OSHA compliance isn’t optional—it’s a critical safeguard against costly penalties and, more importantly, preventable injuries. With enforcement tightening and fines reaching six figures, now is the time to ensure every stair system on your job site meets the standards for riser height, tread depth, handrail strength, and load capacity. The FORTRESS OSHA Stair System from EZ-ACCESS makes compliance simple, delivering durability, adjustability, and safety in one turnkey solution.
Ready to protect your team and your bottom line? Contact our team at 800-451-1903 or visit our website at www.ezaccess.com to learn more about FORTRESS OSHA Stair Systems or request a quote. Don’t wait—make compliance your competitive advantage.