Handrail width
A handrail must be comfortable to grip. The optimal width of a round or rectangular handrail is 30–50 mm (ideal 45–50 mm).
01 /Main handrail sizes and shapes
A handrail must be wide enough to grip comfortably and safely, with a firm hold of the hand. Per GOST and building codes, the optimal diameter or width of a round or rectangular handrail is 30 to 50 mm (the ideal standard is 45–50 mm).
- 🔘 Round and oval (38–50 mm). The most ergonomic shape: lets the fingers fully wrap around the rail, which is critical in case of a fall.
- 🪵 Rectangular and square (40–60 mm). A stylish option for modern interiors. The top corners must be rounded (radius at least 3–5 mm), otherwise the rail digs into the palm.
- 👑 Wide moulded (over 60 mm). Often used in classic wooden interiors. They serve more as a decorative element or a rest for the palm on top, since they cannot be fully gripped.
02 /Important technical rules
- Gap to the wall. If the handrail is fixed directly to a wall, the gap between it and the wall must be at least 40–50 mm so that the fingers pass freely.
- Continuity. The handrail must be continuous along the whole flight and end in a smooth return (end cap) so that clothing does not catch on it.
- Children's handrail. If there are children, a secondary lower handrail 25–30 mm wide, sized for a child's hand, is often installed.