How Do Handrails on Stairs Keep You Safe?

Handrails can be a stylish addition to your home or commercial space, adding a bit of flair to neglected stairways. But handrails are safety equipment, first and foremost, which is why they’re included in most residential and commercial building codes. So, how do handrails on stairs keep you safe? Whether you’re browsing residential or commercial handrails, read on to find out.

Enhancing Safety Through Handrails

Handrails Prevent Slips and Falls

More than one million Americans injure themselves on stairs every year. That includes people of all ages and mobility levels. The bottom line: Even if you think you have great balance, accidents can happen, which is why a quality handrail is such an important addition to your stairway. Interior handrails can prevent everyday slips and falls, while exterior handrails can protect people walking near environmental hazards like snow, ice, or puddles. Ultimately, a handrail is a must-have to keep you and your guests safe.

Handrails Help Safeguard Your Business

Protecting your workplace team also means protecting your bottom line. On average, employers can expect to spend as much as $120,000 on a single workplace injury. That’s a huge loss in both operating funds and labor. Handrails are a great safeguard against preventable injuries caused by slips and falls in commercial stairways.

The same goes for landlords, property managers, and other residential real estate stakeholders. The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and other building codes mandate that property owners install and maintain handrails to prevent tenant injury. Failing to maintain handrails comes with its own set of fees — never mind the exorbitant costs you could incur if a tenant falls and experiences an injury while living in a poorly maintained building. A personal injury lawsuit is the last thing you want on your hands.

For all of these reasons and more, handrails keep you safe — physically and financially.

Handrails Make Your Space Safe and Accessible for All

As mentioned above, the ADA has certain requirements to ensure that public spaces are accessible to people with mobility issues and other disabilities. Handrails can also be important for seniors who want to navigate stairs and hallways confidently. Ultimately, handrails are a way to ensure that your space is inclusive and accessible for all.

If you’re not sure where to start with ADA-compliant handrail components, Aluminum Handrail Direct is your perfect partner. For example, our CHR handrails meet ADA standards for diameter and handrail gripability and are designed to be installed continuously, meaning there are no gaps in handrail support. A continuous handrail is an excellent option for individuals who might be worried about mobility in public or residential spaces.

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So, how do handrails on stairs keep you safe? A solid, reliable handrail can prevent everyday slips and falls — but it can also protect you from legal liability and keep your space safe and navigable for anyone who might stop by. Remember: While stylish handrails can certainly add flair to a space, they’re ultimately a safety asset and should be treated as such. With that in mind, you’ll want to partner with a dependable handrail provider to ensure total reliability.

Still have questions about handrail safety? Contact Aluminum Handrail Direct for assistance. We offer high-quality, maintenance-free aluminum handrails and accessories, and we would be happy to help you understand how to install our products. With more than 15 years of experience in the industry, we can help you choose the proper railings for your application. We’ll even ship your handrails to you to simplify your building process. For more information, call us at 417-409-3179 or contact us online.