DDA handrail requirements

Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) handrails are vital in numerous settings. They allow the elderly, disabled people, and children to access important public structures. Examples include GP practices, community centres, schools, and hospitals. Each handrail is crucial to ensure people can get in and out safely, minimising the risk of trips, falls, and serious injuries.

Our intention here is to explain the requirements for these handrails. This will help you to follow the law, specifically under the Disability Discrimination Act. Ultimately, you will be able to put the right measures in place in every area.

Specifications

DDA handrails need to guarantee that everyone can get into the building safely. They are especially important for those who find it difficult to navigate varying ground levels. As such, you need to adhere to the correct specifications to protect anyone using them.

Continuous

For one thing, handrails on a flight of stairs need to be continuous. If access to a structure comes in the form of both a flight of stairs and ramp, and if the stairs have two or more liners, you need to fit a continuous handrail on both sides. It's the same for stairs separated by landings. Here, you should still supply handrails throughout the course of the flight.

Height

Second, handrails must be a specific height. They have to be between 900mm and 1.1m high. Additionally, you have to consider those that are especially short in stature. It may require the provision of a second, lower rail. It needs to be below the first and set at 600mm.

Safe designs

DDA handrails need to be user safe as well. Your handrail needs to be designed in a specific way for the safety of users. Firstly, the exterior needs to run continuously smooth. It can't be cold to the touch.

Secondly, the rail has to be oval or circular. A circular one needs a diameter of between 40mm and 45mm. The diameter for an oval one needs to be 50mm.

With visuals, the colour has to contrast with that of its surroundings. It also needs to be very reflective for safe use in low light.

Next, they must extend the width of one stair tread. Then, for 300mm minimum, the rail needs to level out. This ensures people can hold on before and after the climb.

Finally, there should be no danger of dog leads, accessories, or clothing getting caught in the rail. Don't leave open ends; close them off or choose a wall return.

Choose a quality key clamp handrail

At Barrier Mart, we have a plethora of products available. We specialise in key clamp handrails because they offer components to suit any needs, including corners. You choose the parts you need, select tubing, and attach everything together. It is very easy and the rails will be strong and reliable.

Our handrail merchandise will keep people safe and provide the necessary support. So, if you'd like to make a purchase, talk to our team or pick the parts you need on our website and order.