Focus: Fire-Life Safety / Column

Regulations, Codes & Standards Q&A: Handrails

Brad Keyes discusses regulations for handrails

By Brad Keyes / Special to Healthcare Facilities Today


Q: We are installing new handrails and I assumed they would extend a couple of inches from the wall for gripping purposes. However, my maintenance man ordered the flush mount type and while they look awesome, I was wondering if this will pose a problem per regulations? They are about 5 inches wide and extend about one inch from the wall. Is this okay? We are a skilled nursing facility located in North Carolina.

A: It depends where they are located… In a stairwell? On a ramp? In the corridor?

If it is a required handrail (such as for stairs or ramp) then section 7.2.2.4.4.5 of the 2012 LSC requires the handrails to have a clearance of at least 2¼ inches from the wall. Sounds like you need to add some spacers to extend the handrail out away from the wall.

Brad Keyes, CHSP, is the owner of KEYES Life Safety Compliance, and his expertise is in the management of the Life Safety Program, including the Environment of Care and Emergency Management programs.

 



October 30, 2019


Topic Area: Regulations, Codes & Standards


Recent Posts

Must Know Recalls of 2025

For the safety of our readers, Healthcare Facilities Today has closely followed all recall notices related to the industry.


Sustainability as a Baseline in Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals can balance costs, build resilience and learn from global models for sustainable design to further their green goals.


Comanche County Memorial Hospital and Southwestern Medical Center Join to Form Partnership

The partnership will go into effect by the end of December 2025.


Choosing a Disinfectant That Kills Biofilm

Bacteria form biofilms in pipes from which cells can be released during sink use and spread outside the drains in droplets or as aerosols.


Third-Party Data Breach Case Underscores Need for Cyber Risk Management

Plaintiffs alleged negligence in safeguarding patient data; defendants denied wrongdoing but settled to avoid litigation costs.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.