Stairs Handrails / Guards

[Mech]

IBC 2006

Section 1012.2 - Handrail height shall be 34" to 38" above stair tread nosing.

Section 1013.2 - Guards shall be not less than 42" above leading edge of the tread.

So I guess my stairs must have a guard in addition to a handrail?

 

[mark handler]

Yes

1013.2 Height. Guards shall form a protective barrier not less than 42 inches high, measured vertically above the leading edge of the tread, adjacent walking surface or adjacent seatboard.

Exceptions:

1. For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, guards whose top rail also serves as a handrail shall have a height not less than 34 inches and not more than 38 inches measured vertically from the leading edge of the stair tread nosing.

2. The height in assembly seating areas shall be in accordance with Section 1025.14.

 

[Mech]

So the stringer and landings must each have the minimum 42" high guard, not 34"-38" for the stringer and minimum 42" for landings?

 

[fatboy]

Correct, 42" guard throughout, unless you meet one of the exceptions.

 

[Mech]

That's what I was afraid of. Thanks guys.