What are the requirements for stairway handrails?

What are the requirements for stairway handrails?
- Handrails are required on both sides of stairs and must be continuous within the full length of each stair flight. Inside handrails on switchback or dogleg stairs must be continuous. Recommendation: In facilities that primarily serve children, a second set of stairway handrails 28 inches high maximum above stair nosings is advisable.
Do handrails have to run all the way down?
- Handrails must have a smooth, continuous top surface all the way along, with no obstructions. However, handrails do not always need to continue across landings between flights of stairs, unless these are required to meet Australian Standard 1428 for access and mobility.
What is the purpose of a stair handrail?
- Handrails are a support aid when using stairs. Handrails need to be easy to firmly grasp if a person loses balance. Each stairway should have at least one handrail. Stairways wider than 1000mm should have a handrail on each side.


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