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603 Stairway and Ladder Safety
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603 Stairway and Ladder Safety

Handrail Requirements

A handrail is a rail that provides employees with a handhold for support.

Infographic of Stair rail and Handrail Requirements
Geigle Safety Group Infographic of Handrail Requirements
Geigle Safety Group Infographic of Handrail Requirements
Handrails must be the required height above the surface tread.

OSHA has specific requirements for handrails to ensure safety in workplaces. These requirements help reduce the risk of falls and provide support for individuals using stairways. Below are the key OSHA handrail requirements:

  • Height: The height of handrails must be between 30 inches and 38 inches above the leading edge of the stair tread (the front part of the step). For stairs installed before January 17, 2017, handrails between 36 inches and 37 inches in height are considered compliant.
  • Number of Handrails: Stairs with four or more risers (steps) or that rise more than 30 inches in height must have at least one handrail. If the stairway is wide (more than 44 inches), handrails must be installed on both sides of the stairway.
  • Handrail Design and Shape:
    • Handrails must be shaped to provide a secure and comfortable grip. The design should allow users to easily grasp the handrail for support.
    • The diameter of circular handrails should be between 1.25 inches and 2 inches.
    • For non-circular handrails, they should have a perimeter of 4 inches to 6.25 inches and a cross-section no larger than 2.25 inches.
  • Distance from the Wall: Handrails must be installed at least 1.5 inches away from the wall or any other surface. Handrails that will not be a permanent part of the structure being built must have a minimum clearance of 3 inches (8 cm) between the handrail and walls, stair rail systems, and other objects.
  • Strength and Load Capacity: Handrails must be able to withstand a minimum load of 200 pounds applied in any direction. This ensures the handrail is sturdy enough to support a person in case of a fall or when applying weight.
  • Continuity: Handrails must be continuous along the length of the stairway, without gaps or interruptions, allowing users to maintain a steady grip throughout their ascent or descent. If handrails must be interrupted, such as at landings, they should be designed so users can easily resume holding onto them.
  • Surface and Smoothness: The surface of the handrail must be smooth to prevent injuries such as cuts or abrasions. Handrails should also be free from sharp edges or any projections that could pose a snagging hazard for clothing or skin.
  • Extensions: At both the top and bottom of stairways, handrails should extend beyond the last riser by at least 12 inches, where possible. The extended portion should follow the slope of the stair for ease of use.
  • Handrail Ends: The ends of handrails must be designed to prevent snagging. They should either return to the wall, floor, or post, or be rounded off to prevent any sharp edges.

These requirements are detailed in OSHA’s regulations for walking-working surfaces, specifically under 29 CFR 1910.28 and 1910.29 for general industry and 29 CFR 1926.1052> for construction environments.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-4. Handrails must be able to withstand _____ of weight applied in a downward or outward direction.

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