3. Glossary

Railings

The purpose of a structure is to protect people standing or walking near it from the risk of accidental falls into a void, but not to prevent them from passing through or climbing over it, whether forcibly or voluntarily. The standard distinguishes between :

• guardrails installed at the edge of substantially horizontal parking or circulation areas;

• railing at the edge of inclined traffic areas or at the end of steps (staircase banisters).

Balustrade

Balustrade made up of repeated pillar-like elements called "balusters" and crowned with a shelf. By extension: an openwork railing whose components are generally thin.

Grab bar

Independent element of a guardrail serving...