Handrail
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A handrail is a rail that is designed to be grasped by the hand so as to provide safety or support. In Britain, handrails are referred to as banisters. Handrails are commonly used while ascending or descending stairways and escalators in order to prevent injurious falls, and to provide bodily support in bathrooms or similar areas. Handrails are typically supported by balusters or attached to walls. Similar items not covered in this article include bathroom handrails—which help to prevent falls on slippery, wet floors—other grab bars, used, for instance, in ships' galleys, and barres, which serve as training aids for ballet dancers. Guard rails and balustrades line drop-offs and other dangerous areas, keeping people and vehicles out.
A handrail is a rail that is designed to be grasped by the hand so as to provide safety or support. In Britain, handrails are referred to as banisters. Handrails are commonly used while ascending or descending stairways and escalators in order to prevent injurious falls, and to provide bodily support in bathrooms or similar areas. Handrails are typically supported by balusters or attached to walls. Similar items not covered in this article include bathroom handrails—which help to prevent falls on slippery, wet floors—other grab bars, used, for instance, in ships' galleys, and barres, which serve as training aids for ballet dancers. Guard rails and balustrades line drop-offs and other dangerous areas, keeping people and vehicles out.
British specifications
British Standard and British Standard Code of Practice are harmonized to European Normal (EN) series. Handrail height is set between .
US specifications
Clearance
, Germany]] The distance between the wall and handrail gripping surface is also governed by local code with the most common requirement being minimum. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) require that the distance between the wall and handrail be a minimum of . The 1992 Americans With Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) stated that there was to be an absolute dimension of between a handrail and a wall. This was actually a "grab bar" dimension which was part of the 1986 ANSI A117.1. ANSI changed the notation to minimum in 1990. This was not corrected in 2010 with the approval of the new ADASAD which now calls for a minimum clearance. Codes also generally require that there be a clearance between the underside of the handrail and any obstruction—including the horizontal bracket arm. There is an allowance however for variations in the handrail size—for every of additional perimeter dimension over , may be subtracted from the clearance requirement.
Strength
Handrails are to support a continuous load of or a concentrated load of applied at the top of the handrail. As handrails come in different materials, the strengths can vary. From timber to stainless steel, it is best to pick a handrail that will be right for the area. Metal alloys, such as galvanised steel and stainless steal, provide great durability and strength, whereas timber is weaker and is prone to higher rates of degradation.
ADA height notations
ADA Handrail height requirements are issued to create a safe enjoyable space to enjoy for everyone. The ADA height of handrail requirements that will primarily be used by children have their own unique requirements. The top of gripping surfaces of handrails shall be 34 inches minimum and 38 inches maximum vertically above walking surfaces, stair nosing, and ramp surfaces. Handrails shall be at a consistent height above walking surfaces, stair nosing, and ramp surfaces. When children are the principal users in a building or facility (e.g., elementary schools), a second set of handrails at an appropriate height can assist them and aid in preventing accidents. A maximum height of 28 inches measured to the top of the gripping surface from the ramp surface or stair nosing. Sufficient vertical clearance between upper and lower handrails, 9 inches minimum, should be provided to help prevent entrapment.
Adult requirements
Top of gripping surfaces of handrails shall be between vertically above walking surfaces, stair nosings, and ramp surfaces. Handrails shall be at a consistent height above walking surfaces, stair nosings, and ramp surfaces.
Types of handrails
Handrails are available in several different varieties including wooden/timber, stainless steel, brass, or aluminium. Some varieties are more hard-wearing than others, and the cost can vary depending on the style.
See also
Baluster Guard rail Hanging strap Mobile safety steps Stanchion
References
External links
Text derived from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=1375862066 under CC BY-SA 4.0; modifications have been made.
