No matter how short a set of stairs is—or whether you’re working with a commercial or residential building—handrails will always be required for stairs. Regardless of the type of stairs, a handrail provides a third point of contact that adds safety and stability.
However, the handrail installation specifics depend on a variety of factors, but installing a handrail on stairs that meets the building code requirements and ADA standards ensures you are providing the greatest amount of safety and support possible.
Want to know how to do it?
Keep reading!
American Disabilities Act (ADA) Handrail Requirements for Stairs
Handrail requirements are largely the same for residential and commercial buildings, but there are a few key differences.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifies standards that are required in a commercial building that align with the International Building Code (IBC). For private residences, the International Residential Code (IRC) is slightly different.
However, it is best practice to adhere to the ADA standards to provide the safest environment.
To help you understand the best practices for residential and commercial handrails, we’re going to take a closer look down below:
When Do Stairs Need a Handrail?
Commercial
In a commercial space, the ADA does not specify a minimum number of risers that constitutes a stairway. Therefore, handrails are required on both sides of any flight of stairs, regardless of the number of risers.
Residential
In residential spaces, however, a handrail is required on any residential flight of stairs that consists of four or more risers.
The Handrail Path
Commercial
In commercial buildings, a handrail on stairs or ramps must meet extension requirements to comply with the IBC. Handrails must extend horizontally for at least 12” beyond the top riser. They must also extend beyond the bottom riser for at least the depth of one stair tread and in the same direction.
The handrail extension must then return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface. It can also be continuous to the next flight of stairs.
Residential
According to the residential building code, the path of a residential handrail begins directly above the top riser of the flight and extends to a point directly above the lowest riser. To comply with ADA standards, the handrail will need to follow load and continuous design requirements.
Guardrail Requirements
The ADA standards don’t have specifications for guardrails, but the International Building Code and the International Residential Code do have requirements.
Commercial
A guardrail is not required on a stairway. However, a guard is required on any open-sided walking surface that is 30” above the ground, or higher. They are also required on ramps with a rise greater than 6”. Commercial code requires guards that are at least 42” above the walking surface. Guards are intended to prevent people from falling from an elevated surface.
Elevated surfaces include balconies, landings, and decks. In these cases, a handrail is not required on a deck, balcony, or landing, but a guard is.
Residential
A guardrail is not required on stairways, but one is required in the same places as in a commercial building. A guard in a residential building must be at least 36” above the walking surface. In this case, a handrail installed between 36” and 38” (the maximum height for a handrail) can also act as a guard.
Load Requirements, Slope, and Continuous Design
For both residential and commercial properties, handrails must be able to withstand 500 lbs. of force applied in any direction and are required to be continuous for the entire length of the stairs.
This means that you need handrails around corners—up and down—and they will need to be able to handle slope and direction changes.
Choose Promenaid for Easy to Install Handrails
Promenaid designs handrails that exceed the ADA standards for accessibility and safety. Our patented brackets can withstand up to 500 lbs. of force in any direction.
Not to mention, Promenaid handrails are designed to be easy to install. Our innovative Sprocketlock™ system uses a wall-mounted disc to attach to a stud and then lock the handrail into place with a collar. With one quick turn of a hex key, the handrail is then secured in place.
When you need a handrail, Promenaid is the first ADA compliant handrail that combines elegance and versatility with and easy installation.
Contact Promenaid to learn more about the diversity of handrail finishes and stylish options.
