Accidents associated with stairs are a leading cause of injury in the United States. This is particularly true for senior citizens. Though many healthy individuals may take descending and ascending stairs for granted, it is potentially a very hazardous undertaking for those with disabilities and impairments, especially those associated with old age. While there are no universally accepted standards associated with stairs, there are many ways to ensure that your stairs are as safe as they can be.

There are many factors that go into creating a safe, non-slip stairway. Among the most important are good lighting, proper handrails, and a step surface that provides the proper amount of traction. Too much traction, and the foot might stick to the step causing a fall, while too little traction can obviously be a key cause for slips. For senior citizens or those with poor eyesight, making sure that the leading edge of steps is of contrasting color is important as well.

Creating Non-Slip Stairs: Before and After Construction

Many of these factors are important to consider in design and construction. Most important in design is considering a user's awareness of steps or changes in floor leveling. Steps located immediately beyond doorways are an example of poor design. Proper landings, continuous handrails, correct riser height and other design elements are all important for reducing the incidence of stair-related slips, trips, and falls.

After construction, there are a variety of solutions for creating non-slip stairs. Cleaning products, finishes, and coatings which improve traction on potentially slick stair materials like wood, vinyl, or stone can markedly improve safety. Brightly colored traction tape on the leading edge of stairs can also add not only to traction but awareness as well. Overall, proper maintenance of stairways is probably the most important factor in preventing stair-related accidents.