Ergonomic and safety evaluation of staircases in a Nigerian University

Abstract

In this study, the ergonomic and safety suitability of some selected staircases used by students and workers in one of Nigeria’s largest public universities were examined. Thirty staircases, spread across residential, hostel, administrative and academic areas, were randomly selected for the study. Critical staircase design parameters were identified from literature as a basis for evaluation. Values of these parameters were measured for these selected staircases and compared with standard design dimensions. The states of ancillary services associated with the staircases were also characterised. Sixty users were randomly selected and their views on the state and suitability of the staircases obtained through the administration of structured questionnaire and oral interviews. While the original staircases’ parameters compared well with standard design specifications for stair cases, the current state of the staircases has deteriorated. Most components and services such as illumination, the state of handrails, and surface slipperiness, indicate deviation from safe limits. Generally users are dissatisfied with most of the staircases. It is concluded that the existing staircases require urgent and regular maintenance, and the provision of alternative sources of light to reduce potential accidents and injuryKeywords: Ergonomics, Accidents, Safety, Staircas