What is the MINIMUM horizontal dimension a handrail needs to extend beyond the last riser at the bottom of a flight of stairs in order to comply with accessibility requirements?
ADA accessibility standards require handrails to extend beyond the last riser at the bottom of a flight of stairs to provide continuous support for users, especially those with mobility impairments. The minimum horizontal extension is one tread depth plus 12 inches (304 mm) beyond the last riser, ensuring that users can maintain a grip as they transition to the landing. Option A (one tread depth) is insufficient, as it does not provide the additional 12 inches required by ADA. Option C (one tread depth plus 24 inches) exceeds the minimum requirement, which is not necessary unless specified by local codes.
Verified Answer from Official Source:
The correct answer is verified using NCIDQ IDFX content on accessibility standards.
Exact Extract:TheNCIDQ IDFX Reference Manualreferences ADA standards, stating, “Handrails must extend a minimum of one tread depth plus 12 inches (304 mm) beyond the last riser at the bottom of a flight of stairs to comply with accessibility requirements.”
The NCIDQ IDFX curriculum requires designers to apply ADA standards for handrails, ensuring safe and accessible stairways.
Objectives:
Apply accessibility standards to stairway design (IDFX Objective: Codes and Standards).
[References:, NCIDQ IDFX Reference Manual (Section on Accessibility)., ADA Standards for Accessible Design (Section 505: Handrails)., ]
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