Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License (CSL) Practice Test

For stairway railings in residences, what is a common requirement?

1. The railing must be at least 36 inches high.

2. There should be no vertical openings larger than 4 inches.

3. All railings must be designed for a single person grip.

4. Railing projections are limited to 1 inch.

The correct answer is: There should be no vertical openings larger than 4 inches.

In residential construction, a common requirement for stairway railings is that there should be no vertical openings larger than 4 inches. This regulation is primarily aimed at enhancing safety, particularly to prevent small children from slipping through the balusters or vertical supports of the railing. By limiting the size of these openings, it reduces the risk of falls, accidents, and injuries, making stairways safer for all users. While the other requirements regarding railing height, grip design, and projections contribute to overall railing safety and usability, the specific focus on vertical openings directly addresses a significant safety concern in residential settings. Therefore, ensuring that openings are appropriately sized is a critical aspect of railing design in homes, and this is the focus of the regulation.