Aluminum guardrails and handrails are critical safety features in almost every building over one story high, from hotels and condominiums to industrial and commercial facilities. But in order to be safe and durable, handrails must be designed using precise, project-specific calculations that take into account use, loading, physical material properties and many other safety factors.

When these calculations are not done correctly, or when manufacturers’ test data is relied on instead, the resulting errors can result in costly litigation, remediation and serious safety hazards. Even stamped and approved calculations and drawings are very often incorrect. The calculations should be done by experts, but even when they are, the architect should understand the factors involved, and what to look for in the calculations in order to ensure safety along with function and aesthetics.

For instance, one of the most widely used configurations for balcony railings, 2x2x1/8” post on 48” centers, probably will not meet relevant codes and actually poses a significant liability and safety risk in high rise condominiums and apartments. New codes are also stricter than previous ones, and some designs that would have met older codes will not be in compliance now.

This course will explain the key considerations in designing architectural aluminum railings, and how architects can evaluate engineering calculations to make sure safety, code compliance and long term durability are assured, and costly litigation and remediation is avoided. Numerous test calculations and reference materials are included as PDF files, and many real-world examples are shown of how – and how not – to design aluminum handrailing. Architects involved in designing, selecting or specifying handrails should thoroughly understand the information in this course before the next project – or before leaning on the next handrail.