Staircase design in Eurocode 2 (EC2) and BS 8110 is based on similar principles, but there are some key

differences between the two codes.

**EC2**

EC2 uses a limit state design approach, which means that the staircase is designed to ensure that it will
not fail under any of the expected load conditions. The two main limit states for staircase design are:

* Ultimate limit state (ULS): This limit state ensures that the staircase will not collapse under any of the
expected load conditions.

* Serviceability limit state (SLS): This limit state ensures that the staircase will perform satisfactorily
under normal operating conditions, such as by limiting cracking and deflection.

**BS 8110**

BS 8110 uses a working stress design approach, which means that the staircase is designed to ensure
that the stresses in the staircase do not exceed certain limits under any of the expected load conditions.

**Key differences between EC2 and BS 8110**

* **Load combinations:** The load combinations used in EC2 are more complex than the load
combinations used in BS 8110. This is because EC2 takes into account the variability of the loads and the
resistance of the staircase to the same extent as BS 8110.

* **Staircase geometry:** EC2 allows for a wider range of staircase geometries than BS 8110. This
includes stairs with curved flights, spiral stairs, and stairs with variable widths and tread heights.

* **Concrete strength:** EC2 allows for the use of higher strength concrete than BS 8110. This is
because EC2 uses a more sophisticated method of calculating the flexural strength of concrete.

* **Reinforcement:** EC2 allows for the use of a wider range of reinforcement types than BS 8110. This
is because EC2 takes into account the yield strength and ductility of the reinforcement.

**Advantages of EC2 over BS 8110**

* More comprehensive and up-to-date

* Takes into account a wider range of factors

* Provides a more reliable basis for design

* Allows for a wider range of staircase geometries

**Disadvantages of EC2 over BS 8110**

* More complex and time-consuming to apply

**Overall**

EC2 is a more comprehensive and up-to-date code for staircase design than BS 8110. However, EC2 is
also more complex and time-consuming to apply.

The choice of which code to use depends on a number of factors, including the complexity of the
staircase, the experience of the engineer, and the requirements of the client. For complex staircases, or
where a high level of reliability is required, EC2 is the preferred choice. For simpler staircases, or where
cost is a major factor, BS 8110 may be a more suitable choice.

**Additional notes**

* EC2 is the more widely used code worldwide, and it is the mandatory code in many countries, including
the United Kingdom.

* EC2 is generally considered to be a more reliable code than BS 8110, as it is based on the latest
research and takes into account a wider range of factors.

* EC2 can be used to design a wider range of staircase types than BS 8110, including stairs with complex
geometry and loading conditions.

However, it is important to note that EC2 is a more complex code to use than BS 8110. Engineers who
are not familiar with EC2 should seek appropriate training before using it.