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Handrail required for single step between exit egress and public way or not

That would be it. Interesting to note that I taught 300 of their M & O personnel back in 03' for their public housing projects. They have seen this coming for years.
 
Does 1003.5 apply? Changes in elevation in a means of egress that are less than 12 inches must be made with a sloped surface.
Good catch!
I don't think the original post indicated whether the situation in question was a required means of egress vs. a convenience stair; whether it was indoors or outdoors; what was the occupancy type, etc.
CBC 1003.5 might apply - - or its exceptions might apply, negating a need for sloped surface.

1003.5 Elevation change. Where changes in elevation of less than 12 inches (305 mm) exist in the means of egress, sloped surfaces shall be used. Where the slope is greater than one unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope), ramps complying with Section 1010 shall be used. Where the difference in elevation is 6 inches (152 mm) or less, the ramp shall be equipped with either handrails or floor finish materials that contrast with adjacent floor finish materials.
Exceptions:
1. A single step with a maximum riser height of 7 inches (178 mm) is permitted for buildings with occupancies in Groups F, H, R-2, R-3, S and U at exterior doors not required to be accessible by Chapter 11A or 11 B.
2. A stair with a single riser or with two risers and a tread is permitted at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter 11A or 11B, provided that the risers and treads comply with Section 1009.7, the minimum depth of the tread is 13 inches (330 mm) and at least one handrail complying with Section 1012 is provided within 30 inches (762 mm) of the centerline of the normal path of egress travel on the stair.
3. A step is permitted in aisles serving seating that has a difference in elevation less than 12 inches (305 mm) at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter 11 A or 11 B, provided that the risers and treads comply with Section 1028.11 and the aisle is provided with a handrail complying with Section 1028.13.
Throughout a story in a Group 1-2 occupancy, any change in elevation in portions of the means of egress that serve nonambulatory persons shall be by means of a ramp or sloped walkway.​
 
Ah, we are on the same page on this but attorney's will argue that only the minimum is defenseable, if no handrail is required then it is user beware.
 
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