ArchAI
CODEX · EGRESS
IBC 2021

When is a guard required, and how tall must it be?

§01ANSWER

Guards are required where a walking surface is more than 30 inches above the floor or grade below. Guards must be not less than 42 inches high, measured vertically.

The 30-inch trigger is measured within a 36-inch horizontal distance from the edge of the open side.

Some occupancies and locations allow a lower guard height. Confirm the exception before relying on it.

ArchAI cites the code. It does not stamp the drawing. You do.