Effective Ways to Make Stairs Safer at Home and Workplace

Stairs are an essential element in most buildings and are commonly used by people of all ages and abilities. However, they can also be a significant source of accidents, with falls on stairs accounting for a significant proportion of non-fatal injuries. Therefore, it is important to take steps to make stairs as safe as possible, whether in the home, workplace, or other public settings such as universities.

In this article, we have highlighted several measures that can be taken to make stairs safer. These measures are grouped according to the hierarchy of controls, with higher-level controls such as elimination and substitution being more effective than lower-level controls such as engineering and administrative controls. By taking a comprehensive approach and combining multiple measures from different levels, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk of accidents on stairs.

1. Block off access: If the stairs are not in use or are under construction, block off access to prevent anyone from using them until they are safe to use again.
2. Provide accessible options: Make sure that the stairs are not the only option for navigating the building. Consider installing elevators or ramps to make the building more accessible to everyone.

1. Install handrails: Handrails are essential for people to balance themselves while walking up or down the stairs. Make sure the handrails are sturdy and attached securely to the wall.
2. Add non-slip treads: Non-slip treads are an excellent addition to stairs because they prevent slips and falls. You can purchase adhesive treads to attach to the steps or have them professionally installed.
3. Use carpet or mats: Installing carpet or mats on stairs can provide added traction and cushioning, which can reduce the risk of slipping or falling.
4. Increase lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial for safe stair navigation. Install bright lights above or beside the stairs, or consider motion-activated lights for added convenience.
5. Keep the stairs clutter-free: Remove any objects, such as shoes or toys, from the stairs to prevent tripping.
6. Keep the stairs in good repair: Make sure the stairs are in good condition, free from cracks or loose boards. Repair any damage as soon as possible.
7. Paint contrasting colors: Painting the edges of each step a contrasting color to the rest of the stairs can help people see the edge of each step more clearly and reduce the risk of tripping.
8. Consider installing a stairlift: If you or someone in your household has difficulty navigating stairs, installing a stairlift can be a safe and convenient solution.
9. Regular maintenance: Have a regular maintenance schedule to ensure that the stairs are in good condition and free from hazards, such as loose or damaged steps.

1. Install signage: Clear and visible signs indicating the location of stairs, as well as directions on how to use them safely, can be helpful in a university setting, especially for those who are new to the building.

• “Watch Your Step” or “Caution: Steps Ahead” to alert people to the presence of stairs.
• “Use Handrail” to encourage people to hold onto the handrail for added stability.
• “No Running” or “Slow Down” to remind people to take their time and not rush down the stairs.
• “Wet Floor” or “Slippery Surface” to warn people of potential hazards such as spills or rainwater on the stairs.
• “No Objects on Stairs”, “Keep Stairs Clear”, “Stairs Not for Storage” to encourage people to keep the stairs free of clutter or debris.
• “Emergency Exit” to indicate the location of the emergency exit staircase.
• “Watch Your Head” to warn people of low ceilings or overhanging objects on the stairs.
• “No Mobile Phone Use on Stairs” to discourage people from using their phones while on the stairs. Using a phone can distract people from paying attention to their surroundings and increase the risk of tripping or falling.

1. Implement emergency protocols: Ensure that emergency evacuation protocols for the building include safe evacuation from the stairs, including protocols for individuals with mobility challenges.
2. Conduct safety inspections: Conduct regular safety inspections of the stairways to identify and fix potential hazards before they cause accidents.
3. Provide training: Provide training to building occupants, including staff and students, on safe stair use, as well as emergency evacuation protocols.

1. Use non-slip shoes or footwear.

1. One additional point to consider in making stairs safer, particularly in settings where women may be wearing long abayas or other loose-fitting clothing, is to ensure that the stairs are free from any trip hazards. Loose-fitting clothing can easily get caught on uneven or protruding edges of stairs, potentially causing a fall. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect stairs and make any necessary repairs to ensure that they are free from hazards.
2. Individuals wearing long abayas or similar clothing should take extra care when using stairs and may want to consider holding their clothing or using a handrail for added stability.

By grouping the above points according to the hierarchy of controls, it becomes easier to identify the most effective measures for making stairs safer. The higher-level controls such as elimination and substitution are more effective than lower-level controls such as engineering and administrative controls. However, combining multiple measures from different levels can significantly reduce the risk of accidents on stairs.