Generally, stairs for residential use are under the IRC codes, and stairs for commercial use are regulated under IBC codes.
RAILING REGULATION
ADA REGULATION
The codes for disable persons are called ADA, which be applied in commercial projects, but we can also consider them at home or if your project requires it.
This standard, which states a continuous handrail on a staircase that is gaspable, adds an extra level of safety, especially for people with disabilities. It also requires that the handrail extend 12» beyond the first step and end at ground level.
- Handrail height is required to be 36″ – 44″ high.
- If total rise is over 30″ a guard rail is required.
- Residential 36″ minimum height – Commercial 42″ minimum height.
- A 4 3/8″ sphere should not be able to penetrate the spacing.
- A 6″ sphere should not be able to penetrate the triangle created by bottom rail, tread and raiser.
- Residential Minimum Tread Depth = 10″, Commercial Minimum Tread Depth = 11″.
- Residential Maximum riser height = 7-3/4″, Commercial Maximum riser height = 7″ riser height should not vary more than 3/8″ in sice trough stairs.
- Over 4″ high it must blocked.
- Minimum landing size is 36″ x 36″.
