Creating accessible spaces is not only a legal obligation – it’s also an ethical responsibility. Ensuring that your building meets the necessary accessibility standards helps to provide a safe and user-friendly environment for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

While the term “DDA compliant handrail systems” is still widely used, it’s important to understand how accessibility regulations have evolved, and why these handrails remain a key component of modern accessibility solutions. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about DDA handrail systems and explore how they make buildings more inclusive.

What does DDA stand for?

The term “DDA” originates from the Disability Discrimination Act. Originally introduced in the UK back in 1995, the DDA was created to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination in various areas, including employment, education, and access to goods and services.

However, in 2010, the DDA was replaced by the Equality Act. The Equality Act was introduced to consolidate various anti-discrimination laws into a single piece of legislation, providing a more unified framework to protect individuals from discrimination. Despite this change, the phrase “DDA compliant handrail” is still commonly used to refer to handrails that meet modern accessibility standards, including those outlined in the Equality Act 2010 and Building Regulations Part M.

What is a DDA compliant handrail?

A DDA compliant handrail meets the accessibility standards initially established by the DDA and now upheld by the Equality Act. These handrails are specifically designed to ensure maximum accessibility and safety for people with disabilities. They must adhere to strict requirements regarding height, diameter, surface finish, and installation to guarantee secure, easy-to-grip support within commercial and public buildings. A DDA handrail system is crucial for ensuring that your site meets the necessary legal requirements and remains accessible to all.

What are the requirements for DDA handrails in the UK?

Although the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) has now been replaced, its accessibility principles remain intact under the Equality Act and UK Building Regulations. Some of the key DDA handrail regulations in the UK include:

DDA Handrail Height

The height of the handrail must be between 900-1000mm above the pitch line of stairs or ramp services. This ensures that the handrail is usable by a wide range of users, including those with mobility impairments.

DDA Handrail Design

These smooth, continuous handrail systems must be designed for easy grip. They should have a diameter of between 40-45mm and extend beyond the top and bottom of stairs or ramps to provide additional stability, with rounded or returned ends to minimise hazards. The handrails should also contract visually with the surrounding surfaces, allowing people with visual impairments to easily identify them.

How do Ezi Klamp’s DDA handrail systems work?

Our disability handrail systems are designed with simplicity and versatility in mind. We are experts in designing made-to-measure key clamp handrail systems for your premises that utilise a wide range of DDA handrail fittings and custom metal rail lengths. The assembly process is also extremely straightforward. There’s no need to close your premises, hire a welder, or arrange for a hot work permit – all you need is a standard Allen key to tighten the fittings.

All our DDA handrail systems have been carefully designed to meet the requirements set out by the Equality Act. From the continuous smooth 42mm diameter of the handrail to the polyester powder-coated finish that guarantees the required visibility and not-cold-to-touch feel, our systems take the guesswork out of keeping your premises accessible and compliant.

Rest assured that when you choose a DDA handrail from Ezi Klamp, you’re investing in a fully compliant, high quality system that aligns with the latest disability access regulations.

Where can I order DDA compliant handrail systems?

Ezi Klamp is ready and waiting to take your DDA handrail order. With over 17 years of industry experience, we offer tailored solutions to meet your individual requirements – whether you provide us with an initial rough sketch or a detailed project plan. We offer competitive pricing and prepare the ideal fittings at our fully equipped factory, and can even assist with installation if needed.

Ready to discuss your DDA handrail requirements? Contact us today to discover more about our complete, hassle-free DDA handrail solutions.