Essential AS 1657:2018 Walkway Requirements: Width, Guardrails, and Handrails Explained

Ensuring that walkways, platforms, and other access structures meet safety standards is a critical part of any construction or fabrication project. The AS 1657:2018 standard outlines the essential guidelines for designing and constructing safe, functional walkways. At SolidDraft Design Solutions, we specialize in 2D and 3D modeling to create fabrication-ready designs that meet the AS 1657:2018 standard, ensuring that your projects are safe, compliant, and optimized for construction.

In this post, we’ll break down key aspects of the AS 1657:2018 standard, specifically focusing on walkway width, guardrails, and handrails to guide you in achieving a safe and compliant walkway design.

1. Walkway Width Requirements: Key Considerations for Safety and Accessibility

Why Walkway Width Matters

The width of a walkway is one of the most crucial elements for ensuring safety and accessibility. A narrow walkway can restrict movement, increase the risk of accidents, and hinder access to necessary equipment or workspaces.

AS 1657:2018 Walkway Width Guidelines:

• The minimum clear width for a walkway should be 600mm to accommodate pedestrian traffic.

• For areas with higher foot traffic, equipment access, or other significant movement, the standard recommends increasing the width to 1,000mm or more to ensure comfortable use.

Takeaway:

Make sure your walkways are wide enough to accommodate the expected level of activity. Compliance with AS 1657:2018 ensures that walkways are not only functional but also safe for users.

2. Provision of Guardrails: When to Include Them, Even If Not Required

Why Guardrails Are Important

Guardrails are essential for preventing falls, particularly in areas with significant height differences. However, AS 1657:2018 provides specific guidelines on when guardrails are required and when they are not.

Guardrail Requirements According to AS 1657:2018:

• Guardrails are not mandatory for walkways where the fall height is less than 2 meters and the surface below is not considered hazardous.

• Despite this, it’s still recommended to consider guardrails for any walkway where there is a potential fall risk, even if the standard doesn’t explicitly require them.

Takeaway:

While guardrails may not always be required, it’s often a good practice to include them in areas where there’s a fall risk. This will enhance safety, even in cases where the AS 1657:2018 standard doesn’t mandate guardrails.

3. Handrail Height (Fixed to Wall): Ensuring Proper Support

Why Handrail Height is Crucial

Handrails provide vital support for users, particularly in walkways, platforms, and stairways. A properly placed handrail ensures that individuals can maintain their balance and grip while walking. AS 1657:2018 sets clear guidelines for handrail height, ensuring that they’re both functional and safe.

AS 1657:2018 Handrail Height Specifications:

• Handrails fixed to a wall must be between 900mm and 1,100mm above the walking surface.

• This height range is ideal for users to easily grip the handrail, regardless of their height.

Takeaway:

Proper handrail height is essential for user safety and comfort. Ensure that your handrails are positioned within the correct height range to provide adequate support and comply with safety standards.

4. Handrail Dimensions: The Right Size for Safety and Comfort

Why Correct Handrail Dimensions Matter

Handrails should not only be at the correct height but also have appropriate dimensions to ensure they are comfortable and secure to grip. AS 1657:2018 specifies the ideal handrail dimensions to ensure ease of use and safety.

AS 1657:2018 Handrail Dimension Guidelines:

• The diameter of handrails should range between 30mm and 50mm.

• Handrails should be designed with a smooth surface and no sharp edges, making them easy to grip.

Takeaway:

For safety and comfort, ensure your handrails are within the recommended diameter range and feature a smooth, easy-to-grip design. This helps users maintain a secure hold, reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Trust SolidDraft Design Solutions for AS 1657:2018 Compliance

At SolidDraft Design Solutions, we specialize in creating compliant 2D and 3D designs for platforms, walkways, and other access structures. Our designs are crafted with the AS 1657:2018 standard in mind, ensuring that your projects meet all necessary requirements for safety, accessibility, and functionality.

Whether you’re working on a walkway design, stairway system, or platform structure, we provide fabrication-ready drawings that streamline the construction process and ensure safety compliance every step of the way.

📩 Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your next walkway design project and ensure full AS 1657:2018 compliance.