Disabled handrails and their requirements

Barrier items come in many forms, and we are one of the UK's preferred suppliers of them. The purpose of these goods is to keep users safe. This is the case for the handrail too. As expert providers, we can supply you with the right goods and ensure they meet your specifications. What's more, we can do so for some excellent prices.

The latest estimate from Scope is there are over 14.6 million individuals residing in the UK with disabilities. Luckily, we have come a long way in regards to accessibility over the years. However, numerous people still find it hard to do daily tasks. This is because of a lack of support.

The Equity Act, formerly the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), states that public areas and business premises must legally offer safe access for the disabled. They have to ensure that they are no restrictions in the way of doing their tasks either. There are several requirements present in the Act. However, one of its main areas is the demand for a handrail people with disabilities can use safely for building access.

The requirements

According to the Building Regulations and the Equity Act, for you to be compliant an access handrail can't have sharp edges. It also needs a tube diameter that is between 40mm and 45mm. The handrail can't have snag points and has to be continuously smooth. The goal here is to ensure it is safe to hold and as easy as possible for people to move while holding it.

Something else it needs to be is visually contrasting with the surroundings for people with bad eyesight. This is crucial as not being able to see the railings properly can limit access and increase the risk of injury.

In addition to these requirements, the Equity Act also demands that external rails be of a certain temperature. They can't be cold to the touch, even during winter. This guarantees that very cold handrails won't stop cold-sensitive individuals from using them. They also won't let go due to the temperature and risk injury.

Talk to us if you need to create a handrail

At Barrier Mart, we supply the UK with the finest handrail goods. We specialise in the key clamp system. Here you can choose metal tubing and a choice of fittings to create your handrails. There are lots of options, including T, cross, corner, and mid fittings. Plus we have reliable wall brackets and base plates so you can secure the railing in place.

In addition, we have crash barriers, fencing, gates, and guards available, and more. To guarantee quality, we manufacture everything in house. What's more, we can install these products nationwide.

So, if you would like to work with us to obtain a reliable handrail, please let us know. You can also browse the parts of the key clamp system on our website and place an order if you wish.