What should handrail heights be

The required handrail heights for safety compliance vary based on the type of handrail system and the date of installation.

For stair rail systems installed before January 17, 2017, and before June 1, 2020, the height must be no less than 30 inches (76 cm) from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail. [3] [1]

For stair rail systems installed on or after January 17, 2017, and on or after June 1, 2020, the height must be no less than 42 inches (107 cm) from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail. [3] [1]

The height of handrails should be between 30 inches (76 cm) and 38 inches (97 cm), measured from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the handrail. [3]

When the top edge of a stair rail system also serves as a handrail, the height of the top edge should be not less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) nor more than 38 inches (97 cm) from the upper surface of the stair rail system to the surface of the tread. [2] [1]

For mobile ladder stand platforms with a platform height of 4 to 10 feet (1.2 m to 3 m), handrails should have a vertical height of at least 36 inches (91 cm). [5]

The top edge height of toprails or equivalent member on supported scaffolds manufactured or placed in service after January 1, 2000 shall be installed between 38 inches (0.97 m) and 45 inches (1.2 m) above the platform surface. [4]