Temporary Staircase Installation

Temporary staircases provide safe access between floor levels during construction, replacing ladders for regular traffic routes.
CDM 2015 and the Work at Height Regulations require staircases in preference to ladders for regular access between levels.
Temporary stairs must have guardrails, handrails, and toe boards installed on both sides before they are available for use.
The staircase must be structurally adequate for the number of users and any materials being carried up and down.
Landings must be provided at regular intervals and at changes of direction to allow rest and safe turning.
Anti-slip nosings on treads are essential — construction debris and wet conditions make smooth treads dangerously slippery.
The staircase must be adequately lit at all times — poorly lit stairs are a significant fall hazard, especially in stairwells.
Temporary stairs must be inspected regularly and after any damage from construction activities or plant movements.
Housekeeping on temporary stairs is critical — debris, tools, and materials left on treads create trip hazards for every user.
When the permanent staircase is available, it should replace temporary provision as soon as it is safe and practical.

Replace ladders	Ladders for regular access between levels are prohibited where a staircase is reasonably practicable — stairs are safer for frequent use.
Slip and trip falls	Falls on temporary stairs from slippery treads, missing nosings, and debris on steps cause fractures and head injuries.
Everyone uses them	Every person on site uses the stairs multiple times per day — a single defect affects the safety of the entire workforce.

Do

Don't

Install temporary staircases for regular access between levels instead of ladders.
Fit guardrails, handrails, and toe boards on both sides before opening for use.
Ensure the staircase is structurally adequate for the anticipated foot traffic and loads.
Provide landings at regular intervals and at all changes of direction.
Install anti-slip nosings on every tread to prevent slips in wet conditions.
Light the staircase adequately at all times, including during night shifts.
Inspect the staircase regularly and after any impact from plant or construction work.
Keep treads clear of debris, tools, and materials throughout every shift.
Transition to permanent staircases as soon as they become safe and available.
Report any damage, missing handrails, or defective treads for immediate repair.

DON'T use ladders for regular access between levels when a staircase is practicable.
DON'T open the staircase for use without guardrails and handrails on both sides.
DON'T overload temporary stairs with materials beyond their structural capacity.
DON'T omit landings — long unbroken flights increase the distance and severity of falls.
DON'T use stairs without anti-slip nosings — smooth treads cause slips in wet conditions.
DON'T leave stairwells unlit — poor lighting causes missteps and falls on every shift.
DON'T skip inspections after plant or construction activity has impacted the staircase.
DON'T leave tools, debris, or materials on treads — they trip every person who follows.
DON'T delay replacing temporary stairs with permanent ones when they become available.
DON'T use a staircase with damaged treads or missing handrails — report it immediately.

See also: Slips, Trips and Falls Awareness | Temporary Access Safety Awareness

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