Mezzanine staircases: what are the rules?
Mezzanine stairs are designed to Approved Document K and BS 5395, with controlled rise and going, handrails on both sides, guarding at the open edges, landings where the flight is long, and widths that suit the number of people using them as an escape route. Edges of the mezzanine floor are guarded at 1100mm in factories and warehouses.
What does Approved Document K cover?
Approved Document K sets out the guidance for stairs, ramps and guarding under the Building Regulations. For a mezzanine stair it covers the rise and going of each step, the steepness, headroom, handrails and guarding, and landings. Industrial stairs are commonly designed to BS 5395 alongside it.
How high should handrails and guarding be?
For factories and warehouses, Approved Document K gives guarding of 1100mm at the edges of floors and landings and 900mm on stair flights. Guarding must stop people falling and, with mesh or a mid-rail and a kick plate, stops stock being pushed off too.
How wide should a mezzanine stair be?
Wide enough for the people who need to escape down it. Small storage mezzanines commonly have stairs around 900mm to 1000mm wide; offices and public floors may need wider stairs or more of them. The fire strategy sets the escape width and number of stairs.
Which treads should I choose?
Galvanised open-grid treads drain, resist wear and suit warehouses. Chequer plate suits areas where small items must not fall through. Offices and retail often use closed treads with timber, vinyl or glass balustrades. Contrasting nosings help people see each step.
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More questions
Can a mezzanine stair be steeper to save space?
Only within the limits in Approved Document K for the type of stair. A dog-leg with a landing usually solves a tight space better than a steeper flight.
Does a mezzanine need two staircases?
Larger floors, offices and public areas often do, so nobody is too far from an escape route. Building Control confirms it.
Are spiral stairs allowed on mezzanines?
They are rarely suitable for regular use or escape. Straight or dog-leg stairs are the norm.
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