Staircases and step systems for outdoor use made of concrete elements – The new SLG Code of Practice

The construction methods of staircase systems for outdoor use are fundamentally different from those of indoor staircases. Contrary to indoor staircases, which need to be designed and dimensioned in accordance with the specifications of DIN 18065 “Stairs in buildings – Terminology, measuring rules, main dimensions”, August 2020 edition, normative requirements do not exist for outdoor staircases with the exception of staircases providing access to buildings.

The “Code of Practice on the design, construction and maintenance of staircases and step systems for outdoor use made of concrete elements” drawn up by the German Concrete Association for Roads, Landscaping, and Garden Construction (SLG-Merkblatt für Planung, Ausführung und Instandhaltung von Treppen und Stufenanlagen aus Betonbauteilen im Außenbereich), which is now nearing completion, represents a compilation of the current technical rules and standards, thus reflecting empirical experience as well as expertise in the manufacturing and applications technology of concrete products in staircase construction for outdoor use.

The new code of practice is intended to apply to the design, construction and maintenance of outdoor staircases and step systems exposed to weathering and built using precast concrete elements. It is meant to provide in particular designers and construction companies with an in-depth overview of the current basic engineering and safety requirements that need to be considered for proper design, construction and maintenance, supplemented by hands-on application guidelines and recommendations from the point of view of the precast concrete industry.

In pursuing this objective, the new SLG Code of Practice is intended to contribute to the construction of permanently functional and serviceable outdoor staircases and step systems made of precast concrete elements.