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In 2020-2021, accidental injury deaths in Australia from falls amounted to 40%. Whereas, 42% cases were hospitalised, especially individuals over the age of sixty-five. To help combat this, accident prevention is essential. But how can you do this? You can minimise the statistic by adding grab rails as mobility assistance devices for uneven surfaces.
To learn why these are critical safety features, read the article below!
Safety Benefits of Grab Rails
Grab rails help support people in stairways or other sloped areas. They effectively minimise fall risks. In fact, they provide a reliable point of aid to prevent slips and falls, especially for the elderly and those with physical disabilities.
The good thing is that these railings offer support for all age groups. They help children navigate uneven surfaces safely. For adults, they provide extra assistance during sickness or recovery. That’s why, if nobody else is home and you need to go through irregular flooring, these grab rails offer extra help for your safety.
Enhance Accessibility and Independence
People with mobility disorders often face multiple barriers and struggles involving their mental and physical health. Fortunately, grab railings make it safe for them to move, which basically fosters a sense of independence.
Well, this begins with regaining their confidence by showcasing their capabilities of safely transporting themselves on stairs and uneven surfaces. With this material, this positively contributes to their happiness and fulfilment. Other devices to boost independence also include wheelchair ramps and other rail types.
Grab Rails as a Legal and Practical Necessity
Aside from providing extra support for those who need it, Australian standards dictate that these rails should be 50-60mm between it and the wall. Additionally, it should have a 600mm unobstructed clearance above.
Australian Standards Design for Access and Mobility requires the installment of these rails. Since these building codes exist to ensure safety, accidents are not the only possible consequences when not followed. Non-compliant buildings can be demolished, fined, or face legal action from regulatory bodies.
That said, complying with codes, especially with commercial spaces, ensures that you’re protected from liability in case of accidents.
Grab Rail Design and Material Options
With multiple manufacturers, Australians have vast options for grab rails. These businesses offer different designs and types to fit your home’s needs. However, companies like Equipsy specialise in grab rails intended for the elderly and physically disabled.
Our brand offers multiple grab rails in different sizes, finishes, and angles to ensure that all needs are met. Moreover, the products are not only limited to uneven flooring assistance, they can also be used for bathrooms and other areas.
That said, homeowners can choose from a variety of StudSecure modular grab rails to fit their home’s needs. We have different available finishes, which means that you don’t have to compromise functionality with aesthetics.
Tips for Installing Grab rails in the Home
Now that you’ve researched high-quality grab rails, it's time that you find qualified installers that will properly install and maintain maximum safety for users. They measure grab rails to fit your height for maximum effectiveness and ensure that the process follows Australian building regulations and standards.
In addition to that, they ensure that the instalment doesn’t interfere with existing items in the home. This includes wiring that may be affected when drilling into walls. And while you could choose to do it yourself, hiring a professional offers multiple benefits without the hassle.
Aside from their expertise, they also boast project efficiency. Since railings are essential parts of a home, they ensure that you can use them as soon as possible. Because they also do this at a quicker pace, the disruption at home is minimised.
Get Quality Grab Rails from Equipsy
Grab rails help prevent falls, support mobility, and ensure compliance with Australian safety regulations. At Equipsy, our grab rails offer different finishes, including a peened type for a firmer grip. Check out our satisfied customers’ testimonials, and don’t forget to see our other products for more!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re thinking of adding more mobility safety features to your home, here are a few commonly asked questions that you need to keep in mind.
Where should a grab rail start and stop?
Grab rails should begin at the nosing of the upper landing and extend to the lowest step’s nosing. For added safety, the rail should be as long as the nosing line.
How to measure grab rails on stairs?
Professionals technically measure grab rails by clipping the tape measure to the first bottom step until the last one. They also add a six to twelve-inch allowance.