Stair Rails

Stair rails must be installed along each unprotected side or edge of a stairway with four or more risers or a stairway that rises more than 30 inches in height, whichever is less. Stair rails consist of the top rail, sometimes also used as a handrail, the midrail, and the posts. Stair rails installed before March 15, 1991 must be placed between 30 inches and 34 inches from the upper surface of the stair rail to the surface of the tread. Stair rails installed after March 15, 1991 must be placed at least 36 inches from the upper surface of the stair rail to the surface of the tread.

A midrail, screen, mesh, or equivalent vertical structure must be provided between the top rail and the steps. If a midrail is used, it must be located midway between the top of the rail system and the steps. If other vertical structures are used between the posts, such as balusters, they must not be more than 19 inches apart.

The stair rails should be designed from a material that prevents injuries from any type of punctures or lacerations. The surface should be smooth enough not to snag clothes, but also resistant enough to provide sufficient grip. The ends of the stair rail system must be designed to prevent any dangerous projections, such as a rail that extends beyond the end post.

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