What Is the Legal Height for Balustrades and Handrails in Australia?

When it comes to constructing or renovating properties in Australia, understanding the legal requirements for balustrades and handrails is crucial. Building codes exist to ensure the safety of occupants, and compliance with these regulations is a must. So, coming to the important question – what is the legal height for balustrades? This blog delves into the specifics of the legal height for balustrades and handrails in Australia. We also shed light on the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and its pertinent guidelines.

  • Commercial Buildings: In commercial buildings, there are different height requirements based on the purpose and use of the space. It’s imperative to consult the specific regulations applicable to the type of building you are working on. This underscores the need for builders, architects and contractors to stay updated on the latest BCA editions and any amendments that were made.

  • Residential Buildings: For residential buildings, the BCA stipulates the legal balustrade height to be 865 mm above the floor, balcony, landing or stair nosing. This height is deemed sufficient to prevent accidental falls and ensure the well-being of inhabitants. Additionally, the BCA outlines specific requirements for the spacing and strength of balustrades to reinforce the importance of a comprehensive approach to safety.

  • Consulting Local Authorities: While the BCA provides a national framework, it’s essential to recognise that building codes can vary between states and territories. Local variations may exist, requiring thorough research into the specific regulations applicable to your location. Gunceler Industries recommends consulting local building authorities or engaging a qualified architect. This goes a long way in ensuring compliance with regional requirements.

The heights of handrails and barriers should generally adhere to the following standards:

  • The minimum height must be 1m above the floor of access paths, balconies or landings.

  • For stairs, the height should be a minimum of 865mm above the nosing.

  • A transition zone is allowed, where the height changes from 865mm on the stair or ramp to 1m at the landing.

  • Posts should be spaced no more than 1.8m apart.

  • The wire used must be stainless steel, with a minimum diameter of 3.2mm.

  • Maximum allowable wire spacing is 100mm.

  • Intermediate droppers should be installed at a maximum spacing of 900mm between posts.

  • Tensioners are required on each strand of wire with directional changes of 30 degrees or more.

  • A sturdy handrail is mandatory. It should be made of steel tubing with a minimum diameter of 40mm or timber according to the Timber Framing Code AS 1684.2 1999.

Minimum Balustrade Height in Australia

When measuring the height of a barrier or rail, we start from the finished floor surface. This includes considering materials like ceramic tiles or carpet, as they can affect the overall height. Standard balustrade heights for different places are as follows:

Swimming Pool Fences

  • Fences around swimming pools must be at least 1.2m high.

  • The fence should be unclimbable, and it needs a self-closing, self-latching gate.

Patios and Decks

  • If a patio or deck is 1m higher than the ground, it needs a balustrade at least 1m high.

  • If it’s more than 4m high, the balustrade should be unclimbable.

Balcony balustrade height

  • If a balcony is more than 1m above the ground, it must have a balustrade at least 1m high.

  • If the balcony is over 4m high, no climbable things should be between 150mm and 760mm above the floor.

Staircases

  • Staircases without a wall next to them must have a balustrade at least 865mm high from the stairs and 1m on any landings.

  • Handrails between 865 and 1000mm above the stairs are required.

Privacy Screens

  • Privacy screens must have a minimum balustrade height of at least 1.7m with low transparency or an obscure finish if glass is used.

  • If it’s more than 1m above the ground, a handrail or mid-rail at 1m high is needed.

  • No climbable structures should be between 150mm and 760mm above the floor if it’s more than 4m high.

  • These rules help ensure safety in different places like balconies, swimming pools, patios, decks, stairs and privacy screens in Australia.

Minimum Handrail Height

The minimum handrail height for different spaces is as follows:

Balustrade requirements for general corridors

  • The recommended handrail height in general corridors is 900mm.

Handrail safety requirements

  • Handrail height specifications are outlined in the Australian Building Code.

  • Attachment to the support structure must comply with AS1428.1-2009.

Stair handrail height

  • Minimum handrail height on stairs in Australia should be at least 865 mm above the floor or stair nosing.

On landings with a significant fall risk, the guardrail height must be a minimum of 1000mm.

Hospital timber handrail recommendations

  • 40mm diameter Dowel handrail fixed to the wall at a minimum of 900mm centres between supports.

  • 50mm diameter Dowel handrail fixed to the wall at a minimum of 1200mm centres.

Handrail is required

  • For stairs, platforms, or landings over 1 metre above the ground (equivalent to 4 risers and 3 treads in a compliant staircase).

  • For ramps over 2 metres in height.

What Is the Maximum Spacing between Balusters?

Where individual balusters or balustrades are being used, it is crucial to keep the balustrade maximum spacing in mind. A 125mm sphere should not be able to pass through the balustrade opening. You also need to be mindful of any turning/chamfers in your balustrade. Equally important is the flexibility of your balustrading material.

For more information on balustrading and handrails in Australia, Gunceler Industries is always here to help. You can call us on 0411 032 421 or email us at guncelerIndustries@hotmail.com and get your queries answered.