Construction Supervisor License Practice Exam

The maximum riser height typically allowed in a flight of stairs is 8 inches. Building codes, such as the International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Building Code (IBC), set specific standards for stair design to ensure safety and accessibility. These codes dictate that a riser height exceeding 8 inches can significantly impact the usability of the stairs.

When risers are too high, they can increase the risk of tripping and make it more difficult for individuals to ascend or descend safely, especially for children, the elderly, or people with mobility challenges. Having a maximum height of 8 inches helps promote a comfortable and safe experience when using stairs.

Options such as 6 inches, while more comfortable, may not be practical for all construction projects, leading to increased run space without ensuring a balanced ratio of riser and tread depths. Heights of 10 inches and 12 inches do not comply with commonly accepted building codes as they can lead to significant safety hazards. Ensuring the riser height remains at or below the established maximum keeps stairways safer for all users.