Does a Ramp Need a Handrail?

Ramps having slopes steeper than 1:20 require handrails. Ramps with a rise greater than 6” require handrails. Handrails must be 34” - 38” in height measured above the walking surface. Handrails must extend at least 12” beyond the top and bottom of any ramp run.

At what slope is a handrail required?

In most cases you need to have handrails on both sides, but there are a few ways to avoid handrails. The first way is to keep the rise of the ramp to no more than 6″. Ramps less than 6″ high do not require handrails. The second way is to keep the slope less than 1:20 or 5%.

Do you need handrails on both sides of ramps?

If a ramp run has a rise greater than 6 in (150 mm) or a horizontal projection greater than 72 in (1830 mm), then it shall have handrails on both sides. Handrails are not required on curb ramps or adjacent to seating in assembly areas.