A carpenter is tasked with installing a continuous handrail on a residential stair that makes a 90-degree turn with an intermediate landing. To ensure a smooth, continuous flow and code compliance (CSA A440.1/A440.2), what type of handrail fitting would typically be used at the inside corner of the turn?

Question: A carpenter is tasked with installing a continuous handrail on a residential stair that makes a 90-degree turn with an intermediate landing. To ensure a smooth, continuous flow and code compliance (CSA A440.1/A440.2), what type of handrail fitting would typically be used at the inside corner of the turn?

Answer options:

• A butt joint with a metal plate.
• Two 45-degree mitred rail sections joined with screws.
• A volute. ✅ A 'quarter-turn' or 'up-easement and gooseneck' fitting combination.

Correct answer: A 'quarter-turn' or 'up-easement and gooseneck' fitting combination.

Explanation: For a continuous handrail changing direction at a landing, specialized fittings like a 'quarter-turn' or an 'up-easement and gooseneck' combination are used to maintain a smooth, graspable surface without sharp angles, which is required for code compliance. Butt joints or simple mitres would create an uncomfortable and non-compliant break in the continuous grasp. A volute is used at the starting newel post, not at an intermediate turn.