Code Library › Volume 1 › Section 9.8 — Stairs, Ramps, Handrails and Guards
PART 9 — HOUSING AND SMALL BUILDINGSUpdated for the 2024 Ontario Building Code

9.8.7.5.Ergonomic Design

(1) The clearance between a handrail and any surface behind it shall be not less than (a) 60 mm, if the surface behind the handrail is rough or abrasive, or (b) 50 mm, in all other cases. (2) All handrails shall be constructed so as to be continually graspable along their entire length with no obstruction on or above them to break a handhold. (See Note A-9.8.7.5.(2))
← Previous9.8.7.4. Height of Handrails (See Note A-9.8.7.4.)Next →9.8.7.6. Projections into Stairs and Ramps

Common questions about this part of the code

What is the maximum stair rise and minimum run in Ontario?What height must a stair handrail be in Ontario?How high must a deck guard or railing be in Ontario?

Understand this provision in seconds

BUILDAiD Assist explains any article of the building code in plain English — with exact citations, exceptions and related requirements.

Try BUILDAiD Beta

Code text is reproduced for reference from the Ontario Building Code (O. Reg. 163/24, 2024 Building Code Compendium). This page is provided for general information and is not an official copy. Always verify requirements against the official Ontario Building Code and confirm with your local building department.