What is a handrail extension?
3 min read
Asked by: Denise Fernandez
Handrail extensions are typically required in commercial construction. The purpose of a handrail extension is to provide additional assistance in the transition between the handrail and a level surface. (Image A – small “P” extensions returning to the post on a ramp).
How do you extend a handrail?
Top Extension on Stairs – Handrails extend horizontally above the landing for 12 inches minimum beginning directly above first riser nosing. Handrails extend horizontally above the landing for 12 inches minimum beginning directly above first riser nosing.
What is the length of the handrail extension at top of a ramp?
12 inches
Ramp handrails shall extend horizontally above the landing for 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the top and bottom of ramp runs.
What is the purpose of a handrail?
Handrails are usually used to provide support for body or to hold clothings in a bathroom or similar areas. Handrails are commonly used while ascending or descending stairways and escalators in order to prevent injurious falls or to hold necessities. Handrails are typically supported by balusters or attached to walls.
What are the different types of handrails?
There are two main types of handrail used in the construction and home improvement industries: grab rail and guard rail. Grab rail is what it sounds like: the handrail that you use to support yourself when traveling up or down a staircase.
Are handrail extensions required on both sides?
Handrails are required on both sides of stairs and must be continuous within the full length of each stair flight.
Does OSHA require handrail extensions?
Risers for OSHA stairs are allowed to be open. Handrails and guardrails are mandatory, but gaps are allowed between rails since children will not be using these types of stairs. Adhering to these regulations not only keeps you OSHA compliant but also keeps your workers safe and productive.
What is the difference between handrails and balustrades?
A balustrade is a railing (handrail) and the row of balusters (posts) that support it. And yes, it is spelt “balustrade”, although it is commonly misspelt as ballustrad, ballustrade or balluster. A balustrade can also be known as railing, rail, banister, handrail and parapet.
What is a stair handrail called?
A handrail, also called a bannister, is what people hold onto for support when going up and down the staircase. The handrail is fixed to vertical posts (balusters) or a wall up one or both sides of the staircase.
What is the difference between a guardrail and a handrail?
Defining Guardrails and Handrails
OSHA and many building codes use the term “guardrail” to refer to fall protection for raised platforms and stairways, but the industrial safety industry uses the more specific term “handrail,” with “guardrail” used only to refer heavy-duty beams of formed steel.
What is the difference between a handrail and a stair rail?
And that’s why people are choosing them to protect family members such as seniors who face threats from falling. A stair railing, on the other hand, is mostly to prevent people from falling off the side of the stairs. They aren’t asked to do much more – and they don’t.
Can a handrail be used as a guardrail?
Handrail would not be used in instances such as this, because they typically have a lot of open space below the handrail. This is not effective as people can very easily go under the rail and into the road.
