How Do Handrails Keep You Safe?

You already know that handrails are recommended safety equipment for any public or private space. However, you may not realize just how important handrails are. How do handrails keep you safe?

How Do Handrails Keep You Safe?

Whether you’re figuring out how to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or just looking for ways to make your home a little safer, handrails are probably on your radar. This easy-to-install safety equipment is required by most building codes for a reason. But why are handrails so important? How do handrails keep you safe?

Handrails Prevent Accidents

Let’s start with the most obvious benefit of handrails: they are the best way to prevent a nasty fall down the stairs. You may think that handrails only benefit people with mobility issues, but think again. Over one million Americans injure themselves on stairs every year, and those people come from all walks of life. Building safety experts agree that safety equipment like handrails can help prevent accidents, or limit their severity, by allowing someone to catch themselves mid-fall. Handrails also help people keep their balance in slippery conditions, or when carrying loads that can put them off-balance. You may not think you want a handrail on your stairs, but you’ll be happy it’s there if you need it!

Handrails Are An Important Mobility Aid

While handrails are important for everyone’s safety, it’s also good to know that they can provide extra support for the people who need it most. Did you know that handrails are one of the number-one recommendations for making a home or building senior-friendly? Handrails are also required by the ADA specifically because they help people with mobility issues safely navigate stairs and hallways. Even those with vertigo or other balance issues appreciate the support handrails provide. Handrails can improve a person’s confidence in their ability to traverse a space, and they promote independence and free movement for people who need it. If you want your home or business to be truly accessible to all, handrails are a good priority.

Handrails Protect Your Liability

It turns out that handrails protect a lot more than just the people inside your home or business. In fact, they can protect you from fines, lawsuits, and all kinds of other legal trouble. The ADA, building codes, and other pieces of legislation require handrails installed to specific standards in homes and businesses. Failure to install and maintain handrails can lead to fines of upwards of $75,000— and that’s just for a first violation. In addition to the risk of financial penalties, a failure to maintain handrails can lead to legal liability in many states. For example, in the state of Illinois, a defective or missing handrail can serve as grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Do you know the liability laws in your state? You might be risking a lot more than a twisted ankle.

As you can see, handrails are vital safety equipment for any home or business. They keep your guests safe, they provide extra support to people who need it, and they even keep you safe from fines and lawsuits. So, take a look around your home or business. Where could a handrail benefit you?

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Is it time to install or refurbish a new handrail? Check out the ADA-compliant handrails on our site for an easy solution to your safety needs. Not sure what your handrail needs are yet? Give us a call, and we’ll help you figure it out.

At Aluminum Handrail Direct, we are committed to providing high-quality aluminum handrails that are durable, maintenance-free, affordable, and attractive. If you have questions about aluminum handrails or if you are searching for a handrail system that fits your needs, call us at 417-409-3179 or 888-518-9890 (toll-free) or visit Aluminum Handrail Direct’s online store today. We offer handrails, wall mounts, mounting screws and anchors, touch-up spray paint, and much more. We look forward to hearing from you!