

Handrail Gates and Hinges
Frequently asked questions
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What do I need to install a key clamp handrail?
Fortunately, key clamp handrail systems don’t require much equipment. Use our key clamp checklist below to make sure you have everything you need.
- An allen key (supplied free of charge with your order).
- Something to cut the tube with – ideally a metal cutting chopsaw, but a reciprocating saw, angle grinder or hacksaw can work too.
- A spirit level – magnetic is best
- An SDS drill
- An impact driver – useful for installing concrete fixings
- A tape measure and marker pen
Watch our video on how to install a key clamp handrail, or let us do the legwork and arrange installation for you. Get in touch for a quotation on this.
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Does my handrail system need to be DDA compliant?
If installed at a school, hospital or other building accessed by members of the general public, then yes, the handrail design is required by law to be compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). Please note that standard key clamp handrails are not DDA compliant – that is a different type of handrail (a DDA handrail system).
Read more about DDA compliance here or send your drawings, sketches or photographs to sales@eziklampsystems.com for a price on a DDA compliant handrail system.
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At what height should a handrail be installed?
Typically, a key clamp handrail is approximately 1–1.1m high
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Can I build my key clamp handrail on a slope or staircase?
There’s a wide range of key clamp fittings available to accommodate a slope, ramp or staircase if needed – e.g. ramp fittings adjustable between 0-11° (product codes 201 to 232); angled fittings designed for staircase handrails and steeper slopes; and swivel fittings able to accommodate almost any angle. View the full range here.
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What lengths does the tubing come in? Can you cut to size?
Tubes for key clamp handrails are stocked in 6.4m and 3.2m lengths. Please note that if your order is being delivered via courier, the 6.4m tubes will be trimmed down to 6.0m to fit on the van. We can cut the tube to bespoke lengths, just let us know your requirements.
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How many upright posts will I need?
For a key clamp handrail system, we recommend 1.5m spaces between posts. However, this can change depending on a few different factors, for example, if the handrail is used for edge protection on a drop. For specific advice on your project please give us a ring or send over your drawings and details to sales@eziklampsystems.com.
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What size of tube will I need for my handrail?
Tubes for key clamp handrails come in five different diameters, all suited to different applications. Key clamp actually has a variety of uses besides commercial handrails; see below for a quick guide on sizing and uses:
- Size 1. Not sturdy enough to use as a handrail. Used for:
- Lightweight clothes rails
- Size 2. Used for some handrails (most often where the rail will be used by an elderly person), plus:
- Clothes hanging rails (the ideal size for a clothes hanger!)
- Lightweight furniture
- Size 3. The most common size for handrails – it’s sturdy and also the perfect size for the average person’s hand to hold onto. Used for:
- Lighter weight guardrails
- Furniture
- Size 4. The same size as a scaffold tube. Used for:
- Heavy duty handrails
- Commonly used for guardrails
- Furniture
- Size 5. Very heavy duty – not recommended for use as a handrail; it’s too large for a person’s hand to comfortably hold. Used for:
- Industrial handrail and crash barriers
- Trolley bays
Please note that the dimension used is the outside diameter of the tube.
- Size 1. Not sturdy enough to use as a handrail. Used for:
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What's the finish on the key clamp fittings and tubes? Can I have a coloured finish?
We stock our tube and fittings in a galvanised finish for quick despatch. However, if you need a coloured finish, we can sort this too. Key clamp handrail components can be sent off for polyester powder coating to any standard RAL colour – view the options here.
Please be aware powder coating will extend the lead time by approximately 10 working days.
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Can you deliver?
Yes – no matter where you are in the UK, we dispatch the items for your key clamp handrail promptly for delivery by our couriers. Or, if you’re local to the Bristol area, you may find it more convenient to pop in to our trade counter – all standard items are in stock for collection.
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Can you price from my sketch or drawing?
Yes – if all of the above seems like too much to think about right now, then let us do the thinking for you! Many people aren’t confident with working out the items they’ll need for a key clamp handrail, or just don’t have time, so we provide a take-off service.
Simply email us your sketch, photos or drawings and we will do the hard work for you, working out and quoting for everything you need. Email sales@eziklampsystems.com or call 0117 970 2420 if you have any questions.