As we begin a new school year, our commitment to school security grows stronger, ensuring the safety and protection of both staff and students. Classrooms and main entrances often receive the most attention when examining school safety and security. However, some of the most critical areas in schools are its hallways and stairwells. Careful design and well-planned practices can turn these busy zones into safe and efficient spaces. Let’s explore the role of hallways and stairwells in schools and some best practices to optimize safety and security.
Hallways and stairwells serve as the main artery of schools that connect classrooms, common areas, and school facilities, keeping the flow of movement organized. However, they are more than just pathways. They shape the school’s atmosphere, influence behavior, and provide essential routes for supervision, accessibility, and emergency evacuations.
Poorly designed or neglected hallways and stairwells can cause crowding, limit visibility, and lead to behavioral problems, while well-maintained, clearly organized areas encourage smooth movement and a sense of order.
Hallways and stairwells are high-traffic areas where risks can quickly escalate without the proper safeguards. As a former school resource officer for a middle school, one of my responsibilities was to patrol the hallways and stairwells. Based on my experience, below are some best practices that schools can implement to enhance security. Some of these improvements can be made at little or no cost.
Clear Sightlines:
Visibility is one of the most important factors for supervision. Avoid placing lockers, furniture, or décor in positions that obstruct views. Straight, open corridors are optimal for staff and security personnel to monitor activity.
Camera Placement:
Strategically placed CCTV cameras in hallways and stairwells can deter vandalism, bullying, and unauthorized access. Proper angles enhance their effectiveness, and signage about surveillance reinforces the school's commitment to safety.
Lighting:
Bright, consistent lighting throughout interior spaces reduces shadows and increases visibility. LED lighting with daylight sensors provides the dual benefit of enhancing safety and energy efficiency.
Loitering Deterrents:
Avoid creating dead ends or recessed spaces where students can gather unsupervised. In the middle school where I was a school resource officer, students frequently tried to congregate under the stairwells. I recommended installing cameras or mirrors to increase supervision in these areas.
Controlled Access Points:
Secure doors and restricted areas should not be accessible from common hallways without proper authorization. Keycard or fob access can help control movement into these spaces for authorized personnel.
Emergency Egress:
All stairwells and exits should be marked and unobstructed at all times. Doors should swing outward with panic hardware for quick, safe evacuation.
Wide Hallways:
Hallways should be wide enough to accommodate large groups. This reduces pushing, tripping hazards, and delays.
Staggered Release Schedules:
Releasing students in waves reduces hallway congestion. This is especially helpful in multi-story buildings where stairwell use is heavy.
Strategic Visibility Points:
Place staff offices, security desks, or administrative areas along hallways so students regularly see adult presence. Even small interior windows into offices create passive supervision that discourages misconduct.
Let’s take a look at how the design of hallways and stairwells can influence student behavior.
The physical environment plays a powerful role in shaping student behavior. When hallways and stairwells are thoughtfully designed, they can reduce opportunities for misconduct and promote positive interactions. The following examples highlight how thoughtful school design can positively shape student behavior.
Flexible Gathering Areas:
Instead of allowing students to gather randomly in hallway corners, create designated gathering areas such as open commons with supervision nearby. Providing students with a structured space to socialize helps reduce hallway congestion and misbehavior.
Use of Color and Murals:
Thoughtful use of color can influence mood and behavior. Calming hues and student-designed murals foster pride and ownership while reducing anxiety and conflict.
Positive Messaging and Signage:
Reinforce school values with posters or decals that promote kindness, respect, and responsibility. This subtle messaging can shape a more positive atmosphere over time.
In addition to guiding behavior, school hallways and stairwells must also be inclusive and accessible so that every member of the community feels supported.
Hallways and stairwells should be designed to meet accessibility standards while also considering the diverse needs of students with physical or sensory challenges. This ensures that all students and visitors feel safe and welcomed, and can navigate the building independently.
ADA Compliance:
Ensure that all students, staff, and visitors can navigate the building. This includes installing ramps, elevators, handrails, and tactile floor markings where needed.
Sensory Considerations:
For students with sensory sensitivities, avoid bright, flickering lights or overwhelming wall displays. Incorporate quiet zones or calming visuals where possible.
Wayfinding for All:
Use clear, consistent signage to help all users navigate the school, including students with disabilities, new families, and emergency personnel.
Traffic Flow Markings:
Use floor arrows or color-coded tiles to guide student movement and keep traffic moving in the right direction. This is especially useful in schools with large student populations.
Designing for inclusivity enhances safety and equity while fostering a culture of respect—one that is sustained through the ongoing care and maintenance of these spaces.
Regular cleaning, repairs, and updates are essential for keeping hallways and stairwells safe, attractive, and functional. A well-maintained space not only reduces hazards but also communicates a sense of order and pride, providing reinforcement that the school is valued and respected.
Below are a few ways schools can maintain the physical integrity and overall appearance of hallways and stairwells. Many maintenance routines can be implemented with little to no additional cost and help create a positive environment that reflects cleanliness and care.
Durable Materials:
Use materials that can withstand daily wear and tear, such as non-slip flooring and impact-resistant wall panels.
Routine Cleaning Schedules:
Hallways and stairwells should be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt buildup, odors, and safety hazards such as wet floors.
Damage Repair:
Broken tiles, damaged handrails, or vandalism should be addressed quickly. Prompt maintenance communicates that the space is cared for and monitored.
A well-maintained environment is more than just visually appealing—it’s also critical in ensuring that hallways and stairwells are prepared during emergencies.
Hallways and stairwells are critical components of a school’s overall safety plan. In emergencies, these spaces must support quick, organized movement while minimizing risks. Below are some examples of how hallways and stairwells can support emergency preparedness.
Evacuations:
All hallways and stairwells should have clearly posted evacuation maps and signs.
Training and Drills:
Emergency drills should incorporate these spaces to ensure students know how to respond when the hallways and stairwells are full.
Proper Equipment:
Stairwells should be equipped with fire-rated doors, proper ventilation, and backup lighting for use during power outages or lockdowns.
The interior of a school sends a powerful message about safety, respect, and organization. A well-designed school isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about how it works.
By prioritizing visibility, accessibility, smooth movement, and regular maintenance in hallways and stairwells, schools foster environments that support learning, reduce disruptions, and keep students and staff prepared for both daily routines and emergencies.