Code of Massachusetts Regulations
521 CMR - Architectural Access Board
Title 521 CMR 27 - STAIRS
Section 27.4 - HANDRAILS

Universal Citation: 521 CMR 27 MA Code of Regs 27.4

Current through Register 1518, March 29, 2024

Handrails shall have the following features:

27.4.1 Location: Stairways shall have continuous handrails at both sides of all stairs. The inside handrail on switchback or dogleg stairs shall always be continuous. See Fig. 27c.

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27.4.2 Height: Top of handrail gripping surface shall be mounted between 34 inches (34" = 864mm) and 38 inches (38" = 965mm) above stair nosings. Handrails shall be measured vertically from the top of the gripping surface of the handrails to the stair nosing.

27.4.3 Extensions: Where handrails terminate at the top and bottom of a stair run, they shall have extensions that comply with the following:

a. At the top, extend at least 12 inches (12" = 305mm) beyond the top riser and parallel with the floor or ground surface. See Fig. 27d.

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b. At the bottom, extend at least 12 inches (12" = 305mm) plus the width of one tread beyond the bottom riser. The handrail shall continue to slope for a distance of the width of one tread from the bottom riser; the remainder of the extension shall be horizontal. See Fig. 27d.

c. Handrail extensions need not extend if it would cause a safety hazard or if space does not permit. Extensions shall comply with 521 CMR 20.6, Protruding Objects.

27.4.4 Size: Handrails shall have a circular cross section with an outside diameter of 1¼ inches (32mm) minimum and two inches (51mm) maximum.

27.4.5 Shape: The handgrip portion of the handrail shall be round or oval in cross-section. See Fig. 27e.

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27.4.6 Surface: The gripping surface shall be continuous so that a hand can move from end to end without interruption by newel posts or other obstructions, and shall be free of any sharp or abrasive elements.

27.4.7 Clearance: When a handrail is mounted adjacent to a wall, the clear space between the handrail and the wall shall be 1½ inches (1½" = 38mm). Handrails may be located in a wall recess if the recess is a maximum of three inches (3" = 76mm) deep and extends at least 18 inches (18" = 457mm) above the top of the rail.

27.4.8 End condition: Ends of handrails shall be either rounded or returned smoothly to floor, wall, or post. Extensions on handrails which are not attached to walls shall be returned smoothly to the floor or a post.

27.4.9 Handrails shall not rotate within their fittings.

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