Stairway Width

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

October 17, 2024

Ryan D. Harting, PE
Borton- Lawson
3897 Adler Place
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18017

Dear Mr. Harting:

Thank you for your inquiry to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding stair width and handrails. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of only the requirements discussed and may not be applicable to any questions not delineated within your original correspondence. Your paraphrased question and OSHA’s response are below:

Walking-Working Surfaces

  • Publication Date:
  • Publication Type:
  • Fed Register #:
    86:27332-27338
  • Title:
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 96 (Thursday, May 20, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 27332-27338]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [