Stairs may present a fall danger in addition to potential tripping hazards. Poor lighting, slick stairs, flimsy handrails, or even a complete lack of railings can all lead to falls. The initial step back down to the bottom gets tougher the higher you ascend. With our hectic lives, it probably won’t come as a major surprise that an increasing number of individuals are finding it difficult to climb stairs safely due to limited mobility or more general problems like age or injury, all of which increase the risk of falling.
With all this in mind, it’s critical to keep your stairs secure for everyone who uses them. Here is our guide to practical ways to improve stair safety.
- Clear any clutter that could cause a tripping hazard
Removing potentially dangerous items, like books, objects, shoes, or toys that often get left around on or near stairs.
People frequently trip over items left on the stairs because they do not look where they are going. Remove the risk by removing the items.
- Erect handrails
A handrail is an inexpensive way to make a staircase safer, so no staircase should be without one. A good railing ought to be within an adult’s normal reach. It must be straight and mounted about at the same height from the floor as you are standing. Instead of brackets or glue, a decent handrail should be permanently fastened to the steps using screws or bolts. Ensure you use a qualified carpenter with carpenter’s insurance in place when building a new staircase.
- Think about visibility
One of the most effective ways of making your stairs safer is to increase their visibility. To do this, paint the stairs a colour that contrasts well with the walls surrounding them, preferably something dark. If the stairs are hidden behind a door, hang something dark to contrast with them, preferably black curtains. Finally, place a lamp or a candle at eye level so people can see the stairs.
- Fix any loose parts
You can thoroughly inspect your stairs or contact reliable carpenters to do so on your behalf. Verify that every component is present and functioning properly. Fix any loose components as soon as you can because they could cause you to trip or slip. Replace shaky handrails and those that no longer have a rubber coating for protection. Look for any discolouration on the risers and treads of the stairs, as this could indicate rotten wood underneath.
- Provide sufficient illumination
Ordinary stair lights are typically not designed to dim and illuminate more than one step at a time. Recessed lighting that illuminates the entire length of the steps and doesn’t hinder people as they walk up or down the stairs is a superior option for stair lighting. A well-lit staircase is obviously necessary for a home, and both the homeowner and the builder are responsible for making sure the stairs are illuminated properly.
- Install carpeting
Installing a set of attractive stair carpets can help prevent accidents on slick stairs. Providing traction on the stairs may be a lovely addition to a home’s décor and functionality that also promotes everyone’s safety. In order to prevent carpets from curling and becoming a tripping hazard, they should be securely fastened to the stair riser, tread, and nosing or equipped with stair rods.
Although many homeowners are aware of the risks that stairs present, those who are in the middle of a significant remodelling may neglect to consider stair safety. Everyone has to be able to utilise your stairs safely, whether they go to your basement, garage, or just another room in the house.
