Everything You Need To Know About Grp Handrails

By Author: Andy Canter
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GRP handrails are durable, cost effective and maintenance free. Suitable for all industrial and commercial environments, GRP handrails are used for stairways, walkway & platforms and for guarding around machinery. The systems are designed to comply with all relevant standards and provide a versatile, cost-effective alternative to metal rails.

Two GRP handrail systems are available; a round section or profiled top square section. Both types are available with all necessary fittings and fasteners for assembly and follow the same design principles. Upright support sections, stanchions, top handrail, mid-knee rail, kicker toe plate, floor or wall (side mount) fixing brackets, a range of fittings and connectors, fasteners and fixings.

In accordance with building safety standards: a maximum allowable stanchion centre to centre spacing of 1500mm, a minimum top rail height above the walking surface of 1100mm. Should offer a minimum service load of 300N/mx max. distance (m) between stanchions.

Safety Standards: The Safety of Machinery – Permanent Means of Access standard states:

EN ISO 14122-3:2001 + A1:2010 Section 7.1.10: Where access through the guardrail is required, a self-closing gate shall be used. A gate shall have the handrail and knee rail positioned at the same level as that of the guard-rail that it extends to (for exit section of the ladder, see EN ISO 14122-4). EN ISO 14122-4:2004 + A1:2010 Section 4.7.3.2: To prevent falling through the access opening at arrival areas the opening shall be provided with a gate. The gates shall meet the following requirements:

• opening direction of this gate shall not be towards the edge of the drop outwards)
• gate shall be designed so, that it can be opened easily
• gate shall close automatically, e. g. by means of springs or the effects of gravity
• gate shall have at least a handrail and a knee rail according to relevant requirements of EN ISO 14122-3