What height should a handrail be?

UK Building Regulations specify 900–1,000mm on stairs (measured from pitch line) and 900–1,100mm on ramps. BS 8300 recommends a preferred height of 900mm with a second lower rail at 600mm for wheelchair users.

Do I need handrails on both sides of a staircase?

Building Regulations require at least one side for domestic stairs. In public or commercial buildings, handrails on both sides are generally required for stairs wider than 1,000mm.

Can handrails be installed on external steps?

Yes. For external use, hot-dip galvanised or stainless steel handrails are recommended. All our external handrail products are designed to withstand UK weather including frost, rain, and UV.

Handrails

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Safety Handrails for UK Stairs, Ramps & Access Routes

Handrails are a fundamental safety requirement wherever people navigate changes in level. Correctly specified and installed, they provide essential support for balance and stability, significantly reducing the risk of falls. UK Building Regulations Approved Document K and BS 8300 set clear requirements for handrail provision, and BarriersCo stocks a comprehensive range to meet these needs.

Regulatory Requirements

Building Regulations require handrails at heights of 900–1,000mm on stairs and 900–1,100mm on ramps. BS 8300 provides accessibility guidance including handrail diameter, height, and contrast requirements for disabled users. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 requires handrails wherever there is a risk of falling.

Steel Handrails

Mild steel handrails with powder coating provide robust, cost-effective safety on industrial stairs, mezzanine walkways, and loading bay steps. Available in standard RAL colours — most commonly safety yellow or grey. Hot-dip galvanising is recommended for outdoor installations.

Stainless Steel Handrails

For a premium, low-maintenance finish, stainless steel suits commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and public spaces where aesthetics and hygiene matter. Grade 316 stainless is recommended for coastal and high-humidity environments.

Modular Systems

Modular handrail systems use pre-designed components (posts, rails, connectors, base plates) for fast installation without welding or specialist fabrication — ideal for retrofitting to existing stairs and ramps in occupied buildings.