Handrail Fittings and Fixings

According to UK building regulations, a handrail is required to be installed on both sides of external steps when there is a minimum of three steps in both residential and commercial buildings. 

If there is a drop however of over 600mm then a handrail is also required for both one and two risers. The handrail should be 1000mm above the pitch line and extend 300mm beyond the top and bottom nosings. 

At Flocon we have a range of step kits available for 1-3 steps, ranging from wall to floor and floor to floor. All our step kits are Easirail handrail systems and are coated in a warm touch acrylic finish, making them excellent for corrosion resistance

With any handrail installation that requires fixing to a wall or floor, an evaluation must be made on site as to the structural integrity of the surface that will provide the strength. 

As a general rule, we suggest setting posts no more than 1200mm apart. This distance can be reduced in high traffic areas or to accommodate your specific needs.

You can find lots of tips and suggestions on how to successfully install a handrail to a range of materials such as tarmac, concrete, block paving and walls, plus see our full range of handrails in this comprehensive guide.

Should you require a full installation service, we work in conjunction with specialist Easirail contractors that have a wealth of experience in access solutions, from individual homes to large scale refurbishments. 

Easirail ensures that every handrail installation is conducted with minimum disruption and that the area is left clean and tidy. All Easirail configurations are ready for use immediately after installation.

Stainless steel is the best material for outdoor handrail applications due to its great corrosion resistance and durability.

However, in the colder months these can become cold to touch. We would therefore also recommend using Easirail due to its warm touch acrylic and corrosion resistant finish.

Easirail is designed to be fast to install, offering flexibility for a wide array of configurations. The handrail is simply cut to size and attached using ultra strong rivets, providing a quick and secure method of installation.

At Flocon, we’re able to cut our galvanised handrails to your specific measurements and requirements, whether your handrail project is a complicated installation, or a small, one-off job.

In order for a handrail to meet the UK’s Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) it must meet the following criteria: 

• The handrail height must be between 900 mm and 1100 mm tall and must have a lower rail at 600 mm. 
• The handrail diameter must be 40-45mm in diameter.
• The surface of the handrail must have a smooth and continuous surface that is easy to grip and warm to the touch.
• The handrail must also be in contrast to the surrounding environment.

Check out our range of DDA compliant handrails or get in touch if you’re unsure about the most suitable handrail for your needs.