Which of the following is not a requirement for guardrails?

Guardrails are essential safety features designed to prevent falls in areas such as stairways, balconies, and elevated decks. The requirement for guardrails to be installed on every level of a home is not mandated by the International Residential Code (IRC). Instead, guardrails are required in specific areas where there is a risk of falling. For instance, guardrails are typically required around stairways, open-sided walking surfaces, and balconies at certain heights.

The other requirements focus on the structural integrity and height of the guardrails. The minimum height of 36 inches ensures that the guardrails are sufficiently tall to provide safety without being too high to climb over easily. The requirement for guardrails to withstand a force of 200 pounds is crucial as it ensures that the guardrails can hold up under pressure, preventing failures that could result in falls. Additionally, the spacing of vertical balusters at a maximum of 6 inches apart is designed to prevent small children from slipping through the guardrail, enhancing safety.

Therefore, while guardrails serve a vital protective purpose in certain areas, the installation requirement is not universal for every level of the home, making that choice correct.