The Ontario Building Code | Surface Finish of Ramps and Stairs
3.4.6.1. surface Finish of Ramps and Stairs
(1) The surfaces of ramps, landings and treads shall,
(a) have a finish that is slip-resistant, and
(b) if accessible to the public, have a colour contrast or a distinctive visual pattern to demarcate,
(i) the leading edge of the tread,
(ii) the leading edge of the landing, and
(iii) the beginning and end of a ramp.
(2) A tactile attention indicator conforming to Article 3.8.3.18. shall be installed,
(a) at the top of the stairs, starting one tread depth back from the edge of the top stair, and
(b) at the leading edge of landings where a doorway ="http://thehandyforce.com/doors/" title ="Toronto Door installer">doorway opens onto stairs, starting one tread depth back from the edge of the landing.
(3) Treads and landings of exterior exit stairs shall be designed to be free of ice and snow accumulations if the stairs,
(a) are more than 10 m high, or
(b) serve a hotel.
In Plain Language
Ramp, landing, and stair tread surfaces must be slip-resistant, and where accessible to the public, need colour contrast or a distinctive visual pattern marking the leading edges of treads and landings to help prevent trips and falls.
This is a plain-language summary of the 2012/2017 Ontario Building Code text above, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24) or a qualified professional before construction.