Ramp guardrail are common all-in-one safety components used along any accessible ramp that typically provide user assistance and protection from falling off a ramp.

As free-standing elements, utliity handrails must double as both an assistive handrail and a guardrail that prevents users from accessing the edge of the ramp.

The ramp must have handrails on both sides of all ramp segments. The inside handrail on switchbacks shall always be continuous. When a handrail is not continuous, handrails shall extend at least 12 inches beyond the top and bottom segment and must be parallel with the floor and/or ground surface.

Handrails and railing systems

A clear space of 1 1/2 inches must be provided between the handrail and the wall where the handrail is installed.

When the handrail is located in a recess, it must be at least 3 inches deep and shall extend at least 18 inches above the top of the rail.

Surfaces of the handrail shall be continuous without interruption or obstructions.

The top of the handrail surface shall be placed between 34 and 38 inches above the ramp's finished floor surface.

The diameter of the gripping surface of the handrail shall be 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches, or the shape shall provide an equivalent surface.

The handrail shall be free of any sharp or abrasive elements. Edges shall have a minimum radius of 1/8 inch.

handrails and railing systems

ramp guardrail