Stairs, railings & handrails

Stairs, banisters and handrails are among the safety-relevant components in metal construction.
Even small deviations in dimensions, distances or fastenings can affect the User safety and compliance with standards of the building. As Publicly appointed and sworn expert for the metalworking trade I check staircases, banisters, landings and handrails for Dimensional accuracy, stability, fastening and corrosion protection - in accordance with DIN and ASR guidelines.

Scope of testing and evaluation

I examine stairs and railing constructions with regard to:

• Dimensions and proportions
  → Compliance with the gradient and step dimensions according to DIN 18065
• Safety in the workplace and in public spaces
  → Assessment according to ASR A1.8 and DIN 18040 (Accessibility)
• Fastenings and load-bearing capacity
  → Inspection of screw connections, weld seams and anchorages according to DIN EN 1090
• Railing and filler rod spacing
  → Checking the distances according to DIN and state building regulations
• Surfaces and corrosion protection
  → Evaluation of coatings, galvanizing and stainless steel surfaces
• Slip resistance and coverings
  → Testing according to DIN 51130 (slip resistance of floor coverings)

Typical defects and damage patterns

I often observe the following faults with stairs and banisters:

• Incorrect step heights or treads → Danger to users
• Impermissible filler rod or handrail spacing
• Inadequate attachment to walls or floor
• Corroded balusters or steel beams
• Loose handrails or unsound weld seams
• Lack of slip resistance on steps or landings

Procedure for the assessment

1. On-site inventory
   Measurement of gradients, distances, alignments and fastenings.
2. Technical analysis
   Comparison with planning documents, manufacturer data and standards.
3. Load capacity and corrosion testing
   Evaluation of weld seams, bolts, corrosion protection in accordance with EN 1090 and ISO 12944.
4. Documentation and expert opinion
   Photo documentation, dimension tables, assessment according to standard and refurbishment recommendation.

Relevant regulations

• DIN 18065 - Building staircases - terms, dimensions, main dimensions
• ASR A1.8 - Traffic routes, stairs and railings in the working environment
• DIN 18040 - Barrier-free building
• DIN EN 1090 - Steel and aluminum structures
• DIN 51130 - Slip resistance of floor coverings
• DIN EN ISO 12944 - Corrosion protection for steel structures

My range of services at a glance

✔️ Inspection of stairs, landings, railings and handrails
✔️ Evaluation of fastenings, weld seams and corrosion protection
✔️ Control of dimensions and safety requirements
✔️ Court-proof documentation and photographic evidence
✔️ Quality assurance during construction of new buildings

Practical examples of stairs & fall protection

• CASE 2: Corrosion on stainless steel railings - causes and assessment
• CASE 5: Deflection of the staircase stringers - structural defects in metal construction
• CASE 6: Minimum distances between handrails - requirements in accordance with the Workplace Directive (ASR A1.8)