A substantial number of home injuries occur at stairways. Proper railing design and construction is especially important for children who can easily slip through large railing openings and for older persons who may have difficulty grasping a wide poorly shaped hand rail.

Railing Rules:
Modern building standards call for railings at least 36 inches high for any deck, stair, or landing more than 30 inches above an adjacent surface, and for openings in the rail to be less than 4 inches in diameter. Large railing openings which may allow a child to fall through should be modified for safety. This standard was recently changed from 6 inches to 4 inches as it was found that small children can slip through a 6 inch opening.

Staircases with four or more steps should have handrails that are between 1 and 2 inches wide. Handrails should be placed and shaped so they can be readily grasped for safety. Handrails should be 34 to 38 inches above the leading edge of the stairway treads and should return to the wall or to a post. Handrails should not end in a projection which could be hooked by clothing.