Code about contrasting colors on stairs or no repeating patterns

[ckc189]

I know its not safe but I cant find a code that talks contrasting colors on stairs, specifically anything about a "disappearing" stair because of the striping on carpet running onto the stairs. Does anyone know of one?

Thanks for any help!

 

[RLGA]

ANSI A117.1-2009, Section 504.5.1. ANSI A117.1 is referenced by IBC Section 1102.1.

 

[mark handler]

Nothing about a "disappearing" stair

Florida Building Code 1029.13.2.3 Tread contrasting marking stripe

A contrasting marking stripe shall be provided on each tread at the nosing or leading edge such that the location of each tread is readily apparent when viewed in descent. Such stripe shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm), and not more than 2 inches (51 mm), wide.

Exception: The contrasting marking stripe is permitted to be omitted where tread surfaces are such that the location of each tread is readily apparent when viewed in descent.

 

[ADAguy]

Excellent and valuable question and responses.
Interesting to note no difference between interior and exterior stairs.
Unfortunately this requirement does not apply to Single Family Residences.

 

[Yikes]

Follow-up question: how much "contrast" is enough? Does the word "contrast" refer to color, or to light-vs-dark?
Is it something that can be an objective and measurable vs. a subjective call?
From the CBC:



On the example below, is the gold sufficient? Would black be acceptable?

 

[e hilton]

Got a picture

Follow-up question: how much "contrast" is enough? Does the word "contrast" refer to color, or to light-vs-dark?
Is it something that can be an objective and measurable vs. a subjective call?
From the CBC:

View attachment 15764

On the example below, is the gold sufficient? Would black be acceptable?


View attachment 15763

Got a picture of the black?

 

[Yikes]

Got a picture

Got a picture of the black?

Working on it. Had a staff person assume that gray vs. yellow = "clearly contrasting". He's getting a black swatch.

I may send him out there with a black Sharpie

 

[arwat23]

Follow-up question: how much "contrast" is enough? Does the word "contrast" refer to color, or to light-vs-dark?
Is it something that can be an objective and measurable vs. a subjective call?
From the CBC:

View attachment 15764

On the example below, is the gold sufficient? Would black be acceptable?


View attachment 15763

CBC has something that mathematically addresses this, although it's only for detectable warnings:


Other than this, code doesn't seem to provide any specifics on what's enough contrast. It's a subjective call.

Edit: I usually aim for what's not even arguable, i.e. gray carpet with a bright ass yellow stripe. I usually recommend replacement / something different if it's something a reasonable person could reasonably argue against, like what's in the photo (imo). Not an exact science clearly...

 

[Yikes]

CBC has something that mathematically addresses this, although it's only for detectable warnings:
View attachment 15765

Other than this, code doesn't seem to provide any specifics on what's enough contrast. It's a subjective call.

Edit: I usually aim for what's not even arguable, i.e. gray carpet with a bright ass yellow stripe. I usually recommend replacement / something different if it's something a reasonable person could reasonably argue against, like what's in the photo (imo). Not an exact science clearly...

Super helpful, thanks!

 

[ICE]

Exception: The contrasting marking stripe is permitted to be omitted where tread surfaces are such that the location of each tread is readily apparent when viewed in descent.

That pretty much negates the requirement.