Balustrades

What You Need to Know About Australian Regulations for Designer Balustrades

Barrier Heights

01

At least 865mm from stair nosings or ramp floors.

02

At least 1000mm on landings, balconies, corridors, and similar elevated spaces.

03

For stairway landings with winders (up to 500mm length), minimum height is 865mm.

04

Transition zones: Barriers may gradually increase from 865mm (stair/ramp) to 1000mm (landing).

Barrier Safety Requirements

A continuous barrier is required where the fall is 1 meter or more from any trafficable surface, including:

(A)

Stairs, ramps, corridors, balconies, decks, and rooftops with general access.

(B)

Any defined path leading to a building.

Barriers are not required for:

(A)

Retaining walls (unless part of an access path).

(B)

Windows or doors with built-in barriers.

Barrier Openings

Openings must be small enough to prevent a 125mm sphere from passing through.

For stairs, openings are measured from the nosing line of the treads.

Barriers in non-habitable rooms (such as attics or storerooms) may allow:

(A)

Openings up to 300mm.

(B)

If using rails, gaps must be 460mm or less.

Climb Prevention

Where falls exceed 4 meters, horizontal elements between 150mm and 760mm above the floor must not encourage climbing.

Barrier Load Requirements

All barriers (except windows acting as barriers) must be structurally sound in accordance with AS/NZS 1170.1.

Australian Standards

(A)

AS1288 contains balustrade and barrier requirements

(B)

NCC (National Construction Code) also contains barriers and handrails.

Complete Safety Standarts

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