Dimensions Various model codes—The
International Code Council (ICC) and
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)—and accessibility standards—ANSI A117.1 and the
Americans With Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design (ADASAD)—refer to handrail dimensions. Current versions of these codes and standards now agree that handrail is defined as either a circular cross section with an outside diameter of minimum and maximum or a non-circular cross section with a perimeter dimension of minimum and maximum and a cross section dimension of ) maximum. handrail as follows: Handrails are located at a height between . In areas where children are the principal users of a building or facility, the 2010 ADASAD recommends that a second set of handrails at a maximum height of measured to the top of the gripping surface from the ramp surface or
stair nosing can assist in preventing accidents.
Clearance , Germany The distance between the wall and handrail gripping surface is also governed by local code with the most common requirement being minimum. The
National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) and the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) require that the distance between the wall and handrail be a minimum of . The 1992
Americans With Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) stated that there was to be an absolute dimension of between a handrail and a wall. This was actually a "grab bar" dimension which was part of the 1986 ANSI A117.1. ANSI changed the notation to minimum in 1990. This was not corrected in 2010 with the approval of the new ADASAD which now calls for a minimum clearance. Codes also generally require that there be a clearance between the underside of the handrail and any obstruction—including the horizontal bracket arm. There is an allowance however for variations in the handrail size—for every of additional perimeter dimension over , may be subtracted from the clearance requirement.
Strength Handrails are to support a continuous load of or a concentrated load of applied at the top of the handrail. As handrails come in different materials, the strengths can vary. From timber to stainless steel, it is best to pick a handrail that will be right for the area. Metal alloys, such as galvanised steel and stainless steal, provide great durability and strength, whereas timber is weaker and is prone to higher rates of degradation.
ADA height notations ADA Handrail height requirements are issued to create a safe enjoyable space to enjoy for everyone. The ADA height of handrail requirements that will primarily be used by children have their own unique requirements. The top of gripping surfaces of handrails shall be 34 inches minimum and 38 inches maximum vertically above walking surfaces, stair nosing, and ramp surfaces. Handrails shall be at a consistent height above walking surfaces, stair nosing, and ramp surfaces. When children are the principal users in a building or facility (e.g., elementary schools), a second set of handrails at an appropriate height can assist them and aid in preventing accidents. A maximum height of 28 inches measured to the top of the gripping surface from the ramp surface or stair nosing. Sufficient vertical clearance between upper and lower handrails, 9 inches minimum, should be provided to help prevent entrapment.
Adult requirements Top of gripping surfaces of handrails shall be between vertically above walking surfaces, stair nosings, and ramp surfaces. Handrails shall be at a consistent height above walking surfaces, stair nosings, and ramp surfaces.
Types of handrails Handrails are available in several different varieties including
wooden/timber,
stainless steel,
brass, or
aluminium. Some varieties are more hard-wearing than others, and the cost can vary depending on the style. ==See also==