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5 min read

AS 1657: The Importance of Standards in Stair Design

AS 1657 is a set of compliance requirements for constructing stairs, fixed ladders and platforms in various contexts. It prioritises careful design and accessibility to give you peace of mind that your business is safe. In this guide, we’ll dive into how it works, why it matters, and how it can help you design and construct safer, more compliant access structures.
Topics: AS 1657:2018 , Building and Construction Standards

business workplacce staircase view from the top

 

What is AS 1657?

The AS 1657 Australian standard is a set of guidelines for the design, construction, and implementation of stairs, walkways, platforms, ladders, and more.

Safety is essential for homeowners and businesses. Trip hazards, uneven surfaces, and poor visibility aren’t just a sure route to accidents. They’re a financial liability, and a potentially expensive compliance breach.

The AS 1657 Australian standard ensures that these risks don’t occur. It specifies requirements for materials, durability, load-bearing capacities, dimensions, and more. Together, these requirements ensure organisations can create safe environments for personnel.

First released as CA10-1938, AS 1657 has since undergone multiple revisions. The fifth and most recent edition released in 2018, bringing with it several key changes to consider. Let’s take a closer look at those updates.


Key Updates in AS 1657:2018

The new AS 1657:2018 Standard introduces several important revisions to the structure and content of the guidelines. Essential changes include:

  1. Changes to the layout within the documentation
    - Figure 5.4b now aligns with the text relating to rectangular handrails.
    - Clause 7.3.6(a) now has a new figure to clarify the length of the landing.
    - Figure 7.5, which describes a landing’s minimum length, and figure 7.9, describing typical ladder cage dimensions, have been updated to better match the relevant clauses.

  2. Revisions to unclear or ambiguous wording
    - The new Standard defines the word ‘level’ to avoid confusion.
    - The new Standard clarifies the terms ladder flight and landings where applicable.

  3. Additional clauses covering the dimensions of guardrails
    - A top rail that is parallel to the floor or on a slope and parallel to the angle of the walkway needs to be supported by posts at intervals in accordance with the guidelines for the proposed use case.
    - Intermediate rails that are parallel to a top rail should be spaced so the maximum space between them doesn’t exceed 450mm.

  4. New additions about the use of toeboards
    - A toeboard system is now needed if there isn’t a permanent structure within 10mm of the edge of a walkway or if there is a reasonable chance an object could fall into an area that personnel access.
    - If a toeboard system isn’t required, the clear space between the lowest rail and the base level shouldn’t exceed 560mm. 


fixed external building ladder

Fixed Ladders Under AS 1657

The AS 1657 standard features stringent requirements for the design and installation of fixed ladders.

AS 1657 fixed ladders must be securely fixed to a stable structure, with the spacing between the bottom rung and landing matching the space of all remaining rungs. This ensures there is no opportunity for accidents when people are embarking or disembarking.

In addition, the angle of slope should be between 70° and 75° horizontally. The standard also outlines the requirement for maximum and minimum space between rails.

Furthermore, the standard describes the types of testing that constructors should apply to the AS 1657 ladders, including checking stile strength and rung strength periodically. All of this information is supported by helpful appendices.

These requirements ensure personnel working at height for maintenance, inspection, servicing, or operating, have a predictable, safe ladder from which to access fixed platforms. 



Fixed Platforms and AS 1657 

The standard also outlines several standards for AS 1697 fixed platforms. It specifies that all platforms must have a safe working load, suitable for people, equipment and materials. These platforms must be non-corrosive and resistant to the elements to prevent damage over time.

All AS 1657 fixed platforms should also feature non-slip surfaces. Platforms over 2m above the ground should include guardrails between 900mm and 1100mm tall to prevent accidents. A midrail should also be installed to prevent tools and materials from falling.

Naturally, all access points to the platforms, whether that be ladders or stairways, should also be AS 1657 compliant. Together, these guidelines create stable surfaces for all personnel to work safely and efficiently. 

 

Is AS 1657 Mandatory?

AS 1657 is not mandatory, nor is it a legislation in itself. However, it does offer valuable guidelines for businesses looking to comply with mandatory workplace health and safety (WHS) regulations. These legislations mandate that employers ensure safe access and prevent fall risks in the workplace.

Consider the AS 1657 optional but vital support to achieve compliance. In manufacturing and construction industries, where day-to-day risks are high, maintaining exemplary standards for health and safety are crucial for avoiding legal consequences. The AS 1657 is a valuable toolkit to reach these high standards. 


Why AS 1657 is Essential for Stair Design and Safety 

The AS 1657 standard outlines several requirements for stairway design to prevent trip hazards. Consider slips on wet stairs, low lighting causing a rolled ankle, or a damaged handrail that leads to a fall. 

AS 1657 2018 aims to address these risks. Key elements include:

  • Stairways must be at least 600 mm wide, with an angle between 26.5° and 45°. 
  • Stair treads must be slip resistant and extend across the full width of the staircase. The edge of each tread should also be visible to prevent falls.
  • All risers must be between 130mm and 225mm to avoid trip hazards.

In addition, guardrails are needed on all exposed sides, whereas handrails are needed for stairways that are over 1000mm wide.

Stairways are one of the most frequent causes of accidents at home and in the workplace—sticking to the guidelines offered by AS 1657 is the most effective way to stay on the right side of compliance and keep your personnel safe. 


Conclusion: The Role of AS 1657 in Safe Access Structures

AS 1657 is a crucial standard for maintaining optimal health safety standards in and around access structures. Complying with the standard will help you create a more positive working environment for your staff, and avoid potentially costly legal fees in the worst case scenario.

It’s impossible to outline every single AS 1657 requirement in this guide. Take the first step to compliance and download the complete documentation today.

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