Wall Mounted Part M Handrail

We recently provided a wall mounted handrail to J & B O’Sullivan Builders, who were looking to provide safe access up ramps and steps.

The path was frequently used and a handrail was needed to help prevent trips and falls. For this reason, a safe and secure handrail would need to be provided on bothe sides.

Side Mounted Handrail Fittings

As there was a wall each side of the pathway, it was possible to side-mount the handrails into the side of the wall and save from having to put posts down. This left it a much easier installation as the fittings could be quickly screwed into the wall.

Handrail To Suit Part M

The handrail would need to suit Part M of the Building Regulations, as the path was providing public access. This meant that is needed to suit a few conditions:

It would need to be a continuous rail from beginning to end, with no breaks. This would allow a hand to pass right along the rail, from beginning to end, even around corners. We usually use our 515-7 Split Elbow fitting to turn a rail around corners, as it creates a smooth joint and is quick to install. The tube ends on either side of the corner slot over the tapered end of the fitting, forming a flush, neat joint.

Terminating The Handrail Appropriately

The rail would need to provide a turn at each end. A turn at the end of the rail is important for a couple of reasons. It will alert the user that the handrail has come to an end as their hand will meet the curve. This way, if it is dark or the person has a visual impairment, they will be alerted. A turn-in at the end of the handrail will also lessen the possibility of a bag or clothing item getting caught and lessen the chance of injury as a result.

Double Rail System

A double rail is often put in to provide access to smaller people and to make sure the handrail is at a suitable height for them also. A lower rail is always needed for wheelchair users for the same reason, to ensure they can move comfortably and with greater ease.

We often have questions from customers who want to install handrails for the home, who want to know about the appropriate height for their rail. 1000mm is the optimum height, but we would always say that the rail would be best being tailored to suit the person who the rail is being installed for. So if the persons height is taller or shorter, it would be a good idea to adjust the post height to suit.

Handrail Overlap At Either End

You will often see that a handrail will overlap the end of the ramp or steps by 300mm at either end. It is designed this way to allow the user to have their hand on the rail and to reinforce their balance before they start to take their first step. This is an especially important feature for people who might be unsteady on their feet and have a greater dependence on the rail.

About Our Client:

J & B O'Sullivan are a family-owned, third generation building firm, who operate mainly in Limerick and Kerry. Throughout the years, they have established a tradition of high work standards, reliability, customer care, and timely service.