As a business or property owner, you need to ensure your facilities comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Handicap railings play an essential role in everyday life for those with mobility challenges. Yours must meet several ADA specifications; otherwise, you may face fines and other repercussions. Here is a breakdown of the requirements.

3 ADA Handicap Railing Requirements

1. Necessity

Handicap railings are required on ramps that rise more than six inches from ground level and stairways, whether newly constructed or replaced. They also need to be placed on walkways with a running slope greater than 1:20, or one vertical inch to every 20 horizontal inches. When purchasing handicap railings, always work with a qualified metal fabrication company and have professionals handle the installation to ensure it’s secure.

2. Placement

Railings must be installed on both sides of all qualifying walkways, ramps, and stairs. The handrail must stay at the same height along the course: between 34 and 38 inches above the walking or climbing surface. There should be 1.5 inches between the rail and wall. In properties used primarily by children, such as day cares or activity centers, additional handicap railings must be placed at a height of 28 inches with a space of nine inches between the lower and upper railings.

3. Construction

All railings must have a solid gripping surface along their full length with no obstructions. Rounded handrails should have a diameter between 1.25 and two inches; non-circular handrails must have a perimeter from four to 6.25 inches. All edges should be rounded with no risk of cutting the user. Handicap railings on ramps and stairs must extend 12 inches beyond the length of the stair on each end.

If you need to add new handicap railings or metal installations to your property, turn to Incom. They have over 40 years of experience providing clients in Kailua-Kona, HI, and the rest of the Big Island with comprehensive steel services, from custom welding and structural steel fabrication to ADA-compliant railings. Call (808) 329-1311 to request a free estimate, or explore their offerings on their website.