Applicable workplace safety legislation, the Ontario Building Code and the project design influence industrial stair requirements. Confirm which provisions apply to the installation.
Industrial steel stairs should be designed for their loads, access and operating environment, with suitable treads, guards, connections and a maintenance plan.
1. Structural Integrity Under Heavy Loads
Industrial settings often involve workers carrying heavy equipment or moving between mezzanine levels.
- Structural design: The responsible designer determines the required loads, geometry and connections; fabrication should follow that approved information.
- Weld quality: Use qualified personnel and procedures with the inspection specified for the project. Certification alone does not guarantee freedom from fatigue or future damage.
2. Safety First: Non-Slip and High-Visibility
Safety is the primary concern for any plant manager. We incorporate specific features to minimize the risk of slips and falls:
Grip Strut Treads: For areas prone to oil, water, or debris, we use serrated diamond-pattern treads. These allow liquids to pass through while providing aggressive traction.
Safety Yellow Finishes: We offer high-visibility powder coating or safety-yellow nosing on treads to ensure steps are clearly visible in low-light warehouse conditions.
Ergonomic Handrails: Our safety railings are fabricated to the exact diameter required for a secure grip, with smooth, continuous transitions that prevent snagging.
3. Corrosion Resistance for Harsh Environments
Many industrial stairs are exposed to moisture, chemicals, or the outdoor Ontario climate.
- Corrosion protection: Specify the coating or galvanizing system for the exposure, with inspection and maintenance requirements.
Powder Coating: For indoor facilities, powder coating provides a durable, chip-resistant finish that withstands the bumps and scrapes of daily industrial life.
4. Modular vs. Custom Fabrication
We understand that downtime costs money.
- Installation duration: Access, stair size, lifting, connections, temporary protection and operational constraints determine the installation schedule.
Mezzanine Integration: We can custom-fabricate stairs to integrate perfectly with your existing mezzanine levels, platforms, or catwalks, ensuring seamless transitions.
5. Compliance with Ontario Safety Standards (OHSA)
A non-compliant staircase is a massive legal liability. We ensure every design meets:
Correct Rise and Run ratios to prevent fatigue and tripping.
Specific Handrail Heights and guardrail spacing.
Clearance Requirements for emergency egress routes.
| Feature | Steel | Concrete | Wood |
| Durability | Highest | High (but cracks) | Low |
| Installation Speed | Fast (1-2 days) | Slow (curing time) | Moderate |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Low | High |
| Fire Resistance | Non-combustible | Non-combustible | Combustible |
Built to Work, Built to Last
Industrial stairs are an investment in your facility’s efficiency and your employees’ safety. At Weld Rich & Steel, we bring decades of experience to every industrial project, from simple warehouse access to complex multi-level fire escapes.
Plan Your Next Project
Explore our steel stair fabrication and read the related project guide. For a scope review, send your drawings or photographs, project location and required fabrication or installation work.