Stair Nosings Ireland
At Facility Flooring, we specialize in facility flooring solutions that prioritize safety, durability, and compliance. One key component of a well-designed stairway is stair nosings, which enhance both the safety and longevity of the steps. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of stair nosings, their compliance with Irish building regulations, and the crucial role of Light Reflectance Value (LRV) in ensuring visibility and safety.
What are Stair Nosings?
Stair nosing refers to the edge or front part of a step where foot traffic makes the most contact. It serves multiple purposes, including:
• Safety – Reduces the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
• Durability – Protects the stair edges from wear and tear.
• Visibility – Helps people, including those with visual impairments, identify the edge of each step.
• Aesthetics – Contributes to the overall design and appearance of the staircase.
Stair Nosings Compliance with Irish Building Regulations
In Ireland, stair nosings must comply with the Technical Guidance Document M (TGD M) of the Irish Building Regulations, which aligns with Universal Design Principles to ensure accessibility for all individuals, including those with visual impairments.
For stair nosings to be compliant, they must meet the following requirements:
1. Size and Shape: The nosing should have a minimum depth of 50mm and a maximum of 65mm to provide adequate visual contrast and stability.
2. Slip Resistance: Materials should be non-slip to improve traction and prevent accidents.
3. Light Reflectance Value (LRV) Contrast: A minimum 30-point LRV difference between the nosing and the surrounding flooring.
These requirements are in place to improve safety, reduce hazards, and enhance accessibility in public buildings and workplaces.
Understanding Light Reflectance Value (LRV)
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) measures how much light a surface reflects, helping to create visual contrast between different surfaces. It is rated on a scale of 0 to 100, where:
• 0 represents absolute black (absorbing all light).
• 100 represents pure white (reflecting all light).
For stair nosings, a 30-point LRV difference from the surrounding flooring is required to make the step edges clearly visible, particularly for those with visual impairments.
Example of LRV Differences
• A dark grey floor with an LRV of 20 would require a nosing with an LRV of 50 or higher.
• A light beige floor with an LRV of 65 would require a nosing with an LRV of 35 or lower.
This contrast helps users distinguish the steps clearly, reducing the risk of missteps and falls.
Choosing the Right Stair Nosing
When selecting stair nosings for your facility, consider the following:
1. Material – Options include aluminum, PVC, and rubber, all offering durability and slip resistance.
2. Profile & Fit – Ensure the nosing is compatible with your stairs, whether straight-edged or curved.
3. Compliance – Check that the nosing meets Irish Building Regulations (TGD M), including size and LRV contrast.
4. Aesthetic Integration – Choose a finish that complements your facility’s design while maintaining safety.
Final Thoughts
Stair nosings are an essential safety feature in any facility, ensuring compliance with Irish regulations while preventing accidents. By selecting the right nosing with an appropriate LRV contrast, you enhance the visibility of stair edges and create a safer environment for all users.
At Facility Flooring, we provide DDA-compliant and TGD M-compliant stair nosings tailored to your facility’s needs. Contact us today to learn more about our range of safety-focused flooring solutions!
