What should the minimum horizontal load in pounds for intermediate rails or balusters be?

The minimum horizontal load requirement for intermediate rails or balusters is established to ensure safety and structural integrity in railing systems, particularly in residential settings. A minimum load of 50 pounds is specified to ensure that these components can withstand reasonable forces that may be applied during everyday use. This includes the force from leaning or pushing against the railing, which is critical in preventing accidents, especially in areas where children might be present or where there is a potential for falls.

Setting this standard at 50 pounds ensures that the materials and construction methods employed can sufficiently support typical stresses encountered in these applications, promoting safety without overly complicating the construction process. Balusters and intermediate rails must be capable of resisting this load while being part of a balanced system that maintains the overall safety and usability of the structure.