You may have noticed in the places you’ve been to the different issues concerning handrails . You may have complained in some instances that certain handrails you used were too big and hard to grasp. Or you may have observed the others to be too small you’d wonder if it is sturdy enough to protect you and the people who use it.
Handrails are supposed to provide comfort and security to people with physical disabilities especially those who cannot walk normally and the elderly. However, not all builders are perfect the reason for these problems.
In order to serve people, handrails should be installed properly. In other words, the right measurements have to be followed by builders and homeowners to assist and protect people in areas which are safety hazards.
In the home, handrails are a must in staircases as well as in balconies whether situated on the ground level or on an upper level. They can be installed together with railings or they can put up as it is on the wall, in the bathroom and toilet as well as on a bar counter. Handrails mounted in the toilet and bathroom are meant to help people keep their balance in case of slips and to prevent falls.
Depending on the type of people you’re targeting to use it for, handrails can be installed in different ways and with varying measurements. For the elderly and disabled people, handrails should ideally be installed at a height of 0.85 meters and 0.95 meters from the floor level.
A second handrail can be added measuring 0.70 and 0.75 meters in height for people on wheelchairs. Additionally, a third handrail can be installed to benefit short people including children at a height of 0.60 meters.
Handrails can be made from various types of materials such as wood and metal. They can also be of different shapes such as circular and square or with several sides. If possible, these should allow people to grip it firmly and easily. Handrails with sharp edges should always be avoided.
For those that are mounted on the wall, there is a required distance. For smooth walls, the handrail should be between 40 mm and 50 mm while for rough and textured walls, the ideal distance is 60 mm.
An important consideration when installing wall-mounted handrails is that they should be of a different color from that of the wall. Using a contrasting color will make it easy for people to see the fixture. This is also very beneficial to people with problems in their vision.
Whether in homes or buildings, handrails should always be continuous. There should not be gaps in between except only when it’s around the landing and when near the doorway. For stairs or ramps that measure more than three meters wide, it is vital to have a continuous handrail .
Keep these things in mind in order to install the right handrail with the proper measurements. If you’re able to do this, you can rest assured that your loved ones will be safe in your home.
