In Queensland there are strict requirements when it comes to balustrades
Where a deck or balcony is one metre or higher above the ground then balustrades are required to be at least one metre high.
The openings in balustrades cannot be greater than 125mm.
If a deck is more than four metres above the ground, balustrades cannot have climbable elements located between 150mm and 760mm from the floor.
Balustrades must be constructed so they can resist forces that can reasonably be expected to be placed upon them, including people leaning against them and strong winds.
Retaining walls do not require a balustrade unless they are associated with a path of travel to and from or between buildings, however it is still a good idea to provide a balustrade or barrier where there is a risk of people falling.
Balustrades are required on stairs and are just as important as they are used as support for people ascending and descending the stairs. For stairs, a barrier of at least 865mm high above the nosing of the stair treads is required. For stairs more than 4m in height, a railing must also not have any climbable elements such as horizontal rails located between 150mm and 760mm from the floor.
Repair or Replacement of a Balustrade
Before repairing, replacing or altering a balustrade, obtain advice from a building certifier about the standards and approvals that apply to the proposed work. Existing building approvals, the building type and the scope of alterations can affect the requirements. Do not assume that a replacement can simply repeat the original design.
The above information does not relate to pool fencing requirements.
For background information, see the Queensland Government’s Deck, balcony and window safety guideline (March 2017, PDF). This general overview is not a substitute for assessment against the building standards that apply to your work.
For support with the administration of your scheme’s common property, explore our Body Corporate administrative services. Building assessments and repair advice should come from appropriately qualified professionals.