Accessible - Steps

Steps should be low and even – all the same height and depth

Low concrete steps with cross-hatching to reduce the risk of slipping

Handrail accompanying steps to a protected spring

Suitable for: steep terrain; where space is limited; households or communities with no wheelchair users.

Construction	Advantages	Disadvantages	Improvements / variations	Cost / labour
Recommended step dimensions (for reference) Steps should be low and even – all the same height and depth	Many users can manage low, even steps, especially when a handrail is provided. Steps take up less space than a ramp.	Steps exclude some users, e.g. those using mobility devices.	Paint steps white or bright colour to increase visibility.
Low concrete steps with cross-hatching to reduce the risk of slipping	Cross-hatching is easy to apply – the concrete is scored while wet	No edge protection for unstable or visually impaired users	Steps should be of consistent height Install a guard or handrail	Low
Handrail accompanying steps to a protected spring	Useful for all users Might prevent injury from slipping on wet steps	Handrail needs maintenance to ensure it is stable and strong enough	Paint handrail and steps white or bright colour to increase visibility	Medium

Acknowledgements

• Content and images: Compendium of accessible WASH technologies WaterAid and WEDC.