Safety Tips
Children's Heads and Balusters:
Balusters are those vertical elements of your stair systems, inside or out, as well
as on your decks or balcony. They are one of the most attractive parts of your
stair system to children. Of course as years go by, children love to slide down the
banister. But early on children will tend to want to put their heads through the
balusters. We look for the space between balusters to be 4 inches maximum.
This usually keeps most younger children from putting their heads through the
baluster. If the spacing exceeds four inches, it is dangerous. Heads can become lodged. We consider
this a safety hazard and will report it as such.
Also, be mindful of the space between the floor of a deck or balcony and the bottom
railing if there is one. Too much space can allow a small and curious child to roll
under (a toddler only needs five inches to squeeze her entire body under or through)
and fall dangerously to the ground below no matter what the height. So either have a
qualified contractor rebuild or insert extra balusters or you can try improvising by any safe
way possible to keep the children safe if balusters are more than four inches apart
or bottom railings exceed 3-4 inches off the deck or balcony. Securely attached
house/deck skirting is one product that can work and it can be painted or stained to
match. It comes in four by eight foot pieces and can be cut. It is important to check the
tight fits of your railings and balusters regularly, as well as the stability of
your balcony and/or deck.
Thank you for considering us for your home inspection needs.
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