Is there a difference?

[tbz]

I am looking at single family home, exterior, masonry construction, when you step off the bottom tread you land on gravel walkway.

Thus with no foundation, typical to terminate bottom post on bottom tread.

How does one view compliance for termination on each one and how are they different for use?

See sketch below

Thank you

 

[steveray]

Typically would need to terminate over the last riser.....But maybe ex. 2 would get you there.....

R311.7.7.2 Continuity. Handrails for stairways 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. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 11/2 inch (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

Exceptions:

1. Handrails shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at the turn.

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

 

[tbz]

Typically would need to terminate over the last riser.....But maybe ex. 2 would get you there.....R311.7.7.2 Continuity. Handrails for stairways 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. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 11/2 inch (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

Exceptions:

1. Handrails shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at the turn.

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

Ok, the left one is text book exception #2 for a starting newel, however what about the right?

Do you consider this a starting easing?

 

[steveray]

I try not to get too hung up on small stuff....I can't see where right is any less safe than right....They both quack like a newel....wether or not they can read a textbook.....

 

[jar546]

updated photo links that were broken.

 

[e hilton]

The rail does not extend past the nose of the first step in either example.

 

[Inspector Gift]

Our Residential Code allows for the newel post to be located anywhere within the lowest tread. The details are compliant.