Introduction
This topic will examine the terms and conditions, which fixed stairways, and platforms are designed, fabricated and installed.
As with all steel structures, specifications have been developed to govern the way in which these operations are carried out. Not only do these documents set out the minimum specifications, they also outline testing and safety aspects.
Stairways, platforms and ladders: common terms
Balustrade a handrail and the row of balusters or posts that support it.
Flight the set of stairs from the floor or level to the floor, level or landing
Above or below. The maximum number of rises in a straight flight
Must not be more than 18.
Floor the surface of a platform, landing or walkway.
Going applying to stairs, the horizontal distance measured from the
Nosing of one-step or tread to the nosing of the next.
Guard railing prevents a person falling from a platform, landing or stairway; also
referred to as the midrail.
Handrail a rail provided as a handhold on a platform, walkway, stairway,
Step ladder or landing; also referred to as a top rail.
Individual runged a ladder without stringers or stiles; each rung is individually
Ladder attached to a structure or equipment; this type is used when angles
are from 70 to 90'.
Infill used mainly on curved stairways in place of midrails; its purpose
is to prevent a person falling from the stairway.
Ladder a structure with treads or rungs, with or without stringers or handrails.
Ladder cage a fixed enclosure that encircles the climbing space of a ladder.
Landing a level area, which is used to provide access to a stairway, or ladder; it may also be located intermediately in a system of stairways or ladders.
Nosing front edge of a step or tread on a stairway.
Platform a flat area...