5 cm (34 in. When transitioning between flights or at the start of a stairway, handrails may slightly exceed the maximum height. 5" ) Hand Railing projection into stairs (<= 4. • The minimum clear width from the handrail height to the treads is 31 ½ inches for stairs with rails on Guard Rails Building Codes: Guard rails provide protection from falls. 1 Ramp Handrail Height. (57 mm) maximum. Staircase railing height is measured from the surface of the tread The handrail must be continuous for the run of the stairs or ramp. On 2020-11-1 by Chris . . Uniform load: A horizontally applied force of 50 pounds per linear foot (plf) along the top rail. Rails must be able to support a load of at least 200 pounds and must extend at minimum 12 inches horizontally past the riser nosing at the top of the regarding code requirements, refer to the applicable codes or contact your local Building Department. Nov 16, 1978 · IS : 4912 - 1971. 8 stipulates load requirements for railing systems, including: Concentrated load: A minimum of 200 pounds must be applied at any point and direction. The handgrip portion of a handrail when circular in shape shall have an outside dimension not less than 1¼ inches and not greater than 2 Mar 30, 2020 · Handrails with circular cross sections must have a diameter of 1 ¼ in. Stair Rails and Handrails. The minimum height of the railing needs to be 36 in. Handrail height, measured above the finished surface of the ramp slope, shall be not less than thirty-four inches (864 mm) and not more than thirty-eight inches (965 mm). May 1, 2023 · What is deck railing code height? Deck railing height should be a minimum of 36 inches, measuring from the top edge of the top rail down to the deck surface. Use internal couplings, Type 18-7, to maintain continuity. This document provides clarification of the requirements for exit doors, stairways, landings, handrails, and guards in newly constructed one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height. Aug 8, 2022 · This required depth shall continue for not less than ⅜ inch to a level that is not less than 1 ¾ inches below the tallest portion of the profile. Some installation guides suggest marking this height by measuring from the nosings of the steps. Handrail height, measured above the finished surface of the ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm). For a deck with bench seating that is 16 inches above the deck surface, the deck railing has to be 36 inches or 42 inches above the bench seat. 2. overhangs do not constitute a hazard, such as baluster railings, scroll work railings and panelled railings. 6. Table 1 states a durability requirement of not less than 15 years for balusters. 25 inches (5. Chain railings. 5” on either side of the stairway. 1 General. There are many exact measurements that are required in handrail construction in Virginia. Handrail height shall not be less than 34 inches and not more than 38 inches. Handrails must meet the required grip size per section R311. Basic Handrail Spacing & Height Specifications. Viewrail offers 36”, 39”, and 42” handrail heights to meet every state’s requirement. Mich. 05 mm) shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 1 unit vertical in 2 units horizontal (50-percent slope). 2 Recreation Facilities, Handrail Height The top of handrail gripping surfaces shall be 20 inches (510 mm) minimum and 28 inches (710 mm) maximum above the ramp surface 3. Where glass is used to provide the handrail, the handrail shall comply with Section 2407. Thresholds with a change in height of not more than 1 / 4 inch (6. On a flat surface, measure vertically above the May 10, 2022 · The IBC code for structural design has some very specific requirements for deck stairs: Stair rails on decks should be between 34 inches and 38 inches high, measured vertically from the nose of the tread to the top of the rail. Handrail is required to be placed between 34 and 38 inches above the stairnose to the top of the handrail. Where handrail fittings or bendings are used to SPS 321. Make sure your sweep space and all infill openings will not allow a 4" sphere to pass through. Standard Specifications. 6. Generally: 30 to 38 inches above the stair tread (but at least 34, if new), both sides of the stairway (unless exempt), Jun 2, 2023 · The stairway is over 88 inches in width. In commercial applications, the NBC permits the top or a guard (42″ minimum height) to also serve as a handrail. 1 Height. (32 mm) minimum and 2 in. , once a stair has a 30″ drop, a guard (42 Jan 20, 2020 · Handrails shall be provided on at least one side of all ramps exceeding a slope of one unit vertical in twelve units horizontal (8. Handrail-Measurement Regulations. Feb 17, 2021 · This required depth shall continue for at least 3/8″ to a level that is not less than 1-3/4″ below the tallest portion of the profile. apart – that is, a 4-in. 11. This applies to the broad majority of the United States for all residential decks, though a few states have different requirements. Handrail must be continuous. 10. Ideally, the handrail should start at the pitch line. (160 mm) maximum. Handrail height, measured above stair tread nosings, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be uniform, not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm). Flights of stairways within dwelling units and flights of spiral stairways are permitted to have a handrail on one side only. Handrails with circular cross section shall be Jun 10, 2024 · The standard handrail height is between 30 and 38 inches above the ground, according to the ADA code. An exception addresses the height of the railings, guards, or handrails where a fishing pier or platform is required to include a guard, railing, or handrail higher than 34 inches (865 mm) above the ground or deck surface. Advisory 505. Oct 11, 2022 · Because handrails on staircases should be between 34″ and 38″, the handrail and the top of the guard can be the same fixture. In certain areas of the country, such as California and Comment: U. A height of 34”-38” is the perfect height for adults and children alike to hold onto the guardrail. 1 metres high. 505. To meet building code requirements, the stair railing should be mounted so that the top of the handrail height is 34 to 38 in. Feb 11, 2021 · Handrail Height. When the 42-inch guardrail is used on a stair or ramp, a secondary Handrail will be required at the appropriate height. Jump to Chapter 2020 City of Los Angeles Residential Code - Complete Code These handrails cannot project more than 4. [Click to enlarge any image] Hand Railing spaced from wall: (=> 1. This means that a handrail's height is measured from the top of the stair treads, or horizontal stepping members. My basement handrail is 38in at top and bottom but only 27in in the middle. 4 Height. Handrails are required on ramp runs with a rise greater than 6 inches (150 mm) (see 405. The same rules apply if you have a ramp on 2. Minimum Hand Clearance from Wall. (b) the surface of the ramp, floor or landing served by the handrail. Handrails are required for stairs in many applications and must meet standards as specified by R311. 4(b) outlines where a handrail need not be provided, this includes— where a stairway or ramp is providing a change in elevation less than 1 m; or; a landing for a stairway or ramp; or Jan 10, 2008 · A ‘handrail’ is a defined word in the Building Code, but in the context of a barrier means the top rail of the barrier. Deck stair railing must not be any less than 34” inches above the stair. 11. handrail s. Does my stairway need two bannisters? A single handrail is sufficient for stairways less than 110 cm (43. (A) Scope. Chad Holder. Measuring Handrail Height. 1 – Concentrated Load: Handrails and guards shall be designed to resist a concentrated load of 200 pounds (0. The top edge of the handrail must be placed between 34” and 38” above the nosing of the stair treads. c. 5” and 27” where a handrail is provided on both sides. This provides clearance for the hand on the railing. The top surface of the handrail should be between 34 and 38 inches above the floor or above the nosing line. 2. ) wide. 3 in the IRC code. If guardrails are required to make a stair landing safe, the handrails can have a maximum height of 107 cm (42 in. The Standards do not require lower handrails serving children except at ramps serving play areas, but include a recommended height (28″ maximum) and separation (9″ minimum) from the required handrail to minimize entrapment hazards. Handrails. In this article, we’ll also take a look at the following: The different types. Outdoor stair handrails must comply with all the general IRC handrail requirements found in section R311. California and Washington require 42″ or taller railings for decks. 5") Residential Interior Stairs Code Requirements. 42156 the handrail above the recess must be 1 1/4 inches to a maximum of 2 3/4 inches. Generally, they are required on balconies, stairs, ramps, and landings that are above 30″ high. In the U. As noted in NZBC Clause D1 Access Routes, accessible stairways and accessible ramps shall have handrails provided on both sides. A dowel handrail should be 40 mm in diameter and attached to a wall with a minimum of 900 mm centres between the support. The requirements for stair and ramp handrails in this code are for adults. Handrail height of alternating tread devices and ships ladders, measured above tread nosings, shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not IBC/IRC Height Requirements. Code R. No Railing Needed The Ontario Building Code | Handrails. A handrail is a rail that is designed to be grasped by the hand so as to provide safety or support. Stairways less than 44 inches (1118 mm) in width or stairways serving one individual dwelling unit in Group R, Division 1 or 3 Occupancy or a Group R, Division 3 congregate residence may have one handrail. 408. 3. Handrails on ramps shall comply with Section R311. a) not less than 865 mm, and. The stairway must be at least 36 inches wide, measured above the handrail. The IBC requires a guard to be 42 inches tall, with Handrails falling between 34 and 38 inches. ). 1. The 2015 International Residential Code (2015 IRC), as modified by the 2017 Uniform Code Supplement (the Feb 11, 2021 · The International Codes (I-Codes) require a guard if there is a 30″ drop, while in Canada a guard is required once there is a 24″ drop. When it comes to handrails for stairs, the unique requirement is the space between vertical posts should be no more than 1500mm apart. 8 Handrails. -diameter ball should not pass through the gaps. 8) and on certain stairways (see 504). guidelines require railings at least 36″ tall between the decking and top rail, though this varies by location. 5(1)(c) requires a minimum handrail height of 865 mm. The rail cannot exceed 38” above the stair nosing either or it will violate building codes. The top of handrail gripping surfaces shall be 20 inches (510 mm) minimum and 28 inches (710 mm) maximum above the ramp surface. Handrail height, measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm). A 42-inch railing is needed on a commercial building, most second-floor balconies, or if your deck has built-in bench seating. Jun 6, 2010 · A handrail is required for flights of stairs that rise over 600mm. 1 1014. This is a safety feature to prevent small children from falling through. A modern handrail made of metal. May 27, 2021 · 1014. Jun 17, 2022 · Stair Railing Height Code. (2) If the required width of a ramp or f light of stairs is more than 2 200 mm, one or more intermediate handrail s continuous between landings shall be Handrails are required on both sides of ramps with a rise greater than 6″. 2 Ramp Handrail Grip Size. 5" one-side-rail, or =>27" with rails on two sides) (historic) - "historic" means not approved in modern nor new construction. 01 inch. § 47. 9. , measured vertically to the top of the rail from the leading edge of the tread. This rule shall apply to temporary conditions where there is danger of employees or material falling through floor, roof or wall openings or from stairways or runways. Treads must be at least 10 inches deep, measuring from front to back. 4. Handrail height of alternating tread devices and ships ladders, measured above tread nosings, shall be The first building code is that the railing is built at a height between 900mm and 1000mm from the pitch line of the stairs, or the floor of the landing. 35 mm) and 3 / 4 inch (19. • This This is is the the top top of of the the Guard guard. A handrail must be between 865mm and 1070mm (34” and 42”) above the nosing. 7 cm). There is no maximum height. Handrails with non-circular cross sections must have a perimeter dimension of 4 in. Jan 15, 2024 · Deck railing height codes vary by location. The width of spiral stairways shall be in accordance with Section R311. Most building codes require handrails for exterior stairs to be between 34 inches and 38 inches above the stair nosings. [1] In Britain, handrails are referred to as banisters. (a) Stairways shall have handrails or stair railings on each side, and every stairway required to be more than 88 inches in width shall be provided with not less than one intermediate stair railing for each 88 inches of required width. Recommendation: Providing visual contrast (light-on-dark or dark-on-light) on the top and bottom steps that is approximately 2 inches wide and located either on nosings or at the leading edges of treads is helpful for people with low vision. For stair railings in Ontario, you’ll gauge the height by measuring from the handrail to a straight line drawn tangent to the tread nosings of the stairs. , the I-Codes require handrails placed between 34” and 38”. (6) The ends of stair rail systems and handrails shall be constructed so as not to constitute a projection hazard. This height should measure 34-38”. ) and 96. Handrail ends must be returned and terminated at rail posts. §3214. The use of a volute, turnout or starting easing shall be allowed over the lowest tread. Exceptions: 1. 3. Commercial stair handrail height must be between 34” and 38” inches as measured from the stair tread nosing. 01″. 1008. Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0. Jan 30, 2024 · Stair Handrail Height. S. Their current standard states the top rail height 'shall be 42-45"' above the working deck or platform with the midrail approximately halfway between them, with a one-inch plus or minus tolerance. cities, decks more than 30-inches above the ground require railings at least 36-inches in height measured from the deck’s surface to the top of the rail. The height of handrails is measured from the stair tread nosing, or the finished surface of a ramp slope and shall be uniform, not less than 34 inches and not more than 38 inches. c. A 2x4 is NOT considered gripable. (2) Except as provided in Sentences (3 Mar 13, 2023 · Height requirements. Many states and provinces mandate deck railings to be at least 42” if the deck is 6’ or more off the ground. The space between the inside of the handrail and the wall or any other obstruction must be at least 1-1/2”. The triangular openings at the open side of stair, formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail of a guard, shall not allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (153 mm) in diameter. This height provides comfort, stability, support and assistance for most users. Edges shall have a minimum radius of . Intermediate posts must be placed no more than 60 inches The clear width of stairways at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings, shall be not less than 31 1 / 2 inches (787 mm) where a handrail is installed on one side and 27 inches (698 mm) where handrails are installed on both sides. Maximum Projection of Railing from Wall. 7. The height of required handrails that form part o f a guard shall be permitted to exceed 38 in. Decks higher than 30″ off the ground must have guardrails to satisfy a majority of local building codes. Nov 11, 2019 · Handrail Profile requirements under the New Zealand Building Code. (100 mm) minimum and 6¼ in. 1 of ASCE 7. 2 mm), and According to the IBC, handrails must be located a minimum of 34 inches and a maximum of 38 inches above the stair, with measurements taken vertically from the stair tread nosing. Where handrail fittings or bendings are used to Dec 1, 2019 · Horizontal projections beyond the sides of the handrail occur 1 1 / 2 inches (38 mm) minimum below the bottom of the handrail, and provided that for each 1 / 2 inch (13 mm) of additional handrail perimeter dimension above 4 inches (100 mm), the vertical clearance dimension of 1 1 / 2 inch (38 mm) can be reduced by 1 / 8 inch (3. , handrail height is based on either the Americans With Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design, the I-Codes (International Building Code and International Residential Code), or the Note: For specific code requirements, contact the Building Inspection Department at 952-442-7520 or 888-446-1801 or e-mail: info@mnspect. Railing height => 31. Phone: 952-442-7520 Fax: 952-442-7521 The clear width of stairways at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings, shall be not less than 31 1 / 2 inches (787 mm) where a handrail is installed on one side and 27 inches (698 mm) where handrails are installed on both sides. 1. The associated railing height code states that these rails must be placed between 34 and 38 inches above the walking surface of the stairs. Terminators at the end of the rails are optional. b) the surface of the ramp, floor or landing served by the handrail. Must have an outside diameter of at least 1 ¼” but no greater than 2”. Additional handrails that are lower or higher than the main handrail shall be permitted. 04(3)(b)6. Handrails provided along walking surfaces complying with 403, required at ramps complying with 405, and required at stairs complying with 504 shall comply with 505. The minimum width of the handrail above the recess shall be 1-1/4″ to a maximum of 2-3/4″. Height. Private stairways 30 inches (762) or less in height may have a handrail on one side only. The words ‘baluster’ and ‘balustrade’ are both defined in the B2 Compliance Document. As before, the railing height should be between 900mm to 1100mm from the floor. (51 mm) maximum. 7. This provides enough walking space up and down the staircase. , elementary schools), a second set of handrails at an appropriate height can assist them and aid in preventing accidents. Admin. In commercial buildings, however, the minimum guard height requirement is 42″, meaning that it must be a separate fixture to the handrail, which is placed between 34″ and 38″ in these cases. The handrail (throughout the full length) should: be securely fixed and located in accordance with the design. Ultimately, all questions you might have about handrail and guardrail safety are discussed on OSHA Laws and Regulations page. This must be at least 36" high to meet IRC requirements. Handrails must not project into the stairway more than 4 ½ inches—so with one handrail, the stairway can’t be less than 31 ½ inches wide, as measured at or below the rail, and with two handrails, the 9. STAIRS The following spatial requirements apply to stairs: • Minimum width above the handrail -36 inches. 5. The recreation facilities requirements of this document references two sections in the IBC for fishing piers and platforms. is fine. A handrail or grab bar and any wall or other surface adjacent to it needs to be free of anything sharp or abrasive. R311. Stairways. have a 25mm minimum clearance from any surface. 2 Handrail Height. Handrails with a non Regardless of the specific height requirements, a railing should always be measured from the deck surface to the top of the rail. 5 cm (38 in. Explore a searchable database of US construction and building code. ASCE7 notes the load needs to be placed at the “top” of the guard. for r price for railing per square foot rate only labour 7. Because brackets should be fastened to studs or an equivalent solid structural member in the wall, it’s helpful 5. All handrail must be returned to the wall or newel post. A post is required at the top and bottom of a staircase to secure the handrail. 5 in. In domestic and residential areas, railings on outdoor roofs and balconies must be at least 1. 1Height. Is this normal? On 2020-08-16 by Amit kathe . Corner Barrier and Crossbar. A railing is only necessary if the deck is 30” or more off the ground, and 24” in certain jurisdictions. The height must be uniform for the entire run of the handrail. com. When children are the principal users in a building or facility (e. Edges must have a minimum radius of 0. In most states, top rails must be 36″ high for residential buildings and 42″ high for commercial. If the guard top rail is not used as a Handrail, it would not have graspability requirements. 4 A toe board shall be 15 cm nominal in vertical height from its top edge to the level of the floor, platform, runway, or ramp. Circular shapes: 1-1/4″ minimum; 2″ maximum. 25 (d) (1) The minimum clearance of a handrail between any other object is 2. Thresholds with a change in height between 1 / 4 inch (6. Measure from the deck floor to the top of the rail between posts. A handrail may terminate at an intermediate wall provided the lower end of the upper rail is returned to the wall or provided with a flared end, the horizontal offset between the 2 rails is no more than 12 inches measured from the center of the rails, and both the upper and lower rails can be reached from the same tread without taking a step. g. Commercial buildings generally require handrails when stairs have four or more risers, are over 44 inches in height, or are over 88 inches in width. These handrail code details are based on the 1997 UBC and appear similarly in other model and adopted building codes. ensure a firm handhold. 252. 4(a)(iii) requires a minimum handrail height of 865 mm. Deck railing openings can be wider apart – 4 ⅜ – between 36” and 42” to allow for Guard Height Requirements: The absolute minimum height requirement for residential guard railing is 36” in some states, although states (like California) have a minimum of a 42” handrail height. members should not exceed 20 cm in one direction. Staircases require at least one handrail railing: If the stairs are less than 1m wide: provide a handrail on one or both sides. NFPA 101 Code on handrail height, diameter, graspability (July 26, 2016) NHFireBear said: The NFPA 101 Life Safety Code requirements for handrail height, diameter and graspability are found in section 7. 2) Except as provided in Sentences (3) and (4), the height of handrails on stairs and ramps shall be. SPS 321. Intermediate stair railings shall be spaced Runways or platforms 6 or more feet above floor or ground level shall have all open sides guarded with standard railings and toeboards. Hand Railing Safety Precautions The Australian Building Code implements the necessary height of the handrail you must install in your home, workplace, or building, especially for hospitals and healthcare establishments. to meet code, the there is no maximum height, so 42 or 48 in. IBC1607. [ §504] Requirements for stairways address treads and risers, surfaces, nosings, and handrails. Handrail Height and Clearance Stairways less than 44 inches (1118 mm) in width or stairways serving one individual dwelling unit in Group R, Division 1 or 3 Occupancy or a Group R, Division 3 congregate residence may have one handrail. 3 Ramp Handrail Continuity R311. 1014. Where handrail fittings or bendings are used to provide continuous transition between flights, transitions at winder treads, the transition from handrail to guard, or used at the start of a flight, the handrail height at the fittings or bendings shall be permitted to exceed 38 inches (965 mm). Mar 11, 2024 · Handrail Height. A ‘baluster’ is defined as ‘a post Jul 30, 2021 · Standard Stairs – 22 inches (56 cm) Spiral Stairs – 26 inches (66 cm) OSHA 1910. The top of the handrail is the upper limit of this measurement, even if it includes a Feb 5, 2020 · Handrail requirements. Height of handrail s. (B) Definitions. Jan 31, 1992 · In an effort to achieve nationwide consistency, I have filed an August 1, 1991 petition to amend the CAL-OSHA handrail standard, Title 8 1644. These handrails shall be continuous except where doors are located on landings, with a 300 mm (minimum) horizontal extension of the handrail being Mar 29, 2021 · (5) Handrails that will not be a permanent part of the structure being built shall have a minimum clearance of 3 inches (8 cm) between the handrail and walls, stair rail systems, and other objects. Required guards and handrails shall continue for Jan 16, 2020 · Floors, stairways, railing, overhead protection and guarding of open-sided floors, platforms and runways. Mar 13, 2021 · Outdoor stair handrail code. Handrail. Flat Surfaces 1011. Aug 30, 2021 · Height: According to the International Residential Code (IRC), which is generally adopted by most U. The material and style of the handrail should meet building code guidelines and complement the building’s overall aesthetic. Infill load: A vertically applied force of 50 plf to any infill component, such South Holland Property Maintenance Code 2018 > 3 General Requirements > 307 Handrails and Guardrails 1008. When a handrail is incorporated as the top of The National Building Code sets the height of a handrail between 86. Handrail must be gripable. 4–39 inches. The same rules apply if you have a ramp on Horizontal rails must prevent climbing, and all designs must be resistant to pushing and leaning. They must also have a cross section dimension of 2 ¼ in. Most U. Optimal Handrail Height. (1) "Handrail" means a rail used to provide Handrail height, measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm). From edge to edge, staircases on private property must be at least 36 inches wide. (1) A stairway shall have a handrail on at least one side, and if 1 100 mm or more in width, shall have handrail s on both sides. Where a handrail is installed on one side of a stairway, the maximum clear width of the stairway at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings can’t be less than 31. Any railing used on stairs or balconies must have gaps of under 99mm in all directions so that children can’t pass between them. 34–38 inches. b) not more than 965 mm. above the front edge of the stair nosings. 8. 33 per cent slope). be a vertical distance of 900mm-1000mm (or 840mm-1000mm in Scotland), above the pitch line. 35 mm) may be vertical. 1–1/2 inches. 4–1/2 inches. 2 Height. (4) Height. 89 kN), in accordance with Section 4. How to measure the height. Code regulations are consolidated by state and city for easier navigation. 5(2) outlines where a handrail need not be provided, this includes— where a stairway or ramp is providing a change in elevation less than 1 m; or; a landing for a stairway or ramp; or (b) The height of stair rail systems installed on or after October 1, 2020, is not less than 42 inches (107 cm) from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail. Strength: In keeping with IRC requirements, the deck railing system must be strong Handrail height, measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm). , but shall not exceed 42 in. Runways or platforms constructed over conveyors used for the movement of materials, regardless of height, shall have all sides guarded with standard railings and toeboards. Aug 9, 2019 · In addition to finding the studs, you have to make marks at the top and bottom of the stairway to indicate the standard railing height of the rail above the stairs. The distance between the stair nosing and the top of the railing. (1) The height of handrail s on stairs and ramps shall be measured vertically from the top of the handrail to, (a) a straight line drawn tangent to the tread nosings of the stair served by the handrail, or. Handrails are commonly used while ascending or descending stairways and escalators in order to prevent injurious falls, and to provide bodily a) a straight line drawn tangent to the tread nosings of the stair served by the handrail, or. The width of the handrail above the recess shall not be less than 1 ¼ inches and not more than 2 ¾ inches. Handrail height is measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing or finished surface of ramp slope and must be at least 34 inches and not more than 38 inches. When it comes time to This applies to any staircase with two or more risers. This 42 inch height requirement intentionally conflicts with the requirement above the handrail heights be between 30 to 38 inches above the stair tread Mar 19, 2024 · IBC Section 1607. This is approximately 35. Horizontal cables, like vertical balusters, must be no more than 4 in. Flights of stairways shall have handrails on each side and shall comply with Section 1014. Guards on the open side of stairs shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 3 / 8 inches (111 mm) in diameter. Oct 31, 2021 · What Is the Stair Railing Height Code in Ontario? One of the most important railing codes to get right is the stair railing height code. pe cc ox hc gz wu tg ht wn cq