Pedestrian Handrail Modification
Pedestrian Handrail Modification
(OP)
I have a question about modifying some existing hand railing. There is about 180 feet of existing hand railing that doesn't meet current code for the opening sizes. I have attached a picture of the handrail in question. The initial idea that was presented to me was to weld some grating between the post and rails. This seems like it could be expensive to buy about 60 panels and weld them to the existing railing.
I wonder if just running cables through holes drilled in the posts wouldn't be a cheaper alternative? The cables would have to be spaced less than six inches apart and they would have to be stretched (like building a barb wire fence), but the material cost would be much less than grating. I would also think drilled the holes would be less expensive than the field welding.
I'm open to any other suggestions as well.
Thanks
I wonder if just running cables through holes drilled in the posts wouldn't be a cheaper alternative? The cables would have to be spaced less than six inches apart and they would have to be stretched (like building a barb wire fence), but the material cost would be much less than grating. I would also think drilled the holes would be less expensive than the field welding.
I'm open to any other suggestions as well.
Thanks





RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
If I recall correctly, the designer said they were standard industrial fence panels. I don't know where they got them. Maybe you could finds a similar bolt-on solution.
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
ACtrafficengr - I like the idea of the fence panels. I'm going to look into that.
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
Also, I think you'll need to add a bottom rail no more than 4" above the ground for ADA compliance.
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
I think you are both right, chain link would be the easiest and fastest to install with bolt on clamps. AC is right I'll have to add a bottom rail/toe kick for ADA compliance, but that will double as a place to secure the bottom of the chain link. I'll have to use 2" mesh to comply with AASHTO. I'm not sure what gauge to use. 6, 9 and 11 look to be common.
Thanks for the help.
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
On a serious note, it's stupid little things like 1" mesh vs. 2"; 4" spacing vs. 6" that can cause trouble. Unfortunately in our work lawyers are very good at convincing juries that we're supposed to anticipate every move that every idiot makes.
RE: Pedestrian Handrail Modification
My current boss doesn't share his opinion.