Handrails are an essential safety feature on staircases, and you can also work with your fence and iron contractor to give them a decorative touch that enhances your property. When you’re installing a staircase, one of your first questions might be whether it needs a railing. Although just about every staircase can benefit from a railing, it helps to know the general guidelines and potential laws that cover when you need to add a rail.

Know the Basic Guidelines for Railings

The simplest definition of a railing is simply a bar that runs along the staircase to provide physical support for people using the stairs. The decision to add a railing typically comes down to several factors, such as whether you’re adding stairs to a commercial or residential building. For instance, OSHA requires railings on staircases that have four or more steps. You may also need to check local building codes. San Diego also requires handrails on parts of a building that have four or more continuous steps.

Consider Additional Needs for Accessibility

As you plan to add steps to a building, it’s important to remember local building codes are simply the bare minimum required for safety purposes. Many buildings provide access to people with special needs who may require additional stability as they climb up and down stairs. For instance, you might want to add a handrail to steps or ramps you expect people with mobility challenges to use. Creating an extra layer of safety could protect your company from liability in case of injuries on your property. Plus, people tend to prefer working with companies that take extra steps to ensure accessibility to their buildings.

Decide if Handrails Should Be on Both Sides

There’s also the question of whether you only need one handrail or two. Many local building codes require placing handrails on both sides of stairways located on commercial properties or ones that are expected to provide access for two-way traffic. Meanwhile, a staircase in a residential dwelling may only need one handrail, especially when the staircase is narrow. As they work on choosing staircase railings, Santee property owners should also ensure the handrails are at the right height and provide continuous access for users to grab on to.

Ensure the Rails Provide Proper Stability

A weak handrail provides a false sense of security that could lead to falls. Handrails must be capable of bearing specific weight loads, which can vary among different locations. Working with a professional handrail and fencing installer is important for helping you make sure the railing you place on a staircase meets all of the requirements. For instance, using materials such as iron or other types of metal can provide greater stability compared to low-quality wood versions. With handrails for outdoor steps, Santee property owners also need to ensure they’re made from weather-resistant materials that can last for years with minimal maintenance.

Enhance safety and style with expertly crafted railings from Fred’s Fencing. Whether for your home or business, our team ensures compliance with all local codes and regulations while adding a decorative touch that complements your property. Contact Fred’s Fencing today for a consultation and discover how we can provide secure, durable, and attractive handrails for your stairs.