ASTM E 985 : 2024

1.1This specification2 covers permanent metal railing systems (guard, stair, and ramp-rail systems) and rails (hand, wall, grab, and transfer rails) installed in and for agricultural, assembly, commercial, educational, industrial, institutional, recreational, and residential buildings. However, this standard does not cover metal railing systems installed in and for industrial, commercial, and other non-residential workplace occupancies where normally only adults will be present or have access, and for which guardrail or handrail requirements are specified by occupational safety and health safety regulations and standards. This standard does not cover ballasted railing systems.

1.2This specification is intended to be applied to permanent metal railing systems for buildings and to such railing systems and rails having major structural components made of metal, with their secondary components made of metal or other materials such as wood, plastics, and glass.

1.3This specification considers that today's and tomorrow's overall outlook is based on the health and safety of all potential users of buildings. The criteria incorporated in this specification provide for normal and anticipated building uses, but not for abuses for which the building and its components are not designed.

1.4This specification establishes basic minimum requirements and criteria that lead to satisfactory products under normal use conditions and does not give consideration to design criteria for specific field conditions, the establishment of which is the prerogative and responsibility of the designer, specification writer, and code agencies.

1.5Sources of supportive information are listed in the Reference section (1-28).3

1.6The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.7This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.