Temporary Stair Towers
Carrying tools and materials up ladders is a common cause of falls. Temporary stair towers give crews a safer, easier way up, especially on multi-story projects. But they are structures that must be built and used properly.
- Scaffold Erectors
- General Contractors
- All Trades
Why use them
- Stairs let workers carry tools with both hands free to hold the rail, and move quickly in an emergency.
- They reduce ladder falls and make for easier evacuation.
- They can serve as access to scaffolds, roofs or building floors during construction before permanent stairs are done.
Design and build
- Use manufactured stair units built for the purpose, or an engineered design, assembled by trained erectors under a competent person. See System Scaffolds
- Stairs should have uniform risers and treads with slip-resistant surfaces. Scaffold stair rules allow slopes between 30 and 50 degrees from horizontal, with rises not more than 12 inches (1926.451(e)(7)); building stairs have their own rules. See Stairways
- Handrails and midrails on open sides, and guardrails at landings, at the heights required (1926.1052 for stairways in construction)
- Landings at the top and wherever the stair changes direction, large enough for safe movement
- Footing on firm, level ground with base plates or mud sills; no blocks of wood or broken bricks as supports
- Ties and bracing to the building or additional support as the manufacturer specifies. See Scaffold Ties & Bracing
- Clear opening width and headroom of at least 6 feet 6 inches in walking areas where required
- Do not exceed the rated load for the stairs and platforms, including worker traffic and materials
Use and care
- Inspect before each shift for damage, loose pins, missing rails, and debris on treads. Tag when approved. See Scaffold Tags.
- Keep stairs clear of materials, ice, snow, mud, oil and cords.
- Provide good lighting.
- Do not store materials on stairs or block the way.
- Add side protection against falling objects where people pass below.
- Do not alter or take parts from the tower without the competent person's approval.
- Plan for emergency access for first responders.
Standards & references
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