When is a handrail required for stairs?

A handrail is required for stairs when there is a change in elevation, specifically when a flight of stairs has four or more risers. This safety requirement is crucial to ensure proper support and stability for individuals using the stairs, as it helps prevent slips, trips, and falls, particularly for those who may need extra assistance when moving between levels.

The requirement for handrails after four steps is based on established safety standards in building codes and OSHA regulations. These standards aim to promote safety in public and private structures by ensuring that stairways are designed with adequate support features. The specific number of risers, which is the vertical component of each step, establishes a threshold that triggers the need for a handrail to enhance user safety.

In summary, the requirement for a handrail after four steps is grounded in safety standards designed to protect individuals on stairways.