Main risks

• Falls from slipping on wet, dusty, muddy or oily surfaces, or where the anti-slip finish is inadequate.
• Trips due to raised edges, height differences between treads, or misaligned pieces.
• Tread detachment or loosening due to inadequate fixing or a deteriorated substrate.
• Damage from localised overloading, impacts, or blows to edges.
• Cuts, splinters or sharp edges when handling treads and fittings; finger entrapment when adjusting parts.
• Injuries from handling heavy or bulky parts during transport or installation.
• Irritation or discomfort from dust when cutting or drilling, and from adhesive or sealant vapours in poorly ventilated spaces.

Safe use

• Verify that the staircase structure and the support for the treads are firm and level before installing.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use only fixing systems compatible with the tread material and the substrate.
• Signpost and restrict access during installation and until any adhesives or mortars, if used, have cured.
• Wear appropriate protective equipment: robust gloves, goggles, respiratory protection when generating dust, and footwear with anti-slip soles.
• Handle with assistance when weight or size requires it, and lift using safe technique.
• Keep tread surfaces clean and dry; remove water, ice, dust, mud or oils immediately.
• Check stability and fixings after placing each tread with a careful test before allowing use.
• Ensure the staircase is sufficiently lit; in areas of low visibility, consider using compatible contrast or anti-slip strips.
• Outdoors, take extra care in rain, snow or frost and use anti-slip solutions suitable for the material.

Storage and maintenance

• Store treads in a dry, ventilated place, horizontally on a flat surface; protect from moisture, frost and prolonged direct sunlight.
• Keep them in their packaging until installation and protect edges and surfaces to avoid impacts or deformation.
• Do not over-stack; use spacers or chocks to distribute the weight and prevent bowing.
• Clean with products suitable for the tread material; avoid abrasives or strong solvents that could damage the finish or slip resistance.
• Periodically check fixings, anchors and anti-slip elements; re-tighten or replace worn or damaged components.
• Outdoors, ensure good drainage; remove ice or snow using methods that do not scratch or corrode, and rinse off residues of de-icing salts.
• Immediately replace treads with cracks, deformation, advanced corrosion or signs of rot.

Restrictions on use

• Do not use the treads as a work platform, scaffold, bench or lever.
• Do not step on or allow passage over treads during installation or before adhesives or mortars, if used, have fully cured.
• Do not exceed the intended load capacity of the staircase–structure assembly, nor apply point loads to the edges.
• Do not make cuts or drill holes outside the areas specified by the manufacturer, nor alter supports or structural clearances.
• Do not use aggressive chemicals that could corrode or degrade the tread material or its fixings.
• Do not allow children to play on the stairs; additional supervision is recommended for older adults or those with reduced mobility.
• Do not use the staircase if you detect looseness, unusual creaking, or movement of the treads or the handrail.