40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT considered a tread problem on stairs?

1. Too wide

2. Too short

3. Too much rise

4. Too steep

The correct answer is: Too wide

The correct choice indicates that a tread is not considered problematic when it is too wide. In stair design, the tread refers to the part of the stair that is stepped on. While it's crucial for treads to be of appropriate dimensions to ensure safety and comfort, having a tread that is excessively wide does not pose the same kind of safety risk as treads that are too short or too steep. Treads that are too short can lead to a lack of surface area for stepping, increasing the risk of missteps or falls. Similarly, a tread that is too steep can make it difficult to ascend or descend safely, leading to slips and accidents. These configurations can result in significant hazards for users. On the other hand, a tread that is too wide generally does not impede movement or safety in the same way; it could even offer more stable footing.