Here are some guidelines on stair railing height and spacing based on building codes such as the International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC). Key points include:

• Handrail Height: Must be between 34 to 38 inches above the stair nosing. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires 42 inches for stair rails.
• Guard Railing Height: Should be at least 36 inches for landings and walking surfaces with a drop-off of more than 30 inches.
• Spacing Requirements:
  • Maximum projection from the wall: 4 1/2 inches
  • Minimum clearance from the wall: 1 1/2 inches
  • Minimum distance between two stair railings: 27 inches
  • Minimum single stair railing distance from the opposite wall: 31 1/2 inches

Keep in mind that commercial properties may have stricter requirements than residential ones.  Top Flight Welding prioritizes precise stair railing measurements to ensure compliance and safety, utilizing tools like a plumb line or vertical laser level.