SLP/General/TBT-SLP-021
Step Stairway and Ramp Safety
Slips, Trips & Falls › General › Step Stairway and Ramp Safety
Toolbox Talk
Step Stairway and Ramp Safety
Steps, stairways, and ramps are used constantly on construction sites for access between levels. Falls on stairs and ramps account for a significant proportion of site injuries, often caused by poor lighting, missing handrails, debris on treads, and wet surfaces. This talk covers the standards for temporary stairs and ramps and the behaviours that prevent slip and trip injuries during everyday site access.
Key Hazards
Falls on stairs from missing handrails, uneven treads, or poor lighting
Slips on ramps made slippery by rain, mud, or construction debris
Trips on stairways obstructed by tools, cables, or stored materials
Ankle injuries from temporary stairs with inconsistent riser heights
Control Measures
- Ensure temporary stairways have secure handrails on both sides and a consistent riser height throughout.
- Provide adequate lighting on all stairways and ramps, particularly during winter and night shifts.
- Keep treads, landings, and ramp surfaces clear of tools, materials, cables, and debris at all times.
- Apply anti-slip nosings or grip strips to stair treads and anti-slip mesh to ramp surfaces.
- Ensure ramp gradients do not exceed the maximum slope specified for pedestrian use on site.
- Inspect stairs and ramps daily for damage, loose fixings, and accumulated debris or water.
- Use three points of contact when ascending or descending any stairway — two hands and one foot.
- Report damaged treads, loose handrails, or missing nosings to your supervisor immediately.
- Do not carry loads that block your forward vision when using stairs or ramps on site.
Remember
- Temporary stairways must have secure handrails on both sides and consistent riser heights
- Provide adequate lighting on all stairs and ramps especially during winter and night shifts
- Keep treads, landings, and ramp surfaces clear of tools, materials, and debris at all times
- Apply anti-slip nosings to stair treads and anti-slip mesh to ramp surfaces for grip
- Use three points of contact when ascending or descending any stairway on site
- Report damaged treads, loose handrails, or missing nosings to your supervisor immediately
Applicable Legislation: Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 · CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · BS 5395 (Stairs and Stairways)
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