Industrial Handrail & Safety: Page 4

Industrial safety includes the safety management practices that apply to the industrial sector. The policies, regulations, and practices of industrial safety exist to protect workers as well as the environment, facilities, machinery, and structures. Many of the UK Building Regulations are related to industrial safety

Numerous industrial safety measures must be put in place in the workplace, so it is best to refer to UK Building Regulations and other official policies, laws, and regulations to ensure that your workplace is compliant.

A good example of workplace safety measures is those related to Industrial Handrails. Building Regulations stipulate that Industrial Handrails are required on all stairs or ramps half a metre above or below a platform. Handrails that meet all design requirements must be fitted along all continuous edges. They must also be fitted on both sides of the stairs wherever levels are comprised of more than three risers, on balconies and levels between stair sets, and they must continue to the bottom of the stairs.

Industrial Handrails must also be fitted on both sides of ramps with an incline of 600mm or more. The handrails must be at least 900mm away from the surface of the level they are attached to, and 75mm away from the wall for easy gripping. The handrail colour should contrast with the surroundings, and it must not be highly reflective. They should also be slip-resistant, must not become too hot or cold to touch, and the ends must be finished in a way that reduces the risk of clothing being caught.