What is the required headroom over stairs?

The required headroom over stairs is specified to ensure safety and comfort while using the stairs. In British Columbia, the Building Code mandates a minimum headroom clearance of 6.4 feet (approximately 1.9 meters) above the stairs. This measurement helps prevent injuries caused by hitting one's head on low ceilings or overhead fixtures as individuals ascend or descend the stairs.

This requirement is designed with the understanding that many people, including those who might be taller, need adequate room to navigate stairs safely. Having insufficient headroom can also create an uncomfortable experience, potentially discouraging the use of the staircase and leading to an increased risk of accidents.

Other height options like 5.5 feet, 7.0 feet, and 8.0 feet would not align with the established safety standards, either by being too low to allow for safe clearance or unnecessarily high, which would not provide practical benefits for typical residential design. Hence, the choice of 6.4 feet as the required headroom is both a practical and safety-oriented standard in stairway design.