Table of Contents
How high should handrails be Canada?
34 and 42 inches
Handrail Height A handrail must be between 865mm and 1070mm (34 and 42 inches) above the nosing.
Are horizontal railings legal in Canada?
According to the Canadian National Building Code (NBC) 2015, the installation of a horizontal cable railing systems is allowed up to a height of 4.2 meters (13′).
Do I need handrails on both sides of stairs?
Handrails are required on both sides of stairs and ramps. They are placed between 34 inches and 38 inches above the leading edge of a stair tread, the ramp surface, or the walking surface. Where children are the primary users of a facility, the ADA recommends a second handrail for children.
Is it illegal not to have a handrail?
Handrails are mandatory. Stairs should have a handrail on at least one side if they are less than one metre wide, and on both sides if wider than this. Handrails should be placed between 900mm and 1000mm above the highest point on the staircase steps.
How many steps require a handrail Ontario?
Each step within a flight of stairs is required to have a 1 inch nosing. The table below lists the minimum and maximum dimensions. Handrails and Guards Interior stairs with 3 or more steps and exterior stairs that have 4 or more steps require a handrail.
Do handrails need to be continuous?
Handrail Continuity: Handrail must be continuous within the full length of each stair flight or ramp run. Inside handrails on switchback or dogleg stairs and ramps shall be continuous between flights or runs. Handrails are not to be obstructed along their tops or sides.
What are the International Building Code standards for handrails?
There are numerous standards in the International Building Code that are related specifically to Handrails. Essentially handrails are designed to provide guidance, support and safety for stairs and ADA ramps with a rise of 6 inches. The IBC defines the various design requirements for handrails, providing clear and concise specifications.
What is the National Building Code of Canada?
The National Building Code of Canada 2015 (NBC), published by NRC and developed by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes, sets out technical provisions for the design and construction of new buildings. It also applies to the alteration, change of use and demolition of existing buildings.
When do you need a handrail on a staircase?
Outdoors, handrails are required for stairways that serve a single dwelling unit and have more than three risers. How high does a handrail need to be? The National Building Code sets the height of a handrail between 86.5 cm (34 in.) and 96.5 cm (38 in.).
Are you aware of the regulations for guardrails and handrails?
Specialized companies and general contractors are usually aware of the code in effect, but if you want to do the work yourself, you must get up to speed on the regulations for guardrails and handrails. If not, you could be held liable if someone gets hurt or worse!