Part K · Protection from falling
Staircase & guarding checker
Enter your staircase and guarding dimensions to check them against Approved Document K. Each result cites the specific clause it is measured against. Most commercial mezzanine stairs are general access.
Measured above the pitch line.
Balustrade height running along the stair flight.
Barrier height at open mezzanine edges and landings.
The widest gap between balusters or rails.
Projection beyond the top and bottom nosing.
Vertical clearance from the pitch line.
Stair categories
General access stairs are used daily by staff or the public and have the tightest limits — maximum 170 mm rise, 250 mm minimum going, and 12 risers per flight. This is the usual category for a commercial mezzanine.
Utility stairs, for occasional access, allow up to 190 mm rise and 16 risers. Private stairs apply within a single dwelling and rarely suit a commercial mezzanine.
Guarding is checked in two places: alongside the flight (minimum 900 mm) and at open floor edges and landings (minimum 1,100 mm). No opening should allow a 100 mm sphere to pass.
Get a quote that includes compliant stairs
Whether your dimensions pass or not, a real quote includes a staircase that meets Approved Document K. Tell us the size, use and site and we will come back, usually within one working day.
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