This guide explains how the right stair nosings help you meet UK disability and accessibility regulations—while keeping every user safe, confident, and supported.

Why Stair Nosings Matter for Accessibility

• Visual Contrast: Clearly defines the step edge for people with low vision.
• Tactile Feedback: Anti-slip textures help those with mobility challenges.
• Slip Resistance: Reduces risk in wet or high-traffic areas.

UK Regulations for Stair Nosings

1. Approved Document M

Stair nosings must:

• Offer at least 30 points luminance contrast (LRV) with adjacent surfaces.
• Achieve a Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of 36 or more for slip resistance.

2. The Equality Act 2010

Requires "reasonable adjustments" to allow disabled people safe, independent building access—compliant stair nosings are one of them.

3. British Standard BS 8300

Advises best practices for accessible design, emphasizing visible, slip-resistant nosings on all stairs.

Read our UK Stair Nosing Regulations Guide

Choosing the Right Stair Nosings

Selecting the right stair nosings—and their inserts—is crucial for both safety and regulatory compliance. When upgrading or maintaining your stairs, consider the following factors:

• Material: Aluminium channels are durable and long-lasting, while PVC inserts provide slip-resistant surfaces and are easy to replace.
• High Contrast Inserts: Choose from a variety of colours to meet the recommended LRV contrast of at least 30 points, ensuring visibility for users with low vision.
• Slip Resistance: Look for inserts with certified anti-slip surfaces achieving a Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of 36 or higher to reduce accidents in wet or high-traffic areas.
• Profile & Fit: Ensure the inserts fit securely into the aluminium channel for a smooth, trip-free finish.

For a simple upgrade, check out our PVC replacement stair nosing inserts, available in multiple colours and designed to fit into existing aluminium stair nosings. They provide both safety and compliance while keeping your stairs looking fresh and professional.

Download Our Stair Nosing LRV Compliance Guide (PDF)

To help specifiers, architects, and facilities managers meet these standards, we've created a fully illustrated, brand-neutral guide on Light Reflectance Values for stair nosing PVC inserts.

 Download LRV Stair Nosing Guide (PDF)

Why Buy from National Stair Nosings?

We stock a full range of DDA compliant stair nosings tested to meet UK accessibility regulations. Whether you're specifying for a school, office, retail, or transport hub, our products combine safety, performance, and style.