What is the IRC code for stair treads?

Nosing is the horizontal, protruding edge of a stair where most foot traffic frequently occurs.

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Tread nosing

The horizontal projection to the front of a tread where most foot traffic frequently occurs. The nosing is the protrusion beyond the riser when vertical risers are used, or beyond the back of the tread below, when angled risers or no risers are used. Anti-slip strips or nosings may be applied. These stair parts can be manufactured from a variety of materials including aluminum, vinyl, and wood.

Landing nosing

The landing nosing will often travel into the landing area to border the bottom of the balusters. The projection over the landing face will be the same as for the treads in the staircase.

Nosing projection

In timber flights, The nosing traditionally projects forward of the riser, the same distance as the thickness of the tread material.[1]

Safety

Stair nosing, especially in commercial and industrial settings, are typically fitted with a non-slip surface to increase traction and prevent injury or even death from slips, trips, and falls. The National Safety Council reports that there are over one million stair-related accidents every year.[2] Installing anti-slip nosing is a proven method of accident prevention.

California Title 24 Compliance

Many states have introduced laws and mandates that require new staircase construction to include an abrasive surface or stair tread to minimize the risk of stairway related incidents. One notable instance of this type of building regulation is 'Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-(b)' of the California Energy Commission's "Building Energy Efficiency Program".[3]

The regulation contains a detailed set of rules that must be followed when installing new steps in settings like municipal buildings, industrial plants, schools, etc. Perhaps the most recognizable standard in California's Title 24 building code is the need for a slip-resistant tread or nosing that is of contrasting color from the steps. This regulation affects not only future stair installations, but existing stairs as well. The purpose of this is to increase the discernibility of each step to prevent accidents for those who may be visually-impaired.[4]

References

What is a stair tread and stair riser? The tread and riser are referred to in all building codes. The stair tread is the horizontal portion of the staircase on which people walk, the stair riser is the vertical portion of the staircase between each tread. Stair treads and stair risers can be made of a variety of materials with treads often having a partial or total surface with some non-slip properties for safe egress.

Another important question is: what is stair nosing? Stair nosing can refer to two things. First it refers to the front portion of a stair tread, this can extend over the riser, meet at a 90 degree angle with the riser, or be angled back at a slight return.

The second definition of stair nosing is a piece of non-slip and/or color contrasting material embedded in or secured onto the front of a stair tread. Usually these stair nosings are from just under 2 inches to as much as 5 inches deep. They can contain material that will help prevent slips, provide a visual aid in seeing the next tread and even glow in the dark properties to help in power outages and emergency evacuations.  If people need to exit the building these safety features can allow them to egress quickly via an exterior exit.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of fiberglass stair treads. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.