Many people struggle with deciding which side of the stairs a handrail should go on. It's a common dilemma, especially when balancing safety, comfort, and legal requirements. This article will walk you through the key factors to consider, making it easier to make the best choice for your stairs.
Building Code Handrails Requirements
General Guidelines
In my experience, installing handrails on at least one side of stairs with two or more risers is essential for safety. For stairs wider than 44 inches, having handrails on both sides is often required and provides added stability. Keeping installations up to code and following safety regulations prevents accidents, as simple as that.
Specific Handrails Regulations
Getting handrail height right is something I’ve talked about in many articles so far, so it has become the number one requirement—they should be between 34 and 38 inches above the stair tread to offer proper support for kids, elderly or people with disabilities or difficulties navigating the stairs. Make sure there’s at least 1.5 inches of clearance between the handrail and the wall for an easy, secure grip. Also, remember that handrails need to be continuous along the stairway with no gaps or interruptions to maintain consistent safety and accessibility.
Factors Influencing Handrail Placement
Staircase Design
It's critical to install handrails on the open side of a staircase to reduce the risk of falls. Don’t be misguided by contemporary designs and always remember that handrails are life-saving installations. For wider staircases, adding handrails on both sides is often necessary to provide adequate support and ensure safe passage for everyone.
User Demographics
When it comes to user needs, always consider how children, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities will use the stairs. Handrails should be positioned and designed to provide the best support and accessibility for these groups, ensuring their safety and ease of use.
For example, when considering children, you can install an additional, lower handrail that they can easily reach. For elderly or disabled individuals, place a sturdy, easy-to-grip handrail at the appropriate height and ensure smooth edges.
Traffic Flow
In public buildings, installing handrails on both sides of stairs ensures people are given equal sense of security moving up and down without interference, smoother traffic flow and safer for everyone.
Local Regulations
Always check your local building codes! Requirements can vary depending on your location so you don’t want to make mistakes and then correct them which will inevitably cost you more money. Check with your local building department to ensure your handrail installation meets specific safety and legal standards in your area.
Handrail Placement Recommendations
Residential Settings
Handrails are often placed on the right side when descending stairs because most people are right-handed, making it more natural to grip with their dominant hand for better support. Descending stairs is more challenging than going up, as it involves balance and precise movements. Having a handrail on the right side helps people feel more secure and confident, reducing the risk of falls.
Commercial and Public Buildings
In public buildings, having handrails on both sides of the stairs is important because they often have lots of people using them, sometimes in big crowds. Handrails on both sides give everyone a safe way to hold on, making it easier to move around without accidents. This is especially helpful for people with mobility issues and makes navigating busy stairways safer and more secure for everyone.
Conclusion
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer on what side of the stairs should handrails be installed. You can install a single handrail on the outer side of indoor stairs, or add a wall-mounted one for extra security. For outdoor stairs, having two handrails is often a good idea. As long as you follow code guidelines and prioritize safety, the placement can be tailored to fit your specific needs and daily use. Feel free to reach out to us on our website for consultations or any additional questions you may have.
