jpowell
Bronze Member
Picture a low wall to the side of the stair. The handrail is built on top of the wall such that the graspability meets code. The height of the handrail meets code. Our situation is one where we are either using the IRC or our height is less than 30" so we do not need a GUARD. IBC/IRC 2012.
How far can someone reach over something to reach the handrail? Let's say the wall is 6" wide and the handrail is centered on that wall, leaving 2" to "reach over". What about a wall that is 12" wide with handrail centered on it? I am having trouble locating the code section that would apply.
My assumption has always been that the handrail is the first thing you would bump into horizontally moving sideways. But in this case, the profile is more like looking at human shoulders and head. How broad can the shoulders be before you can't reach the head?
How far can someone reach over something to reach the handrail? Let's say the wall is 6" wide and the handrail is centered on that wall, leaving 2" to "reach over". What about a wall that is 12" wide with handrail centered on it? I am having trouble locating the code section that would apply.
My assumption has always been that the handrail is the first thing you would bump into horizontally moving sideways. But in this case, the profile is more like looking at human shoulders and head. How broad can the shoulders be before you can't reach the head?