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Courtesy of Hollaender Manufacturing Co &#; Cincinnati, OHArchitectural design is a discipline that spans a wide range of scales, from macro scales involving the design of master plans or large urban complexes to micro scales, where it focuses on specific elements such as fixtures and fittings. Regardless of scale, careful attention to the design of each component of the built environment plays a critical role in how people experience architecture.
At the architectural micro-scale, railings and handrails play specific roles but are often confusing. While railings are designed to enclose spaces and prevent falls, handrails function as support elements, offering orientation and stability to avoid accidents and injuries. It is in the latter aspect that a stronger connection to accessibility becomes evident. For this reason, it is essential to have handrails, wall railings, and assist railings that meet ADA standards, such as those developed by Hollaender Manufacturing Co. These elements adapt to various design conditions, facilitating the movement of individuals who may encounter barriers in the physical environment.
Handrails must be installed on both sides of stairs and ramps. In both conditions, handrails must be continuous along each stretch. In the specific case of ramps, handrails are required on those with an elevation greater than 150 mm (6 inches).
Additionally, these elements are not only specified in spaces adjacent to open areas. Even in confined circulation, they should be placed as elements attached to walls, allowing for support on both sides. The clearance between handrail gripping surfaces and adjacent surfaces is recommended to be at least 38 mm (1½ inches).
Considering primarily adults as users, it is suggested that the top of handrails be at a constant height between 865 mm (34 in) and 965 mm (38 in) above walking surfaces, stair edges, and ramp surfaces. In environments where children are main users, such as schools or playgrounds, incorporating a second level of handrails adjusted to their physical characteristics promotes universal design. For children, a maximum height of 710 mm (28 in) and a vertical clearance of at least 230 mm (9 in) between the top and bottom handrails is recommended to prevent accidents. In addition, infill panels play a vital role in preventing hazardous situations.
It is important to bear in mind that, when talking about accessibility, each element contributes to the elimination of barriers in the built environment. However, these elements are part of an accessibility chain, where their joint integration with others promotes the inclusion of a greater number of people and diverse groups. Concerning blindness and vision impairment, the inclusion of Braille signage on handrails, although debated, can provide essential information for users. In addition, the integration of tactile paving surfaces at the beginning and end of ramps and stairs helps to announce and detect the presence of these structures.
It is essential to pay attention to the textures and continuity of handrails so they can properly benefit people with disabilities, older adults, and other groups, especially when facing loss of balance or risk of falling. In this context, the gripping surfaces of handrails, both in circular and non-circular sections, should have rounded edges and be free of sharp or abrasive elements.
In designing handrails that meet ADA standards, it is crucial to consider the extension beyond the end of the ramp or stairway. This aspect is critical to ensure the safety of users as they approach the change in floor level created by the stairs or ramp. In this regard, it is recommended that handrails extend at least 305 mm (12 inches) beyond and in the same direction as the stair and ramp runs.
Regarding materiality and fabrication, when comparing stainless steel systems to aluminum component systems, the latter tends to have a lower cost per linear unit. Additionally, Hollaender Manufacturing Co. handrail systems are available in clear, dark bronze, or black anodized finishes.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website accessible handrails.
In line with the positive characteristics of this material, these systems are constructed with aluminum components, an ideal material for these applications due to their malleability. This eliminates the need for welding and ensures corrosion resistance. These systems are easy to install and can be purchased as kits, which means fewer adaptations and a faster delivery time, or as fully engineered and custom-built systems.
In each of their components, handrails are designed to prevent falls, provide safe support, and comply with standards and regulations. This approach contributes significantly to promoting accessibility and safety for all people, regardless of their abilities or physical conditions, representing a crucial step towards promoting the inclusion of people with and without disabilities in the built environment.
To learn more about ADA-compliant handrails, visit the Hollaender Manufacturing Co. website or refer to the product catalog.
If you have ever struggled with balance or rising from a seated position, then you know how useful it is to have a handrail nearby. Adding handrails can make a significance regarding the well-being of someone who finds moving challenging. Falls, near-falls, and fear of falling all top the list of concerns when determining if an elderly or mobility challenged person is safe in an independent setting.
Often, when we hear the term handrail, the first thing that comes to mind is a handrailing for a staircase. While it appears similar, the banister on a staircase is not the same as a handrail. A handrail is meant to assist those with mobility challenges and must meet Australian Standards.
A handrail designed to assist with accessibility has specific standards to meet. For example:
Make the Bath and Shower Safe &#; Imagine being filled with fear every time you were about to shower or struggling each time you needed to get on or off the toilet. Countless Australians deal with this kind of concern every day. Most of the time, it is because of aging, an injury, or a condition that causes mobility difficulties. Adding handrails to assist with sitting and rising as well as getting in and out of the bathtub or shower can take the fear out of daily activities.
Kitchen Safety &#; While many people think of handrails in bathrooms, the kitchen is another area where it is common to slip and fall. If the falling person accidentally knocks over something made of glass or a boiling liquid from the stovetop, even more, significant injuries occur.
Often, a person struggling with mobility will depend on a counter or table to provide balance when reaching, rising, or sitting. Miscalculating the strength of these objects can lead to falls.
Adding well-placed handrails can prevent serious injuries or worse. An experienced modification expert has many options to alter a kitchen, making it more accessible and can suggest numerous ways to help make kitchens safer.
Safety Outdoors &#; Having handrails outside can save a life. Many walkways and steps have uneven places where people can easily lose their balance. This problem pertains to people of all ages and abilities. A careless step when you are distracted can lead to a fall. The odds of falling increase when there is inclement weather and areas become slippery.
So, having handrails offers peace of mind for anyone who struggles with balance for any reason. Outdoor handrails are also helpful to support objects you may be carrying, especially if you need to take a moment to catch your breath.
Essential if a Home has Ramps Indoors or Outside &#; A beneficial modification many people request is the addition of ramps to their home. Whether inside or outdoors, ramps make mobility significantly more manageable, especially for those in wheelchairs or scooters. People who depend on walkers and crutches also find ramps make mobility much simpler.
Unfortunately, ramps are an area where falls frequently happen if no handrail is present. Moving downward is enough to throw some people off balance. Outdoor ramps can become slippery if the weather is rainy. This is why handrails with ramps are so vital.
While it is the law for public buildings with ramps to have handrails in place, private homes have no restrictions. This makes it easy to overlook adding handrails when installing ramps. Although, accessibility experts would have handrails by ramps as a priority.
Handrails Add Value to Your Home &#; Even though the value handrails can bring to your home may not be at the top of your list for wanting to install them, they can give your property a boost should you decide to sell. As the population ages, those who are shopping for a home become more conscious of details like handrails and other modifications that improve accessibility. Knowing they are purchasing a home where safety has been a commodity often makes it worth extra money to the right buyers.
Many alterations and additions can make a home safer. Handrails for elderly or mobility challenged individuals are a huge help and often extend independence. If you or someone you care about struggles with balance, handrails could be the answer. Feel free to contact AccessAble Home Modifications. Our skilled staff can answer your questions and set up an appointment with one of our accessibility experts. We like to visit your home to see what types of modifications would help you the most. Many of our customers are amazed by the difference handrails made in their homes. We can help keep you safer too.
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