Is there a correct side on which to climb or descend a staircase?

She would drink at this bar, descend the staircase and smoke on the pavement outside.

She emerges and begins to descend the staircase to the party.

They spend a lot of time descending a staircase in processions, with zombiefied gestures, nervy moves, in a constant state of agitation.

She descended the staircase holding an umbrella and was met by three guys wearing fatigues.