ETA Opinion: Clearances between a handrail and adjacent wall surface

Question/Issue:

According to the new 2012 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, Chapter 7, Section 7.2.2.4.4.5 & Exhibit 7.97, the finger clearance at an existing stair handrail should be greater than or equal to 2-1/4” which conflicts with the 1.5" clearance in 2010 ADA section 505.5 regarding the distance between the gripping surface and adjacent surfaces.

ETA Interpretation/Opinion:

Clearances between a handrail and wall surface: The 2010 ADA now requires the 1.5” as a minimum. 2012 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code will be requiring 2.25” minimum (in jurisdictions where it has been adopted).

See also: http://www.nfpa.org/