Measure the balustrade's post size.
Determine if the post has a circular hollow section, a square hollow section or a rectangular hollow section. (
Measure the distance between balustrade posts.
Compare the data you collected in Steps 1 to 4 with the loading specifications of similar balustrades and assess its nominal load capability. For example, if you are calculating the loading capability of a flat metal balustrade with 50-by-10-centimeter posts and a post separation distance of 0.9 meters, the maximum load capability will be around 0.74 KN/m --- the force exerted by a 75-kg man putting all his weight on every meter of the balustrade.
Prepare a test load equal to the load capability you wish to test for multiplied by a security factor of 1.6. For example, if you want to test if your balustrade can withstand the full weight of an adult, prepare a test load of at least 160 kg.
Attach the test load to a rope and tie it to the top of the balustrade. Throw the load over the balustrade.
Observe the effects of the load on the balustrade. Measure the deflection of the balustrade railing and its posts. If the maximum deflection exceeds 25 mm, consider the test failed.