40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

What is the maximum allowable gap between railing balusters or spindles?

1. 2 inches

2. 3 inches

3. 4 inches

4. 5 inches

The correct answer is: 4 inches

The maximum allowable gap between railing balusters or spindles is determined by safety regulations that aim to prevent small children from slipping through and falling. The correct answer of 4 inches is based on the International Residential Code (IRC) standards that have been established for residential properties. These regulations specify that a gap beyond this measurement increases the risk of accidents, particularly for young children. A 4-inch maximum spacing ensures that the openings are small enough to prevent an infant or small toddler from getting their body through, while still allowing for adequate airflow and visibility. Balusters spaced too far apart could lead to serious safety hazards, making it crucial for inspectors to ensure compliance with this guideline during building inspections. In contrast, smaller gaps, such as 2 or 3 inches, may not meet structural requirements or could be less effective in minimizing the risk of accidents, while a gap of 5 inches exceeds the maximum safe limit, thus creating a potential safety issue.