Handrails For Steps Requirements

While you should install handrails whenever possible not every project requires exterior stair handrails in order to meet code requirements.

Handrails for steps requirements. They help provide support and access to those with disabilities. When it comes to handrails the code is very specific on this. This guide explains requirements in the ada standards for stairways. It should provide proper graspability which the code recognizes a type i and type ii handrail to have.

Stair guards do not protect stairs but are often used in conjunction with stairs as with stair landings or elevated walking areas leading to stairs. The final authority on when and where railings are required on steps stairs landings balconies and decks rests with your local building code official. Stairways shall have handrails on each side and every stairway required to be more than 88 inches 2235 mm in width shall be provided with not less than one intermediate handrail for each 88 inches 2235 mm or required width. Residential handrail code requirements for stairs.

A handrail is required for 4 or more risers 3 treads. For these stair rail systems the top rail may serve as a handrail provided the top rail is 36 to 38 inches in height as measured at the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail and meets all other handrail requirements in 1910 29 f. By contrast stair guards run horizontally along a flat area with a drop on the other side. Though they can add flair handrails serve a much more important function than style.

1 1 2 nominal diameter not more than 8 feet apart. This is a summary of the other handrail requirements found at r311 7 8. The building code is the same for both interior and exterior steps. The building code requirement for stair railings typically requires handrailings on stairs that have a total rise of three feet or more.

Required compliance interior and exterior stairs that are part of a required means of egress must meet the standards. 2 x 4 stock not more than 6 feet apart. Intermediate rail at about halfway up what to use for railings. Certainly the stairway that we observed in la huerta.

30 to 34 inches in height. Stair railing runs on the stair incline up and down. Handrails stair rail systems and guardrail systems are provided in accordance with 1910 28. 1910 25 b 2 vertical clearance above any stair tread to any overhead obstruction is at least 6 feet 8 inches 203 cm as measured from the leading edge of the tread.

Required compliance 210 stairways 504 handrails 504 6 505 common questions. Osha railing requirements for stair railing.