Technical requirements relating to design, construction
and installation of spiral staircases.
The design of all staircases, spiral or
otherwise, is governed by Part K of Building Regulations.
However, paragraph 1.21 of Part K states that spiral and
helical staircases comply with Building Regulations if they
are designed to comply with British Standard BS5395 part
II (Code of practice for the design of helical and spiral
stairs 1984). In essence this means a greater degree of flexibility
in design than using the criteria for tapered treads laid
down in Part K, particularly with regard to intermediate
and floor level landings, inner goings and numbers of risers
per flight. In addition to this, Parts B (Means of Escape)
and M (Access for Disabled) of Building Regulations also
apply to spiral stairs in certain situations. External stairways
over six metres in height may also require weather protection,
such as balustrade panels and canopy roofing.
Catergory |
Description |
Rise
Per Tread |
Min
Clear Width |
Min
Going Centre |
A |
Small private
stair intended to be used by a limited number of people
who are generally familiar with stair e.g internal stair
in dwelling service one room not being a living room
or kitchen, access stair to a small room or plant in
a
office, shop, factory, not used by the public, or
fire escape for small number of people. |
170
- 220 |
800 |
145 |
B |
Private stair
similar to category A, but also providing the main access
to the upper floor of a private dwelling. |
170 - 220 |
800 |
190 |
C |
Small semi-public
stair intended to be used by a limited number of people,
some of whom may be unfamiliar with stair eg stair in
factory, office, shop or common stair serving more than
one dwelling. |
170 - 220 |
800 |
230 |
D |
Semi-public
stair intended to be used by larger numbers of people,
some of whom may be unfamiliar with stair eg stair in
factory, office, shop or common stair serving more than
one dwelling. |
150 - 190 |
900 |
250 |
E |
Public stair
intended to be used by large numbers of people at one
time eg stair in place of public assembly |
150 - 190 |
1000 |
250 |
Please consult
with our Technical Department for further advice on all aspects
of Building Regulations. We strongly recommend that all customers
liaise with their local authority Building Control department
or District Surveyor to ascertain the exact requirement for
the individual situation.
If you wish to discuss any current or future projects without obligation please call us: Tel: 01326 574497
