1991 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

A4.26 Handrails, Grab Bars, and Tub and Shower Seats.

A4.26.1 General.

Many disabled people rely heavily upon grab bars and handrails to maintain balance and prevent serious falls. Many people brace their forearms between supports and walls to give them more leverage and stability in maintaining balance or for lifting. The grab bar clearance of 1‒1/2 in (38 mm) required in this guideline is a safety clearance to prevent injuries resulting from arms slipping through the openings. It also provides adequate gripping room.

A4.26.2 Size and Spacing of Grab Bars and Handrails.

This specification allows for alternate shapes of handrails as long as they allow an opposing grip similar to that provided by a circular section of 1‒1/4 in to 1‒1/2 in (32 mm to 38 mm).