Temporary stairs: rails, treads, and clear steps

On a framing job, the first stairs are often job-built from 2x lumber, or a set of metal pan stairs waiting for concrete. Either way, the rules are the same. Any stairway with four or more risers, or that rises more than 30 inches, needs at least one handrail and a stairrail along each open side. Landings with open sides need guardrails. Steps must be even. A riser that is a different height than the rest catches your toe, especially when you are carrying something and cannot see your feet. Build the stairs right the first time, with treads that are all the same height and depth.

Metal pan stairs are a known trap. Until the pans are filled with concrete, the step is a hollow box with a sharp edge. You can catch your heel, roll an ankle, or fall forward. Nobody uses unfilled pan stairs, except the crew building the stairs, unless temporary treads of wood or other solid material are put in, fitted at least to the top of each pan. The same goes for skeleton metal stairs waiting for permanent treads. The temporary treads must cover the full width and depth and be secured. When the wood wears down below the top of the pan, replace it.

Keep the stairs clean and dry. Pull or bend any nail sticking out of a tread, rail, or stringer. Do not store material, cords, or hoses on the steps. Clear off mud, ice, sawdust, and water before anyone uses the stairs to get to another level. Carry loads so you can see your feet and keep one hand free for the rail. If the load is too big for that, get help or use a lift. When the stairs are not ready or a rail is down, block them off with a barricade and a sign, and point people to a safe way up. Do not just tell them to be careful.