Do Steel Staircases Need a Handrail on Both Sides?

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Whether a steel staircase needs a handrail on both sides depends on its width, its use and the requirements of the approved plans and Israeli standards. Many staircases are fitted with handrails on both sides, especially wider or public-use stairs, while narrower private stairs may be satisfied with one side. Confirm the exact requirement with your engineer before fabrication.

Why handrails matter on steel staircases

A handrail gives users something to hold while going up or down, which reduces the risk of slips and falls. Steel stairs are often used on balconies, terraces and inside homes, where the steps can be narrow and the surfaces can become slippery in wet weather.

Handrails also support people who are carrying loads, older residents and children. Because a fall down a steel staircase can cause serious injury, the handrail design should be considered from the start, not added as an afterthought.

When one handrail side may be enough

In many private projects, a staircase with a single handrail on one side is acceptable when the staircase is relatively narrow and the other side is bounded by a wall or a solid structure. The position of the handrail should allow a comfortable grip for the typical user.

Single-sided solutions are common for simple exterior or secondary stairs. Even so, the decision should be checked against the project documentation and the relevant standard, since local conditions can change the answer.

When both sides are usually expected

Handrails on both sides are commonly required or recommended in several situations:

Wide staircases, where a single handrail is hard to reach from the middle of the flight
Staircases used by the public, such as in shared buildings or commercial spaces
Stairs with open sides or a significant drop beside the steps
Projects where the engineer or building committee specifies it

Standards and approvals to check

Railing requirements in Israel are linked to the Israeli standard for railings, commonly referred to as SI 1142, along with the approved building plans. The standard addresses height, strength, and the protection of openings, among other things.

Exact dimensions, load values and clearances should always be verified with the structural or architectural engineer responsible for the project. This page is meant to help you ask the right questions, not replace professional review.

Practical design points for steel staircases

Good handrail design goes beyond the number of sides. Consider these points during planning:

A continuous grip that is easy to hold and free of sharp edges
Secure fixing to the steel stringers or the wall, checked for the expected loads
Continuity of the handrail at landings and turns
Finish suitable for the environment, such as hot-dip galvanizing or powder coating for outdoor use

How to decide for your project

Start by reviewing the approved drawings and the building requirements. Measure the staircase width and note whether either side is open or enclosed. If the stair serves many people or has an exposed side, plan for handrails on both sides.

At Techno Kol Uzi, we usually take on-site measurements, prepare a drawing and a written specification, and agree on the handrail layout with the client before production begins. Confirming this step early avoids changes later in the factory or on site.

Frequently asked questions

Is a handrail always required on both sides of a steel staircase?

Not always. Requirements depend on the width, use and approved plans of the project. Many staircases use both sides, but some private stairs are compliant with one side.

Can I install a handrail on one side only if the stairs are narrow?

Often yes, for simple private stairs, provided the handrail is positioned well and the plans allow it. Confirm this with your engineer before fabrication.

Does the Israeli railing standard apply to steel stairs?

The Israeli standard SI 1142 is commonly referenced for railings. Check with your engineer how it applies to your specific staircase and its exact requirements.

What should I send to the factory to check the handrail layout?

Send photos, the staircase width, any plans or drawings, and notes on which sides are open or enclosed. Our team can then arrange an on-site measurement and prepare a drawing for your approval.

Common mistakes to avoid

Choosing the handrail side without checking the width, the open sides and the approved plans can lead to changes after installation. Assuming one side is always enough, or always two, can also cause problems with approvals.

Our recommendation

Measure the staircase and confirm the handrail requirement with your engineer before ordering. If there is any doubt, plan for handrails on both sides, as this is usually easier to justify and safer for users.

Summary

Steel staircases do not always need handrails on both sides, but the answer depends on width, use and the approved plans. Confirm the requirement with your engineer and plan the layout early.

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