What is the minimum number of risers required for handrails to be mandated on at least one side of stairs?

Handrails are crucial safety features on stairways, providing support and stability for users. Building codes generally stipulate that handrails must be installed when a certain number of risers is present to mitigate the risk of falls.

The requirement for handrails to be installed on at least one side of the stairs typically comes into play when there are four or more risers. This standard recognizes that as the number of risers increases, so does the potential for accidents, making handrails necessary for safe navigation.

In this case, mandating handrails when there are four risers ensures that individuals using the stairs have adequate support, especially for those who may have difficulty maintaining balance. This aligns with broader safety principles and public health considerations in building design.