Is There a Difference Between a Guardrail and a Handrail?

Guardrail and handrail are two terms related to roof edge protection that often get mixed up and confused as the same thing. Eventually, through the design process, you’ll be able to choose the right system for the application. However, before that, let’s understand the fundamental differences between the products and their benefits and uses.

Guardrail

A guardrail is simply a bar or a rail along the edge of something steep and high, such as stairs or a cliff. It forms a protective boundary to prevent people from falling off the edge from that height.

Fixed or freestanding are the two main types of guardrails. They are designed to withstand different loading capacities depending on the location and usage of the area in which they are installed. Hence, a strict set of regulations for the design and installation are followed that are covered by the British

Standards

Freestanding guardrails are found in a wide range of places, including platforms and rooftops in industrial for maintenance purposes and public places such as footpaths and balconies. Freestanding guardrail, also known as a freestanding handrail, is a very popular roof edge protection solution as it does not requires penetrations and is a very cost-effective solution for existing homes.

Handrail

A handrail is basically a long piece of metal or wood that is fixed along a flight of stairs or places where people could easily slip and fall, and people can hold on to it for support. Freestanding handrail, a roof handrail, or a roof guardrail are different names of handrails. Ultimately, they all serve the same purpose, i.e., to protect someone from a hazardous fall.

Roof handrail is a roof edge railing system designed in such a way that they don’t penetrate the roof membrane. The Roof Safety Guard Rails System provides a high level of protection for contractors and employees who work above 2 meters on most existing buildings.

Handrails are installed in areas where people need support in going up and down stairs or ramps, generally in public places such as shopping centres or train stations that are DDA compliant (Disability Discrimination Act). They often incorporate several specific design features, such as a smooth and continuous rail surface.

Though a handrail on a staircase or ramp primarily provides support from a slip, it is not guaranteed protection from a fall, but assists in preventing one.

Which Solution Is Right for You?

While their appearance is similar, there’s a big difference in each of their purposes and choosing the right system for the right place is critical.

Select a company that can help you determine your requirements, based on which, propose the most suitable product to ensure that you are choosing the correct level of protection for your project. Ensure that they have the knowledge and experience and the ability to provide a range of products to meet all your requirements. They should be able to provide a full design, supply, and installation service for fixed and freestanding guardrails, as well as handrails to help you deliver your project successfully.