Installing A Railing Around Mechanical Equipment?
It could be easier than you think.
Railings around mechanical equipment, as opposed to general use pedestrian railings, can be designed to a different standard.
These types of railing include those that protect:
• Roofs of commercial buildings
• Industrial facilities
• Mechanical rooms
Railing systems of all kinds must be treated as a guardrail when it is positioned adjacent to a drop-off greater than 30 inches, per IBC 2018 Section 1015.2 (for general railings) and 1015.6 (mechanical equipment).
Weighted mechanical railing option by Unistrut
Pedestrian Railings Relevant Codes
IBC 1015.2 Guard Height and Load Requirements
Railing loads are per ASCE 7 4.5.1 and IBC 1607.8 (2018)
> 200 lb concentrated load in any direction.
> 50 plf linear load on top rail in any direction (non-concurrent with the 200 lb concentrated load in any direction).
> Intermediate rails/guard infill to resist a horizontal concentrated load of 50 lb over a 1 ft area (non-concurrent with the top rail loads).
Pedestrian Elevated Railings Explained
These railings are designed to prevent people from falling when walking near elevated edges like balconies, stairways, ramps, or platforms.
Where You’ll See Them:
• Office buildings
• Apartment balconies & multi-floor homes
• Parking garages
• Stairs and ramps
Key Design Standards:
• Height: Usually 42 inches minimum from the walking surface
• Load Resistance: Must resist a 200-pound concentrated force applied in any direction
• Opening Limits: Must prevent a 4-inch sphere from passing through (to protect children from falling)
Quick Comparison Chart
Feature | Pedestrian Railings | Mechanical Equipment Railings |
|---|---|---|
Used By | General public | Authorized personnel/workers |
Minimum Height | 42 inches | 42 inches (+-3″ – sometimes applies) |
Fall Hazard Protection | Yes | Yes |
Required Opening Limits | 4-inch max gap | When opening exceeds 21 inches |
Code | ||
Top Rail Required? | Yes, designed to 200lb force in each direction | Yes, designed to 200lb force in each direction |
Further Reading
Here’s a helpful article from our friends at Simplified Safety that explains a bit further. We also like the creative use of weighted guardrails on rooftops to prevent penetrating the roof waterproofing membrane. See the article here.
See also our ever evolving articles on railings, fences & safeguards in general.
While both types of railings are vital for safety, they’re designed for different situations and users. If you’re designing or inspecting a building, knowing the difference helps ensure compliance with the right codes—and keeps everyone safe.
Always check with your local building code officials or a licensed design professional for the most accurate guidance based on your project’s specific needs.
Last Update: May 12, 2025
