Spiral Stairs follow a helical arc, and the treads radiate around a central pole. They are often found in industrial contexts, and the reduced tread width allows for a very compact design. However, this can be a disadvantage as it can be very steep. A Spiral Staircase typically has a handrail on only the outer side; the inner side just has the central pole. As the central pole provides the structural support for the stairs, it does not need many additional support structures, which makes installation easier than other types of stairs.
For stairs serving a single user (typically private residential), a minimum of 36” (91 cm) is required. In general public spaces a minimum of 44” (112 cm) must be met—providing ample space for one person and allowing the tight passage of two people. Comfortable two person stair widths range between 49” (125 cm) to 60” (152 cm). For three simultaneous users, a minimum of 74” (188 cm) is recommended. Handrails must be placed every 60” (152 cm).
Spiral Stairs follow a helical arc, and the treads radiate around a central pole. They are often found in industrial contexts, and the reduced tread width allows for a very compact design. However, this can be a disadvantage as it can be very steep. A Spiral Staircase typically has a handrail on only the outer side; the inner side just has the central pole. As the central pole provides the structural support for the stairs, it does not need many additional support structures, which makes installation easier than other types of stairs.
For stairs serving a single user (typically private residential), a minimum of 36” (91 cm) is required. In general public spaces a minimum of 44” (112 cm) must be met—providing ample space for one person and allowing the tight passage of two people. Comfortable two person stair widths range between 49” (125 cm) to 60” (152 cm). For three simultaneous users, a minimum of 74” (188 cm) is recommended. Handrails must be placed every 60” (152 cm).
