Leading UK manufacturer of stair edgings, Gradus, has developed a range of support material that provides guidance on the selection of the correct stair edgings in order to help Create Safe Stairs in line with all the latest guidance, expert opinion and building standards including BS8300:2009+A1:2010, Approved Documents M & K of The Building Regulations 2010 and BRE (information paper IP15/03 Proprietary nosings for non-domestic stairs).
Ensuring that stairs are as safe as possible is essential in education environments where high volumes of students use stair cases at peak times (between lessons or during break times) and where concentration often lapses (running, using mobile phones etc.).
The Gradus quick guide on how to ‘Create Safe Stairs,’ provides guidance on making the right stair edging specification. The guide focuses on three key elements: selecting the correct shape and type of stair edging to fit the step and coordinate with the floorcovering; ensuring that the correct level of slip-resistance is chosen for the application; and guidance for obtaining visual contrast using Light Reflectance Values. The guide can be downloaded from www.gradusworld.com or a hard copy can be obtained by calling Gradus Technical Support on 01625 428922
In addition to the printed guide, Gradus has also developed a video that covers these points and demonstrates how the Gradus range of XT stair edgings can provide a comprehensive solution. The XT range features slip-resistant material that wraps around the leading edge of the nosing, ensuring maximum safety underfoot and helping to reduce the risk of slips and falls on stairs. This visual guide clearly demonstrates how factors, such as the width of the stair tread and the environment in which the stair edging is to be installed, can affect the selection process. The video can be viewed on the Gradus website www.gradusworld.com/news-views/expert/create-safe-stairs-xt .
