Accessible - Steps

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)	Many users can manage low, even steps, especially when a handrail is provided.	Steps exclude some users, e.g. those using mobility devices.	Paint steps white or bright colour to increase visibility.
Steps should be low and even – all the same height and depth.	Steps take up less space than a ramp.
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.