Many of us probably don’t think twice about handrails or guardrails when we see them. The only time railings seem to make a difference in our lives is when we need them. If you are injured, handicapped, or perhaps tired, then railings can not only be helpful but critical to our ability to navigate.
For architects and designers, understanding the difference between handrails and guardrails is critical from both a design and building code perspective. Crucial measurements and code requirements must be adhered to be compliant. This blog will provide a brief overview and guide on handrails and some key code requirements as defined by the International Building Code (IBC).
Handrails vs. Guardrails
In this blog, we are going to discuss handrails and five key building codes, but it’s important to understand the difference between guardrails and handrails.
Handrail
A handrail is a railing used for support on stairs, a ramp, or other inclined platforms that require some level of navigation. Handrails run on the incline up and down a set of stairs or ramp. They are intended to provide support for pedestrians to grasp with their hands and used for guidance and support to navigate up or down. When designing, specifying, or installing handrails, it is critical to make sure the handrail is graspable with the ability for the hand to access the rail and your fingers to wrap around the railing and grip it tightly to keep from falling. Handrails must be designed to IBC requirements and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Guardrail
Guardrails run horizontally along a raised or elevated platform or other flat areas with a drop-off on at least one of the sides. A guardrail is designed to prevent falling from considerable heights and is considered a life-saving device and is designed specifically for safety. Guardrails can also be installed on elevated walkways, stairs, and stair landings for additional safety. Guardrails are subjected to code compliance testing that includes concentrated load tests and deflection testing. Guardrail testing ensures that it can withstand the force of someone pushing or falling against them. It’s not uncommon to have the combination of guardrails and handrails designed together to provide the highest level of safety.
Sometimes there is confusion with handrails and guardrails, especially when they are designed and used together. To simplify the difference, handrails only need to offer stability and a continuous guide along a stair or ramp. Guardrails, independent or in combination with a handrail, must be strong enough and resist breakage if a person or object falls or pushes on the rail.
WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE (IBC)?
The International Building Code or the IBC is the most commonly adopted commercial building code in the country. The IBC is a model code providing minimum standards to safeguard the occupants of commercial buildings. The IBC falls under the parent organization of the International Code Council (ICC). There is also a residential version of the IBC called the International Residential Code (IRC). The International Code Council (ICC) develops and updates the IBC code every three years. The most recent edition, as of this writing, is the 2021 edition. The ICC conducts a review to ensure that the IBC meets the requirements of the FHA (Fair Housing Act) and the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
Odds are if you are an architect or contractor reading this article, you are familiar with both the IBC and the IRC. Local building codes may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but most are based on the IBC and IRC as a base minimum standard. Local codes may exceed the IBC or IRC minimums but cannot be less than the defined codes.
WHY IS THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE IMPORTANT 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. We are going to look at five key IBC code requirements for handrails.
FIVE IBC CODE REQUIREMENTS FOR HANDRAILS
IBC Sections 1011, 1014, 1607, and 2407 all address various handrail code requirements and specifications. Here are five critical IBC code requirements:
IBC Code Requirement 1: Handrail Height — 34”-38”
Handrails must be installed on both sides of stairs and ramps. They must have a uniform height between 34-38 inches.
IBC Code Requirement 2: Handrail Diameter — 1.25” – 2”
For circular handrails, the outside diameter should not be less than 1.25 inches and not greater than 2 inches.
IBC Code Requirement 3: Minimum Hand Clearance — Not Less Than 1.5”
The clearance space between a wall and a handrail must not be less than 1.5 inches.
IBC Code Requirement 4: Maximum Projection of Railing — 4.5”
The projection from the wall should not exceed more than 4.5 inches.
IBC Code Requirement 5: Minimum Distance Between Two Railings — Under 30”
The minimum distance between two stair railings must always be under 30 inches.
Key Specs for Handrails
- Handrail height: 34”-38”
- Maximum projection from wall: 4.5”
- Minimum clearance from wall: 1.5”
- Minimum distance between railings: <30”
- Handrail diameter: 1.25”-2”
GRECO Architectural Metal Products
If you’re looking for design support with handrails or guardrails on your next project, GRECO designs, engineers, manufactures, and installs all of their architectural railings and metal products. As an industry leader, GRECO offers innovative designs, outstanding customer service, and unparalleled technical support. Contact GRECO for your next project.
