All About Handrail Standards and Regulations in Australia: Ramps, Stairs, and Schools Explained

Handrails are a crucial safety feature in Australian buildings, ensuring accessibility and protection for everyone—from schoolchildren to people with disabilities. Whether you’re planning a new staircase, ramp, or corridor, understanding the relevant standards and regulations is vital for compliance and peace of mind.

Key Australian Standards and Codes

• National Construction Code (NCC):
  Sets out the minimum requirements for safety, health, and accessibility in all building work across Australia, referencing specific standards for handrails in different building classes and uses

• AS 1428.1 (Design for Access and Mobility):
  Focuses on accessibility for people with disabilities, detailing requirements for handrails on ramps, stairs, and accessible paths of travel

• AS 1657:
  Covers the design and installation of stairs, walkways, and platforms for safe access in all building types

General Handrail Requirements

• Height:

  • Typically, handrails must be between 865mm and 1000mm above the nosing of stair treads or the surface of a ramp

  • For general stairs and walkways, a range of 900mm to 1100mm is also commonly specified.

  • In primary schools, a second, lower handrail (665mm–750mm) is required to assist children.

• Continuity:

  • Handrails must be continuous along the full length of the stair flight or ramp, except where interrupted by landings or barriers

• Cross-Section:

  • Circular or elliptical handrails must have a diameter between 30mm and 65mm (AS 1428.1 and AS 1657)

  • There must be at least 50mm clearance between the handrail and any adjacent wall

• Support and Spacing:

  • Handrails should be securely fixed and spaced to withstand design loads.

  • On stairs and ramps wider than 2m, intermediate handrails may be required

Special Applications

Ramps:

• Handrails are required on both sides of ramps used by the public or for accessibility.

• The handrail must extend at least 300mm horizontally beyond the top and bottom of the ramp for safety and ease of use

Stairs:

• Handrails are needed on at least one side of all stairways, and on both sides for wider or public stairs

• For flights with fewer than five risers (less than 1m elevation), handrails may not be required.

Schools:

• In primary schools, dual handrails at different heights must be provided to accommodate children and adults.

• Victorian schools, for example, require higher balustrades (up to 1800mm) and non-scalable barriers for added student safety.

Disability Access:

• All public ramps and stairs must comply with AS 1428.1 for accessibility, including handrail dimensions, extensions, and tactile indicators.

Compliance and Best Practice

• Always consult the latest version of the NCC and relevant Australian Standards for your specific project type and location.

• Non-compliance can result in legal action, fines, and—most importantly—safety risks for users.

• Engage qualified professionals familiar with these regulations for design, fabrication, and installation to ensure full compliance.

Conclusion:
Handrail regulations in Australia are comprehensive, covering every detail from height and shape to placement and accessibility. Whether you’re installing handrails in a school, on a public ramp, or in a residential stairwell, following these standards is essential for safety and legal compliance. At PNA Steel Stairs, we’re experienced in delivering handrail solutions that not only meet but exceed these requirements—so you can build with confidence, knowing every user is protected.