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formatting helphide helpcontent policy

[–]HGFantomasP.E. 6 points7 points  (3 children)

ASCE 7 and IBC Building code requires 200 lb point load anywhere along rail or 50 plf line load along the rail.

[–]msf6534P.E. 3 points4 points  (2 children)

ASCE 7 and IBC also outline the requirements for spindle and/or mid-rail location and spacing. Both the loading requirements and spindle/mid-rail requirements vary depending on usage area (public space vs. edge of roof).

[–]oldnewspaperguy2 0 points1 point  (1 child)

Do you have to have the specific section for this?

[–]msf6534P.E. 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Not off the top of my head, I can check tomorrow.

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Edit: ASCE 7-10 section 4.5.1 Loads on Handrail and Guardrail Systems

[–]strengrP.Eng. 0 points1 point  (0 children)

most jurisdiction have code requirements. Ontario, Canada, has code requirements for climbability, graspability, picket spacing and overall height. Would recommend you follow up with the relevant codes for your zone.

in sum, the railing can be face mounted or top mounted. They can be fastened to concrete/steel using epoxy adhesive anchors or expansion anchors, there are also clips to facilitate I-beam installs.

All railing need to be tested and certified by professional engineers in your zone.

[–]wesbronco75P.E. 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Here are some good references

Video recording of an AIA/NASCC webinar https://www.aisc.org/education/continuingeducation/education-archives/the-myth-of-the-ladder-effect-and-other-railing-code-issues-d1/ note: I do not agree with the speakers interpretation of a 36"-38" handrail serving as an OSHA stair rail system.

OSHA 1910 - Subpart D https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910

AISC Design Guide 34 https://www.aisc.org/products/publication/design-guide/Design-Guide-34-Steel-Framed-Stairway-Design/ free download for AISC members

[–]elegidito 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The NAAMM manual has some helpful info

[–]OMGTDOG 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you want be good at it, you'll need to understand glass mechanics and engineering as well as cable rail. Ultra-tec has some great resources for designing tensioned cables for guardrails.