Securing Safety: Custom Stair Enclosure

Pauline Samuels
Apr 23
2 min read

When it comes to protecting people and property, smart design and quality materials are essential. That’s why we were proud to be contracted for a custom stairwell safety enclosure at a two-story brick hospital building in West Los Angeles. The hospital needed a durable, high-security solution to prevent unauthorized access to an exterior stairwell—something that could not only deter entry but also discourage unsafe activity around the structure.

Built To Protect- Built To Last

The design called for two vertical runs, each measuring 7.5 feet tall, creating a formidable 15-foot enclosure that’s as functional as it is secure. The spacing of the pickets—just 3 inches apart—was strategically chosen to prevent any foothold opportunities for climbing, while still maintaining over 80% open space. This preserves visibility and airflow, avoiding the harsh “wall effect” that can make a structure feel more like a cage than a safeguard.

We engineered the enclosure using 2” x 2” quarter-inch square tubing for the columns, precision-cut using laser technology to ensure flawless alignment. The inner panels were pre-fabricated and carefully installed using a Telehandler, allowing us to drop each one into place with exacting accuracy. The result? A clean, professional finish that integrates seamlessly with the existing architecture.

More Than Security—Peace of Mind

In addition to keeping unauthorized individuals out, this enclosure addresses a broader concern: reducing loitering and potential camping in the covered stairwell space. By adding a physical barrier, our client gained a new level of control over their property—mitigating safety hazards and enhancing the overall security of the facility.

Where Else Do These Enclosures Make Sense?

Stairwells aren't the only spaces that benefit from secure enclosures. Over the years, we’ve worked with clients to design similar structures for:

Commercial dumpster areas – Prevent illegal dumping and keep your business tidy and compliant.
Apartment complexes and office buildings – Keep shared spaces secure and limit access to service areas.
School campuses – Enclose HVAC units, maintenance zones, or staircases to protect students and staff.
Retail centers – Safeguard delivery docks and back-of-house entries from unauthorized activity.
Industrial facilities – Fence off dangerous zones and machinery areas to maintain workplace safety.

Each enclosure we design is custom-built to match the needs of the space, ensuring security doesn’t come at the cost of function or form.

Interested in a Custom Enclosure?

Whether you're looking to enhance safety, prevent trespassing, or simply take better control of your property, a custom steel enclosure can be the answer. Visit us at tmwsteelstructures.com for a free quote and see how we can help secure your space—beautifully and efficiently