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Do Ramps Need Handrails?

It depends on the type of ramp you need. For example, portable style ramps such as suitcase ramps do not include handrails, but compliant ramps must have warm-touch handrails, as stated in the Building Regulations.

What are warm-touch handrails?

When bitter weather sets in, external uncoated metal handrails can become extremely cold to the touch. Likewise, when the sun beats down on uncoated rails, the heat becomes unbearable.

Both situations can trigger persons in these circumstances to feel uncomfortable & hesitant about using a handrail, causing them to let go while moving unintentionally.

The risk of falling increases, and the product becomes impractical in extreme cold or hot weather conditions.

Document M & K of the Building Regulations specify that handrails should not ‘become excessively cold or hot to touch.’

The handrails on our modular ramp system achieves this ‘warm to touch’ finish, with a nylon coating of low thermal conductivity, so that body heat is not conducted away from the hand.

The process allows the system to become robust enough to deal with our ever-changing British weather conditions.

Question: Do you need a fully compliant ramp?

It’s important to note that if your ramp must comply to Part K and M of the Building Regulations and/or DDA requirements, then you will need a compliant ramp system.

Minimum gradient and width:

Dwelling applications - minimum gradient of 1:15, minimum width 900mm. We recommend 1000mm for extra manoeuvrability.

Public applications - minimum gradient of 1:15 and minimum width of 1500mm.

The system must also include the following compliant features:

Warm to touch, 900MM Infill Handrails - included on the ramped sections to prevent users from climbing or falling through gaps.

Yellow Tread Strips - A safety feature designed to help those with impaired vision identify the nose of the ramp or a change in level.

Trombone Ends - These are added to the ends of a Rapid Ramp to prevent clothes from snagging.

Slip-Resistant Ramp Platform – such as self-draining mesh platform to allows water to pass through rather than puddle on the surface and potentially freeze.

1100mm High Rail – These handrails attach to any level sections.

Rest Platform - A rest platform at every 5 metres of ramp is required to allow the user to pause.

We do a fully compliant ramp system designed with the highest standards of provisions to prevent falls, collisions, and injuries in public settings such as schools, hospitals, shops, offices and heritage sites >>Learn more<<.