HHSRS Hazard 21 - Falls associated with Stairs and Steps

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If a tenant reports a property to the Council for a HHSRS Hazard 21 - Falls associated with Stairs and Steps issue, the Council is legally obligated to inspect the property for all 29 hazards outlined in the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

If the Council uncovers any Category 1 risks, it is obliged by law to take action against the landlord and any associated agents. This is not just a formality; it is a serious obligation that must be addressed.

Hazard 21 - Falls associated with Stairs and Steps

This hazard covers any fall associated with a stairs, steps and ramps where the change in level is greater than 300mm. It includes falls associated with:

Internal stairs or ramps within the dwelling
External steps or ramps within the curtilage of the dwelling
Internal common stairs or ramps within the building containing the dwelling and giving access to the dwelling, and those to shared facilities or means of escape in case of fire associated with the dwelling
External steps or ramps within the curtilage of the building containing the dwelling and giving access to the dwelling, and those to shared facilities or means of escape in case of fire associated with the dwelling.

Variations in dimensions of rise and going within a flight are likely to increase the possibility of missteps. However, where the variation is linked with an obvious change in direction of a stair, for example with the use of winders, this may mean that the user takes greater care and increases concentration, reducing the likelihood of an occurrence.

Vulnerable Group: All persons 60 or more years of age

Defects & Justifications

Tread lengths - of less than 280mm or greater than 360mm.
Riser heights - of less than 100mm or greater than 180mm.
Variation in tread or riser - dimensional variation producing an uneven pitch.
Nosing length - projecting more than 18mm beyond any riser.
Poor friction quality - of treads and nosings.
Openings - in stairs or guarding through which a 100mm diameter sphere can pass.
Alternating treads - stairs so constructed, particularly those not conforming to current regulations.
Lack of handrails - the absence to both sides of the staircase.
Height of handrails - set below 900mm or above 1,000mm.
Lack of guarding - the absence where there is no wall to both sides of the staircase.
Height of guarding - not extending to at least 900mm above the treads.
Easily climbed guarding - constructed so as to facilitate climbing.
Stair width - less than 1,000mm.
Length of flight - long flights may increase the likelihood of a fall.
Inadequate lighting - natural and/or artificial, particularly to the top and foot of a flight.
Lighting controls - inadequate or inconvenient means of controlling the artificial lighting.
Glare from lighting - whether natural or artificial.
Door(s) onto stairs - doors opening directly onto the stairs.
Inadequate landing - inadequate floor space leading to the stairs.
Construction/disrepair - inadequate construction or disrepair to any element of the stairs.
Thermal efficiency - inadequate heating and insulation of the dwelling.
Length of flight - long flights increase the severity of the outcome.
Pitch of stairs - stairs which are of above average steepness or shallowness.
Projections etc - the presence of sharp edges, heating installations, or glass, to the stairs or at the foot of the flight.
Hard surfaces - unforgiving surfaces at the foot of the flight.

Index of HHSRS Hazards

Rectifying the HHSRS Hazard 21 - Falls associated with Stairs and Steps: Guidance Checklist

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How can I reduce the risk of falling on stairs?

Ensure all stairs have secure, continuous handrails and that steps are even, level, and in good repair. Adding slip-resistant nosings and adequate lighting also reduces fall risk significantly.

What flooring should I use to improve stair safety?

Use non-slip materials like rubber treads or carpets with secure edging. Avoid smooth or highly polished surfaces, especially on internal stairs.

What’s the best way to improve visibility on staircases?

Install bright, evenly distributed lighting and use contrasting edge strips or nosings to highlight the edges of steps. Motion-sensor lights can also help where light switches aren't accessible.

Are short flights of steps hazardous?

Yes, even single steps can be dangerous if they’re not clearly marked or if lighting is poor. Add visual markers and handrails where necessary.

What if the staircase is too steep or narrow?

Consider reconfiguring the staircase if feasible. In the short term, add double handrails, use high-traction tread coverings, and instruct tenants about the risks.