Stair Nosing LRV Requirements UK – BS 8300 & DDA Compliance Made Simple
27th Jun 2025
Stair Nosing LRV Requirements: BS 8300 & UK Accessibility Compliance
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is a key factor in stair safety and accessibility. UK regulations and standards require stair nosings to visually contrast with the stair tread, helping users identify step edges clearly. This guide explains LRV requirements for stair nosings, how contrast is measured, and how to achieve compliance in public and commercial buildings.
This guidance supports the requirements set out in UK Building Regulations and should be read alongside our UK stair nosing regulations guide.
What Is Light Reflectance Value (LRV)?
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) measures the percentage of visible light a surface reflects on a scale from 0 (pure black) to 100 (pure white). Differences in LRV allow people, particularly those with visual impairments, to distinguish between adjacent surfaces.
On staircases, sufficient LRV contrast between the stair tread and the nosing is essential for safe navigation.
UK LRV Requirements for Stair Nosings
- Stair nosings should contrast with the stair tread by at least 30 LRV points
- The contrast must be visually clear under normal lighting conditions
- Highly reflective or glossy finishes should be avoided
These requirements are referenced within Approved Document M and supported by BS 8300-2:2018 as best practice for inclusive design.
How LRV Supports Accessibility Compliance
Adequate LRV contrast helps to:
- Clearly define the edge of each step
- Reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls
- Support visually impaired users
- Demonstrate reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010
For broader accessibility context, see our guide to stair nosing accessibility and DDA compliance.
Measuring and Achieving LRV Contrast
LRV values are determined through laboratory testing or manufacturer data. To achieve compliant contrast:
- Use a light-coloured nosing on dark stair treads
- Use a dark-coloured nosing on light stair treads
- Avoid patterns or finishes that reduce visible contrast
Lighting conditions can affect perceived contrast, so LRV performance should be considered alongside real-world lighting.
Common LRV Compliance Issues
- Insufficient contrast between nosing and tread
- Glossy or reflective nosing surfaces
- Assuming colour difference automatically equals LRV contrast
- Wear or dirt reducing visible contrast over time
Correct fitting and material choice are essential. Our guide on how to install stair nosings correctly explains how installation affects long-term compliance.
LRV Compliance Checklist
- Is there at least 30 LRV contrast between the nosing and tread?
- Is the nosing finish non-reflective?
- Is the contrast clearly visible under site lighting?
- Will wear or dirt affect long-term visibility?
Download the LRV Stair Nosing Guide (PDF)
LRV-Compliant Stair Nosing Solutions
If you are specifying products designed to achieve compliant visual contrast, explore our range of stair nosings with clearly defined inserts and documented LRV values, including our DDA compliant stair nosings.