CODE REQUIREMENTS FOR SITE RAILINGS 3

[LAHJR]

While I have seen numerous publications (IBC, ADA, etc) for the requirement of railings for building construction, I know of no such codes, guidelines or industry standards for railings for exterior/site applications such as headwalls or retaining walls.

In the past I have used "judgement" when calling for railings.

Does anyone know of any railings codes or standards for exterior site applications?

Thanks in advance for any feedback.

LAH

 

[CarlB]

This thread hashed that out some-
thread194-247864

 

[GoldDredger]

The guidelines I've read about for exterior deal with sidewalk and pedestrian ingress/egress. For retaining walls and headwalls like you I've just used common sense.

Here in Texas if a sidewalk has more than an 18" drop off the side, you need a rail there.

For any stairs with more than 3 risers, you need a handrail on both sides. (or at a minimum separation in the case of very wide stairs)

For any ramp with a rise greater than 6-inches you need handrails on both sides, unless it is a curb ramp.

 

[jgailla]

This is from Florida DOT showing where a handrail is required.