Handrail Inspection Checklist

Use this Handrail Inspection Checklist to verify handrail stability, height, and compliance with safety, ensuring secure and reliable support for users.

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Property Inspection
Handrail Inspection Checklist

Posts

Handrails

Guardrails

Footings

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Checklist by GoAudits.com – Please note that this checklist is intended as an example. We do not guarantee compliance with the laws applicable to your territory or industry. You should seek professional advice to determine how this checklist should be adapted to your workplace or jurisdiction.

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Handrail Inspection Checklist

Use this Handrail Inspection Checklist to verify handrail stability, height, and compliance with safety, ensuring secure and reliable support for users.

1. Do posts show no visible signs of decay, cracks, or corrosion (if metal)?

2. Are posts connected to footings with proper post-base hardware (stainless steel, ZMAX®, or hot-dip galvanized coating)?

3. Are post-to-beam connectors not bent or improperly modified?

4. Are beams alongside posts attached using a metal connector, not bolts, lag screws, or nails?

5. Do posts and beams have diagonal bracing if corner posts are greater than 2 feet in height?

6. Are there no visible signs of red rust on the hardware (fasteners and connectors)?

7. Are all connector holes filled with proper fasteners (e.g., galvanized fasteners used with galvanized connectors, stainless fasteners with stainless connectors)?

1. Are there no visible signs of cracks, decay, or over-notching on the wood decking?

2. Are guards and handrails present along the stairway?

3. Is the handrail height between 34 inches and 38 inches?

4. Can the handrail be easily grasped?

5. Is the opening between handrail balusters less than 4 3/8 inches?

6. If the handrail is separate, is it secured to a post or a safety terminal/support structure?

1. Are guardrails present if the walking surface is more than 30 inches above grade?

2. Is the guardrail height at least 36 inches?

3. Are the top rail of the guard and the post properly connected to transfer the load to the deck framing?

4. Is the “shear” connection between posts and the deck frame using hold-downs, not just bolts or lag screws?

5. Are there no notched posts (which do not meet load and deflection standards)?

6. Is the opening between guardrail balusters less than 4 inches?

7. Are there no visible signs of decay, deterioration, or cracking?

8. Are there no visible signs of corrosion or rust on the hardware?

1. Is the footing/deck support at least 12 inches by 12 inches?

2. Is the footing at least 12 inches below undisturbed soil?