John Templer has written the first theoretical, historical, and scientific analysis of one of the most basic and universal building elements: the stair. The first volume treats the fascinating history of stairs and their immense influence on the art and science of architecture. The second volume shows the dangers stairs present. Drawing on twenty years of human factors research on stairs, Templer sets out what is known about slips, trips, and falls. Perhaps most importantly, he proposes the idea of the soft stair, which could substantially reduce the annual epidemic of stair-related deaths and injuries.