Specifying school handrails

We're responsible for supplying first class barrier products. This includes the likes of handrail components, bollards, and various others. Each one works in differing ways, but their purpose is the same; they keep people safe. So, if these are products you want for your own property, we can help.

The education sector often creates challenges for specifiers. Handrails and balustrades must comply with regulations. There are a lot of these to consider as well. What we are going to do here is summarise crucial factors for specifying handrails in schools. As a result, you will know what to think of when you look at designs.

Clamps

Firstly, there is bolt through clamps. Early on in projects, it is preferable to supply detailed design input in advance of the final design. This is to guarantee fixing details are considered and appropriate to the substrate upon which they will be attached. Fixings need to comply with the minimum requirements of BS618.

The recommendation is to have bolt through clamps for fixing glass infills and a handrail. This is a safety precaution. Classic clamps might lead to glass slippage with time. What this does is present a safety risk and a monetary one. Also, bolt through clamps must be anchored to a solid load-bearing substrate. Said substrate can be slab, brick, metal, wood, or a concrete floor.

Non-climbable

Another important factor is that every railing should be non-claimable. Designs need to ensure pupils can't climb any part of the rail. This is particularly important where users include children under 5.

Here, you should avoid horizontal rails. Any opening should stop a 100mm sphere passing through. There is also guidance available in CP BS6180:1999 Barriers In And About Buildings. This British Standard offers recommendations for designing and constructing permanent or temporary barriers about and in places of assembly and buildings.

Height

The last factor we will discuss is height. Specific regulations exist for handrail heights in schools. Generally, they need to be a minimum of 1100mm from finished floor level. Although, you should consider bigger heights in relation to the environment.

Within schools where students are 12 and under, The Department for Children, Schools, and Families like having an extra lower rail. It would be about 600mm for people of small stature and infants. In primary schools, you should definitely consider providing the secondary rail at a lower height.

Browse our handrail products

At Barrier Mart, we have some fantastic options available. This includes the key clamp designs, for which you can buy tubes as well as fittings. Most importantly, our goods are of the highest quality to keep you safe.

So, if you'd like to know more about how to create a handrail, feel free to speak to us.