The top rail in guard rail systems are prescribed to exist and be a structural element in both Canadian and US codes. The handrail, however, is different from the top rail and is required only for guiding the hand etc and therefore there are dimension restraints.
Thor A. Tandy P.Eng, C.Eng, Struct.Eng, MIStructE
Victoria, BC
Canada
From: ken ng [mailto:zy7up@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, September 13, 2009 9:55 PM
To: seaint@seaint.org
Subject: Re: Guard Rails
I thought the top rail diameter shall be less than 2" and continue just in case for the handicap person to put their hand on the rail. This rail could be located on the top or the side of the guardrail or ramp and continue to assist handicap person.
From: "Rhkratzse@aol.com" <Rhkratzse@aol.com>
To: vicpeng@telus.net; seaint@seaint.org
Sent: Wednesday, September 9, 2009 1:53:40 PM
Subject: Re: Guard Rails
I have no idea, but I would like to point out that I often seen, mainly in architectural magazines, stairs with all-glass railings, without a continuous top trim, with trapezoidal-shaped glass panels with a point at the upper corner. Meaning that if you slide your hand down the rail, it'll be impaled on that point. Can't understand how that can be acceptable.
Ralph
In a message dated 9/9/09 1:29:08 PM, vicpeng@telus.net writes:
Can anyone confirm for me, under any/all US codes, if a continuous top rail
is mandated on all glass "guard rail" systems? . if it's a judgement call
or if it's not even mentioned .
Thanks
Thor A. Tandy P.Eng, C.Eng, Struct.Eng, MIStructE
Victoria, BC
Canada