A stairway with a handrail installed on one side only shall develop a minimum width of _____.

The minimum width of a stairway with a handrail on one side only is established to ensure safety and usability. The correct minimum width is 31-1/2 inches. This dimension allows enough space for individuals to navigate the stairs comfortably while also ensuring that there is adequate room for the handrail to effectively support users.

Setting the minimum at 31-1/2 inches considers not just the width of the stairs themselves, but also the necessary space for safe handrail installation and use. A narrower width could potentially create difficulties for people who need to utilize the handrail, particularly in emergency situations where quick movement is required.

Stairway width codes are typically developed by building codes and safety regulations to accommodate various needs, including those of individuals with disabilities or those carrying items. In the context of this question, a stairway width of 31-1/2 inches strikes a balance between safety, accessibility, and building standards. Choosing other widths, such as 30 inches, could compromise safety by not providing enough room for safe navigation and use of the handrail.