Staircases are some of the most important features with a home, playing an important part in both the design of a home, as well as providing essential functionality. Staircases can also be one of the most dangerous parts in the home to use, especially for old people, and children alike, where a fall down stairs can be fatal.
To help every staircase in the UK be as safe as possible, in both domestic and commercial properties – Uk building regulations cover a number of important features of the staircase – including the height of the handrail. The British Stair Regulations states that the height of the staircase cannot be higher than 1000mm from the stairs, and installers should aim for a distance between 900mm and 1000mm. Stair Rails are also required on any staircase with a drop of more than 600mm.
Note, that you also do not need a handrail on the first two steps of the staircase. If a staircase is wider than 1000mm, then two handrails are required. Gaps between the handrail and the spindles cannot exceed more than 100mm – this specification is based on a child’s head, not being able to fit between any gaps within their staircase.
At UK Stair Parts, we are all aware of the importance our stair parts play in meeting all of the relevant regulations and specifications of a staircase. You can browse the full range of stair parts across our site, encompassing an excellent range of handrails – and as always, just get in touch if you have any questions at all about the range.