How to Clean Aluminum Stairs Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Jul 31, 2022 Estimated reading time: 4 minutes Cleaning Untreated Aluminum Steps Aluminum is a light but strong material common for outdoor stair applications because it is weather-resistant. It is weather-resistant in that it doesn’t rust, but it forms a natural layer of oxide through the process called “oxidation.” Oxidation can be a baffling occurrence because it is a natural chemical reaction. Unlike corrosion on other metals, it does not weaken the aluminum but strengthens the material. This makes aluminum superior to other metals because of its inherent quality. The galvanizing process protects other metals, wherein a zinc coating envelops the base metal like iron or steel to slow down oxidation. IMPORTANT – Do not use abrasive cleaning pads on aluminum stairs or ramps Oxidation creates a protective barrier against water and rust, but it can make the aluminum less attractive over time. If you know how to clean aluminum stairs properly, it will decrease the chances of severe oxidation. Step 1: The first step is to ensure that all debris, including mud, dust, and leaves, is cleared off the steps. To do this, you must start at the top landing of the steps with a stiff-bristled broom and sweep all the debris over the side of the platform or down the steps one by one; the stringers that run along both edges of the steps may make it difficult to push the debris over the sides. The stiff-bristled broom is recommended to clean out the grooves of the step treads, but don’t try to scrub them with the broom as it might scratch the aluminum. Step 2: After sweeping the debris off the aluminum stairs, rinse it with water and a mild detergent such as dish soap. Use a generous amount of dish soap over the length of the staircase, and put a concentrated amount on tough spots. Let it sit for a couple of minutes. Next, hose off or lightly pressure wash the steps to remove the soap and dirt. If possible, it is suggested to use filtered water because unfiltered water may contain sulfur, chlorine, fluoride, and other minerals that could damage the aluminum over time. Ensure all dish soap is washed off before the steps are used because the soap and water make the aluminum slippery. Step 3: If dirt is still on the stairs, scrub the area with a towel and dish soap. Do not use steel wool or scouring pads because these materials can scratch the aluminum and give it a dull appearance. Do not use harsh cleaners like baking soda or alkali-based cleaners, as these can cause discoloration. If you want to try a new type of cleaner, test an area on the underside of the staircase to see if it discolors the aluminum. Step 4: If the aluminum has already oxidized, try spot-treating the oxidized areas with an aluminum cleaner like Aluma Kleen or Aluma Bright. Cleaning Powder-Coated Aluminum Steps Cleaning aluminum metal stairs that are powder-coated is similar, but the powder-coating is a little more delicate than the aluminum. If the aluminum steps are powder-coated, there is less chance of oxidation because the powder-coating provides an extra layer of defense. However, if the coating is scratched, oxidation spots can still form. Step 1: Brush off the steps, moving from top to bottom, with a stiff-bristled broom. Do not try to scrub the steps with the broom, as it might scratch the aluminum. Step 2: The most efficient way to clean outdoor aluminum steps with a powder-coated finish is by using filtered water at low pressure with a pressure washer. Use a mild detergent such as dish soap, and DO NOT use chlorine or harsh cleaning solutions. High water pressure and aggressive cleaning products can damage the powder-coated finish. The commercial cleaning solutions will clean the surface, but they also remove micro-layers of finish. The layer might later become hard and crack while losing its protective barrier. Step 3: As stated above, use a soft brush or cloth to clean the surface; do not use anything with stiff bristles or a scratchy pad. Step 4: To keep powder-coated steps looking nice, try a high-grade, non-abrasive car wax that contains a U.V. blocker and/or U.V. inhibitors. Be sure to wipe off residual wax because it could bake in the heat and cause permanent staining. As with any other product applied to the staircase, making a test area on the underside of the steps is recommended. How to Clean Aluminum Ramps Related Articles: Best ADA Ramp Material Know the Difference: Hot Dip Galvanizing vs. Powder Coating Cleaning Aluminum Ramps ADARamps How to Clean Aluminum Ramps Read More » December 19, 2022 StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022
Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Jun 07, 2022 Estimated reading time: 9 minutes Many companies require access to elevated areas at some point. For instance, potential hazards include servicing HVAC equipment, accessing a loading dock, or even a crossover. Many workplaces utilize scaffolding or ladders for these purposes. Yet these options are less efficient and can contribute to serious workplace accidents. Commercial and industrial metal stairs have become the go-to for replacing ladders and scaffolding. Metal stairs are safer, more durable, increase worker productivity, and are easier to install. Upside Innovations is a leading manufacturer of OHSA, ADA, and IBC-compliant commercial and industrial metal stairs. We offer many configurations to meet the needs of any application. Below is an overview of common stair types, orientations, and installations. Stair Orientation Straight Run The Straight Run is the simplest and most straightforward of all our stair assemblies. It requires just two anchor points – one at the top and one at the bottom – and can be placed anywhere in your home or office. Two Straight Run The Two Straight Run stair configuration mimics assembly of two straight run stairs connected with an intermediate landing. The second point, the landing point, determines the position of the landing, ensuring that your stairs are always in the same place. Quarter Turn The Quarter Turn accepts the landing point and distributes the treads in segments, making it easy to land and evenly distribute risers. You can orient the segment in 180 degrees in the X–Y plane, making it easy to find the perfect angle for your needs. Half Turn The Half Turn stair configuration is a space-saving alternative to the Quarter Turn stairs. It can be used in both residential and commercial applications. The direction point on the landing controls the width of the landing, keeping the segment orientation unchanged. Two Quarter Turn The two quarter turn stair assembly is more flexible to place. The two quarter turn stair is constructed with two sets of landing and direction points. With this increased flexibility, you can place your stairs exactly where you need them in your home or office! Three Quarter Turn The three quarter turn stair configurations, similarly to the two quarter turn stair, is more flexible to place. The three quarter turn has three sets of landing and direction points. With this level of flexibility, you can place your stairs exactly where you need them in your home or office! Stair Types Stair Towers Upside Innovations offers fully customized stair towers to meet the needs of any application. Since no two applications are the same, our internal team of engineers will design a custom layout for your stair tower. Our team uses state-of-the-art tools to provide you with detailed drawings and a quote in a matter of minutes. We design and build stair towers for any height and complexity. Our stair towers feature slip-resistant decking and are 100% aluminum, so they will not rust, warp, or rot. We ensure that all stair towers comply with ADA, IBC, OHSA, and local building codes. Our professional installation crew will ensure seamless delivery and installation. Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Commercial Stairs Upside Innovations manufactures and installs prefabricated commercial stairs that are always ADA or IBC-compliant. The aluminum stairs are solid and easy to maintain, and they offer slip-resistant decking, which can be designed to reach any height. Our engineering team develops a layout just for your project. Then, our professional installation team will install your commercial stairs in less than an hour. Non penetrating rooftop stair installation at a commercial office facility. In plant Office/Mezzanine Stairs Also known as “mezzanine stairs”, Upside Innovations offers two styles of OHSA-compliant multi-story in plant office stairs. The Adjustable OSHA Stairway is a flex-style industrial stair with two-line rails. The stairs are adjustable between 8.5’ and 10.5’. The adjustable stairs are a great choice if you are unsure of the exact height you need or want something that can be moved if your warehouse expands. The Fixed Industrial Stairway is a custom solution designed to meet the height needed to reach the multi-story plant office. This configuration also offers many decking options – knurled, extruded decking material, or aggressive-tread grip strut decking. Inplant Office/Mezzanine Stairs FAQ 1. WHAT ARE MEZZANINE STAIRS? Mezzanine stairs provide access to an intermediate floor between levels of a warehouse or building. 2. HOW LONG WILL THE MEZZANINE STAIRS LAST? It depends on whether the stairs are permanent, natural elements such as salt water, how many people use them, etc. View our aluminum stair maintenance tips to maximize the lifespan of your mezzanine stairs. 3. CAN I LEASE THE MEZZANINE STAIRS? We typically lease stairs for a minimum of 3 months. However, if we have the product in stock and can work within your timeline, we can most likely set up lease terms. Generator Stairs Upside Innovations manufactures OHSA-compliant aluminum generator access platform systems with stairs and railings. The stairs and platform feature a non-slip tread. We typically use a grip strut material that offers superior slip resistance in all travel directions. The aluminum construction offers superior strength, is low maintenance, and ensures a long product lifecycle. Upside’s generator stairs give employees safe and efficient access to generators to perform maintenance tasks. Our engineering team can create custom layouts for any application—for instance, a platform for a single generator or a field of generators. We also provide optional installation for generator stairs to ensure that installation is done correctly the first time. Loading Dock Stairs Loading docks are one of industrial workplaces’ busiest and most hazardous locations. Most loading docks lack adequate safety warnings and measures to prevent workers from falling. Many utilize a fixed ladder at one end of the pier. Truck drivers and workers will often skip the ladder and jump onto the pavement when they are in a hurry. Upside Innovations offers safe and efficient loading dock stairs. All our loading dock stairs are 100% OHSA compliant, helping drivers and workers to enter and exit the loading dock area safely. Our loading dock stairs are made of thick, structural aluminum channels for the step stringers and platform edges, offering unmatched strength and durability. The stairs and platform offer a slip-resistant tread and can typically be installed in less than an hour with no on-site welding and minimal bolts. Hillside Steps Hillsides present challenging, inefficient, and dangerous terrains. Upside Innovations designs, manufacture, and installs aluminum hillside steps for any application. Since every hillside is different, our internal team of engineers will work to design the perfect layout for your project. Since aluminum is lighter than any other material, it is ideally suited for the challenges of hillside installation. Moreover, they will not rust, warp, or rot. Portable Stairs Upside Innovations manufactures two types of OHSA-compliant portable stairs for mobile offices and construction trailers. Omni Steps offer robust aluminum construction with slip-resistant decking. In addition, the stairs are adjustable work platforms that are fully adjustable between the specified heights. For instance, the 21” – 26” portable stairs can be set to heights within that range. Our Dual-Height Steps are partially adjustable. For instance, 28” – 35” portable stairs can be set to either 28” or 35” to meet the mobile office door threshold. You can also choose between knurled, extruded decking material or aggressive-tread grip strut decking for your deck. Both the Omni and Dual-Height portable stairs offer easy and quick assembly. Semi-Trailer Steps Most site trailers require portable semi-steps. Upside Innovations manufactures three different styles of semi-trailer steps for 48” tall trucks. These include standard trailer steps, trailer steps with a double top step, and a trailer step with a platform. All of our trailer steps feature extra-wide 4” steps, which enable two-way foot traffic. Lightweight aluminum construction allows stairs to move or lift into the trailer easily. In addition, our steps are OHSA compliant, offering handrails on both sides and a 3” grip strut channel for maximum stability. Crossover Stairs and Platforms Upside Innovations offers incredibly versatile crossover stairs that can be used for a potentially unlimited number of applications. Crossover stairs make it easy and safe for workers to get over horizontal pipes, production lines, and other floor-level obstacles. Unfortunately, workers attempting to avoid these obstacles is a common cause of potentially serious injuries. Our OHSA-compliant crossover stairs come in many different configuration options with single steps, single platforms, or a complete step and platform solution. The stairs are made of durable and low-maintenance aluminum and offer several different decking options, including extruded, grip strut, fiber grate, or bar grate decking. In addition, we provide professional installation to ensure that your crossover stairs are installed correctly. Roof Access Stairs Roof access for industrial buildings and warehouses has become increasingly important in recent years. Workers need access to HVAC systems, solar panels, elevators, and communication towers. Ladders and cages are hazardous and can contribute to serious or even fatal injuries. Roof access stairs are a far more efficient and safer method for workers. Upside Innovations manufactures and installs OHSA or ADA-compliant custom exterior roof access stairs. Our stairs feature slip-resistant decking, including extruded, grip strut, or bar grating to accommodate different needs and environments. Since no two applications are the same, our internal engineering team will design the perfect layout for your roof access stairs, and our professional installation crew will ensure that they are correctly installed. Upside Innovations has the perfect industrial and commercial metal stairs solution for any company. All of our stairs are manufactured in the U.S. using the highest quality components and involve a superior engineering process. Call us, and we’ll be happy to help you design the perfect set of stairs for your application. Rooftop Stairs Roof-top equipment requires ongoing maintenance to keep work environments totally safe. Workers accessing roof-tops to maintain equipment frequently meet accessibility challenges and obstacles such as pipes, skylights, ducts, and parapets, not to mention abundant trip and fall hazards. For roof-top accessibility and the ability to safely crossover over obstacles over 12″ height, an OSHA-compliant fixed roof-top stair or work platform is required. Most commercial roofs are Built-Up Roof Membrane (BUR) made of rubber and/or tar. All roof-top stair installations should use non-penetrating mounting solutions to be effective. Roof curbs and equipment rails (see below for more info) are installed when the roof is created or redone. Both are raised structural elements located under the roof membrane. If your roof-top project requires these solutions, it can be costly and time-consuming to add them. For lighter equipment, such as stairs, a less expensive base plate is all that is needed to be safe and effective. Stairs Maximizing Space with Innovative Mezzanine Floors Read More » November 26, 2023 StairsTools & Resources Exterior Stairs – 5 Reasons Property Owners Prefer Aluminum Read More » February 21, 2018
Avoiding Falls, Trips, and Slips in the Workplace Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Feb 01, 2022 Estimated reading time: 3 minutes According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), slips, trips, and falls inflict 700 fatal injuries and many more accidents in the workplace each year. While mishaps can occur in any setting, managers can avoid these workplace accidents by taking the necessary measures, detecting dangers, and training their personnel. Here are some workplace safety tips to help you avoid slips, trips, and falls: Make Walkways and Work Areas Free of Obstructions The best way to avoid slips, trips, and falls in the workplace is to make sure everyone on your team cleans up the places where they walk and work. Maintain a clutter-free workplace by encouraging staff to “clean as they go” and reminding them not to obstruct heavily used areas with garbage, cables, or equipment. Preparing for Bad Weather Conditions Weather can lead to a higher risk of workplace accidents, such as slips and falls, because water and ice can make paths slippery. Check to see if your business, firm, or building has measures in place to cope with bad weather in a safe manner. In winter conditions, make sure to spread salt, especially in high-traffic areas such as the entry and parking areas. In rainy and snowy circumstances, lay mats at the door and consider installing fans to prevent slick patches at the entry. Most of us are aware that items like salt and doormats may help prevent slip, trip, and fall dangers, but not every company has someone whose job it is to ensure that these measures are followed. Assigning these activities to a single individual will guarantee that these tasks are completed when conditions are less risky. Require Workers to Wear Appropriate Shoes Adequate footwear may go far toward keeping employees safe in the workplace. Ensure your staff understands what kind of shoes are appropriate for your workplace. In general, shoes with soft rubber soles are preferable for reducing the risk of workplace falls. Encourage employees to wipe their shoes on a rug when coming in from wet, rainy, or snowy circumstances and keep their shoes clean to regain traction. Recognize hazards and utilize warning signages to alert employees Trip risks exist in any environment, no matter how skillfully or properly it has been built. Identifying trip risks and putting up prominent signages can assist in reducing the likelihood of slip, trip, and fall occurrences near metal stairs and ramp landings. Curbs and paths with variations in height are two major workplace trip risks. Employers should educate workers to observe warnings when going past a danger by bright paint on the curb or signs that specify elevation changes. Fall protection is everyone’s business in the workplace setting, and everyone needs to do their share to maintain the safety of the workplace environment. News Active vs. Passive Fall Protection: Standing Within OSHA’s Hierarchy of Controls Read More » November 28, 2021 Tools & Resources Stair and Walk Surface Glossary of Terms Read More » December 1, 2022
OSHA Regulations for Industrial Metal Stairs Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Jan 30, 2020 Estimated reading time: 3 minutes OSHA regulates every factor about a workplace, and below you will find the code that we follow for our fixed, industrial stairs. Landings, Platforms & Catwalks Platforms and catwalks can be placed at the top, middle, or bottom of a set of metal stairs. Width: Platforms must be at least the width of the stairs. (1910.25(b)(4)) Depth: Platforms must be at least 30 inches deep, as measured in the direction of travel. (1910.25(b)(4)) Door or gate present: The door or gate must open up onto a platform, and the swing of the door does not reduce the platform’s depth to 1) less than 20 inches for platforms installed before January 17, 2017 or 2) less than 22 inches for platforms installed on or after January 17, 2017. (1910.25(b)(5)(i) & 1910.25(b)(5)(ii)) Guardrails & Midrails As an employer, there is a duty to have a fall-protection system in place when there is an unprotected edge that is 4 or more feet from a lower level; guardrails are the most common fall-protection system used for stairs. Step Guardrail Height: Unlike ADA guidelines, the guardrails in OSHA steps also act as handrails when the top edge of the guardrail is between 36 and 38 inches above the leading edge of the stair tread. (1910.29(f)(1)(iii)(A)) Platform Guardrail Height: The top edge of the top guardrail must be 42 inches, plus or minus 3 inches, above the walking surface, measured vertically from the step tread. (1910.29(b)(1)) Platform Midrail Height: A system must be put between the steps and the top guardrail to prevent an employee from falling through. Midrails are commonly used in conjunction with the top guard rail. The midrail must be installed at a height midway between the top edge of the guardrail and the walking surface. (1910.29(b)(2)) Step Treads The step tread is the part of the stairs that you walk on. It can be made from a multitude of decking materials that offer various degrees of traction. Tread depths must be the same between each landing platform. (1910.25(b)(3)) The minimum tread depth is 9.5 inches. (1910.25(c)(3)) The minimum tread width is 22 inches between the stringers. (1910.25(c)(4)) Risers Risers make up the vertical area between step treads. Risers can be solid or open-back, depending on the required compliance code. OSHA does not require solid risers, so most companies choose to have open-back risers because that style is typically less expensive. Riser heights must be the same between each landing platform. (1910.25(b)(3)) The maximum riser height is 9.5 inches. (1910.25(c)(2)) Footplates Footplates are bolted into the ground to secure the stair system. Sources: OSHA regulations for fixed, industrial stairs: 1910.25 & 1910.29 StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022 Tools & Resources Stair and Walk Surface Glossary of Terms Read More » December 1, 2022
IBC Stairs Code & Requirements Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Jan 03, 2020 Estimated reading time: 4 minutes The International Building Code (IBC) has many requirements for stairways, and you must also meet the required number of means of egress and areas of refuge for wheelchairs. Width (IBC 1011.2) The number of occupants on each floor will determine the required width of the stairs. In short, the width is calculated by multiplying the occupant load served by such stairs by a factor of 0.3 inch per occupant. However, the very minimum width between handrails is 44 inches. You must calculate the IBC stair width for multi-story stairways versus single-story stairways. Width = 0.3 x floor’s occupant load Weight (live load) Capacity (IBC 1605) Uniform live loads. (IBC 1607.3) – The live loads used in the design of buildings and other structures shall be the maximum loads expected by the intended use or occupancy but shall not be less than the minimum uniformly distributed live loads as listed in the below table. Concentrated live loads. (OBC 1607.4) – Surfaces shall be designed to support the uniformly distributed live loads or the concentrated live loads, whichever produces the greater load effects. Concentrated live loads are uniformly distributed over an area of 2 1/2 feet by 2 1/2 feet (762 mm by 762 mm) and shall be located so as to produce the maximum load effects in the structural members. UseUniform (PSF)Concentrated (Pounds)Catwalk40300Stairs & Exits100300*Fire Escapes100–Walkways and Elevated PlatformsOther than exitways60–* The minimum concentrated load on stair treads are based on an area of 2″ x 2″ Read More: Differences in IBC and OSHA Requirements Headroom (IBC 1011.3) Stairways are required to have a headroom clearance of 80 inches from the edge of each stair nosing measured vertically up to the ceiling. The clearance must continue past the last step for at least one stair tread depth. Riser Height and Tread Depth (IBC 1011.5) The step height, also known as the riser height, must be no less than 4 inches and no greater than 7 inches. The minimum tread depth is 11 inches. If the stairs have nosings, you measure from the leading edge of the nosing to the edge of the next step’s nosing. ComplianceStair DepthRiser HeightOSHA9.5″ (240 mm) Minimum9.5″ (240 mm) MaximumIBC11″ (279 mm) Minimum4″ (102 mm) – 7″ (178 mm)Minimum – Maximum Uniform Dimensions (IBC 1011.5.4) IBC stairs must have the same riser and tread dimensions throughout the stairway. The difference between the largest and smallest tread depth or riser height cannot be more than 3/8 inch. Solid Risers (IBC 1011.5.5.3) Solid risers are required for IBC stairs except for means of egress stairways as long as the opening between treads does not allow a 1/2 inch diameter sphere to pass through. Landings (IBC 1011.6 & 1009.6.3) There must be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. The width of landings must be as wide as the stairways that they serve. Where the stairway has a straight run, the landing does not need to be more than 48 inches deep. Doors opening onto a landing cannot reduce the minimum landing width to less than half. When the door is fully open, it cannot project more than 7 inches into the minimum dimensions of the landing. If a wheelchair space is required for an area of refuge, the wheelchair space cannot be located in the required minimum landing dimensions or door swing. Stairway Rise (IBC 1011.8) Every 12 feet of vertical rise, the stairway must have a landing. Walking Surface (IBC 1011.7.1) The slope of the walking surface cannot be greater than 1:48 in any direction. You can have walking surfaces with openings, but the openings cannot allow a 1/2-inch diameter sphere pass through. If the stairs are outside, the design of the IBC stairs cannot allow water to accumulate on the walking surface. Guards (IBC 1011.13 & 1015) Guards are required along all open-sided walking surfaces of the stairway, including landings and stairs. The guard height must be at least 42 inches high, and it is measured vertically from the leading edges of the tread nosings or from the landing surface. Any spacing in the guards must be less than 4 inches. Shown below, the guards are vertical balusters, but guards can also be pieces of glass, wire, etc. Handrails (IBC 1011.11 & 1014) Handrails must be on both sides of the IBC stairs, and they must comply with these additional handrail requirements. You could compare all the ADA, OSHA and IBC stair railing height requirements here. StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022 StairsTools & Resources IBC Stair Width Calculation Read More » May 6, 2019
Means of Egress Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Jan 03, 2020 Estimated reading time: 3 minutes Estimated reading time: 3 minutes The means of egress requirements are part of the International Building Code (IBC) which refer to the ability to exit the building and the path to get outside. Every new building must have means of egress, but the number of means of egress paths and sizes differ from building to building. What is means of egress? A means of egress is a continuous, clear path from any occupied portion of a building, structure or space to a public way, such as an outdoor sidewalk. A means of egress consists of three parts: exit access, exit, and exit discharge. Means of egress A means of egress consists of three parts: The exit access – path within the building that leads to an exit The exit – doors to the outside, enclosed exit stairways, and horizontal exits The exit discharge – the route from the exit to the public way Are you looking for an IBC-compliant stairway? Part 1: Exit Access Exit access is defined as a corridor, hallway, or path in a room to an exit. When the IBC talks about “accessible,” it means that somebody in a wheelchair can use whatever thing they are referring to. Therefore, an “accessible space” means that a person in a wheelchair can enter and exit that space via an “accessible means of egress” (i.e. walkway, ramp, or elevator). Accessible spaces must have two accessible means of egress, and they are typically required to be no less than 36″ wide. For Non-accessible spaces, which are floors above or below the ground floor, the accessible pathway must lead to an exit stairway, elevator, or horizontal exit. These areas serve as an Area of Refuge where emergency responders will come to help people in wheelchairs. The required number of means of egress is determined by occupant load: Occupant LoadRequired Means of Egress<5002500-9993>1,0004*Exception: Buildings that have a low occupant load, such as mercantile spaces, only require one exit. Part 2: Exit The exit consists of an exit stairway or elevator with standby power. The exit is separated from other interior spaces by fire-resistant construction. Refer to the IBC stair and handrail specifications sheet and the refuge areas to ensure your means of egress are compliant. Part 3: Exit Discharge The exit discharge consists of either an accessible route, such as an ADA ramp or walkway, or a stair and platform with a refuge area. Can be inside the building such as the main lobby or outside to an egress court, courtyard, alley, or public way. A public way is defined as an area outside the building between the exit discharge and a public street with a minimum clearance height and width of at least 10 feet. Related Links IBC Stair Width CalculationArea of Refuge RequirementsWheelchair Ramp Definition – Common TermsDifference Between ADA and OSHACalculating Single-Story IBC Stairway Width StairsTools & Resources IBC Stair Width Calculation Read More » May 6, 2019 News Area of Refuge vs. Area of Rescue Requirements Read More » May 24, 2019
Secure Aluminum Ramps and Steps for Hurricane Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Dec 20, 2019 Estimated reading time: 3 minutes A hurricane anchor and strap are the most reliable way to keep any outdoor aluminum ramps, steps, or canopies secure. If the product is made and installed by Upside Innovations on concrete, the product should withstand winds from a category 5 hurricane. On concrete, we always install ramps and steps using 3/8” wedge anchors, and canopies are secured with 5/8” wedge anchors. The brand we use is Red Head. If the product is installed on asphalt, we may use asphalt anchors. Below are some of the common anchor types used for securing exterior ramps, stairs, and canopies. Anchor Options for securing Stairs and Ramps Wedge Anchor Concrete wedge anchors are the perfect choice for heavy-duty applications that require a secure hold. These anchors are extremely popular and offer one of the strongest possible bonds, making them ideal for securing materials and equipment to solid concrete or masonry surfaces. Wedge anchors look and function like a sleeve anchor, but feature a smaller sleeve near the bottom of the anchor. This design provides added holding power and makes them ideal for use in challenging applications. Drill a hole with a diameter equal to the nominal anchor hole at least 1/4” deeper than nominal anchor embedment; align the holes with the holes in the ramp, step, or canopy footplates.Clean out the hole with pressurized air or a vacuum.Hammer the hurricane anchor into the hole, but do not hammer the nut as it will ruin the threads.Upside typically uses Red Head wedge anchors Asphalt Anchor Asphalt is relatively weak when it comes to anchoring structures to it. As the name implies, asphalt anchors are ideal for attaching items to an asphalt surface and are installed by drilling an oversized hole, adding expanding cement or low shrink epoxy, and then pushing in the anchor. After curing, the bolt can be removed. Drill a hole in the asphalt that is equal to the diameter of the anchor; make sure the holes in the asphalt align with the holes in the footplates.Fill the hole with grout.Push in the hurricane anchor.More detailed installation instructions at BoltHold Anchor Installation Guide Hard Rock Anchor Hard rock anchors are designed for applications that are solid rock with rods that are driven into the rock. Drill a 5/8” hole 5.5” deep and on a 90° angle on the center of the anchor location for the pilot stud.Drill (2) 3/4” holes at 45° angles using the anchor head as a location guide.Place the rod through the top of (1) square tube and into the hole.To achieve minimum allowable pullout resistance, drive the rod at least 24” into the surface.Place the second rod through the other tube.The distance from the square tubing to the ground surface should not exceed 1”.Use the strap to wrap around the cross-bracing of the ramp or step; secure the strap with the bolts and nuts at the top of the anchor. If the product is resting on soil: you can secure it by using an earth auger anchor. Auger Anchor Auger anchors are easy to install and screw directly into soil, sand or gravel. Use a metal rod through the eye of the anchor to drive it into the ground.Wrap the strap around the cross-bracing of the ramp or step, and loop through the eye of the anchor. Still don’t know which product is best? Give us a call. Tools & Resources Reusable Aluminum Steps Read More » August 9, 2017 Ramps Snow & Ice Melt for Aluminum Ramps Read More » November 22, 2023
Difference Between ADA and OSHA Nick Bishop My name is Nick Bishop - your aluminum Access Solutions Advisor on the Commercial team. I have 9 years of experience at Upside Innovations. I specialize in access to warehouses, distribution centers and commercial buildings. With my expertise—where aluminum meets access, brilliance follows. Dec 16, 2019 Estimated reading time: 2 minutes We use the terms “ADA” and “OSHA” so often when referring to our access products, and sometimes we forget that people might not know the difference. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, and retail locations. There is a set of regulations that public buildings must follow. Below are the key ADA-compliant regulations for steps: All steps should have uniform riser heights and tread widths Stair treads should be no less than 11″ wide (measured from riser to riser) Open risers are not permitted Handrail gripping surface shall be mounted between 34” and 38” with railing height above stair nosings The ends of the handrails should be rounded or returned smoothly to the floor The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was created to assure safe and healthful working conditions for employees. These regulations apply to steps that are used by employees only, not steps that are open to the public. The minimum dimension for landings is 22” wide x 30” deep All stairs with four or more risers are required to have handrails and guardrails Variations in riser height or stair tread depth must not exceed .25″ in any stairway Stairways must be installed between 30 and 50 degrees from the horizontal Whether you need ADA steps for public access or OSHA steps for workplace safety, Upside has the solution. Tools & Resources Stair and Walk Surface Glossary of Terms Read More » December 1, 2022 StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022
Calculating Multi-Story Stairway Width Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. May 07, 2019 Estimated reading time: 2 minutes If you haven’t read our IBC Stair Width Calculation article, I recommend reading that first so that you can see the IBC codes we reference. If you have already read it, below is a scenario in which we calculate the required width of multiple stairways that serve multiple floors. Scenario: We need exit stairs for a building that has 3 floors that have varying occupant loads. There is a sprinkler system, but the system was not installed per code requirements. The occupant loads are as follows: Floor 1: 40 occupantsFloor 2: 480 occupantsFloor 3: 110 occupants The required total stairway width per floor is as follows: Floor 1: 40 occupants x 0.3” = 12” (BUT the minimum stairway width for a floor serving less than 50 occupants is 36”. Can you imagine trying to walk down a 12” wide stairway?)Floor 2: 480 occupants x 0.3” = 144”Floor 3: 110 occupants x 0.3” = 33” (BUT the minimum stairway width for a floor serving more than 50 occupants is 44”.) What do we do when each floor requires a different width? We use the largest minimum width because we don’t want to create a bottleneck effect where a wide stairway leads into a narrower stairway. Therefore, we want to use the 144” measurement for the minimum combined stair width. We will need two stairways because we have an occupant load between 1 and 500 per story. The 144″ width can be divided between the two stairways. BUT in case a stairway is destroyed or inaccessible during an evacuation, the remaining stairway needs to be at least half of the required minimum (144″). We cannot have a stairway that is 60” wide and the other one is 84”. Why? If we lose the 84” stairway to a fire, we only have the 60” stairway which is less than half the required width. Summary: We calculate the minimum required combined width by multiplying the occupant load of each floor by 0.3″ and using the largest number, which is 144″. We need two stairways, so we can divide the 144″ between the two stairs. However, since we only have two stairways, each stairway must be at least half of the 144″. View IBC Stairways StairsTools & Resources IBC Stair Width Calculation Read More » May 6, 2019 StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022
Calculating Single-Story IBC Stairway Width Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. May 07, 2019 Estimated reading time: 2 minutes If you haven’t read our IBC Stair Width Calculation article, I recommend reading that first so that you can see the IBC codes we reference. If you have already read it, below is a scenario in which we calculate the required width of a multiple stairways serving one floor. Scenario: We need exit stairs from the second story of a building. There is a sprinkler system, but the system was not installed per code requirements. The occupant loads are as follows: Floor 1: 175 occupantsFloor 2: 300 occupants The required total stairway width per floor is as follows: Floor 1: Not applicable because this floor is ground level.Floor 2: 300 occupants x 0.3” = 90” We will need two stairways because we have an occupant load between 1 and 500 per story. The 90″ width can be divided between the two stairways. BUT in case a stairway is destroyed or inaccessible during an evacuation, the remaining stairway needs to be at least half of the required minimum (144″). We cannot have a stairway that is 44” wide and the other one is 46”. Why? If we lose the 46” stairway to a fire, we only have the 44” stairway which is less than half the required width. Summary: We calculate the minimum required combined width by multiplying the occupant load of the floor by 0.3″, which is 90″. We need two stairways, so we can divide the 90″ between the two stairs. However, since we only have two stairways, each stairway must be at least half of the 90″. StairsTools & Resources IBC Stair Width Calculation Read More » May 6, 2019 StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022
IBC Stair Width Calculation Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Liam Hindley May 06, 2019 Estimated reading time: 7 minutes ARE YOU MEASURING STAIR EGRESS WIDTHS CORRECTLY? Stair egress measurements are commonly misunderstood and can be complicated because it is determined by the building’s occupant load. Should stairs be measured between handrails since this is where occupants can walk, or is it the entire width of the treads? This article is a simplified version of the IBC codes and addresses common questions associated with stair egress width. Egress Width Factors How do I determine my “calculated stair egress width”? IBC Section 1005.3.1 requires that “the capacity, in inches, of means of egress stairways shall be calculated by multiplying the occupant load served by such stairway by a means of egress capacity factor of 0.3 inch per occupant”. Exceptions are if there is a compliant sprinkler system installed and equipped with an emergency voice/alarm system for all occupancies other than Group H (High Hazard) and I-2 (Health Care), multiply the occupant loads by 0.2 and 0.15 inch per occupant, respectively, not 0.3. For stairs serving one floor, multiply the floor’s occupant load by 0.3. For stairs serving multiple floors, multiply the occupant load of the floor that serves the most people by 0.3. These calculations give you the required COMBINED width of all exit stairs serving that floor. However, the minimum clear width between handrails is 44″. If the stairway serves a floor with an occupant load of less than 50, the minimum clear width is reduced to 36″. Multi-story stairs Single-story stairs Here’s where it gets tricky. There is a minimum number of exits that is based on the occupant load per story: Occupant Load Per StoryMinimum Number of Exits or Access to Exits from Story1-5002501-1,0003More than 1,0004 The combined width calculation performed above must be distributed between the minimum number of required exits while still meeting the minimum width requirement. AND if one exit stairway is “lost” (i.e. occupants cannot access it due to a fire) the remaining stairway width(s) cannot be reduced to less than half the required combined width. This applies typically when there are only two stairways because if you lose one, there is only one stairway left. If you originally have three stairways and lose one, you still have two stairways left. Summary: calculate the total width per floor you need by multiplying the occupant load by 0.3″ and in some cases 0.2″. Take the largest width that you calculate, and use it for the entire stairway system. Keep in mind, the minimum clear width is typically 44″, but it is sometimes reduced to 36″ for low-capacity floors. Then, figure out how many exits are required by referencing the chart above, and divide the required width between the required number of stairways. That’s it! Reference the IBC codes below to check your work. Calculating Single-Story IBC Stairway Width Scenario: We need exit stairs from the second story of a building. There is a sprinkler system, but the system was not installed per code requirements. The occupant loads are as follows: Floor 1: 175 occupantsFloor 2: 300 occupants The required total stairway width per floor is as follows: Floor 1: Not applicable because this floor is ground level.Floor 2: 300 occupants x 0.3” = 90” We will need two stairways because we have an occupant load between 1 and 500 per story. The 90″ width can be divided between the two stairways. BUT in case a stairway is destroyed or inaccessible during an evacuation, the remaining stairway needs to be at least half of the required minimum (144″). We cannot have a stairway that is 44” wide and the other one is 46”. Why? If we lose the 46” stairway to a fire, we only have the 44” stairway which is less than half the required width. Summary: We calculate the minimum required combined width by multiplying the occupant load of the floor by 0.3″, which is 90″. We need two stairways, so we can divide the 90″ between the two stairs. However, since we only have two stairways, each stairway must be at least half of the 90″. Calculating Multi-Story Stairway Width Below is a scenario in which we calculate the required width of multiple stairways that serve multiple floors. Scenario: We need exit stairs for a building that has 3 floors that have varying occupant loads. There is a sprinkler system, but the system was not installed per code requirements. The occupant loads are; Floor 1: 40 occupants, Floor 2: 480 occupants and Floor 3: 110 occupants The required total stairway width per floor is as follows: FloorOccupant LoadRequired total stairway width1st4040 occupants x 0.3” = 12” 36″*Minimum width for less than 50 occupants is 36”2nd480480 occupants x 0.3” = 144”3rd110110 occupants x 0.3” = 33” 44″*Minimum width for a floor serving more than 50 occupants is 44” What do we do when each floor requires a different width? We use the largest minimum width because we don’t want to create a bottleneck effect where a wide stairway leads into a narrower stairway. Therefore, we want to use the 144” measurement for the minimum combined stair width. We will need two stairways because we have an occupant load between 1 and 500 per story. The 144″ width can be divided between the two stairways. BUT in case a stairway is destroyed or inaccessible during an evacuation, the remaining stairway needs to be at least half of the required minimum (144″). We cannot have a stairway that is 60” wide and the other one is 84”. Why? If we lose the 84” stairway to a fire, we only have the 60” stairway which is less than half the required width. Summary: We calculate the minimum required combined width by multiplying the occupant load of each floor by 0.3″ and using the largest number, which is 144″. We need two stairways, so we can divide the 144″ between the two stairs. However, since we only have two stairways, each stairway must be at least half of the 144″. Referenced IBC Code: 1005.3.1 Stairways The capacity, in inches, of means of egress stairways shall be calculated by multiplying the occupant load served by such stairways by a means of egress capacity factor of 0.3 inch per occupant. Where stairways serve more than one story, only the occupant load of each story considered individually shall be used in calculating the required capacity of the stairways serving that story. Exceptions: For other than Group H and I-2 occupancies, the capacity, in inches, of means of egress stairways shall be calculated by multiplying the occupant load served by such stairways by a means of egress capacity factor of 0.2 inch per occupant in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. 1005.4 Continuity The maximum capacity required from any story of a building shall be maintained to the termination of the means of egress. 1005.5 Distribution of Minimum Width and Required Capacity Where more than one exit, or access to more than one exit, is required, the means of egress shall be configured such that the loss of any one exit, or access to one exit, shall not reduce the available capacity or width to less than 50 percent of the required capacity or width. 1011.2 Width & Capacity The required capacity of stairways shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but the minimum width shall be not less than 44 inches. See Section 1009.3 for accessible means of egress stairways. Exceptions: Stairways serving an occupant load of less than 50 shall have a width of not less than 36 inches. 1022.1 Exits Once a given level of exit protection is achieved, such level of protection shall not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge. StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022 Stairs Calculating Multi-Story Stairway Width Read More » May 7, 2019
5 Styles of Industrial Work Platforms Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Feb 27, 2018 Estimated reading time: 3 minutes Our industrial work platforms give employees safe access to equipment and machinery in both indoor and outdoor applications. The step platforms feature partial or full adjustability, rust-free aluminum, and fall protection systems for optimal safety. Click on the standard industrial work platform options below to see product details. How does the fully adjustable step platform work? Fully Adjustable Step Platform With Handrail On One Side The Omni Steps are fully adjustable and can accommodate any height within the given range. They are perfect if the required height is unknown or if they need to be moved frequently. The standard Omni Step ranges are: 1) Small Omni Step: 21″ – 26″2) Medium Omni Step: 28″ – 35″3) Large Omni Step: 35″ – 44″ Small Omni Step Platform Medium Omni Step Platform Large Omni Step Platform Get More Info Portable Stairs Fully Adjustable Step Platform With Handrail On Two Sides The T-Bone Omni Steps have the same adjustability as the standard Omni Steps, and the only difference is the added handrail. Depending on the application, you may want handrails on one or both sides. The standard T-Bone Omni Step ranges are: 1) Small T-Bone Omni Step: 21″ – 26″2) Medium T-Bone Omni Step: 28″ – 35″3) Large T-Bone Omni Step: 35″ – 44″ Small T-Bone Omni Step Platform Medium T-Bone Omni Step Platform Large T-Bone Omni Step Platform Get More Info Fully Adjustable Crossover Step Platform With Handrails The Crossover Steps are made of two adjustable T-Bone Omni Steps with an interconnecting work platform; these industrial work platforms are commonly used because they give employees convenient access from two sides to the equipment or machinery. Standard Crossover Steps are fully adjustable and can accommodate any height within the given range: 1) Small T-Bone Omni Step: 21″ – 26″2) Medium T-Bone Omni Step: 28″ – 35″3) Large T-Bone Omni Step: 35″ – 44″ Small Crossover Step Platform Medium Crossover Step Platform Large Crossover Step Platform Get More Info Partially Adjustable Step Platform With Handrail On One Side The Dual Steps are partially adjustable in the sense that the work platform can be set at either of the two specified heights. Standard height options include: 1) Small T-Bone Dual Step: 28″ or 35″2) Medium T-Bone Dual Step: 35″ or 42″3) Large T-Bone Dual Step: 42″ or 49″ Small Dual Step Platform Medium Dual Step Platform Large Dual Step Platform Get More Info Partially Adjustable Step Platform With Handrail On Two Sides The T-Bone Dual Steps have handrails on both sides of the step platform and are partially adjustable in the sense that the work platform can be set at either of the two specified heights. Standard height options include: 1) Small T-Bone Dual Step: 28″ or 35″2) Medium T-Bone Dual Step: 35″ or 42″3) Large T-Bone Dual Step: 42″ or 49″ Small T-Bone Dual Step Platform Medium T-Bone Dual Step Platform Large T-Bone Dual Step Platform Get More Info Need a custom quote? No problem. Contact us for details on custom industrial work platforms. RECOMMENDED POSTS Tools & Resources Stair and Walk Surface Glossary of Terms Read More » December 1, 2022 StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022
