How to choose the right handrail system for your project

Did you know that slips, trips, and falls accounted for 31% of non-fatal injuries in UK workplaces from 2023-24? These incidents can cause serious harm to both your employee’s health and your business’ wallet – but they can be easily prevented if effective safety measures are put in place.

One of the simplest yet most effective safety solutions is a well-designed modular handrail system. The right handrail not only supports safe movement in and around your building, but also helps you stay compliant with regulations.

We’ve been supplying our expert modular handrail systems to buildings across the UK for over two decades. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing your next handrail system, so you can be confident that your choice will effectively protect both your employees and the public.

1) Assess your environment

Before you start looking into different handrail options, you’ll need to have a clear understanding of the environment in which it will be installed. This will give you a strong indicator of which type of handrail is best suited to your requirements.

For example, if you’re operating in an industrial setting, you’ll need a robust, corrosion-resistant handrail system that can withstand heavy usage and harsh weather conditions. However, if you’re installing the system in a public access area, you’ll need a solution that meets the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) requirements, ensuring it remains accessible to all. 

2) Understand the handrail regulations

Handrails are covered under Section K of the Building Regulations and must adhere to BS 6180:2011. It’s extremely important that you are aware of these standards, as your handrail must meet specific height, load, and spacing requirements, depending on whether it’s in a public or workplace setting.

Section K and BS 6180 state that handrails used in workplaces must be able to withstand horizontal and vertical loads from crowds or moving equipment with failure. And in public spaces, the design of the system must eliminate snag hazards and provide a continuous, smooth surface for users, with the appropriate height and clearance.

3) Explore your handrail options

There are several options available when it comes to handrails. We offer a wide range of modular handrail systems, including:

Key clamp handrails

Thanks to their versatility and modular nature, our key clamp handrails are suitable for a wide range of projects. They use handrail clamps instead of welding, making them quick and easy to install on site. Made from galvanised steel, they’re exceptionally strong and durable, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor settings.  

DDA handrails

Our DDA-compliant handrails are designed to meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act. This ensures that the handrail is fully accessible for all users, including those with mobility challenges. They feature a smooth, continuous surface with contrasting colours, making them easier to see, even by individuals with visual impairments.

GRP handrails

Our GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) handrails offer a strong yet lightweight alternative to traditional materials. GRP is corrosion-resistant and non-conductive in nature, making these handrails a safe choice for harsh and specialised environments. They also require minimal maintenance, so you can continue to use them all year round without worrying about the cost of regular upkeep.

4) Consider your future needs

Sometimes plans change at the last minute, so you need a system that can adapt to your specific project requirements without the need for specialist intervention. 

Our modular handrail systems are the ideal solution for a wide range of project types. The components are connected together with handrail clamps, so there’s no need for welding or hot works permits. Our systems can also be easily dismantled, adjusted, or extended without the need for specialist tools, helping to keep your project running on schedule without lengthy downtime. You can reuse and repurpose sections instead of starting from scratch, which makes them an extremely cost-effective choice.

5) Partner with Ezi Klamp

When choosing a new handrail system, you need to look beyond just the product itself and also consider the quality of service you will receive. At Ezi Klamp, we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, from the initial project conception all the way through to completion. 

We bring practical knowledge and a can-do attitude to every project we undertake. Simply send us your drawings or sketches, and we’ll produce a tailored quotation that meets your requirements. We even offer specialist design services and installation support for more complex projects. 

What’s more, our ‘On Site & Right’ promise ensures that if we make an error in your order, we will rectify it at our cost – giving you total peace of mind that your system will meet your requirements.

Get in touch to discover how our modular handrail systems can make movement in and around your building much safer.