40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

True or False: Spindles should be positioned vertically for safety.

1. True

2. False

3. Only in certain contexts

4. Depends on design

The correct answer is: False

The assertion regarding the positioning of spindles focuses on their arrangement to ensure safety, particularly in stair railings and guardrails. When spindles are positioned vertically, they provide better support and stability, minimizing the risk of a child or person falling through gaps. Positioning spindles vertically is a standard practice that enhances protection against falls. When spindles are laid horizontally or at an angle, they can create gaps that might allow small children to slip through, increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, when evaluating the safety of spindles in the context of building codes and best practices, vertical placement is generally the requirement for ensuring the highest level of safety. In specific contexts where design and aesthetics might influence the arrangement or where other safety measures are in place, there could be exceptions. However, the general rule remains that vertical spindles are the preferred and safest option to comply with safety standards in building inspections.