Why does your commercial premises need staircase handrails?

Handrails are a common feature within any commercial properties with staircases, residential homes, stores, schools, and offices. But what’s their purpose?  

Keep reading to find out why you need to install a handrail along your stairs and whether it’s a legal requirement or not.  

What exactly is a handrail? 

Handrails are safety stair parts that improve your staff and customer’s stability whilst using the staircase. Either installed on a wall adjacent to your stairs or as part of a balustrade, a handrail is a rail for people to grip for extra support.    

So, why is it so important to ensure they feature in your commercial property? 

Why should you fit handrails in your premises? 

Whether you own a shop or care home, fitting handrails where necessary offer plenty of practical and aesthetic benefits, such as:  

Handrails improve health and safety 

First and foremost, a handrail is a legal requirement on any staircase, with its primary purpose being to provide support to people using the stairwell. 

In the event of trips or missteps on the steps, these useful rails offer a stable handle for stair users to grab and maintain composure, potentially preventing a serious fall on your property. 

Additionally, children, those with physical disabilities and elderly people benefit greatly from this added level of support on the stairs – a company that carefully considers all customers or residents will be regarded as a great business to work for or visit.  

Hire a professional to install your handrails 

To ensure your handrails are completely stable and won’t falter when in use, it’s highly recommended that you hire a qualified tradesperson to fit each handrail. 

They have the knowhow and tools to ensure your stair components are installed to a high standard and don’t come loose!  

What’s more, they’ll fit your handrails to meet the legal building requirements for handrail installation – these safety features must be placed: 

• Within the range of 90cm to 110cm from the floor at the base of the staircase. Additionally, there must be a minimum handrail length of 30cm before the nosing of the first step. 
• At the top of the stairs, on the landing or platform, the handrail must be installed at a height of 100cm. If the handrail’s height matches the guarding, it can serve as the actual guarding for the staircase. 
• The ascending handrail should be placed 90cm from the midpoint of the going on each step, and another 30cm of handrail length should be provided before the handrail terminates upon reaching the landing. 

Handrails can enhance the look of your establishment  

They’re not just a legal safety requirement – handrails can be utilised as a stunning decorative feature to spruce up your property. 

For more contemporary buildings such as new build offices, you could opt for a modern cubed design, made from premium quality aluminium. 

Or, for classical look nursing homes, there’s a collection of beautiful, curved oak models that exude luxury – perfect for making your establishment feel premium quality. 

So, to be sure that your commercial building conforms to health and safety standards and looks inviting to potential employees, residents and clients, invest in well-built handrails to be installed by an experienced tradesman.