STEPS / DECK HANDRAIL / GUARDRAIL NOT INSTALLED / INCOMPLETE / IMPROPER
/ DAMAGED / AMISS: Steps which lead to a building are common as are
steps which lead up slopes to the top of retaining walls and the like.
These steps and stairways often have no handrails Porches or other decks
which are over 30 inches above grade should have guardrails installed
Many times property owners will just want to be aware of these things
Sometimes property owners, especially those with elderly or handicapped
company, will want to install some sort of handrail system. The
installation of handrails or guardrails on concrete walks or decks is
best accomplished by Wrought Iron Companies. Wood decks or walks are
somewhat easier to make safe and may be accomplished by Building
Contractors as well as Wrought Iron Contractors, depending on the type
railings you prefer If you elect to do it yourself you will find hand
and guardrails are fairly easy to install and/or repair provided you
have the right tools. Be sure to keep guardrails at least 36 inches
above the surface you stand on (42" in commercial construction) and
handrails at least 34 inches above each stair or step nose (older codes
allowed handrails to be as low as 32" from the tread nose). All
railings should be spaced so that a 4" sphere will barely pass
through
The above information was provided by TWI Systems Copyright 1995-2005 1-800-553-5660