Requirement No.4 - Handrails/handholds
|
FOR INCLUSION IN REGULATIONS |
FOR ACCOMPANYING GUIDANCE |
EXPLANATION |
| 4. Handrails/handholds |
|
|
| 4.1 Handrails or handholds must be provided for disabled passengers entering or exiting the vehicle. |
|
Handrails will enable disabled people to retain balance and have some support as they get in and out of the vehicle. |
| 4.2 If more than one step is fitted at the passenger entrance handrails or handholds must meet the following requirements: |
|
|
| 4.2.1 They should be circular or oval in section with a diameter or maximum between 30-35mm. |
|
This requirement makes handholds easier to grip. |
| 4.2.2 There must be a minimum clearance between handrail or handhold and the adjacent part of the vehicle body or walls of at least 45mm. |
|
It is important that handrails have sufficient clearance to facilitate grip and to avoid hands/fingers becoming trapped. |
| 4.2.3 The surface of every handrail or handhold must contrast in colour and tone with the surrounding surfaces and be of a slip resistant finish. |
|
These requirements are to assist visually impaired people to locate the handhold and to assist people with poor grip to use them. |
