Handrail liability will tend to fall on the fabricator/installer. As the railing “expert”, you will be expected to be the one to assure a safe handrail is installed. Here are four ways handrail could leave you needing an attorney.

1. Not having one
   1. Handrails provide guidance and support while using ramps and stairs. Not having one creates a safety hazard which could result in serious injury.
2. ADA
   1. The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) has requirements for handrail included in the Americans With Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design (ADASAD). As the ADA is a civil rights law, failure to meet these requirements would make you subject to civil suit for discrimination.
3. Graspability
   1. The standards and building codes specify dimensional limitations and clearance requirements to assure safety when holding the handrail. Inability to grasp the handrail could result in the handrail’s failure as a means of preventing or arresting a fall.
4. Load requirements
   1. A handrail must be able to withstand a uniform or concentrated load as noted in the building codes. Failure to meet these loads may result in a failure resulting in a fall and serious injury.

The Wagner Companies has been providing products for handrail since 1955. We are experts in handrail and the codes and standards that apply to them. Contact Wagner for help when designing your next handrail project.

Building on a 165 year legacy, Wagner is the go-to resource for metal fabricating and architectural railing expertise. More than just a manufacturer and worldwide supplier, our niche focus and local market knowledge enable us to innovate so we can better adapt to customer needs.

Accommodating to work with, Wagner lives to collaborate. Our customers rely on us to provide the best possible solution for any installation. Responsive to answering calls and quick to solve problems, we remain an active partner throughout projects and in building long-lasting relationships. As proud and knowledgeable metal workers, we’re passionate about helping our customers find a better, faster, and higher overall value solution. As the experts in code requirements, we work with you to help ensure your specifications and installations meet or exceed them, worldwide.