When you own a business, the upkeep of both the interior and exterior is paramount to ensuring the safety of your employees and customers. These efforts include the railings on the outdoor stairways. Not only must you ensure that the handrails and spindles are in good condition, but you should also pay attention to the bottom flanges that attach the railings to the steps. While inspecting the flanges, look for the following signs that they need to be replaced.

1. Flange Is Starting to Crack

While inspecting the flanges, look carefully for any cracks on the surface. Since the flanges endure the weight of not only the railings but also people using them, the constant stress can weaken the metal.

Eventually, small cracks will start to form, which will further compromise the flanges' ability to hold the railings in place. At first, the spindles may loosen and cause the railing to wobble when someone places their hand on it.

Over time, the cracks will start to grow, putting the flanges in danger of breaking completely. If this were to happen while someone is going up the stairs, they could be hurt if they are putting a good part of the weight on the handrail.

Even if the cracks appear very small, it is a good idea to go ahead and replace them. You may want to opt for a strong material such as thick stainless steel that can endure the weight and pressure placed upon it with everyday use.

2. Surface Has Rusty Areas

Another sign for which you should look when examining your railings' flanges is rust on their surfaces. Especially since the railings are outdoors, they are prone to oxidation if they are made from a material that is known to corrode over time.

While surface rust can easily be removed with a wire brush, deeper rust jeopardizes the structural integrity of the flanges. And, even if the rust is superficial, it will only continue to return unless you replace them with flanges that have a waterproof coating on them, which will repel the water and make them less likely to rust.

If you notice either or both of the signs above while examining your railing flanges, their structural integrity is compromised, and you should replace them before they break completely. Contact a company like Nill Building Solutions today to discuss your options for purchasing stainless flange squares to replace the damaged ones.