Are handrails required on both sides of stairways?

Handrails are typically required on both sides of stairways in many building codes, particularly in commercial buildings. However, the requirement can depend on various factors such as the width of the staircase, the type of occupancy, and the building code that governs the area.

In many situations, if a stairway is wide enough to accommodate multiple users and does not otherwise require additional handrails for safety, having a handrail on just one side may be deemed sufficient. Often, this decision is influenced by the specific regulations of the local building authority or the relevant codes, such as the International Building Code (IBC) or other local amendments.

In residential settings or certain types of facilities, there may also be exceptions to having handrails only on one side, particularly in situations where the stairway has a wall on one side or is meant for smaller, private usage.

Thus, while having handrails on both sides enhances safety and accessibility, the requirement for them to be present on both sides of all stairways is not universally applied, making the answer "False" appropriate in specific contexts where it aligns with local or project-specific code.