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Stair, railing, guardrail, handrail, landing & platform building codes & design specifications: stair code downloads - free PDFs.

Provides citations of stair and railing code & design specifications quoted from model building codes. For each stair specification & code citation, we include links to in-depth articles providing more details.

This article series lists all major building code specifications for stairs, railings, landings, and guardrails - information useful for constructing or inspecting indoor or outdoor stairs, railings, landings, & treads, and for evaluating stairways and railings for safety and proper construction.

We compare stair and railing code requirements for various model, national, state and local building codes and we include explicit text & specifications from those building codes.

This page provides free PDF downloads of various model and adopted building codes & standards for stairs, handrails, guardrailings, and landings.

We also provide an ARTICLE INDEX for this topic, or you can try the page top or bottom SEARCH BOX as a quick way to find information you need.

Model Building Code Citations for Stairs & Railings + Full Code Texts, Dangers, Safety

Stair & Railing Codes, U.S. & Other Countries + Model stair codes

See the page-end RECOMMENDED ARTICLES list

See the page-end INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES for the full index

[Click to enlarge any image]

Sketches above provided courtesy of Carson Dunlop Associates (found at page bottom, Click to Show or Hide), a Toronto home inspection company, used with permission.

Model & International Stair Ramp & Railing Codes

• Model Stair Codes: BOCA IBC ICBO ICC IRC SBCCI: see MODEL STAIR & RAILING CODES
• OSHA stair, rail, guardrail codes: see OSHA STAIR & RAILING CODES
• U.S. CPSC Stair guidance: see CPSC STAIR GUIDES

Stair Ramp & Railing Codes by Country

• STAIR & RAILING CODES & STANDARDS - CANADA - Stairways & Fall Prevention
• IRELAND (Northern Ireland) STAIR GUARD LANDING RAMP CODE [PDF] - ret. 2018/11/23, original source: http://www.buildingcontrol-ni.com/assets/pdf/H2006.pdf
• NEW ZEALAND BUILDING ACT 2004 [PDF] reprinted as of 30 May 2017 [PDF], retrieved 2017/07/14, original source: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2004/0072/latest/whole.html#DLM306036
• New Zealand BUILDING CODE, BUILDING REGULATIONS 1992: revoked (with regulation 3 and Schedule 1 continued in force), on 31 March 2005, by regulation 8(1) of the Building (Forms) Regulations 2004 (SR 2004/385) and then this version was replaced on 14 June 2017 to make corrections to clauses A1 3.0.2, A1 6.0.1, and A2 of Schedule 1 under section 25(1)(j)(ii) of the Legislation Act 2012. - retrieved 2017/07/14, original source: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/1992/0150/latest/whole.html#DLM162576

  Kia ora. The authoritatie source of New Zealand's Acts, Bills & Legislative Instruments. You can read and download any of these for free. Website: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/

• U.K. STAIR CODE [PDF]
• U.S. STAIR CODES by STATE - given below

Country, Province, or State Stair Codes & Standards

Canadian Stair & Railing Code & Occupational Safety Regulations

are found at STAIR & RAILING CODES & STANDARDS - CANADA

U.S. Stair Codes

Alaska State Stair Code

• ALASKA, JUNEAU SPIRAL, CURVED and WINDER STAIRS [PDF] Juneau Permit Center, 4th Floor, Marine View Center, Juneau AK, Tel: 907-586-0770
  This code excerpts from the 2006 International Residential Code.

California State Stair Code

• CALIFORNIA STAIR & EGRESS CODE R311 [PDF] as adopted by Mariposa County CA, essentially verbatim of the IRC 311 Means of Egress, retrieved 2021/10/14 original source: https://www.mariposacounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/41805/stairs?bidId=

• CALIFORNIA CODE of REGULATIONS TITLE 8, Section 3209. STANDARD GUARDRAILS [PDF] CA Department of Industrial Relations, [Does not mention the word "cable"] Retrieved 2017/08/28, original source:
• CABLE RAILING REQUIREMENTS 2007 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, Section 1013.3 Technical Bulletin, [PDF], Permit And Resource Management Department, 2550 Ventura Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 USA, Tel: 707-565-1900, Retrieved 2017/08/28, original source: California State Government

Colorado State Stair Code

• COLORADO STAIR & HANDRAIL CODE (2018 IRC Section 311.7) [PDF] example as adopted by Routt County and other CO cities and towns - adoption of the 2018 IRC - International Residential Code, Section 311.7, Stairways.

Florida State Building Codes - Stairs & Railings

• FLORIDA STAIR & RAILING CODE [PDF]

• FLORIDA STAIR & RAILING CODE - web article, codes, citations

Georgia Stair & Railing Code

• GEORGIA STAIR & RAILING CODE (2020) [PDF] as adopted by Albany Georgia, retrieved 2021/10/14 original source: https://www.albanyga.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/9777/63757535325867000

Illinois Stair & Railing Code

• ILLINOIS BUILDING CODE CHAPTER 13-160 EXIT REQUIREMENTS [PDF] retrieved 2018/04/12 Stairs, Steps, Rails, Guardrails

Kentucky Stair & Railing Code

• KENTUCKY BUILDING CODE 2013 [PDF], retrieved 2022/07/26, original source: https://dhbc.ky.gov/Documents/KHBC_2013.pdf 4th Edition (April 2017)

Maine Stair & Railing - Egress Code

• MAINE EGRESS CODE STAIRS & RAILINGS [PDF] IRC Section R-311, Means of Egress
• MAIN STAIR BUILDING CODE - 2012 IRC, Visual Guide, SMA [PDF] as provided by the city of Harpswell, Maine

Michigan Stair & Railing Code

• 2015 MICHIGAN RESIDENTIAL CODE STAIRWAY REQUIREMENTS (R311 - Means of Egress) [PDF] as adopted by Holland, MI, retrieved 2021/10/14 original source: https://hct.holland.mi.us/forms/building-department-forms-information-packets/information-packets/424-2015-michigan-residential-code-stairway-requirements/file

Minnesota State Stair Code

Minnesota adopts the 2018 IRC Section R311.7, Stairways as shown in this example below

• MINNESOTA, AUSTIN RESIDENTIAL STAIR & RAILING CODE R311.7 [PDF] City of Austin, 500 Fourth Ave. N.E., Austin MN 55912, Building Department, retrieved 2021/10/14 original source: http://www.ci.austin.mn.us/Engineering/Permits/Residential%20Permit%20Information/Residential%20Stairs,%20Handrails%20&%20Gaurds.pdf

• AUSTIN MN STAIR CODE, USA [PDF], City of Austin, 500 Fourth Ave. NE, Austin, Minnesota 55912-3773, Building Department (01/25/2008), Tel: 507-437-9950, retrieved 2017/0-4/03, original source: http://www.ci.austin.mn.us/Engineering/Building%20Dept%20Handouts/Stairs%20&%20%20Handrais.pdf
• MINNESOTA STAIRWAY CODE [PDF] as adopted by St. Cloud MN

New Jersey Stair & Railing Codes

• New Jersey: INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE (IBC) CHAPTER 23 TREATED WOOD [PDF] (2006) retrieved 2018/08/29 original source: [Dead link in 2022 - Ed.] conradlumberco.com/pdfs/TreatedWood2006IBC.pdf

  also found in full-text in 2009 ICC IRC INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE (2009) [PDF] complete

New York State Residential Building Code Stair Design Specifications

• NEW YORK STATE RESIDENTIAL EXIT DOORS, STAIRWAYS, LANDINGS, HANDRAILS AND GUARDS, Technical Bulletin interpreting building code [PDF] (2003)

This building code update for stairway design specifications was provided courtesy Arlene Puentes.

R311.5.3.1 Stair Riser Height Codes

The maximum riser height shall be 8 1 / 4 inches (209 mm). The riser shall be measured vertically between leading edges of the adjacent treads. The greatest riser height within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm).

R311.5.3.2 Stair Tread Depth Code Requirements

The minimum tread depth shall be 9 inches (229 mm). The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread's leading edge.

The greatest tread depth within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm). Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of 10 inches (254 mm) measured as above at a point 12 inches (305) mm from the side where the treads are narrower.

Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of 6 inches (152 mm) at any point. Within any flight of stairs, the greatest winder tread depth at the 12 inch (305 mm) walk line shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm).

R311.5.3.3 Stair Tread Nose Profile Code Requirements

The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be no greater than 9 / 16 inch (14.3 mm). A nosing not less than 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) but not more than 1 1 / 4 inch (32 mm) shall be provided on stairways with solid risers.

The greatest nosing projection shall not exceed the smallest nosing projection by more than 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm) between two stories, including the nosing at the level of floors and landings.

Beveling of nosing shall not exceed 1 / 2 inch (12.7 mm).

Risers shall be vertical or sloped from the underside of the leading edge of the tread above at an angle not more than 30 (0.51 rad) degrees from the vertical.

Open risers are permitted, provided that the opening between treads does not permit the passage of a 4-inch diameter (102 mm) sphere.

Exceptions to Stair Tread Nose Requirements:

1.     A nosing is not required where the tread depth is a minimum of 11 inches (279 mm).

2.     The opening between adjacent treads is not limited on stairs with a total rise of 30 inches (762 mm) or less.

Stair Tread Anti-Slip or Coefficient of Friction Recommendations for Safe Walking Surfaces

[Not found in NYS Code]

A walking surface that provides a coefficient of friction of 1.02 dry and 0.98 wet will comply with ADA, OSHA, and most local building codes and insurance requirements.

Other sources (cited in the two articles listed just below) cite a coefficient of friction of 0.5 (OSHA) or 0.6 (ADA) as the minimum recommended COF to avoid slippery walking surfaces and stairways.

See ALGAE ICE FUNGS WET SURFACES & OTHER STAIR SLIP, TRIP & FALL HAZARDS for details.

Also see EXTERIOR STAIR FALLS for a catalog of causes of falls on stairs that includes surface conditions and other defects.

South Carolina Stair Code

• 2015 SOUTH CAROLINA STAIR & RAILING CODE R311- MEANS OF EGRESS [PDF] as adopted by the town of Bluffton, SC, retrieved 2021/10/14 original source: https://www.townofbluffton.sc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1319/Stair-Minimum-Per-Code
• SOUTH CAROLINA STAIR & RAILING CODE - 2015 IRC Section 311, Means of Egress
• SOUTH CAROLINA BUILDING CODE COMPLIANCE GUIDELINE [PDF] for Calhoun County

Texas Stair Codes

• AUSTIN TX MINIMUM LIFE SAFETY GUIDELINES (includes stairway details) [PDF], retrieved 2017/04/03, retrieved 2022/07/25 https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/building_criteria_manual?nodeId=S6MILISAGU_6.5.0COLISACOADCO
• AUSTIN TX STAIR & HANDRAIL CODE [PDF]
• AUSTIN TX EGRESS CODE [PDF]
• DALLAS TX BUILDING CODE ORD 29164 (2013) [PDF]
• DALLAS TX BUILDING CODE ORD 29161 (2013) based on the 2012 IRC [PDF]
• TEXAS RESIDENTIAL TECHNICAL REVIEW, City of Austin, Texas, retrieved 2017/04/03, adapting/excerpting from the 2012 International Residential Code with local amendments, original source: [Dead Link 2022 - Ed.] austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Planning/Residential/OFFICIAL_BUILDING_TECHNICAL_REVIEW_HANDOUT.pdf
  Local Amendments - [Dead Link 2022 - Ed.] austintexas.gov/department/building-technical-codes

Washington State Stair Codes

• WASHINGTON STATE STAIR CODE - 2018 IRC STAIR BUILDING CODE - Visual Interpretation [PDF] as adopted by San Juan County, Washington, retrieved 2021/10/14 original source: https://www.sanjuanco.com/DocumentCenter/View/23283/IRC-Visual-interpretation-of-stair-codes-2018?bidId=

  This visual guide to the 2018 IRC code for building stairs was prepared by SMA, the Stairbuilders and Manufacturers Association, Web: www.stairways.org Email: sma@stairways.org Tel: 877-500-5759

• Washington State SAFETY STANDARDS for CONSTRUCTION WORK Part J, STAIRWAYS [PDF] Chapter 296-1655 WAC, Part J, STAIRWAYS
• WASHINGTON STATE STAIR CODE WAC 296-155-477 [PDF] retrieved 2017/12/10, original source: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=296-155-477

Wisconsin Stair Codes

• WISCONSIN STAIR CODE [PDF] Excerpted from: Wisconsin SPS 321
  Retrieved 2019/10/07 original source: Wisconsin State Legislature, https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/320_325/321/II/04/3/a/3/b

BOCA National Property Maintenance Code

PM-305.5 Stairs and Railings in Good Condition

All interior stairs and railings shall be maintained in sound condition and good repair.

Commentary: Handrails, treads and risers must be structurally sound, firmly attached to the structure, and properly maintained to perform their intended function safely. During an inspection the code official should inspect all stringers, risers, treads, and handrails.

PM-305.6 Handrails and guards

Every handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.

Commentary: This section provides for the safety and maintenance of handrails and guards. See Section PM-702.9 for additional requirements.

PM-702.9 Stairways, handrails and guards

Every exterior and interior flight of stairs having more than four risers, and every open portion of a stair, landing or balcony which is more than 30 inches (762mm) high, nor more than 42 inches (1067mm) high, measured vertically above the nosing of the tread or above the finished floor of the landing or walking surfaces.

Guards shall be not less than 30 inches (762mm) high above the floor of the landing or balcony.

Commentary: Handrails are required on all stairs more than four risers in height. Handrails cannot be less than 30 inches nor more than 42 inches above the nosing of the treads (see Figure PM-702.9).

Guards are required on the open side of stairs and on landings and balconies which are more than 30 inches above the floor or grade below. The guard must be at least 30 inches above the floor of the landing or balcony.

Guards are to contain intermediate rails, balusters or other construction to reduce the chance of an adult or child from falling through the guard

. If the guard is missing some intermediate rails or balustrades, it is recommended that the guard be repaired to its original condition if it will provide protection equivalent to the protection it provided when originally constructed.

CPSC Stair Guidelines

• CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201 [PDF] retrieved 2018/08/02, original source: https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2012-title16-vol2/pdf/CFR-2012-title16-vol2-part1201.pdf
• CPSC, U.S., NEW STANDARDS FOR WINDOW GUARDS TO HELP PROTECT CHILDREN FROM FALLS [PDF] (2000), retrieved 2018/08/02, original source: https://www.cpsc.gov/content/new-standards-for-window-guards-to-help-protect-children-from-falls

HUD Stair Rules

• HUD STAIR CODES Subtitle B - REGULATIONS RELATING TO HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (Continued) [PDF] - original source www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2001-title24-vol5/pdf/CFR-2001-title24-vol5-subtitleB.pdf

International Building Code 2000 (BOCA, ICBO, SBCCI) Stair & Railing Codes

• 2014 ICBO STAIR TREAD & RISER CODE [PDF]
• USA 2009 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE [PDF] Full Text, entire code, from the International Code Council (ICC) from the U.S. state of Washington's copy. Compressed, no data loss, for faster downloading.
• 2006 IRC VISUAL INTERPRETATION of the 2006 International Residential STAIR Code®, retrieved 2017/04/03, original source: [Dead Link in 2022 - Ed.] qis-tx.com/documents/stair.installation.guidelines.pdf
• US UBC-IBC CODES CROSS REFERENCE [PDF]
• IBC International Building Code 2003, SECTION 1007 ACCESSIBLE MEANS of EGREESS [PDF] ( exits and exit stairs stairways in buildings) as adopted by Florida, retrieved 2018/08/21, original source: http://www.floridabuilding.org/fbc/thecode/ada/2003-1007.pdf

1003.3.3.4 Stairway Landing Codes

There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway.

The width of landings shall not be less than the width of stairways they serve. Every landing shall have a minimum dimension measured in the direction of travel equal to the width of the stairway.

Such dimension need not exceed 48 inches (1219 mm) where the stairway has a straight run.

1003.3.3.11.3 Handrail Grasp Ability (Graspability) Requirements

Our photo (left) illustrates the author (DF) holding on to a secure, graspable handrail in a building in Bar Harbor, Maine. Also see

• Stephenson, Elliott O., THE ELIMINATION OF UNSAFE GUARDRAILS, A PROGRESS REPORT [PDF] Building Standards, March-April 1993
• "Are Functional Handrails Within Our Grasp" Jake Pauls, Building Standards, January-February 1991

Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of at least 1.25 inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm) or shall provide equivalent grasp ability.

If the handrail is not circular, it shall have a perimeter dimension of at least 4 inches (102 mm) and not greater than 6.25 inches (159 mm) with a maximum cross-section dimension of 2.25 inches (57 mm). Edges shall have a minimum radius of 0.125 inch (3.2 mm).

100333.11.4 Handrail or Guardrail Continuity

Handrail-gripping surfaces shall be continuous, without interruption by newel posts or other obstructions.

Also see NEWEL POST CONSTRUCTION

1607.7 Loads on Handrails, guards, grab bars and vehicle barriers

1607.7.1.1 Concentrated Load on Railings

Handrail assemblies and guards shall be able to resist a single concentrated load of 200 pounds (0.89kN), applied in any direction at any point along the top, and have attachment devices and supporting structure to transfer this loading to appropriate structural elements of the building.

1607.7.1.2 Component of Railings and Guardrails

Intermediate rails (all those except the handrail), balusters and panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal load of 50 pounds (0.22 kN) on an area not to exceed one square foot (305mm2) including openings and space between rails.

Full Text of IEBC International Existing Building Code & Definitions of Dangerous Building Conditions

• IEBC INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE, [PDF] 2009, International Code Council ICC, complete text
• 2012 IBC STAIR TREAD DIMENSIONS [PDF]
• 2000 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE (BOCA, ICBO, SBCCI) - web article giving access to Stair & Railing Codes

By its definition of "existing buildings" this model building code incorporates standards and advice for structures built before current building codes.

Full Text of IRC Building Codes 2006, 2012

• 2018 IRC INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE [PDF] as adopted by Missouri
• 2018 IRC INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE - VISUAL INTERPRETATION GUIDE [PDF] produced by the U.S. Stair Manufacturers Association, retrieved 2022/05/28, original source: https://www.sanjuanco.com/DocumentCenter/View/23283/IRC-Visual-interpretation-of-stair-codes-2018?bidId=
• 2015 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE for ONE- and TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS, as adopted by McKenzie County, 201 5th Street NW, Watford City, ND 58854 USA Tel: 701-444-3616 retrieved 2019/10/25 original source: [Dead Link 2022 - Ed.] county.mckenziecounty.net/usrfiles/2015_International_Residential_Code-redeuced.pdf
• 2012 ICC IRC INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® FOR ONE- AND TWO- FAMILY DWELLINGS, 2012 [PDF] [17 MB] Retrieved 2016/09/17 original source: online ref for IRC 2012 version https://learnframing.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IRC.pdf (the 2012 version)
• 2012 RESIDENTIAL STAIR CODE [PDF] as adopted by Colorado
• INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® FOR ONE- AND TWO- FAMILY DWELLINGS, 2006, [PDF] [51MB] Retrieved 2016/09/17 original source: online ref for ICC_IRC (2006) [Temporarily disabled link, 2015 & later - Ed.] law.resource.org/pub/us/code/ibr/icc.irc.2006.pdf (appendix E)

The ICC has free, limited, live, online access to some of the latest codes, but I couldn't find the free link for IRC immediately.

• Also see Subtitle B - REGULATIONS RELATING TO HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (Continued) [PDF] - original source: www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2001-title24-vol5/pdf/CFR-2001-title24-vol5-subtitleB.pdf

Example Stair Code Details

2015/2018/2020 IRC International Residential Code

Also Florida Building Code up to 7th Ed (2020)

R311.7 Stairways

R311.7.1 Stairway Width

Stairways shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in clear width at all points above the permitted handrail height and below the required headroom height. The clear width of stairways at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings, shall be not less than 311/2 inches (787 mm) where a handrail is installed on one side and 27 inches (698 mm) where handrails are installed on both sides.

Exception: The width of spiral stairways shall be in accordance with Section R311.7.10.1.

R311.7.8 Handrails

Handrails shall be provided on not less than one side of each flight of stairs with four or more risers.

R311.7.8.1 Handrail Height

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).

Exceptions:
The use of a volute, turnout or starting easing shall be allowed over the lowest tread.

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).

R311.7.8.2 Handrail Projection

Handrails shall not project more than 41/2 inches (114 mm) on either side of the stairway.

Exception: Where nosings of landings, floors or passing flights project into the stairway reducing the clearance at passing handrails, handrails shall project not more than 61/2 inches (165 mm) into the stairway, provided that the stair width and handrail clearance are not reduced to less than that required.

R311.7.8.3 Handrail Clearance

Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

R311.7.8.4 Handrail Continuity

Handrails shall be continuous for the full length of the flight, from a point directly above the top riser of the flight to a point directly above the lowest riser of the flight. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals.

Exceptions:

Handrail continuity shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at a turn in a flight with winders, at a landing, or over the lowest tread.
A volute, turnout or starting easing shall be allowed to terminate over the lowest tread.

R311.7.8.5 Handrail Grip Size

Required handrails shall be of one of the following types or provide equivalent graspability.

Type I. Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of not less than 11/4 inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm). If the handrail is not circular, it shall have a perimeter of not less than 4 inches (102 mm) and not greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) and a cross section of not more than 21/4 inches (57 mm). Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).

Type II. Handrails with a perimeter greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) shall have a graspable finger recess area on both sides of the profile. The finger recess shall begin within 3/4 inch (19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest portion of the profile and have a depth of not less than 5/16 inch (8 mm) within 7/8 inch (22 mm) below the widest portion of the profile.

This required depth shall continue for not less than 3/8 inch (10 mm) to a level that is not less than 13/4 inches (45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile. The width of the handrail above the recess shall be not less than 11/4 inches (32 mm) and not more than 23/4 inches (70 mm). Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).

R311.8 Ramps

R311.8.1 Maximum Ramp Slope

Ramps serving the egress door required by Section R311.2 shall have a slope of not more than 1 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.3-percent slope). Other ramps shall have a maximum slope of 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5 percent).

Exception: Where it is technically infeasible to comply because of site constraints, ramps shall have a slope of not more than 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5 percent).

R311.8.2 Ramp Landings Required

There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each ramp, where doors open onto ramps, and where ramps change directions. The width of the landing perpendicular to the ramp slope shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm).

R311.8.3 Ramp Handrails Required

Handrails shall be provided on not less than one side of ramps exceeding a slope of one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.33-percent slope).

R311.8.3.1 Ramp Handrail Height

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).

R311.8.3.2 Ramp Handrail Grip Size

Handrails on ramps shall comply with Section R311.7.8.5.

R311.8.3.3 Ramp Handrail Continuity

Handrails where required on ramps shall be continuous for the full length of the ramp. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

Section R312 Guards Along Ramps

R312.1.1 Where Guards or Guardrailings Are Required

Guards shall be provided for those portions of open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, ramps and landings, that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge of the open side. Insect screening shall not be considered as a guard.

R312.1.2 Guardrailing Height

Required guards at open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, porches, balconies or landings, shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height as measured vertically above the adjacent walking surface or the line connecting the nosings.

Exceptions:

Guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a height of not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings.
Where the top of the guard serves as a handrail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) as measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings.

R312.1.3 Guardrail Opening Limitations

Required guards shall not have openings from the walking surface to the required guard height that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter.

Exceptions:

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.

Guards on the open side of stairs shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 43/8 inches (111 mm) in diameter.

OSHA Regulations for Stair Railings & Guardrails

STAIR RAILS AND HANDRAILS

The following general requirements apply to all stair rails and handrails:

• Stairways having four or more risers, or rising more than 30 inches (76 cm) in height, whichever is less, must have at least one handrail. A stair rail also must be installed along each unprotected side or edge.

  When the top edge of a stairrail system also serves as a handrail, the height of the top edge must not be more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) from the upper surface of the stair rail to the surface of the tread.

• Winding or spiral stairways must be equipped with a handrail to prevent using areas where the tread width is less than 6 inches (15 cm).
• Stair rails installed after March 15, 1991, must not be less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) in height.
• Mid rails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, or equivalent intermediate structural members must be provided between the top rail and stairway steps of the stairrail system.
• Mid rails, when used, must be located midway between the top of the stairrail system and the stairway steps.
• Screens or mesh, when used, must extend from the top rail to the stairway step, and along the opening between top rail supports.
• Intermediate vertical members, such as balusters, when used, must not be more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart.

  Watch out: these are OSHA requirements and address construction and work environments, not residential requirements.

  Other stair code requirements reduce this number substantially, e.g. to 4" with added details to avoid a head trap and other child hazards. - Ed.]

• Other intermediate structural members, when used, must be installed so that there are no openings of more than 19 inches (48 cm) wide.
• Handrails and the top rails of the stairrail systems must be capable of withstanding, without failure, at least 200 pounds (890 n) of weight applied within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge in any downward or outward direction, at any point along the top edge.
• The height of handrails must not be more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 30 inches (76 cm) from the upper surface of the handrail to the surface of the tread.
• The height of the top edge of a stair rail system used as a handrail must not be more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) ⁽¹⁾ from the upper surface of the stairrail system to the surface of the tread.
• Stair rail systems and handrails must be surfaced to prevent injuries such as punctures or lacerations and to keep clothing from snagging.
• Handrails must provide an adequate handhold for employees to grasp to prevent falls.

  See GRASPABILITY of HANDRAILINGS

• The ends of stair rail systems and handrails must be constructed to prevent dangerous projections such as rails protruding beyond the end posts of the system.

  See SNAG HAZARDS on STAIRWAYS

• Temporary handrails must have a minimum clearance of 3 inches (8 cm) between the handrail and walls, stairrails systems, and other objects.
• Unprotected sides and edges of stairway landings must be provided with standard 42-inch (1.1 m) guardrail systems.

OSHA Regulations for Temporary Stairs & Railings

• OSHA REGULATIONS FOR TEMPORARY STAIRS & RAILINGS
• OSHA REGULATIONS FOR STAIR RAILINGS & GUARDRAILS
• OSHA REGULATIONS for TEMPORARY STAIRS & RAILINGS
• OSHA REGULATIONS for STAIR RAILINGS & GUARDRAILS
• OSHA 1926.500, GUARDRAILS, HANDRAILS & GUARDS [PDF] Standard Number 1926.500, 23 April 1973 - Excerpt: Since cables or chains are commonly used as barriers or guards on construction projects at floor and wall openings and to establish uniformity in this Region, the following criteria will govern the use of cable and chain as guards.

OSHA Stair, Rail & Guardrail Codes

The following general requirements apply to all stairways used during the process of construction, as indicated:

• Stairways that will not be a permanent part of the structure on which construction work is performed must have landings at least 30 inches deep and 22 inches wide (76 x 56 cm) at every 12 feet (3.7 m) or less of vertical rise.
• Stairways must be installed at least 30 degrees, and no more than 50 degrees, from the horizontal.
• Variations in riser height or stair tread depth must not exceed 1/4 inch in any stairway system, including any foundation structure used as one or more treads of the stairs.
• Where doors or gates open directly onto a stairway, a platform must be provided that is at least 20 inches (51 cm) in width beyond the swing of the door.
• Metal pan landings and metal pan treads must be secured in place before filling.
• All stairway parts must be free of dangerous projections such as protruding nails.
• Slippery conditions on stairways must be corrected.
• Spiral stairways that will not be a permanent part of the structure may not be used by workers.

The following requirements apply to stairs in temporary service during construction:

• Except during construction of the actual stairway, stairways with metal pan landings and treads must not be used where the treads and/or landings have not been filled in with concrete or other material, unless the pans of the stairs and/or landings are temporarily filled in with wood or other material.

  All treads and landings must be replaced when worn below the top edge of the pan.

• Except during construction of the actual stairway, skeleton metal frame structures and steps must not be used (where treads and/or landings are to be installed at a later date) unless the stairs are fitted with secured temporary treads and landings.
• Temporary treads must be made of wood or other solid material and installed the full width and depth of the stair.

R311.5.8.1 Spiral Stairway & Circular Stairway Building Codes

Above; minimum tread dimensions for a spiral stairway, adapted from the 2006 IRC as published by Juneau AK IRC R311.5. [Click to enlarge any image]

Spiral stairways are permitted for interior use as a component of the means of egress from a habitable room, a basement or an attic, provided the minimum width shall be 26 inches (660 mm) with each tread having a 7 1 / 2 -inch (190 mm) minimum tread depth at 12 inches from the narrower edge.

All treads shall be identical, and the rise shall be no more than 9 1 / 2 inches (241 mm).

A minimum headroom of 6 feet 6 inches (1982 mm) shall be provided. A spiral stair is not permitted to be the only means of egress from a story of a building.

Many codes require use of a guard or rail to prevent walking too close to the inside of a circular stair where the tread dimensions are too small for safe use.

Stair Codes for Spiral Stairs, Curved Stairs, Circular Stairs, Winder Stairs

Above; minimum tread dimensions for a curved stairway, adapted from the 2006 IRC as published by Juneau AK IRC R311.5. [Click to enlarge any image]

• ALASKA, JUNEAU SPIRAL, CURVED and WINDER STAIRS [PDF] (2011) Juneau Permit Center, 4th Floor, Marine View Center, Juneau AK, Tel: 907-586-0770

  This code excerpts from the 2006 International Residential Code.

  Excerpts:

  2006 International Residential Code R311.5.3.2

  Tread depth.

  The minimum tread depth shall be 10 inches (254 mm).

  The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread's leading edge.

  The greatest tread depth within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm). Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of 10 inches (254 mm) measured as above at a point 12 inches (305) mm from the side where the treads are narrower.

  Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of 6 inches (152 mm) at any point.

  Within any flight of stairs, the greatest winder tread depth at the 12 inch (305 mm) walk line shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).

  R311.5.8.1 Spiral stairways.

  Spiral stairways are permitted, provided the minimum width shall be 26 inches (660 mm) with each tread having a 71/2-inches (190 mm) minimum tread depth at 12 inches from the narrower edge.

  All treads shall be identical, and the rise shall be no more than 91/2 inches (241 mm). A minimum headroom of 6 feet 6 inches (1982 mm) shall be provided.

• WASHINGTON STATE STAIR CODE WAC 296-155-477 [PDF] retrieved 2017/12/10, original source: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=296-155-477
  Excerpts:

  WAC 296-155-477 (3)(b) Winding and spiral stairways must be equipped with a handrail offset sufficiently to prevent walking on those portions of the stairways where the tread width is less than 6 inches (15 cm).

Above; minimum tread dimensions for a Winder stairway, adapted from the 2006 IRC as published by Juneau AK IRC R311.5. [Click to enlarge any image]

Reader Q&A - also see the FAQs series linked-to below

On 2021-01-29 by (mod) - Public Playground Safety: guards & rails at children's slides or sliding boards

Dennis

I can't cite a national nor model building code that addresses playground slides but there are standards and safety recommendation such as found in this

• PUBLIC PLAYGROUND SAFETY HANDBOOK - U.S. CPSC [PDF] (2015) U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, Md 20814 USA retrieved
  2021/01/28 original source www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/325.pdf

  Excerpt: The recommendations in the Handbook are focused on playground-related injuries and mechanical mechanisms of injury; falls from playground equipment have remained the largest single hazard pattern associated with playground use.
  

Section 5 in this Public Playground Safety Handbook discusses platforms, guardrails, etc.

and there are pertinent ASTM standards that pertain to playground safety such as

F1148 Home Playground Equipment
F1292 Surfacing
F 355 Surfacing
F1487 Public Use Playground Equipment
F1816 Drawstrings on Children's Clothing
F1918 Soft Contained Play Equipment
F1951 Testing for ADA Compliance for Surfacing and Equipment
F2049 Fencing
F2088 Infant Swings
F2075 Wood Fiber
F2223 Standard for Surfacing
F2373 Under 2

A copy of these standards may be purchased from ASTM International by calling 877-909-2786 or visiting www.astm.org.

In addition, depending on where you live your state or local building code officials may be able to give you more local standards and guidelines.

Also see

• CLIMBABILITY of GUARDRAILS: the LADDER EFFECT where we discuss the attractive nuisance hazards of horizontal railings and cable railings where children may be present.
• National Program for Playground Safety, Tel: 1-800-554-PLAY, Email: playground-safety@uni.edu Website: https://playgroundsafety.org/standards/cpsc hosted by the University of Northern Iowa
  

Is it a code violation to install a playground slide that starts from the floor of a two story deck. If it is not, what are the requirements as to the slide itself. Are there side rail height requirements.

Does the access area to the slide at the deck level need to have a gate, etc while it is not in use. Is a gate required at the top of the deck stairs

Kevin:your local building code official is the final legal authority on what code officials will require of your handrails along flat walking surfaces.

But in general it would make sense to be sure that your handrails meet the height, graspability, and strength as well as continuity specifications in the model handrail codes such as

HANDRAILS & HANDRAILINGS

Our condo board in Florida, is considering placing handrails on flat concrete egress areas leading to our entryways. These surfaces have less than a 5% rise and are non-elevated surfaces, level with surrounding earth surfaces. There are no steps or drop offs involved. These handrails are simply to provide residents with a handhold as they walk to and from the building.

What are the FBC requirements involving railings we would need to adhere? When I talk with the local municipality, they seem to feel that the railing requirements applicable, are the same as those for elevated surfaces, stairways, balconies, etc. Is this so?

Anon: Once, with a client, I stood in front of an unsafe stair that lacked handrailings and guardrails and explained why the stairs were unsafe: as we spoke his wife stepped out of the building entry and fell down the stairs.

The people entering and leaving a public building like a church include those of all sorts of abilities, including some who literally depend on sound handrails to simply assist themselves in walking up and down stairs.

Others don't care and think they don't need handrails nor stair guards (guardrailings along stairs) until someone is actually falling: which is a bit too late in my opinion.

And in wet or freezing weather, the stair fall risk is very much increased.

Properly built handrails and guards reduce injuries by providing people with an opportunity to prevent, arrest, or reduce the severity of a fall.

In my opinion any competent, reasonable building manager who does not provide safe steps and rails, handrails, guardrails, lighting, etc. is simply not doing his or her job nor meeting a reasonable legal, moral or ethical obligation to their people and to the public.

I have an old church built in the 30's with two exit doors at never gets used with no hand rails. Each door has 3 steps, one is shallow other is steep.

I have an opportunity to have hand rails installed but I need to sell the idea to the elders.

Question: Do I need to install hand railings?

typically 4" but see our handrailing, guardrail and baluster articles found in the ARTICLE INDEX for important additional details

Maximum Space for Balusters on stairs and balconies

...

Continue reading at STAIR CODE DETAILS, or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

Or see BUILDING CODES for STAIRS FAQs - questions and answers about stair building codes that were posted originally on this page.

Or see these

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• ADA STAIR & RAIL SPECIFICATIONS
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• BALUSTERS, STAIR & RAILING CODES
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• CHECKLIST for STAIR INSPECTIONS
• CIRCULAR CURVED & SPIRAL STAIR CODES - 2006 IRC & others
• ELEVATOR & STAIRWAY LIFT CODES
• EXTERIOR STAIR CONSTRUCTION & CODES
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• LIGHTING OVER STAIRS & AT EXITS
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• RAMP CODES & STANDARDS - home - includes ramp construction, landings, railings, etc.
• RETAINING WALL GUARDRAIL CODES & STANDARDS
• SLIP TRIP & FALL HAZARD LIST, STAIRS
• STAIR CODES & STANDARDS - home - you are on this page
• STAIR CONSTRUCTION IDEAL DIMENSIONS
• STAIR DIMENSIONS, WIDTH, HEIGHT
• STAIR PLATFORMS & LANDINGS, ENTRY
• STAIR TREAD DIMENSIONS
• STAIR CODES & STANDARDS - home - you are on this page
• STAIR CODE DETAILS
• STAIRS, RAILINGS, LANDINGS, RAMPS - home - stairs, steps & railings including attic stairs, balusters, deck & porch stairs, guardrailings, handrailings, guardrails on balconies, lighting over stairs, stair component dimensions, stair types
• STAIRWAY CHAIR LIFTS - excerpts & code citations, various countries
• Wagner, GUIDE to HANDRAIL & GUARDRAILING BUILDING CODES [PDF] , Wagner Architectural Systems, 10600 West Brown Deer Road Milwaukee, WI 53224 USA Website: https://www.wagnerarchitectural.com/ Tel: 888 243 6914 - retrieved 2021/06/25 original source: https://www.wagnerarchitectural.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/ Guide-to-Handrail-and-Guard-Rail-Building-Codes-and-Standards-1.pdf
• WALKING and WORKING SURFACES [PDF] U.S. Dept. of Interior, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, retrieved 2018/08/03, original source: https://www.usbr.gov/ssle/safety/RSHS/sec13.pdf
• WINDOW GUARDS: STAIRWAY WINDOW GUARD STANDARDS [PDF]

Suggested citation for this web page

STAIR CODES & STANDARDS at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice.

Or see this

INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES: ARTICLE INDEX to STAIRS RAILINGS LANDINGS RAMPS

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