Wheelchair ramps with handrails can provide additional support and confidence for a wide range of users, including:

• Those using walking aids such as rollator walkers, zimmer frames and walking sticks who wish to have something to hold onto for extra support
• Those who require additional assistance when walking if they are at higher risk of slips and falls, for example the elderly and those living with conditions such as arthritis
• Those recovering from surgery or an injury who have reduced strength in their legs 
• Those with limited balance who need additional security

Handrails are especially beneficial on longer ramps or ramps with a steeper incline. 

Where an access ramp is located in a public area, handrails are often preferred to enhance safety for users including children. 

Whether a wheelchair ramp needs handrails depends on factors such as where the ramp is being installed, its design and the regulations that apply to the building. There is no blanket requirement for every portable wheelchair ramp or semi-permanent (modular) wheelchair ramp to have handrails.

For businesses and organisations providing services to the public, the Equality Act 2010 requires reasonable adjustments to be considered where a disabled person would otherwise experience a substantial disadvantage. A ramp may be one way of providing accessible access, but the Equality Act does not state that every ramp must have handrails. What constitutes a reasonable adjustment depends on the individual circumstances, including practicality, cost and the needs of the people using the service.

Handrails can make a ramp suitable for a wider range of users by providing additional support when walking up or down the slope. They may be particularly beneficial for people who use walking sticks, walking frames or rollators, as well as those who have reduced balance or confidence when using a ramp. It is important a risk assessment is undertaken where the mobility ramp is used in a public area. For greater vertical rises, handrails are generally recommended for safety. 

There may also be situations where a business needs to use a portable ramp that can be deployed quickly when required. For example, if a property opens directly onto a public pavement, there may be limited space to leave a ramp and handrails permanently in position. A folding portable ramp without handrails may therefore be a more practical solution, provided it is suitable for the intended user and meets the relevant access and safety requirements.

Do You Need Handrails on a Wheelchair Ramp at Home?

For domestic use, handrails may not always be necessary or preferred. The needs and abilities of the person using the ramp should be considered when choosing the most suitable design.

A wheelchair or powerchair user who has good control and does not require additional support may prefer a ramp without handrails, particularly where handrails would reduce the available width or make the ramp more difficult to store.

Alternatively, a person who walks with a mobility aid may benefit considerably from having a handrail to hold while using the ramp.

In some situations, a suitable existing handrail or other secure support alongside the ramp may also provide the assistance required. This should only be relied upon if it is positioned appropriately, provides a secure grip and can be safely used alongside the ramp. In other instances users may simply wish to purchase a ramp with a single handrail if they have a weakness on one side. 

The important consideration is not simply whether a ramp has handrails, but whether the complete access solution is safe and appropriate for the people who will use it, including visitors. 

Where a wheelchair ramp forms part of building work that is subject to Building Regulations, handrail requirements can apply. The requirements depend on the type of building, the ramp design and how the ramp is being used.

In England, Approved Document K covers protection from falling, collision and impact and includes requirements for ramps and handrails. For buildings other than dwellings, the guidance states that ramps should have a handrail on both sides. For dwellings and common access areas in buildings containing flats, the requirements differ depending on the width and height of the ramp.

In the UK, most permanent wheelchair ramps are generally subject to building regulations and should be built in line with Part M and Part K building regulations.

Even where handrails are not legally required, they can be a useful safety feature. It is recommended you consider handrails if: 

• The ramp length is relatively long: A longer ramp requires users to travel further along an incline. Handrails can provide additional support and reassurance, particularly for people who have difficulty maintaining their balance. A handrail also provides wheelchair users with support if they need to stop whilst going up or down the ramp. 
• The ramp has a steep gradient: The steeper the gradient, the greater the physical effort required to travel up or down the ramp. A handrail can provide additional stability for people who are able to walk but may struggle with slopes. The handrail can also help to support carers pushing an assisted wheelchair. 
• The ramp is used by pedestrians: If the ramp is used in a public area and people are walking up it handrails are often preferred to offer support. Where children are using the ramp,  appropriate guarding and handrails should be considered, such as Balustrade handrails. 

Do You Need a Platform on a Wheelchair Ramp?

A platform can be useful when a wheelchair ramp needs to change direction, when there is not enough space for one long straight ramp, or when users need a level area to rest. A platform at the top of the ramp by the doorway is also beneficial for users to have a safe place to sit whilst opening or closing the door, in turn reducing the risk of rolling back. Ramps that comply to building regulations require platforms. 

Measure the vertical height from the ground to where the end of the ramp will rest when in place. If there is also an internal height, for example on uPVC doorways, measure this to.

Check the usable width of the doorway to check the space available for the ramp to rest. If the door opens inwards within the doorframe ensure to take this into consideration as it may reduce the space available.

Measure from the doorway outwards to check how much space you have available for a ramp. If you have limited space due to a wall, pavement or similar you may need to consider an L-shaped design.

When choosing a ramp with handrails, it is important to also choose the right ramp length. A longer ramp length means a smoother gradient, making it easier for users. It is of course important to check the space available to ensure the ramp will fit.

1. For assisted manual wheelchairs, we recommend a maximum gradient of 1:6. For example, for a 1 foot rise (load height) you'll need a 6 foot long ramp.

2. For unassisted wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers, we recommend a maximum gradient of 1:8. For example, for a 1 foot rise (load height) you'll need a 8 foot long ramp (Mobility scooter ramps need to be longer due to the low ground clearance).

Need more help? You can use our handy calculator to help calculate the right size wheelchair ramp for your needs.

Whether or not handrails are legally required, the ramp should be selected and installed with safety in mind.

• Check that the ramp is suitable for the height you need to overcome. Check the maximum gradient your mobility aid can climb. Some electric wheelchairs and power chairs have low clearance and require a smoother gradient.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and use.
• Check the ramp's maximum load capacity.
• Use the ramp in the recommended environment. If you wish to use the ramp outside, ensure the ramp is designed for outdoor use.
• Keep the ramp clear from debries. Remove ice prior to use.
• Do not use a ramp if there is signs of damage or wear.
• Unless stated otherwise, wheelchair ramps should only be used as an access solution for mobility aids. Do not load trolleys, cages, goods and similar on the ramp.

Our wheelchair ramp kits with handrails are designed to provide a practical access solution for steps and raised entrances. Available in different lengths and configurations, they can be adapted to suit different users and installation requirements.

The kits can be supplied with handrails where additional support is required, making them suitable for wheelchair users as well as people who walk with mobility aids.

VAT relief is available across all of our mobility aids including wheelchair ramps, threshold ramps, half steps, rollators, wheelchairs. In the UK, people with long-term disabilities do not have to pay VAT on mobility aids. Registered charities also do not have to pay VAT on these items. When you add the item to your basket simply complete your VAT exemption details in the VAT relief box to purchase the ramp without the VAT. It is a self-declaration, we simply require the user's full name and disability. You do not need to send over any paperwork as evidence, nor do you need to be registered as disabled or claim benefits.

Still need assistance? Our team is available throughout the week to help via phone, email, live chat or WhatsApp. If you’d rather we call you, you can easily request a callback here.