Handrails are not less than 30 inches (76 cm) and not more than 38 inches (97 cm), as measured from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the handrail (see Figure D-12 of this section).
1910.29(f)(1)(iii)
The top rail of a stair rail system may serve as a handrail only when:
1910.29(f)(1)(iii)(A)
The height of the stair rail system is not less than 36 inches (91 cm) and not more than 38 inches (97 cm) as measured at the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail (see Figure D-13 of this section); and
1910.29(f)(1)(iii)(B)
The top rail of the stair rail system meets the other handrail requirements in paragraph (f) of this section.
1910.29(f)(1)(ii)
The height of stair rail systems meets the following:
1910.29(f)(1)(ii)(A)
The height of stair rail systems installed before January 17, 2017 is not less than 30 inches (76 cm) from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail; and
1910.29(f)(1)(ii)(B)
The height of stair rail systems installed on or after January 17, 2017 is not less than 42 inches (107 cm) from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail.
1910.29(f)(2) Finger Clearance
The minimum clearance between handrails and any other object is 2.25 inches (5.7 cm).
1910.29(f)(3) Surfaces
Handrails and stair rail systems are smooth-surfaced to protect employees from injury, such as punctures or lacerations, and to prevent catching or snagging of clothing.
1910.29(f)(4) Openings in Stair Rails
No opening in a stair rail system exceeds 19 inches (48 cm) at its least dimension.
1910.29(f)(5) Handhold
Handrails have the shape and dimension necessary so that employees can grasp the handrail firmly.
1910.29(f)(6) Projection Hazards
The ends of handrails and stair rail systems do not present any projection hazards.
1910.29(f)(7) Strength Criteria
Handrails and the top rails of stair rail systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied in any downward or outward direction within 2 inches (5 cm) of any point along the top edge of the rail.
to an unprotected side or edge of a stairway landing that is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level is protected by a guardrail or stairrailsystem ...
