The use of handrails has become so common that many people no longer notice them. Although most individuals take handrails for granted, these frequently overlooked objects actually play an important role in keeping people safe.
Handrails feature a long rail that’s affixed to a support post. It’s usually made from sturdy materials such as aluminium. This item is designed to provide people with something to hold on to as they’re ascending or descending a set of steps or a ramp.
Prevents Nasty Falls
As a support feature for access ramps and stairs, a handrail helps prevent people from falling off and helps them keep their balance. This feature of handrails is very important, especially for young children, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. These individuals, who usually have mobility issues, benefit from handrails as these objects allow them to get to their destination in a safe manner.
Provides Peace of Mind
For people with disabilities, or those suffering from certain conditions that can affect their mobility, such as vertigo, having something to grasp that can keep them balanced is very comforting. It reassures them that they won’t fall down or lose their balance as long as they’re close to the rail. The peace of mind that they experience while touching the handrail also gives them the confidence to ascend stairs or ramps without asking other people for help.
Helps in Carrying Heavy Objects
In addition to maintaining one’s balance and stability, handrails can also make carrying heavy objects easier. They can keep you from falling off or stumbling down by acting as a guide while you’re carrying a cumbersome object and climbing a ramp or a set of stairs. Depending on the design of the handrail, it can provide you with an even surface that you can use to support the weight of the object that you’re carrying.
Added Safety During Inclement Weather
Unfavourable weather conditions such as rain and snow can make walking outside a bit dangerous for everyone. Wet surfaces can cause people, especially senior citizens and those with mobility issues, to slip and fall down. Handrails on ramps and steps can help people avoid getting injured by providing them with a stable object to hold on to as they cross slippery surfaces. These features help ensure that people can reach their destination safely.
Required by the Law
In some countries, such as Australia, ramps are required to have handrails. As stated by the Disability Discrimination Act, all public spaces, including government offices, schools, and commercial establishments, should be accessible to people with disabilities. Under this law, public places should have DDA-compliant ramps. As noted by the DDA, ramps should have various safety features such as handrails. These features should be about 1,000 millimetres from each other to provide enough space for mobility aids such as wheelchairs and electric scooters.
Adapta is offering custom ramps and rails for domestic, commercial, and industrial use, where you can design the specific access solution needed (color, height, and more).
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