What load should deck guards and handrails resist when a single concentrated load is applied?

Deck guards and handrails play a crucial role in ensuring safety by preventing falls from elevated surfaces. According to building codes and standards, these components must be designed to withstand specific loads.

The requirement for handrails and deck guards is that they should be able to resist a concentrated load of 200 pounds applied in any direction. This is particularly important in residential and commercial settings, where the safety of individuals relies on the integrity of these structures. By ensuring that deck guards and handrails can handle this load, the potential for structural failure is minimized, providing a safer environment.

Choosing 200 psf as the correct value aligns with widely adopted safety standards, which specify this load to ensure that the railings can accommodate not just vertical forces from leaning but also lateral forces that might occur if someone leans or pushes against them. This requirement helps to ensure stability and durability under realistic use conditions.

Overall, recognizing the importance of a 200-pound load standard is essential for professionals in the building and construction industries to ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain protection for occupants.