Regs for outward opening french doors with external steps

[u0362565]

Hi all,

We're looking to convert a sliding door to french doors. We have 3 external steps (50-60cm total drop) leading down to patio level and we've been told that if we want outward opening french doors that the top step needs to extend out roughly one door width to meet building regs or something equivalent like a deck. Currently it's a stone slab width maybe 50cm ish so would need to extend to 85cm or so. It's apparently a safety issue. We're thinking to just go for inward opening to avoid any mods to the steps but would have preferred outward opening really. Anyone heard of this regulation? I can imagine it is a thing just don't know where or how to read about it myself.

Thanks for any advice

 

[^woody^]

AFAIK, the only b/regs that apply to replacement doors are mainly Part L - energy efficiency, and Part K - safety glass. Specific circumstances may invoke Part B -fire safety.

The reason for a step (i.e. option not requirement) typically comes from common law in that whilst not specifically required, if someone has an accident and makes a claim against the building owner, then it may be deemed negligent not to have had a step - but negligence has to be proved.

 

[foxhole]

Question of common sense , no one needs a trip hazard.

 

[big-all]

in my humble opinion a 20-24" step is far more than needed to be fully safe as its around two full steps from the door so you step out and stand you cant stumble by mistake as both feet are at least 90% supported in a natural action stepping out

 

[u0362565]

Thanks for the comments. Have measured the top step now, it's 560mm deep, from sliding door threshold out. Also added a picture. I could understand if someone fell backwards out of the doors they could fall a lot further i.e. down the steps which wouldn't happen if it extended out more. Or if the wind caught a door while someone was holding it, it could drag them off the steps. Anyone think it could be different in Scotland? Been told it could be installed with doors opening out but that we'd need to extend the step before selling as would be picked up on survey.