Ramp clear width minimums

[ADAguy]

Given an 8' clear width ramp:
1. Would an intermediate handrail be required?
2. Can wall mounted HR's project into the clear width?
3. Is the min. clr width btwn HRs 36"
4. What is the max. clr. width btwn ramp HR's?

 

[SH225]

With the assumption this is an 8' clear width ramp in California and based on accessibility:

1. No
2. Yes
3. No
4. None

 

[ADAguy]

#3 if not 36", what is it?

 

[SH225]

48" clear, minus the handrail projections.

https://up.codes/viewer/california/ibc-2018/chapter/new_11B/accessibility-to-public-buildings-public-accommodations-commercial-buildings-and#new_11B-405.5

 

[Yikes]

See also the exceptions in the above referenced code.

 

[ADAguy]

Ok, so when would an intermediate handrail be required, or not?

 

[SH225]

Is this by chance a Group I-2 occupancy? There’s no code requirement for intermediate handrails on a ramp, but I’m wondering why the ramp just happens to be 8 feet wide.

 

[ADAguy]

Actually an E, it helps traffic flow, code requires HRs' on both sides, no limit as to width ok?

 

[SH225]

True - there's no maximum clear width between the handrails.

By the way - The question about occupancy was only curiosity.