About Outdoor Handrails

Outdoor handrails can be found in a variety of public and private spaces and take care of several needs. They are a safety feature, especially along decks and stairways, helping to provide a hand hold for people as they walk. They are very important in areas that are frequently wet or covered with snow and ice. Many governments have legislated standards involving handrails to help disabled people get around better in public areas.

History

The Great Wall of China was built without handrails, but today, with an emphasis on public safety, entire sections of it have been remodeled to include handrails for visitors. This is not to say that handrails are a new development. Most older public buildings around the world have always had handrails next to stairs, but it is difficult to build handrails that hold up well under many years of service. Therefore, most old buildings have been refitted with new handrails several times. Also, with new governmental regulations, many handrails have had to be replaced to fit specifications.

Significance

Studies have shown that properly installed handrails reduce the number of injuries sustained on stairways. In order to ensure that people use handrails, some safety officials recommend narrowing the staircase so that everyone on the stairs has access to handrails. Other outdoor areas where handrails have been useful are sloped walkways, such as in parks and zoos.

Types

Outdoor handrails can be made of many materials including wrought iron, stainless steel, aluminum, wood, vinyl, glass, or brass. Regulations in some areas require that stair handrails extend above and below the stairs and must not pose the possibility of snagging clothing. In areas where falling would be an issue, such as at the edge of a deck or near a precipice, handrails should top a solid half wall or a barrier with narrow slats.

Size

The Americans with Disabilities Act presented very specific guidelines about the placement, dimensions, and standards for outdoor handrails. The ADA states that handrails should be placed 34 to 36 inches from the floor or ground. Posts should be no more than 8 feet apart, and posts and handrail pipe should be 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. If the handrail is against a wall, there should be at least 1 1/2 inches between the handrail and wall. The handrail must be continuous with no gaps in coverage. The ends of the handrail should be rounded in a D-return. This prevents clothing from getting caught on the end of the rail. Lastly, handrails should not rotate within the fittings.

Benefits

Outdoor handrails are for more than conforming to laws or preventing lawsuits. They help make public and private outdoor areas more user friendly and safer for everyone. Handrails are especially important for the young, the old and those with physical disabilities.