Stairs Risk Assessment Template for Australia

A Stairs Risk Assessment is a systematic evaluation process required under Australian workplace safety legislation to identify, assess, and manage potential hazards associated with stairs in any workplace or building. You need this document to comply with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and ensure the safety of all individuals who use stairs in your facility.

When do you need this document?

You must conduct a stairs risk assessment whenever you install new stairs, modify existing stairways, or during regular workplace safety reviews. This requirement applies to all workplaces including offices, warehouses, retail spaces, schools, and industrial facilities. You also need this assessment when building inspectors request safety documentation, when workplace incidents occur involving stairs, or when implementing disability access improvements. Property managers and facility owners should complete this assessment annually or whenever changes to stair usage patterns occur, such as increased foot traffic or new tenant requirements.

Key legal considerations

Your stairs risk assessment must address several critical safety elements to meet Australian legal requirements. You need to evaluate physical characteristics including tread depth, riser height, handrail specifications, and lighting conditions against Australian Standard AS 1657-2018. The assessment must identify potential hazards such as slip risks, fall hazards, structural integrity issues, and accessibility barriers. You must document existing control measures and recommend additional safety improvements where necessary. Consider emergency evacuation requirements, maintenance schedules, and compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 for accessibility. Your assessment should also address weather-related risks for external stairs and evaluate the suitability of materials used in construction.

Legal requirements in Australia

Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, you have specific obligations as a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to ensure workplace safety through systematic risk management. The Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 require documented risk assessments for workplace hazards, including stairs. Your assessment must comply with Australian Standard AS 1657-2018 which specifies design and construction requirements for stairs, including minimum tread depth of 280mm and maximum riser height of 190mm. The National Construction Code provides additional building requirements that may affect your assessment, particularly for commercial and public buildings. You must also consider Disability Discrimination Act 1992 requirements for reasonable access, which may necessitate alternative access routes or specific design modifications. Keep detailed records of your assessment as workplace safety inspectors may request this documentation during compliance audits.