DDA Handrails – STARGARD
The original “warm to the touch” handrail system
Stargard handrails are designed to be safe, practical, and comfortable, giving users the confidence to rely on them for support. They combine robust performance, low maintenance, and long-term durability, making them a trusted choice.
Stargard is the original warm-to-the-touch PVC handrail and is fully DDA compliant. The system is built from galvanised steel tubing and is fully sleeved with a 4mm (4,000 microns) thick PVC coating after fabrication, providing double protection. Stainless steel fittings are used throughout for added durability. (For comparison, standard powder coating is around 110 microns thick.)
DDA-compliant handrails like Stargard are ideal for access ramps, balustrades, schools, offices,
and public buildings. They can be customised to meet site-specific requirements, ensuring a high-quality, reliable product you can trust. Choosing Stargard gives you complete confidence in both performance and compliance.
Handrails are designed to provide additional support, and users should feel comfortable using them. Thanks to its high-quality PVC coating, Stargard remains warm to the touch, even in cold conditions. On-site testing has shown that Stargard handrails are typically 4–5°C warmer than standard powder-coated or painted metal handrail, an important feature in low ambient temperatures.
Stargard handrails have proven long-term performance, remaining in use in buildings for 15–20 years, including harsh environments such as seafront locations. They resist chipping, knocks, and daily wear, making them an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
DDA Handrail Specifications: Stargard
Handrail: is 42mm Dia (50 mm dia is also available in Stargard) in lengths of up to 5 metres keeping the number of visible joints to a minimum. Stargard is also available with “Tactile” handrail ends. LED Insert lighting can be fitted into 50 mm dia. Stargard handrail. Stargard handrail can be fitted to existing structures too.
Balusters (posts): are 50mm finished diameter either PVC sleeved, stainless steel or galvanised steel.
Infill panels: a choice of glass, perforated metal sheet, stainless steel or powder coated mid /running rails, stainless steel wire or to a bespoke design.
Fittings: handrail brackets, glass brackets are all stainless steel.
PVC sleeving: Is 4mm (4,000 microns) thick which resists knocks and bumps, will not chip and is available in a standard range of colours. Other colours are available for orders over 250 metres.
Key Features & Benefits
● Warm to the touch: PVC coating keeps the handrail 4–5°C warmer than standard metal handrails, ensuring comfort even in cold conditions.
● Durable construction: Galvanised steel core fully sleeved with 4mm (4,000 microns) PVC and stainless steel fittings for long-lasting performance.
● UV and colour stable: PVC sleeve maintains consistent colour and finish over time.
● Low maintenance: Resists chipping, knocks, and everyday wear and tear.
● Proven longevity: Still in use after 15–20 years, even in harsh environments like seafront locations.
● Customisable: Wide range of colours and configurations to meet site-specific requirements.
What makes a handrail DDA compliant?
We refer to Stargard as a DDA Handrail, but what does this mean? When we refer to DDA compliance we are talking about handrails which conform to the railing requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), the Building Regulations Part M and British Standard BS 8300. This type of handrail must meet the following requirements:
Handrail Height – Handrails must be between 900mm and 1.1m in height and should extend the width of one stair tread and then level out for at least 300mm. Consideration should also be given to children or those who are short of stature through the provision of a second, lower
handrail set at 600mm.
Visual – Handrail should contrast visually with its surroundings without being highly reflective.
Shape and size – Should be circular or oval for ease of grip. Ideally circular handrails should have a diameter of between 40 and 45mm while oval ones should have a width of 50mm.
Applications
Stargard handrails are ideal for any setting where warm-to-touch surfaces or DDA compliance is required. Under the Equality Act, commercial and public buildings must make reasonable adjustments to remove physical barriers and improve access for all users. One effective way to achieve this is by installing suitable handrails on external stairways, as recommended in Part M of the Building Regulations.
The Stargard system is therefore perfect for a wide range of commercial and public buildings. It has been successfully installed in schools, hospitals, railway stations, and other public facilities, providing both safety and long-lasting durability.
Interested? Contact us today
For safe, durable, and low maintenance access solutions, Stargard DDA compliant handrails provide a reliable option for public and commercial buildings. Contact us today to discuss your project or request technical specifications.