(2) A mid-rail shall be halfway between the top. 1910. 1. Overall width of 23"; inside handrail width of 20". You express your belief that OSHA does not have such a requirement. OSHA, however, opened a rulemaking proceeding in 1990 to revise Subpart D of Part 1910, including the current height requirements for stair railings and handrails. Click to view image. New handrail ends shall be returned to the wall or floor or shall terminate at newel posts . Learn the general and specific requirements for guardrail systems on stairs from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard 1910. 420 Greentree Road. 500, Guardrails, handrails & guards. The standards for fixed ladders in §1910. Heavy-Duty Aluminum Construction – Innovative design reduces welds, strengthening the overall system. (d) Designated areas. (c) Stair rails and handrails. Handrails and top rails of the stair rail systems must be able to withstand at least 200 pounds of weight applied within two inches of the top edge in any downward or outward direction, at. HTML PDF: 296-24-74020: Spiral stairs. 5 inches is the absolute minimum allowed. 2. That part of §1910. Stairs other than fixed industrial stairs have different requirements for being equipped with standard stair railing or standard handrails when compared to the requirements of fixed industrial stairs. 1926. A stair rail does not necessarily require a handrail. Our Crossover stairs and platforms provide safe passage over areas with obstructions, danger zones, and other hazards. 5” H. Use internal couplings, Type 18-7, to maintain continuity. Clearance. That apart, the exit should be by way of permanent structures like stairs and attached ladders. General Requirements: the general requirements of section 1910. 2 m) or above, must have handrails with a vertical height of 29. 5” maximum. regarding code requirements, refer to the applicable codes or contact your local Building Department. Handrail height of alternating tread devices and ships ladders, measured above tread nosings, shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more. Private stairways 30 inches (762) or less in height may have a handrail on one side only. As a result, four inches would be the maximum allowable opening. ” Six general subject areas within this code are designated as “Divisions. As previously stated, guards are required on the sides of stairs where there’s a drop of more than 30. Stair Railing Height Requirements: 34 to 38 Inches Stair railing should be no less than 34 inches high and no more than 38 inches high. • 2 yr. This subpart applies to all stairways and ladders used in construction, alteration, repair (including painting and decorating), and demolition workplaces covered under 29 CFR part 1926, and also sets forth, in specified circumstances, when ladders and stairways are required to be provided. Handrails shall be. 1052(c)(7) Dear Mr. (2) Handrails and stair rails shall meet the applicable requirements in § 1910. You had specific questions regarding the use of ship's stairs in general industry. HTML PDF: 296-24-93501: Definitions. 5 inches for stands with a top height of 4 feet or more, 36 inches for stands with a top step of. Handrails and guards shall be designed and constructed to withstand a 200 pound load applied in any direction. The top rail must be at least 42 inches in height (§1910. (1) Scope. 2. By explaining the requirements and specific changes in the National Construction Code (NCC) Volume Two 2019, you will understand your obligations and the effects on. Our photo (above) illustrates very challenging stairs with a high rise, climbing to over 230 feet at the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacán outside of Mexico City. Handrails should be between 30 and 37 inches above the step surface, with a clearance of at least three inches between the rail and the wall. Guard Height Requirements: The absolute minimum height requirement for residential guard railing is 36” in some states, although states (like California) have a minimum of a 42” handrail height. November 2, 1995. (g) Ramps for wheelbarrows, if made of planking, must have an odd number of planks. The IBC defines the various design requirements for handrails, providing clear and concise specifications. OSHA Standards and Interpretation Letter: 06/16/1999 - Scaffolds: Lifelines, support lines, and suspension ropes cannot have a common anchor point. The inside handrail should be continuous on switchback or dogleg ramps. Handrails (continuous) are required on at least one side of flights of stairs with ≥ 4 risers. General dimensions. The railing height should be at least 42 inches from the first edge of the tread to the rail's upper edge. Handrails are required when there is a top step height of 4 feet or more and a railing needs to be 29. . In North Carolina, four or more steps or an ADA ramp with a rise of 6 inches require handrails on both sides. Safety signage can reinforce policies around stairs and steps, for example, no rushing or no mobile devices. When the top edge of a stairrail system also serves as a handrail, paragraph (c) (7) of this. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards, and regulations. This was a little better but not as logical or as safe as a 42" guard. The handrail may form the top of a guarding if you can match the heights. Circular Cross Section and Clearance (§505. This measurement includes the length of the baluster or post, plus the thickness of the handrail. 1, Ex. 5 cm) from the upper surface of the stair rail system to the surface of the tread, in line with the face of the riser at the forward edge of the tread. Handrail ends shall be returned to a wall or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminations. 4. Unprotected openings in roofs could, therefore, be cited under the general duty clause of the Occupational. 6. ( ii) Each employee using a rope descent system 4 feet (1. 1-1967. From time to time, letters are affected when the Agency updates a standard, a legal decision impacts a standard, or changes in technology affect the. The OSHA rules aim to ensure a safe working environment for all employees. Handrails and the top rails of stairrail systems shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at. The handrail height, headroom, riser height and distance between the center column and handrail will pass OSHA. As for the load calculations, it is imperative to know that. Nosing – straight leading edge. 2. Riser height – 9. The Guardrail height shall not be less than 36 inches above the walking surface. Basic OSHA Stair Requirements. A proposed rule announced by OSHA on May 20 would update certain handrail and stair rail system requirements for the agency’s general industry walking-working surfaces standard. At least one handrail One stair rail system with handrail on open side. ADA Chapter 5 Section 505. 5") Hand Railing heights: U. There are many more codes,. 23(e) because the height of the standard railing on the stair landing is less than 42 inches nominal. In late 2016, OSHA finally published the long awaited updates to its 1910 Fall Protection in General Industry. OSHA requires that handrails are required for workers near holes, open-sided floors, floor openings, wall openings, platforms, and runways. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. 29 (f) (1) (i)) (as measured at the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the rail). 3-stringer design with treads welded to the stringers. the International Building Code or IBC sets the stair and handrail requirements for public buildings and public spaces. However, OSHA set the minimum width for stair treads: Standard Stairs – 22 inches (56 cm) Spiral Stairs – 26 inches (66 cm) OSHA 1910. Handrails must not project into the stairway more than 4 ½ inches—so with one handrail, the stairway can’t be less than 31 ½ inches wide, as measured at or below the rail, and with two handrails, the. Handrails and top rails of the stairs must be able to endure, clearly without failure, at least 200 pounds (890 n) of weight when applied within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top in any downward or outward direction, at any point along the top edge. 25(c) Slope between 30° and 50° from the horizontal Maximum riser height of 9. 3 Horizontal projections. HTML PDF:. Handrails shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at the turn. 23(e)(5)(iii), states in part: "The length of brackets shall be such as will give a clearance between handrail and wall or any projection thereon of at least 3 inches. Photo: Getty Images. NATIONAL STANDARDS FOR THE PHYSICAL INSPECTION OF REAL ESTATE U. Stairs. 28(b)(5)(ii)(A). If I may be of any further assistance, please feel free to contact me. The section of the OSHA code that specifies most of the primary guardrail and handrails as it directly relates to safety railing is 1910. 29 (b), ladders and hatches are required to be secured with a self-closing safety gate and safety-compliant railing. Minimum 6′-8″ headroom height clearance for stairway. Equipto offers two styles of OSHA complaint stairways. Different requirements for children show a maximum height of 28″ with a minimum clearance of 9″ between the adult rail and the childrens’ rail, which is only a recommendation and not a requirement. Handrails and stair rail systems are smooth-surfaced to protect employees from injury, such as punctures or lacerations, and to prevent catching. (c) (1) (ii) One stairrail system along each unprotected side or edge. (1) Stairs with four or more risers shall be provided with at least one handrail. 1. Maximum riser height of 9. 2. Stair Handrail requirements: "on each side" Stairways shall have handrails on each side, and every stairway required to be more than 88 inches (2235 mm) in width shall be provided with not less than one intermediate handrail for each 88 inches (2235 mm) or required width. Anchorage. Many shorter stairways don’t have rails at all, and it can be confusing to know how many steps. Requirements for stairways address treads and risers, surfaces, nosings, and handrails. 25(f) beneath: 1910. A "standard 1 1/4 inch 0 pipe (O. 505. OSHA catwalk width requirements. Whether you’re a homeowner, a business owner, or. Under this. OSHA publishes a. §3214. Vertical rise – 30° to 50°. OSHA published a proposed rule in May 2021 to clarify this. Morals and criteria for catwalk breadth, loads, and fall protection. Handrails Requirements for handrails are as follows: Handrails and top rails of the stair rail systems must be able to withstand, without failure, at least 200 pounds (890 n) of weight applied within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge in any downward or outward direction, at any point along the top edge. The employer must ensure: 1926. The stairway must be at least 36 inches wide, measured above the handrail. apostate456. The requirements of OSHA safety regulations for the safe use of ladders and stairs (Subpart X, Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1926. 23(e)(5)(iii), states in part: "The length of brackets shall be such as will give a clearance between handrail and wall or any projection thereon of at least 3 inches. Railing, toe boards, and cover specifications. 1, 2018 is 30 inches, installed after Dec. Railing spaced from. Handrail diameter between 1. Regarding handrails, there are two sets of regulations: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). A stair with a single riser or with two risers and a tread is permitted at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter 11 where the risers and treads comply with Section 1011. There are a number of factors that are particularly relevant to patients and residents and should be considered in the individual's care plan. OSHA catwalk stair requirements. However, it requires that the stair landings be at least the width of the stair or 48 inches, whichever is less. 31, 2017 is 42 inches. Outdoor Stairs: Building codes may have specific requirements for handrails on outdoor stairs, particularly if there are multiple levels or steep inclines. Handrails may project over stairs by 4 ½ inches maximum on each side of the stairway. Handrail height, measured above stair tread nosings, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be uniform, not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm). Risers (the vertical element connecting treads) that are no less than 6 inches in height and no more than 7. 24 inches in width, with. 1910. c. 7 cm). In these cases, a handrail must be mounted on at least one side if the stairway is less than 44 inches wide. One stair rail system each open side. - stair codes vary; this quote is from he CBC 1003. Kevin Rauchut NVR, Inc. According to building code, handrails are required when there are four or more “risers,” referring to the vertical portion of a stair. HTML PDF: 296-24-7500: Other working surfaces. Exceptions: 1. Dear Mr. OSHA also states. Section 03 30 00, CAST-IN-PLACE CONCRETE: Concrete fill for treads and platforms. Compliance. Training Requirements by Standard ; Enforcement Back. One handrail on each enclosed side: One Stair rail system with handrail on open side and one handrail on enclosed side. The OSHA catwalk width requirements are found in section 1910. In May 2021, OSHA proposed two revisions to the Walking-Working Surfaces Standard at 29 CFR 1910, Subpart D, to clarify new requirements added when the Standard was overhauled in 2016. The space between the handrail and the wall or any solid surface should be at least 1-1/2. 27 inches. (M) Headroom. 5) The step height, also known as the riser height, must be no less than 4 inches and no greater than 7 inches. Properly tensioned cables with correctly spaced posts will typically deflect up to 25% under reasonable pressure. Railing height for guard rail. Equipto offers two styles of OSHA complaint stairways. Minimum tread depth of 9. Handrails should be continuous for the length of the stairs or ramp. Load-capacity of 1,000 lbs. Find out the enforcement guidance. 24 for the safe design and construction of fixed general industrial stairs. 23(e)(6) states: "All handrails and railings shall be provided with a clearance of not less than 3 inches between the handrail or. 1 This standard deals with the safety requirements to be provided in buildings where there is danger of persons or materials falling through floor or wall openings, or from stairways, or catwalks. 2. Your concern is whether or not the standard requires that all permanent handrails be painted yellow. Exception 1: Guardrails located at the open side of a stair run shall not be less than 34 inches in height. Section 1910. Handrails attached to the wall must have a space between the wall and the rail of at least 11/2 inches to provide a grippable surface. However, it requires that the stair landings be at least the width of the stair or 48 inches, whichever is less. 2. Stairways less than 44 inches (1118 mm) in width or stairways serving one individual dwelling unit in Group R, Division 1 or 3 Occupancy or a Group R, Division 3 congregate residence may have one handrail. OSHA is requesting updates to the handrail and stair rail system requirements for its general industry, Walking-Working Surfaces standard, according to a press release. (3). With that in mind, we can refer to a “four-riser minimum” as a “four-step minimum. Osha walking required and requirements for elevated runways and walkways. 6. 408. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This rule shall apply to temporary conditions where there is danger of employees or material falling through floor, roof or wall openings or from stairways or runways. HEIGHT CLEARANCE minimum 6’6” clearance from nose of tread to overhead obstruction. The safety handrails and guardrails comply with IBC and OSHA railing guidelines for use on landings, platforms, mezzanines and staircases. Treads (the horizontal stair element you step on) that are at least 10 inches in depth and no more than 14 inches. If an obstacle is unavoidable, the clearance must be at least 24 inches, and a device. Glazing used in handrail or guard assemblies shall be safety. "The employer must ensure each employee on a walking-working surface with an unprotected side or edge that is 4 feet (1. The present Standard, 29 CFR 1910. 8 Projections. For stair width, expect a minimum of 44 inches in most cases and 36 inches in areas populated on average by less than 50 people. • Handrails are a support aid when using stairs. The Agency solicits public comment in these areas. Must be at least 22 inches in width. (2) All stairs shall be illuminated in accordance with the requirements in the 2008 national electric code (NEC). A handrail and a stair railing have two different meanings. 75(f) Access to wing walls from floors of dry docks shall be by ramps, permanent stairways or ladders meeting the applicable requirements of § 1915. Section 1910. This Subpart does not apply to integral components of3. (b), the following stairways shall conform to the requirements of this section. 27? Response: No. 25(f) beneath: 1910. " 29 CFR 1910. The largest tread width or riser height in any flight of stairs. Residential Interior Stairs Code Requirements. Be certain that your vendor has updated their OSHA designs. STAIRS The following spatial requirements apply to stairs: • Minimum width above the handrail -36 inches. P. Stair tread should be slip-resistant for mezzanine safety. SPS 321. A handrail and a wall or1926. 25(f)(2) Have an distance between handrails of 17 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm); The first drawing would not be compliant with the height requirements in §1910. A single bar or pipe supported onOSHA believes that a uniform riser height within 1/4 inch (0. Essentially handrails are designed to provide guidance, support and safety for stairs and ADA ramps with a rise of 6 inches. Except for the entrance, stairway floor openings. 29: 29 CFR 1910. SUMMARY: OSHA is proposing changes to the Walking-Working Surfaces standards to clarify which handrail and stair rail system requirements apply to new stair rail. Stairway width <44. The top of the handrail must be between 34" - 38" above the nosing of the stair treads. 5. HTML PDF: 296-24-74025: Ship stairs. The minimum width of the stairway shall be 44″, unless the stairway serves an occupancy of less than 50, in which case the minimum width is 36″. See the following elevated work platform OSHA requirements in 29 CFR 1910. 1. Handrails must be 30” – 38” tall and. Each stair must also be provided with a railing system. General requirements. Treads should have a minimum depth of 10 inches, and risers a maximum height of 7 3/4 inches. 23 (a) (1) Used in emergency operations such as firefighting, rescue, and tactical law enforcement operations, or training for these operations; or. One stair rail system with handrail on each open side. D. S. Their unique requirements command the attention of those using them, which translates to safety. 2 m) or more above a lower level is protected from falling by a personal fall arrest system. Objects with leading edges more than 27 inches (685 mm) and not more than 80 inches (2030 mm) above the floor shall not project horizontally more than 4 inches (102 mm. Handrails shall have a clear space between the handrail and a wall or other surface of at least 1 ½ inches. We have an entire section of our web site devoted to ADA handrail standards. • Each stairway should have at least one handrail. Intermediate vertical members: Must be installed no more than 19 inches apart. The top of the handrail should be mounted between 34 and 38 inches above ramp surfaces. 5 inches (9 cm) as measured from the top edge of the toeboard to the level of the. Also see GUARDRAIL CODES & STANDARDS for details about safety railings on landings and open hallways, porches, screened porches, balconies - horizontal walking surfaces. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. (c) Stair rails and handrails. A handrail and a railing as applied to fixed industrial stairs. If the stairs are likely to be loaded in excess of the above requirements, refer to AS/NZS 1170. Distance between the two stair railings as measured from the two closest edges. Dear. Stair rails installed before Jan. ☐ Do stairway handrails have at least 2. 15. In preparing the proposed revision of 29 CFR 1910, Subpart D-Walking and Working Surfaces, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reviewed the pertinent ANSI standards and determined that it was appropriate to limit the clearance requirement for handrails and stair rails. (a) is strong enough to support the equipment and workers who may use it, (b) is at least 600 millimetres wide, (c) is wide enough to ensure the safe movement of equipment and workers, and. OSHA is requesting updates to the handrail and stair rail system requirements for its general industry, Walking-Working Surfaces standard, according to a press release. roof openings; stairs and guardrail/handrail systems . See the following elevated work platform OSHA requirements in 29 CFR 1910. Handrails are an essential safety tool for stairs, providing stability while you ascend or descend the steps. See 55 Federal Register 13396 (April 10, 1990). It includes the application, dimensions, clearance,. 24 (a) (2) Each step bolt is designed, constructed, and maintained to prevent the employee's foot. Capable of withstanding force of at least 200# Must be smooth-surfaced;In addition to paragraph (b) of this section, the employer must ensure alternating tread-type stairs: ( 1) Have a series of treads installed at a slope of 50 to 70 degrees from the horizontal; ( 2) Have a distance between handrails of 17 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm); ( 4) Have open risers if the tread depth is less than 9. §3214. Plant structures and buildings shall be considered Group F, Industrial Occupancy,A minimum of 31. 1. 1926. Risers & Tread: 8" open riser, 9. We are going to look at five key IBC code requirements for handrails. There are also times when having a handrail on just one side of a stairwell will make. Generally, the width of IBC stairs will be 36. SPS 321. 500, 23 April 1973 - Excerpt: Since cables or chains are commonly used as barriers or guards on construction projects at floor and wall. Railings meeting the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section shall be provided on the means of access to and from the floors of graving docks. the other safety requirements for guardrails. // B. Railings in stair codes and specifications refer to the safety barrier along steps or stairs. 25″ and 2″. The first proposed change would make clear that “a stair rail system with a. Honestly, it sounds like your underwriter missed it when you financed. 23, Guarding floor and wall openings and holes: 1910. 25(b)(2) Vertical clearance above any stair tread to any overhead obstruction is at least 6 feet, 8 inches (203 cm), as measured from the leading edge of the tread. 1- 1995, Safety Requirements for Workplace Floor and Wall Openings, Stairs, and Railing Systems, requires guardrail protection for the exposed sides of ladderway openings in any working/walking surface. new stairs, inside handrails shall be continuous between flights at landings. Tread width – 22” minimum. The IBC contains requirements for exit stairway enclosures that address fire-resistance and smoke protection, stairways and handrails, signs, and other features. OSHA go frame and requirements OSHA General stair requirements 1910. Handrails and the top rails of stairrail systems shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 n) applied within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge, in any downward or outward direction, at any point along the top edge. (A) Scope. Stairway Handrails. 1910. and positive safety railing for numerous situations. 25(f)(1) Have a series of treads includes at a slope a 50 to 70 degrees from the horizontal; 1910. Minimum single stair railing distance. Stair Rails as Handrails. Hand Railing projection into stairs (<= 4. The required number of handrails is 2. 1050-1060) deal mainly with when and where ladders or stairs are required. The space between the inside of the handrail and the wall or any other obstruction must be at least 1-1/2”. Floors, stairways, railing, overhead protection and guarding of open-sided floors, platforms and runways. 1926. 25″. Stair railings. Each stairway should have at least one handrail. Reference definitions in 1910. Standard railing requirements are covered under existing paragraph 1910. Distance between a single stair railing and the opposite wall (with no stair railing) Guard railing minimum height. In other words, you should ensure the surface of the tread isn't slippery. 3 in the IRC code. 42156 - Handrail specifications. 29(k)(1), the new toeboard requirement needs to be at least 3. For employers who have been doing their best to keep employees safe around. 25(b)(4) the stairway landings must be at least the diameter of the stairway, which has an minimum width of 22". IBC provisions are more stringent than OSHA provisions, but they are very similar to the material. 5") Hand Railing heights: U. 36 inches. 29 (f) (1) (i)) (as measured at the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the rail). 120 (b) (1) Fixed stairs installed after October 3, 1983 shall be positioned within the range of 30 degrees to 50 degrees to the horizontal with uniform riser height and tread width throughout each run and be capable of a minimum loading of 100 pounds per square foot (445 N) and a minimum concentrated load of 300 pounds (1,334 N) at the. Exterior stair width code. The top edge height may exceed 45 inches (114 cm), as long as the guardrail system meets all other criteria. Table D-2 under section 1910. Where fall from height is significant it is recommended to. Any change in elevation int walking surfaces greater than 9. Section R. Learn the general and specific requirements for guardrail systems on stairs from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard 1910. //Section 01 81 13, SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS: Sustainable Design Requirements. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration is proposing updates in the handrail and stair rail system. Minimum handrail wall clearance of 1. Vertical clearance. OSHA requires railings on open sides of stairwells and a handrail on at least on the side, preferably the right side descending at 42″ high. 28(b)(5)(ii)(A). 23 (e) (1): Mobile ladder stands and platforms have a step width of at least 16 inches (41 cm). The nonslip diamond pattern stairs meet all the OSHA requirements for width and depth, and they clean with ease when icing occurs. The agency has received numerous questions asking when handrails are required, and about the height requirements for handrails on stairs and stair rail systems. standard handrails according to the requirements for stairways. The mid-rail height is also adjustable. Pittsburgh, Pa. 24 (a) Step bolts. However, OSHA would consider the 36- to 37-inch height of the railing in the first drawing as a de minimis violation of the standard. 25(b)(1) Handrails, stair rail systems, and guardrail systems are provided in accordance with § 1910. Haydl: This is in response to your letter of June 24, 2004 regarding the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for heights for stair rails and handrails and corresponding building code requirements. In alterations, stairs between levels that are connected by an accessible route1926. A vertical barrier along exposed sides of a stairway to prevent people fromOSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. A handrail or grab bar and any wall or other surface adjacent to it needs to be free of anything sharp or abrasive. These systems may be. The top of the handrail must be located between 34 and 38 inches above the ramp surface or the stair nosing (the edge of a stair tread that projects over the riser). Because of the steepness of these stairs, handrails are required at a reduced height of 30 in. 21(b)(1) and 1910. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. Stairway Railings and Guards Every flight of stairs with four or more risers shall have standard stair railings or standard handrails as specified below. Pursuant to §1910. Stairs should be in safe condition and be of suitable design and. __. 2 m) One handrail on each enclosed side One Stair rail system with handrail on open side and one handrail on enclosed side. At least one handrail One stair rail system with handrail on open side. OSHA stairs are required to be a minimum of 22 inches wide. The employer must ensure: 1910. For stair rail systems installed on or after January 17, 2017, the top rail and handrail must be separate. Handrails are a common requirement on FHA. Your concern is whether or not the standard requires that all permanent handrails be painted yellow. The employer must ensure each safety net system meets the requirements in 29 CFR part 1926, subpart M. Maximum 7-3/4 inch stair riser height. 1 m) to 88 inches (2. Steel, aluminum, and wood posts can be used in a cable railing system. Stair height and the depth of treads must be uniform. The guardrails provided here are 1-1/4” thick. Learn how to prevent falls and injuries by following the best practices and guidelines. Maximum 7-3/4 inch stair riser height. Maximum 4-1/2 inch handrail projection into stairway width, on either side. (1) A stairway shall have a handrail on at least one side, and if 1 100 mm or more in width, shall have handrail s on both sides. The following requirements apply to all stairways as indicated: (c) (1) Stairways having four or more risers or rising more than 30 inches (76 cm), whichever is less, shall be equipped with: (c) (1) (i) At least one handrail; and. 29 (k) includes standards for “protection from falling objects”. Contact OSHA .