Providing accessibility to all individuals should be a priority for any public space. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) established certain criteria that many businesses and commercial spaces must meet. One critical aspect of ADA compliance is the design and installation of stair systems. Everything from stair riser height to handrail placement can make a difference in whether stairs are truly accessible. To make compliance straightforward, PATHWAY® HD Code Compliant Modular Stairs are designed to meet ADA stair requirements to help your building make accessibility easy.
What Are the ADA Requirements for Stairs?
The ADA outlines specific design elements to make stairs accessible and safe for all users, regardless of mobility. The regulations include:
- Riser Height and Step Depth: The height of each step, known as its “rise,” should be uniform and between four inches and seven inches. The depth of each step, or distance from the front to back, should be at least 11 inches to provide enough space for safe footing.
- Handrails: Rails should be installed on both sides of ADA stairs, and the top of the handrail should be between 34 inches and 38 inches above the stair nosing. Rails should extend at least 12 inches beyond the top and bottom of the stairs so there is something for stability as users transition on and off the stairs. Handrails should be easy to grip, with a diameter between one and two inches.
- Surface and Edge Requirements: Stair surfaces should be stable, firm, and slip-resistant to prevent accidents. The edges should have a curved or rounded profile to reduce the risk of tripping.
- Visual Contrast: Visual contrast between the treads and risers helps individuals with sight impairments navigate the stairs more easily. This can be achieved through contrasting colors or textures.
Accessibility Made Easy With PATHWAY HD Code Compliant Modular Stairs
Designed to meet ADA requirements and provide a safe, reliable solution for businesses and commercial spaces, the PATHWAY HD Code Compliant Modular Stairs put accessibility on auto-pilot.
The PATHWAY HD stairs are engineered to comply with ADA guidelines, ensuring that all riser heights, tread depths, and handrail specifications meet or exceed the requirements. ADA compliance is already integrated as part of the standard design. The handrails provide essential support and safety for users, particularly those with mobility challenges. Safety is a top priority, and the PATHWAY HD stairs feature a slip-resistant surface to aid in preventing accidents. This surface helps to ensure stability for all users, regardless of weather conditions or footwear.
This precision engineering from our USA-based team guarantees a safe and accessible stair system for all users. Made from high-quality aluminum, PATHWAY HD Code Compliant Modular Stairs are both lightweight and robust. Aluminum’s natural resistance to rust and corrosion ensures long-lasting performance, even in harsh weather conditions. You get durability, which means lower maintenance costs and fewer replacements over time. Installation is quick and straightforward due to the modular design and is a simpler process compared to building with wood or pouring concrete. It is easy to customize the stair system to fit the unique layout of your business or commercial space, and adjustments or expansions can be made with minimal disruption.