ADA Standards as They Apply to Handrails

This reference summarizes key ADA accessibility standards as they apply to stairs, ramps, curb ramps, handrails, grab bars and accessible routes in commercial construction. Always verify current requirements with the applicable local authority.

4.9 Stairs

4.9.1 Minimum Number. Stairs required to be accessible by sections 4.1.3 and 4.1.6 shall comply with 4.9.

4.9.2 Treads and Risers. On any given flight of stairs, all steps shall have uniform riser heights and uniform tread widths. Stair treads shall be no less than 11 in (280 mm) wide, measured from riser to riser. Open risers are not permitted.

4.9.3 Nosings. The undersides of nosings shall not be abrupt. The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be no greater than 1/2 in (13 mm). Nosings shall project no more than 1-1/2 in (38 mm).

4.9.4 Handrails. Stairways shall have handrails at both sides of all stairs. Handrails shall comply with 4.26 and shall have the following features:

• Handrails shall be continuous along both sides of stairs. The inside handrail on switchback or dogleg stairs shall always be continuous.
• If handrails are not continuous, they shall extend at least 12 in (305 mm) beyond the top riser and at least 12 in (305 mm) plus the width of one tread beyond the bottom riser.
• The clear space between handrails and wall shall be 1-1/2 in (38 mm).
• Gripping surfaces shall be uninterrupted by newel posts, other construction elements or obstructions.
• Top of handrail gripping surface shall be mounted between 34 in and 38 in (865 mm and 965 mm) above stair nosings.
• Ends of handrails shall be either rounded or returned smoothly to floor, wall or post.
• Handrails shall not rotate within their fittings.

4.9.6 Outdoor Conditions. Outdoor stairs and their approaches shall be designed so that water will not accumulate on walking surfaces.

4.8 Ramps

4.8.1 General. Any part of an accessible route with a slope greater than 1:20 shall be considered a ramp and shall comply with 4.8.

4.8.2 Slope and Rise. The maximum slope of a ramp in new construction shall be 1:12. The maximum rise for any run shall be 30 in (760 mm).

4.8.3 Clear Width. The minimum clear width of a ramp shall be 36 in (915 mm).

4.8.4 Landings. Ramps shall have level landings at bottom and top of each ramp and each ramp run. Landings shall be at least as wide as the ramp run leading to it, with a minimum length of 60 in (1525 mm) clear.

4.8.5 Handrails. If a ramp run has a rise greater than 6 in (150 mm) or a horizontal projection greater than 72 in (1830 mm), it shall have handrails on both sides. Handrails shall comply with 4.26.

4.8.7 Edge Protection. Ramps and landings with drop-offs shall have curbs, walls, railings or projecting surfaces that prevent people from slipping off the ramp. Curbs shall be a minimum of 2 in (50 mm) high.

4.7 Curb Ramps

• 4.7.1 Location: Curb ramps complying with 4.7 shall be provided wherever an accessible route crosses a curb.
• 4.7.2 Slope: Slopes of curb ramps shall comply with 4.8.2. Transitions from ramps to walks, gutters or streets shall be flush and free of abrupt changes.
• 4.7.3 Width: The minimum width of a curb ramp shall be 36 in (915 mm), exclusive of flared sides.
• 4.7.7 Detectable Warnings: A curb ramp shall have a detectable warning complying with 4.29.2, extending the full width and depth of the curb ramp.

4.26 Handrails, Grab Bars, and Tub and Shower Seats

4.26.1 General. All handrails, grab bars and tub and shower seats required to be accessible shall comply with 4.26.

4.26.2 Size and Spacing. The diameter or width of the gripping surfaces of a handrail or grab bar shall be 1-1/4 in to 1-1/2 in (32 mm to 38 mm), or the shape shall provide an equivalent gripping surface. If mounted adjacent to a wall, the space between the wall and the grab bar shall be 1-1/2 in (38 mm).

4.26.3 Structural Strength. Grab bars, tub and shower seats, fasteners and mounting devices shall meet specified structural strength requirements, including resistance to a 250 lbf (1112 N) load.

4.26.4 Eliminating Hazards. A handrail or grab bar and any wall or other surface adjacent to it shall be free of any sharp or abrasive elements. Edges shall have a minimum radius of 1/8 in (3.2 mm).

4.4 Protruding Objects

Objects projecting from walls with their leading edges between 27 in and 80 in (685 mm and 2030 mm) above the finished floor shall protrude no more than 4 in (100 mm) into walks, halls, corridors, passageways or aisles. Protruding objects shall not reduce the clear width of an accessible route or maneuvering space.

4.3 Accessible Route

• 4.3.1 General: All walks, halls, corridors, aisles, skywalks, tunnels and other spaces that are part of an accessible route shall comply with 4.3.
• 4.3.2 Location: At least one accessible route within the boundary of the site shall be provided from public transportation stops, accessible parking and public streets or sidewalks to the accessible building entrance they serve.
• 4.3.3 Width: The minimum clear width of an accessible route shall be 36 in (915 mm) except at doors.
• 4.3.4 Passing Space: If an accessible route has less than 60 in (1525 mm) clear width, passing spaces at least 60 in by 60 in shall be located at reasonable intervals not to exceed 200 ft (61 m).

Note: Codes are continually updated. Be sure to check for the latest requirements. See our Handrails vs Guardrails and Code Comparison pages for more information.