Balustrade Solutions

Uniclass L4 42 SfB CI/ (34)
EPIC D4
Handrail & Balustrade Solutions
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THE LAIDLAW SERVICE
A Comprehensive Service and Quality Brand Laidlaw is the leading specifier, distributor and technical service provider of architectural products to the UK construction industry. At the heart of Laidlaws integrated package of solutions is a comprehensive range of Handrail and Balustrade solutions, precision manufactured in Germany to exacting standards of performance and aesthetics which comply with all necessary Building Regulations and standards for structural stability, safety and accessibility. Laidlaws Handrail & Balustrade Solutions are supplied as a complete package, from initial site survey through detailed design, bill of quantities and through to full installation. Our trained staff are always on hand to give advice on all aspects of specification, legislation and best practice guidance to ensure each project reaches the optimum level of quality, finish and performance. Laidlaw is able to offer a wide range of architectural products that combine design and function across a broad range of product categories. By working closely with manufacturing partners to ensure consistent quality and performance and by keeping up to date with market requirements and technical specifications, Laidlaw remains at the forefront of the markets it serves.
Having prepared a detailed site survey or from architects drawings, we will prepare a full design schedule of all the handrail or balustrade requirements including a full bill of materials.
Complete supply and fit Laidlaw offers a complete supply and fit service, from producing quotations from architects drawings or bills of quantities, to on-site measurements, production drawings for customer approval, manufacture and on-site installation. A Laidlaw Technical consultant is always on hand to advise on any aspect of Handrails and Balustrades. Guidance on regulations and legislation Laidlaw trained staff can offer guidance on all aspects of Building Regulations and legislation including all aspects of DDA compliance. Component based systems
To keep on-site work to a minimum we assemble as much of the handrailing or balustrading as possible in the factory. Not only does this limit the number of section joints it also ensures that where there are joints or changes of angle the quality of the joint is a precise machined connection.
Our component based systems have a number of fundamental advantages: Stock of key components ensure quick delivery Factory assembly enables quick installation Superior aesthetics to systems to which are built on-site because there are no unsightly welds, deformations of bends or poor aesthetic finish Consistently high quality finish Demountable components make it easy to repair All components are recyclable. Why choose a Laidlaw system Where the design and installation of a product affects the safety of its users, it is not an occassion for compromising on quality. There is no doubt that cheaper handrails and balustrades can be produced but the true cost in terms of safety and the life expectancy of such products can not be compared to the highly engineered quality of a Laidlaw handrail and balustrade. Not only is the finished article inferior aesthetically but there are significant performance deficiencies to make the on-site construction unsuitable for most applications. You can see examples of this on page 4.
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CONTENTS
THE LAIDLAW SERVICE WHY IS A GOOD HANDRAIL SYSTEM SO IMPORTANT? HANDRAIL & BALUSTRADE INTRODUCTION COMPARING THE SYSTEMS PRODUCT REFERENCES NBS SPECIFICATION GUIDE HANDRAIL & BALUSTRADE SYSTEMS NY - NYLON LINE WS/WN - TIMBER LINE - WOOD & STAINLESS/WOOD & NYLON MK - COMBI LINE - NYLON & STAINLESS NT - STAINLESS LINE 3K - BALUSTRADE - 3KN LOADING SG - STRUCTURAL GLASS ML - MODU-LINE - THE INTELLIGENT MODULAR SYSTEM
1 3-4 5-8 9 - 10 11 - 12 13 - 14
15 - 26 27 - 34 35 - 42 43 - 54 55 - 56 57 - 58 59 - 62 63 - 66 67 - 74 75 - 76 77 78
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COLOUR CHARTS, FINISHES & OTHER OPTIONS CASE STUDIES LEGISLATION, REGULATIONS AND BRITISH STANDARDS GUIDE TO SPACING, LOADING AND FIXING OF UPRIGHTS GUIDE TO HANDRAIL LENGTHS & INSTALLATION
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WHY IS A GOOD HANDRAIL SYSTEM SO IMPORTANT?
The installation of a good quality handrail and balustrade system can have a significant effect on the way we interact with the built environment. A well designed system using quality materials and construction can enhance the visual and tactile nature of a building and will strongly influence the way in which the building is perceived as a welcoming place to be. From a purely functional view point, the handrail and balustrade solution will determine how accessible the facility is and will have a direct bearing on the health and safety of anyone who uses the building.
Slips, Trips and Falls Of the many statistics about slips, trips and falls, perhaps the most poignant is that in 2007 the proportion of major injuries due to falls from height was overtaken for the first time by those resulting from slips, trips and falls on the same level (source www.hse.gov.uk). They accounted for almost 11,000 or 38% of all major injuries and more than 27,000 of over 3 day injuries in the workplace. Running and walking injuries are not, however, industry specific. In schools for example, where pupils tend to be oblivious to hazards, rates continue to be high. In 2005/2006 8,367 injuries resulting from slips and trips were recorded, 5,440 of them involving children under the age of 16 and 1,357 involving employees. Whilst the evidence points to a reduction in falls from heights (due probably to the fact that the seriousness of the injuries resulting from such falls places more emphasis on reducing them) sadly, the same cannot be said of slips, trips and falls which show little sign of reduction. The provision of adequate handrailing is a major factor in reducing the likelihood of slips, trips and falls on stairs and on the same level. Guidance on stairs and handrails in buildings other than dwellings, set out in Approved Document M, indicates that handrails must be designed to accommodate all users, including children. They must be continuous and terminate beyond the top and bottom of a flight in a way that reduces risk, for example, of clothing being caught. In busy environments with wide staircases such as schools, additional rails are needed to divide the flight into channels. It may not be possible to ensure that these additional rails are actually used, but narrower aisles control traffic flow and place stair users in closer proximity to a point of safety. In addition to continuous support, the rails also need to provide adequate grip. The amount of grip is influenced greatly by the diameter of the rail and this can be improved by the use of smaller diameters of 35mm for example. However, being able to grip all round the rail brings the hands constantly into contact with the rail supports, forcing the user to change their grip. The optimum solution therefore is a balance between the diameter required for grip, providing comfortable support and being able to maintain the support along the full length of the rail.
Contrast and Visual Impairment Research has shown that for partially sighted users, high levels of contrast between the rail and the background are desirable. This contrast is most reliably expressed by reference to their Light Reflectance Value (LRV) rather than colour. In the 2004 edition of Approved Document M and the 2005 amendment to BS 8300, the desirable differences in LRV were quantified. Measured on a scale of 0 - 100 with jet black equivalent to 0 and perfect white 100. Relative differences between the rail and background were established at 30 points of difference. However, it is recognised that visual perception is affected by the relative area of surfaces and aspects such as texture, form, metallic or gloss levels. Within the 2009 revision to BS 8300 it has been acknowledged that 20 points of difference may be adequate in producing sufficient contrast provided levels of illuminance are above 200 lux.
LRV values are measured using a Spectrophotometer
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WHY CHOOSE A LAIDLAW SYSTEM?
It is true, cheaper handrails or balustrades can be achieved but what is the true cost of this kind of product? We have all experienced a site welded tubular steel painted handrail. The life of such an installation is extremely short and should never be compared with the engineered and highly finished quality of a Laidlaw handrail system (left). Not only is the finished article inferior aesthetically but there are significant performance deficiencies to make the on-site construction unsuitable for most applications. Sharp welds must be ground smooth and this cannot be achieved all round a handrail which is fixed close to the wall Site finished handrails will very quickly deteriorate through even normal use, leaving the steel substrate exposed and vulnerable to corrosion Thin nylon coated systems may seem adequate to begin with, but with even modest use the thin coating can soon become thin and cracked, exposing the steel substrate which quickly deteriorates Site formed bends and curves can rarely be produced smoothly or with an even surface Certainly not all alternatives are as poor as the examples shown below marked with a red cross, but there are countless examples of the type of deficiencies which are typical of on-site manufactured and lower quality bespoke systems. The contrast is the high quality materials, manufacture and detailing of the Laidlaw handrailing shown throughout this brochure.
Examples of sub-standard handrailing include: a. Inadequate upright supports b. Poor design detail of a welded construction c. Poor build quality of this handrail and support d. Scaffolding approach is ill considered and is now also showing the typical signs of on-site painting e. Poorly fabricated handrail supports f. Inadequate loading capability is soon evident g. Typical signs of a poorly formed handrail with a thin nylon cover which has become detached h Evidence of early corrossion on this stainless steel example
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HANDRAIL & BALUSTRADE INTRODUCTION
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Handrails Handrails offer support on staircases, protection from falling and are a welcome support in case of sudden tiredness. They are required on both sides of a staircase. They should continue uninterrupted around half-landings to provide continued support for the elderly and ambulant disabled. This also provides safety and comfort for visually impaired and blind people by serving to guide them around the landing. Handrails should always extend at least 300mm from the top and bottom of a staircase to provide a lead-in - which avoids unsteady persons from having to overreach in order to grasp the rail, and lead-off - which allows them to be supported by the rail beyond the last step. The handrail should be fixed at a height of 900mm. However, a lower rail should be present in buildings frequented by children. If a higher rail is required - to prevent falls, for example - then a secondary rail should be available at the ergo nomic height of 600mm. Handrails must also be suitable for use by people who are physically weak and have a poor grip. The best shape of handrail is circular in cross section, such that a hand can encircle it. The recommended diameter is 32 - 45mm (BS 8300). The elderly, in particular, suffer from a weak grip and a round profile is helpful. The handrail must be mounted at a sufficient distance from the wall such that a hand can travel along it without encountering the fixing brackets. The partially sighted will find the handrail more easily if it contrasts visually with its background i.e. the wall. Colour is an ideal way of helping to achieve such a contrast.
s
900mm
s s
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Balustrades Balustrades, essentially are freestanding barriers supporting a handrail and are composed of a top rail (handrail), a bottom rail (optional), upright supports which are fixed in a variety of ways to the floor structure and infill material of some kind providing the barrier to prevent falls. Typically, a balustrade is required on the open side of a staircase and surrounding any open balcony, gallery or atrium. The Laidlaw portfolio of Handrail & Balustrade systems is a comprehensive collection of individual system components which can be used to create matching handrails and balustrades offering specifiers a wide choice, to suit either performance and/or aesthetic requirements. The basic systems Laidlaw offers seven fundamental handrail and balustrade systems: Nylon using 4mm thick nylon-sleeved galvanised steel components Stainless steel using all stainless steel components T imber & Stainless steel a combination of a stainless steel support structure and solid timber rails. Also available with Nylon support structure. N ylon & Stainless steel a combination of a stainless steel support structure and Nylon sleeved handrail components Structural Glass - a system of balustrading which utilises the structural properties of glass combined with Stainless steel or Timber handrailing 3 kN System using larger diameter stainless steel uprights to resist the greater loadings required for certain buildings, e.g. assembly buildings. Modu-Line - a highly flexible, component based system which can be supplied as factory assembled elements or can even be assembled on-site. The design detail enables a high level of adjustability to suit site variations
Tactile Indicators Although not included in Building Regulation guidance, tactile indicators can help to make a building more inclusive. When incorporated into handrails, they can indicate to a visually impaired person the presence of the first and last riser on a staircase as well as floor levels. Braille indicators can also be included to highlight a floor number. Different types of indicator are available, as projecting buttons, rings or grooves.
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COMPARING THE SYSTEMS
NYLON LINE Material Polyamide (PA) Surface - High gloss Properties: High fracture resistance, high strength and thermal stability Smooth and brilliant surface with exceptionally high resistance to abrasion Coloured throughout High resistance to most solvents, chemicals, cleansing agents and disinfectants No electrostatic charge Conforms to the requirement of BS 8300 requiring that handrails should not be cold to the touch Environmentally safe material - cadmium and lead free colours Physiologically harmless, compliance with requirements of food law in Europe and USA Completely recyclable
TIMBER LINE Mixed material combinations using a system of stainless steel supports and connectors: Properties: Stainless steel support system gives high stability and long lasting performance Nylon and Stainless combination uses the strength and durability of stainless with the colour and warmth of nylon Timber and Stainless combination has the inherent beauty and feel of timber rails with the structural stability and durability of stainless steel Combination of Timber handrails with the colour option of nylon supports and connectors
STAINLESS LINE Material - Stainless steel Surface - brushed finish Properties: High mechanical strength, dimensionally stable and nearly indestructible High stability and durability suitable for areas subject to high levels of use and abuse Very good resistance to atmospheric corrosion and chemical corrosion (detergents and cleansing agents) High resistance to abrasion Very easy to clean and to disinfect
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COMPARING THE SYSTEMS
3 KN SYSTEM Materials - Stainless steel support structure with either stainless steel or nylon handrailing. Based on the Stainless Line system but with heavier duty construction making it particularly suited to applications which may be subject to overcrowding by the public Heavy duty construction is able to withstand horizontal loading of 3kN/m Stainless steel or nylon handrail option
STRUCTURAL GLASS Materials - Structural toughened glass and stainless steel This beautiful balustrading solution is ideally suited to high end architectural applications where the simplicity of the structure and free open aesthetic are required. It also provides a gapfree barrier which makes it ideally suited to areas where children are likely to be present Lack of vertical support structure allows for free run of horizontal handrail Simple lines with uninterrupted view through balustrade High levels of safety with no gaps to tempt small children to squeeze through Structural glass is capable of achieving 3kN loading Handrail available in Stainless steel, Nylon or Timber
MODU-LINE SYSTEM Material - Stainless steel support structure with a choice of Nylon, Timber or Stainless steel handrail Properties: Stainless steel guarantees high stability and permanent functioning Fully component based system allows components to be ordered and assembled on site with minimum site preparation and cutting Nylon and Stainless combination uses the strength and durability of stainless with the colour and warmth of nylon Timber and Stainless combination has the inherent beauty and feel of timber rails with the structural stability and durability of stainless steel
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HANDRAILS - PRODUCT REFERENCES

s / 34 The smaller handrail diameters are recommended for applications which may benefit from a Power Grip in accordance with BS 8300:2009
NY
Diameter of handrail Nylon/Timber - 40mm Stainless steel - 32 or 40mm
Inclination of handrail h = horizontal / s = raking
End type
NY
a WS/WN
a MK
a NT
a Handrail support NY
Type I WS/WN
Type II
Type III
Type I MK
Type II
Type III
Type I NT
Type II
Type III
Type I Material
NY NYLON LINE WS or WN TIMBER LINE
Type II
MK COMBI LINE
Type III
NT STAINLESS LINE
MODU-LINE SYSTEM
Specify individual components (see www.laidlaw.net/handrail-and-balustrading/) or refer to your Laidlaw Technical Consultant
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BALUSTRADE - PRODUCT REFERENCES

V U / 2U/34 h 372 Samples are taken from NYLON LINE (NY) for the purpose of this illustration
NY
Panel holder
Inclination of balustrade h = horizontal Inclination of balustrade s = raking
with bottomrail with midrails Bottom rail and midrail
U 2 U 34 Diameter Number of midrails
Offset upper handrail and panel holder for offset infill panel Offset handrail
Stand: 19.2.99 Pros2091
Specify 1.5kN or 3.0kN loading
Type of upright fixing
Type A Material
NY NYLON LINE
Type B
WS or WN TIMBER LINE
Type C
MK COMBI LINE
Type E
NT STAINLESS LINE
STRUCTURAL GLAZING SYSTEM
Please refer to your Laidlaw Technical Consultant for full specification details
MODU-LINE SYSTEM
Specify individual components (see www.laidlaw.net/handrail-and-balustrading/) or refer to your Laidlaw Technical Consultant
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NBS SPECIFICATION GUIDE

To help specify the Laidlaw range of handrail and balustrade systems, the following specification paragraphs are provided in a format compatible with NBS. These are also available electronically on the Laidlaw website at www.laidlaw.net, on NBS Plus or by contacting the Laidlaw Handrail and Balustrade Enquiry Line on 01902 600420. They can be cut and pasted into an NBS specification. Please refer to pages 11 & 12 for examples of specification codes.
HANDRAILS (Section L30 clause 580 of NBS) Laidlaw Nylon system Wall fixed handrail to be 40mm o/d nylon with a 4mm wall thickness over a galvanised steel tube core of 32mm o/d x 2.0mm connected to 34mm dia. steel-cored nylon elbow supports ref. 34.90V complete with steel rosettes and clip on 70mm nylon cover caps at 1300mm centres. e.g. NY IIIc-s/40 Laidlaw Stainless Steel system Wall fixed handrail to be 40mm o/d x 2.0mm brushed stainless steel grade 316 with concealed connections in running lengths connected to 14mm dia. elbow supports ref. 14.90V or 26mm dia. ref. 26.90V complete with rosettes at 1300mm centres. e.g. NT IIc-s/40 Laidlaw Combi system Wall fixed handrail to be 40mm o/d nylon with a 4mm wall thickness over a galvanised steel tube core of 32mm o/d x 2.0mm connected to 14mm dia. brushed stainless steel grade 316 elbow supports ref. 14.90V or 26mm dia. ref. 26.90V complete with rosettes at 1300mm centres, or stainless tube with nylon elbows 34/90V at 1300mm centres. e.g. MK IIc-s/40 Laidlaw Timber system (Timber handrail/nylon supports) Wall fixed handrail to be: 40mm dia. Beech, A quality, without foxiness steamed and kiln dried, surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. European Oak, A quality, without sap parts kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. European Ash, A quality, with brown parts kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. Canadian Maple, US quality FAS 1-2, white/kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, connected to 34mm dia. steel-cored nylon elbow supports ref. 34.90V complete with steel rosettes and clip on 70mm nylon cover caps at 1200mm centres. e.g. WN IIIc-s/40 Laidlaw Timber system (Timber handrail/stainless steel supports) Wall fixed handrail to be: 40mm dia. Beech, A quality, without foxiness steamed and kiln dried, surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. European Oak, A quality, without sap parts kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. European Ash, A quality, with brown parts kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. Canadian Maple, US quality FAS 1-2, white/kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, connected to 40mm o/d x 2.0mm brushed stainless steel grade 316 connected to 14mm dia. elbow supports ref. 14.90V complete with rosettes at 1200mm centres. e.g. WS IIc-s/40 Laidlaw 3kN system Wall fixed handrail to be 40mm o/d nylon with a 4mm wall thickness over a galvanised steel tube core of 32mm o/d x 2.0mm connected to 34mm dia. steel cored nylon elbow supports ref. 34.90V complete with steel rosettes and clip on 70mm nylon cover caps at 1500mm centres, or 40mm o/d x 2.0mm brushed stainless steel grade 316 with concealed connections in running lengths connected to 14mm dia. elbow supports ref. 14.90V or 26mm dia. ref. 26.90V complete with rosettes at 1300mm centres. e.g. NT(MK) IIc-s/40 Laidlaw Modu-Line system Wall fixed handrail to be 40mm o/d nylon with a 4mm wall thickness over a steel tube core of 32mm o/d x 2.0mm connected to 14mm dia. brushed stainless steel grade 316 elbow supports ref. 14.90V complete with rosettes at 1500mm centres. e.g. ML IIc-s/40 All bends connectors and glass clips included as necessary. All steel to be galvanised throughout. All in accordance with BS 8300, BS 6180, BS 6399, BS 5395, BS EN 12150, Building Regulations Approved Documents B, K and M (England and Wales).
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NBS SPECIFICATION GUIDE

BALUSTRADES (Section L30 clause 560 of NBS) The specification of balustradesis based around three key items: A detailed description of the required system A statement of the required fixing method A description of the balustrade infill. REQUIRED SYSTEM Laidlaw Nylon system Balustrade with removable top rail to be 40mm o/d nylon with a 4mm wall thickness over a galvanised steel tube core of 32mm o/d x 2.0mm connected to 40mm o/d uprights with a 32mm x 4.0mm galvanised steel tube core extended for fixing using the appropriate method from the list of Fixing alternatives. e.g. NY A-S Laidlaw Stainless Steel system Balustrade with removable top rail facility to be 40mm o/d x 2.0mm brushed stainless steel grade 316 with concealed connections in running lengths connected to 40mm o/d x 3mm uprights extended for fixing using the appropriate method from the list of Fixing alternatives. e.g. NT A-S Laidlaw Combi system Balustrade with removable top rail facility to be 40mm o/d nylon-sleeved tube connected to 40mm o/d brushed stainless steel grade 316 uprights, or stainless steel tube connected to nylon-sleeved uprights extended for fixing using the appropriate method from the list of Fixing alternatives. e.g. MK A-S Laidlaw Timber system (Timber balustrade/nylon uprights) Balustrade top rail to be selected from one of four options: 40mm dia. Beech, A quality, without foxiness steamed and kiln dried, surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. European Oak, A quality, without sap parts kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. European Ash, A quality, with brown parts kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. Canadian Maple, US quality FAS 1-2, white/kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, connected to 40mm o/d x 2.0mm nylon connections. Uprights to be 40mm o/d x 4.0mm thick with a 32mm x 4.0mm galvanised steel tube core extended for fixing using the appropriate method from the list of Fixing alternatives. e.g. WN A-S Laidlaw Timber system (Timber balustrade/stainless steel uprights) Balustrade top rail to be selected from one of four options: 40mm dia. Beech, A quality, without foxiness steamed and kiln dried, surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. European Oak, A quality, without sap parts kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. European Ash, A quality, with brown parts kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, 40mm dia. Canadian Maple, US quality FAS 1-2, white/kiln dried surface treated with colourless lacquer, connected to 40mm o/d x 2.0mm grade 316 brushed stainless steel connections. Uprights to be 40mm o/d x 3.0mm thick grade 316 brushed stainless steel extended for fixing using the appropriate method from the list of Fixing alternatives. e.g. WS A-S
Laidlaw 3kN system Balustrade with removable top rail facility to be 40mm o/d nylon with a 4mm wall thickness over a galvanised steel tube core of 32mm o/d x 4.0mm, or 40mm o/d x 4.0mm brushed stainless steel grade 316, with concealed connections in running lengths connected to 60mm o/d x 2.5mm brushed stainless steel grade 316 uprights extended for fixing using the appropriate method from the list of Fixing alternatives. e.g. NT A-S(3kN) Laidlaw Modu-Line system Balustrade with removable top rail facility to be 40mm o/d nylon with a 4mm wall thickness over a steel tube core of 32mm o/d x 2.0mm connected to 40mm uprights extended for plate fixing ref. 1.12E to comply with 0.74kN loading. e.g. ML A-S
Fixing alternatives Anchor fixing Type A Clamp through fixing Type B 2 point side fixing Type C Plate fixing Type E. Infill alternatives Infill panels to be 10mm thick clear/grey/bronze/green float glass toughened to BS EN 12150 with radiussed corners and flat polished edges. Trespa Anti Vandal Panels to be 13mm thick Trespa Anthlon range internally (Trespa Meteon range externally) with radiussed corners and smooth edges. Infill panels to be 3mm thick perforated mild steel panels with 30mm dia. holes at 50mm centres with a 60mm clear border all round and 75% clear area. Polyester powder-coated. Held in position using panel holders to uprights. Infill panels to be 50 x 50 x 4 weld-mesh all within a 10mm dia. frame. Polyester powder-coated to match balustrade. Held in position using panel holders to uprights. Mid rail(s) to be 34mm or 40mm o/d nylon with a 4mm wall thickness over a galvanised steel tube core of 26mm or 32mm o/d x 2.0mm connected to uprights (excluding stainless steel). Mid rail(s) to be 26mm, 32mm or 40mm o/d x 2.0mm brushed stainless steel grade 316 connected to uprights. (stainless steel only). 5mm thick stainless steel tension wires including swageless terminals. Infill panels to be 10mm dia. vertical bar construction within a 10mm dia. frame bars at no more than 100mm centres. Polyester powder-coated to match balustrade. Held in position using panel holders to uprights. Other options can be considered. The maximum thickness of a panel used with a nylon in-line panel holder is 14mm and for a stainless steel in-line panel holder is 12mm. When using screwstud panel holders, the maximum panel thickness is 14mm.
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NY HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

Handrails NY.Type (NYLON LINE) The Laidlaw Nylon range is designed to bring together the structural strength and non-corrosive nature of a galvanised steel core with the pleasant feel and permanent colour of a thick nylon sleeve. It is one of the most effective ways of complying with all aspects of the guidance in Approved Document M (2004). Handrail construction is a fully galvanised tubular steel core with a solid nylon sleeve 40mm diameter with a 4mm wall thickness. Wall fixing brackets options are available with straight supports and 90 bends (see page 17). Handrail ends can be straight with flat end cover cap, with a 90 bend return to the wall with flat end cover cap or with a 90 bend return connected to the wall with or without rose fixing (see page 17 for full details). The handrail is supplied pre-assembled, including all corner pieces, connection elements, screws and fixings. For colour please see colour chart, page 63. Also available with optional tactile elements. The method of calculating handrail lengths is shown on page 77.
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NY HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW
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NY HANDRAIL - HANDRAIL SUPPORTS & END TYPES
Supports NY.Type
End types
a I II III
b Inclination of handrail h = horizontal / s = raking
NY.Type I With straight handrail supports 40mm or 34mm diameter made of Nylon, fixed to wall with or without roses, approx. 1300mm apart NY.Type II With 90 angled handrail supports HLS 25mm diameter made of Nylon, fixed to wall with roses 1.9A/B. Handrail supports approx. 1300mm apart NY.Type III (Supplied as Standard) With 90 bends 40mm or 34mm diameter made of Nylon, fixed to wall with or without roses approx. 1300mm apart
nds of handrail a E Straight with Nylon end cover cap Ends of handrail b With 90 bends, with Nylon end cover cap Ends of handrail c Connected with 90 bends to the wall, with / without nylon roses
Removable handrails Removable handrail sections facilitate the cleaning of windows and give access to service ducts or rooms, for example switch boxes or fire extinguishers. The removable handrails are available in 34mm and 40mm diameter. The handrail element can be removed by loosening the sprung locking mechanism.
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NY HANDRAIL - OPTIONS
Curved handrails On request horizontal handrails can also be made curved in a radius starting at 200mm.
Handrails NY.Type The nylon handrail sections can be supplied with an integral anti-slip grip texture. This is particularly useful where handrails are likely to become wet.
Tactile elements There is an increased public awareness of the need to use tactile assistance. Tactile elements assist visually impaired and partially sighted persons to orientate themselves. The elements on the balustra des indicate first and last steps of stairs and respective floors. 4 types of optional tactile indicators are available PP Indicator Pips QE Projecting Button ZR Insert Rings KB Grooves
PP
QE
ZR
KB
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NY BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW
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NY BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW
Balustrades NY.Type (NYLON LINE) Rails, uprights and bottom rails are constructed using fully galvanised tubular steel core with a solid nylon sleeve 40mm diameter with 4mm wall thickness. The quality and dimensions of the steel meet the design requirements of BS 6180 and BS 6399. There is a continuous steel reinforcement in the connections and bends. Balustrades can be constructed with bottom rails and mid rails or with 4 infill holders (see pages 23 to 25) for each railing section and suitable infill material. Infill holders are made of nylon with a metal core for drilling or clamping the infill sections. Handrails and infill panels can be produced in-line with the support uprights or offset. We can also supply 5mm steel tension cables to order for fitting to predrilled uprights. Upright spacing approx. 1300mm, available with anchor fixing, bolt-through, side fixing or with welded colour-coated steel plate (118mm diameter, or 100mm square). Railing height 900mm to 1100mm (max). Other centres and heights are available as required to meet site conditions. The balustrading is supplied pre-assembled. No on-site manufacturing necessary. For colour please see Laidlaw colour chart, page 63. Available with tactile elements. The method of calculating handrail lengths is shown on page 77.
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NY BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT
NY.Type A Anchor fixing for uprights 40mm diameter. Supplied with anchor and rose.
NY.Type B Bolt-through fixing with steel reinforced roses for uprights 40mm diameter. Supplied with roses and screw.
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NY BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT
NY.Type C 2-point side fixing for uprights 40mm diameter, distance x as indicated (25 to 80mm), made of Nylon, with washers to compensate wall inaccuracies. Supplied without fixing material.
NY.Type E Upright fixing with welded colour-coated steel plate 10mm thickness, 118mm diameter or 100x100mm square to choose, with 4 nos. drilling holes 14mm diameter for countersunk screws. Supplied without fixing material.
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NY BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS
Offset handrail options
Offset panel holder NY.372.15 Screw type for panels, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
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NY BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS
Panel holder NY.373.16/374.16 Clamp type NY.373.15/374.15 Screw type Clamp type or Screw type for panels up to 14mm thickness, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
373 (Non Standard)
374
Wall panel holder NY.373.18/374.18 Clamp type NY.373.17/374.17 Screw type Clamp type or Screw type for panels up to 14mm thickness, wall fixing, concealed fixing.
373 (Non Standard)
374
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NY BALUSTRADE - MIDRAILS & TENSION WIRES
Midrails 40mm or 34mm diameter Handrail and uprights are made with coloured Nylon sleeves 40mm diameter for uprights only, 40mm or 34mm diameter for handrails and midrails with full length non-corrosive steel cores. All bends and connections are steel reinforced. The quality and thickness of steel is according to the structural requirements of BS 6180 & BS 6399. All balustrades are also available with bottom rail. Building regulation approval must be obtained locally.
Options with tension wires We can supply 5mm tension wires and pre drilled uprights to order. Building regulation approval must be obtained locally.
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NY BALUSTRADE - OPTIONS
Infill options For details of infill options please refer to page 63.
PP
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ZR
KB
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WS HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW
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WS HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW
Handrails WS.Type (TIMBER LINE) The Laidlaw Timber handrail and balustrade system provides the specifier with the ideal blend of traditional and modern styles. It combines the modern lines of stainless steel or nylon uprights, bends and brackets with the gentle warmth and natural feel of a timber rail which is not cold to the touch. Timber Line systems are characterised by the use of stainless steel components with timber or nylon components. The straight handrail sections are 40mm diameter solid beech as standard (alternative materials available to order - ash, oak, maple). All handrails are A-grade material without red core, steamed and kiln dried, with a clear polyurethane surface finish. Wall fixing brackets options are available with straight supports, or 90 bends connected to a stainless steel tubular connecting piece with a brushed satin finish. Handrail ends can be straight with flat end cover cap, with a 90 bend return to the wall with flat end cover cap or with a 90 bend return connected to the wall with or without rose fixing (see page 29 for full details). The handrail is supplied pre-assembled, including all corner pieces, connection elements, screws and fixings. In addition to the stainless steel support brackets and rail ends, these are also available in nylon. Also available with optional tactile elements. The method of calculating handrail lengths is shown on page 77.
In addition to the combination of Timber and Stainless steel, the Timber handrail can be combined with nylon support components creating a completely different look.
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WS HANDRAIL - HANDRAIL SUPPORTS & END TYPES
Supports type
End types
II
III
Inclination of handrail h = horizontal / s = raking
WS.Type I With straight handrail supports 26mm diameter solid stainless steel rod, connected to a stainless steel tubular section length (L) 60mm with a brushed finish. Fixed to wall with concealed fix roses, 70mm diameter, approx. 1200mm apart WS.Type II (Supplied as Standard) With 90 angled handrail supports 14mm diameter solid stainless steel rod, connected to a stainless steel tubular section length (L) 60mm with a brushed finish. Fixed to wall with concealed fix roses, 70mm diameter, approx. 1200mm apart WS.Type III With 90 bends 26mm diameter tubular stainless steel connected to a stainless steel tubular section length (L) 60mm with a brushed finish. Fixed to wall with concealed fix roses, 70mm diameter, approx. 1200m apart.
Ends of handrail a Straight with stainless steel end cover cap Ends of handrail b With 90 bends, with stainless steel end cover cap Ends of handrail c Connected with 90 bends to the wall, with / without stainless steel roses
NOTE: The system may also be supplied with stainless steel handrails and nylon fittings
Removable handrails Facilitate the cleaning of windows and give access to service ducts or rooms, for example switch boxes or fire extinguishers. The removable handrails are 40mm diameter and can be removed by loosening the sprung locking mechanism.
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WS HANDRAIL - OPTIONS
Standard connection to top rail
Reduced diameter connection to top rail
Tactile elements There is an increased public awareness of the need to use tactile assistance. Tactile elements assist visually impaired and partially sighted persons to orientate themselves. The elements on the balustra des indicate first and last steps of stairs and respective floors. QE Projecting Button
QE
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WS BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW
Balustrades WS.Type (TIMBER LINE) The straight handrail sections are 40mm diameter solid beech as standard (alternative materials available to order - ash, oak, maple). All handrails are A-grade material without red core, steamed and kiln dried, with a clear polyurethane surface finish. All uprights, connection pieces, bottom or midrails, infill holders are supplied in stainless steel with a brushed satin finish. Balustrades are available with bottom rails and midrails, or with 4 solid infill panel holders as required for each handrail section. We can also supply 5mm tension wires and pre drill uprights to order. Upright spacing 1000mm (max.), available with anchor fixing, bolt-through, side fixing or with welded stainless steel plate (118mm diameter, or 100mm square). Railing height 900 mm to 1100mm (max). Other centres and heights are available as required to meet site conditions. The balustrading is supplied pre-assembled. No on-site manufacturing is necessary. Also available with optional tactile elements. The method of calculating handrail lengths is shown on page 77.
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WS BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT FIXINGS
WS.Type A Anchor fixing for uprights 40mm diameter. Supplied with anchor and rose.
WS.Type B Bolt-through fixing with steel reinforced roses for uprights 40mm diameter. Supplied with roses and screw.
WS.Type C 2-point side fixing for uprights 40mm diameter, distance x as indicated (25 to 80mm), made of stainless steel, with washers to compen sate wall inaccuracies. Supplied without fixing material.
WS.Type E Upright fixing with welded stainless steel plate 10mm thickness, 118mm diameter or 100x100mm square to choose, with 4 nos. drilling holes 14mm diameter for countersunk screws. Supplied without fixing material.
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WS BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS
Panel holder WS.406 Clamp type for panels up to 12mm thickness, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
Wall panel holder WS.408 Clamp type for panels up to 12mm thickness, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
Offset panel holder WS.410 Screw type for panels, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
Panel holders also available In nylon
Offset handrail
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WS BALUSTRADE - MID RAIL, TENSION WIRES & OPTIONS
Midrails 40mm and 26mm diameters Rails with straight tube sections are of beech 40mm diameter, A-grade without red core, steamed and kiln dried, surface finished in clear polyurethane. All uprights are 40mm diameter stainless steel. Midrails are available in 40mm and 26mm diameter stainless steel. All bends and connections are stainless steel. The quality and dimensions of the steel meet the design requirements of BS 6180 and BS 6399. All balustrades are also available with bottom rail. Building regulation approval must be obtained locally.
QE Tactile elements There is an increased public awareness of the need to use tactile assistance. Tactile elements assist visually impaired and partially sighted persons to orientate themselves. The elements on the balustra des indicate first and last steps of stairs and respective floors. QE Projecting Button
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MK HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

Handrails MK.Type (COMBI LINE) The Laidlaw Combi handrail and balustrade system provides specifiers with a wide range of combinations of stainless steel and nylon components. Combi Line systems are characterised by the use of stainless steel components with timber or nylon handrails or nylon components with stainless steel handrails. Nylon handrails can be used externally to ensure they are not cold to the touch. The straight handrail sections are fully galvanised tubular steel core with a solid nylon sleeve 40mm diameter with a 4mm wall thickness. Wall fixing brackets options are available with straight supports or 90 bends connected to a stainless steel tubular connecting piece with a brushed satin finish. Handrail ends can be straight with flat end cover cap, with a 90 bend return to the wall with flat end cover cap or with a 90 bend return connected to the wall with or without rose fixing (see page 37 for full details). The handrail is supplied pre-assembled, including all corner pieces, connection elements, screws and fixings. Also available with optional tactile elements. The method of calculating handrail lengths is shown on page 77.
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MK HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW
Handrails MK.Type (COMBI LINE) The nylon handrail sections can be supplied with an integral anti-slip grip texture. This is particularly useful where handrails are likely to become wet.
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MK HANDRAIL - HANDRAIL SUPPORTS & END TYPES
Supports type
End types
II
III
MK.Type I With straight handrail supports 26mm diameter solid stainless steel rod, connected to a stainless steel tubular section length (L) 60mm with a brushed finish. Fixed to wall with concealed fix roses, 70mm diameter, approx. 1200mm apart MK.Type II (Supplied as Standard) With 90 angled handrail supports 14mm diameter solid stainless steel rod, connected to a stainless steel tubular section length (L) 60mm with a brushed finish. Fixed to wall with concealed fix roses, 70mm diameter, approx. 1200mm apart MK.Type III With 90 bends 26mm diameter tubular stainless steel connected to a stainless steel tubular section length (L) 60mm with a brushed finish. Fixed to wall with concealed fix roses, 70mm diameter, approx. 1200m apart.
Ends of handrail a Straight with Nylon end cover cap Ends of handrail b With 90 bends, with stainless steel end cover cap Ends of handrail c Connected with 90 bends to the wall, with / without stainless steel roses
Removable handrails Facilitate the cleaning of windows and give access to service ducts or rooms for example switch boxes or fire extinguishers. The removable handrails are available in 34mm and 40mm diameter. The handrail element can be removed by loosening the sprung locking mechanism.
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MK HANDRAIL - OPTIONS
PP
QE
ZR
KB
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MK BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW

Balustrades MK.Type (COMBI LINE) The straight handrail sections are fully galvanised tubular steel core with a solid nylon sleeve 40mm diameter with a 4mm wall thickness. All uprights, connection pieces, bottom or midrails, infill holders are supplied in stainless steel with a brushed satin finish. Alternatively, all uprights, connection pieces, bottom or midrails and infill holders can be supplied in nylon with stainless steel handrails. Balustrades are available with bottom rails and midrails, or with 4 solid infill panel holders as required for each handrail section. We can also supply 5mm tension wires to order for fitting to predrilled uprights. Upright spacing 1100mm (max.), available with anchor fixing, bolt-through, side fixing or with welded stainless steel plate (118mm diameter, or 100mm square). Railing height 900 mm to 1100mm (max). Other centres and heights are available as required to meet site conditions. The balustrading is supplied pre-assembled. No on-site manufacturing is necessary. Also available with optional tactile elements. The method of calculating handrail lengths is shown on page 77.
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MK BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT FIXINGS
MK.Type A Anchor fixing for uprights 40mm diameter. Supplied with anchor and rose.
MK.Type B Bolt-through fixing with steel reinforced roses for uprights 40mm diameter. Supplied with roses and screw.
MK.Type C 2-point side fixing for uprights 40mm diameter, distance x as indicated (25 to 80mm), made of stainless steel, with washers to compen sate for wall inaccuracies. Supplied without fixing material.
MK.Type E Upright fixing with welded stainless steel plate 10mm thickness, 118mm diameter or 100x100mm square to choose, with 4 nos. drilling holes 14mm diameter for countersunk screws. Supplied without fixings.
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MK BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS
Panel holder MK.406 Clamp type for panels up to 12mm thickness, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
Panel holder MK.408 Clamp type for panels up to 12mm thickness, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
Panel holders are also available in nylon Offset panel holder MK.410 Screw type for panels, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
Offset handrail
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MK BALUSTRADE - MIDRAIL, TENSION WIRES & OPTIONS
Midrails 40mm or 26mm diameter Handrails and uprights are made with coloured Nylon sleeves 40mm diameter for uprights only, 40mm or 34mm diameter for handrails and midrails with full length non-corrosive steel core. Midrails can also be in 40mm or 26mm diameter stainless steel. All bends and connections are steel reinforced. The quality and thickness of steel is according to the structural requirements of BS 6180 and BS 6399. All balustrades are also available with bottom rail. Building regulation approval must be obtained locally. Options with tension wires We can supply 5mm tension wires and pre drilled uprights to order. Building regulation approval must be obtained locally.
On request horizontal balustrades can also be made curved in a radius starting at 200mm.
PP
QE
ZR
KB
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NT HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW
Standard connection to top rail
Reduced diameter connection to top rail
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NT HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW
Handrails NT.Type The Laidlaw Stainless Steel handrail and balustrade system achieves the cool, sleek look often favoured in the design of modern buildings. This aesthetically pleasing and superbly engineered railing system is often used to complement the stainless steel finish of other elements of the building, e.g. lighting and architectural hardware. All handrails are in stainless steel 40mm or 32mm diameter with a brushed satin finish. Brackets with straight supports or 90 bends. Distance between supports approx. 1300mm Handrail end straight, with 90 bend return with flat end cover cap or 90 bend return connected to wall and with/without rose fixed (Description see page 45). The handrail is supplied pre-assembled, including all corner pieces, connection elements, screws and fixings. Available with tactile elements. The method of calculating handrail lengths is shown on page 77.
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NT HANDRAIL - HANDRAIL SUPPORT & END TYPES
Supports type
End types
II
III
NT.Type I With straight handrail supports 26mm diameter solid stainless steel rod with a brushed finish. Available with or without rose fixing. Concealed fix rose 70mm diameter, approx. 1300mm apart NT.Type II (Supplied as Standard) With 90 angled handrail supports 14mm diameter solid stainless steel rod, with a brushed finish. Fixed to wall with concealed fix roses, 70mm diameter, approx. 1300mm apart NT.Type III With 90 bends 26mm diameter stainless steel with a brushed finish. Available with or without rose fixing. Concealed fix rose 70mm diameter, approx. 1300mm apart
Ends of handrail a Straight with stainless steel end cover cap Ends of handrail b With 90 bends, with stainless steel end cover cap Ends of handrail c Connected with 90 bends to the wall, with / without stainless steel roses
Removable handrails Facilitate the cleaning of windows and give access to service ducts or rooms for example switch boxes or fire extinguishers. The removable handrails are available in 32mm, 40mm and 50mm diameter. The handrail element can be removed by loosening the sprung locking mechanism.
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NT HANDRAIL - OPTIONS
QE
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NT BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW
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Balustrades NT.Type Handrail and uprights of stainless steel, 40mm diameter, with a satin brushed finish. With/without bottom rails and with/without midrails, corner pieces, end pieces, uprights with upright fixings of stainless steel 40mm diameter with a satin brushed finish. 4 infill holders (see pages 51/52) for each railing section, for drilling or clamping the infill sections, alternatively for infill panels with offset handrail and panel holders. We can supply 5mm tension wires and pre drilled uprights to order. Upright spacing approx. 1300mm, available with anchor fixing, bolt-through, side fixing or with welded colour-coated steel plate (118mm diameter, or 100mm square). Railing height 900mm to 1100mm (max). Other centres and heights are available as required to meet site conditions. No on-site manufacturing is necessary. Available with tactile elements. The method of calculating handrail lengths is shown on page 77.
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NT BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT FIXING
NT.Type A Anchor fixing for uprights 40mm diameter. Supplied with anchor and rose.
NT.Type B Bolt-through fixing with steel reinforced roses for uprights 40mm diameter. Supplied with roses and screw.
NT.Type C 2-point side fixing for uprights 40mm diameter, distance x as indicated (25 to 80mm), made of stainless steel, with washers to compen sate wall inaccuracies. Supplied without fixing material.
NT.Type E Upright fixing with welded stainless steel plate 10mm thickness, 118mm diameter or 100x100mm square to choose, with 4 nos. drilling holes 14mm diameter for countersunk screws. Supplied without fixing material.
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NT BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS
Offset panel holder NT.410 Screw type for panels, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
Offset handrail
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NT BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS
Panel holder NT.416 Clamp type for panels up to 12mm thickness, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
Panel holder NT.418 Clamp type for panels up to 12mm thickness, to uprights 40mm diameter, concealed fixing.
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NT BALUSTRADE - MIDRAILS & TENSION WIRES
Midrails 40mm, 32mm or 26mm diameter Handrail and uprights are stainless steel 40mm diameter with a satin brushed finish. Midrails are available in 40mm, 32mm and 26mm diameter stainless steel. All bends and connections are stainless steel. The quality and dimensions of the steel meet the design requirements of BS 6180 and BS 6399. All balustrades are also available with bottom rail. Building regulation approval must be obtained locally.
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NT BALUSTRADE - OPTIONS
Curved handrails On request horizontal handrails can also be made curved in a radius starting at 200mm. Infill options For details of infill options please refer to page 63.
QE
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3KN BALUSTRADE SYSTEM

Structural stability Due to the 60mm diameter of the uprights and the 4mm thickness of the steel tube for the top rail, the balustrade can resist a uniformly distributed line load of up to 3.0kN/m, making it suitable for use on all staircases, mezzanine floors and galleries in assembly areas that may be subject to overcrowding by the general public. The 3kN system handrail showing the 4mm thick nylon sleeve over the steel core
The 3kN system entirely in stainless steel
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3KN BALUSTRADE SYSTEM - FIXING METHODS
NT.Type A - Anchor fixing
118mm diameter roses
175mm deep, 70mm pocket
Certite resin mortar
Uprights are grouted using epoxy resin into a pocket in the concrete floor. Suitable for all Laidlaw system uprights and loadings.
NT.Type C Side fixing
Standard two-point side fixing for securing uprights to a stair string or landing edge with long bolts. Suitable for all Laidlaw system uprights and loadings, with 60mm diameter uprights being used for the 3kN system.
NT. Type E - Plate fixing
Countersunk bolts
Normal plate fixing for securing uprights onto a timber deck or a concrete tread/ landing. For the 3kN system, the standard plate is 180mm square, 20mm thick.
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Laidlaws structural glass balustrade system is based on the concept of a free-standing balustrade, which does not require separate uprights and infill panels. There are no gaps through which a child could squeeze, nor can it be easily climbed.
The glass balustrade For this system, the toughened glass balustrade is the structural element that supports the top rail, which can be of solid timber or stainless steel with a satin brushed finish. In each case, the top rail has a groove into which the glass balustrade is glued. In order to accommodate the groove, the diameter of the top rail is 50mm. At the base, the glass is clamped between steel sections, which are bolted to the floor structure following the principles set out in Annex B of BS 6180 on free-standing toughened glass balustrades. Available timbers are as for the Laidlaw Timber system, namely Beech, European Ash, American Oak or Maple, with an additional option of Walnut where the total run of top rail is greater than 100m.
Structural stability The system can be designed to meet even the most demanding horizontal U.D. line loading requirements set out in Table 4 of BS 6399-1 (see page 76). The horizontal load capability depends on the thickness of the glass, for example: Horizontal line load requirement [kN/m] Minimum glass pane thickness [mm] Durability The Laidlaw structural glass balustrade system is suitable for both internal and external use. Touch characteristics Although stainless steel has a greater durability than timber when used externally, the timber alternative would feel less cold to touch in very cold winter conditions. According to clause 5.10.1 of BS 8300, wood handrails are preferred in these circumstances (see page 76). Visual clarity A key issue for people with impaired vision is the appreciation of the borders of the space through which they need to walk. On the access routes of public buildings, therefore, the use of tinted glass or manifestation on balustrades will give visually impaired people a greater feeling of security. As with traditional glass infill panels, the structural toughened glass can be tinted grey, bronze, green or blue, or receive manifestation in the form of acid etching or an applied emblem or logo. Health and safety In buildings likely to be used by children, safety on staircases and landings is paramount. Approved Document K includes guidance designed to minimise the risk that small children will become trapped, for example between the bars of the balustrade, or will have a serious accident as a result of climbing the balustrade. The fact that the Laidlaw structural glass system has no gaps and is extremely difficult to climb is a major benefit. Anti-ligature The structural glass balustrade is particularly suitable for buildings where it is necessary to avoid all likely ligature points, e.g. for prisons and mental health institutions, in which the Laidlaw range of Anti-ligature architectural ironmongery is appropriate. 0.74 15 1.5 19 3.0 25
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MODU-LINE - THE INTELLIGENT MODULAR SYSTEM

Modu-Line is an attractive, highly detailed and individual railing sys tem in high grade stainless steel with a satin brushed finish. This system creates a unique constructional appearance which is complementary to modern building styles. This highly flexible system was developed in co-ordination with building specialists and perfected by means of a comprehensive programme of tests and trial prototypes. Modu-Line is designed to provide functionality and modern design easily and quickly, whilst meeting all the technical requirements for construction of a quality handrail and balustrade systems. Modu-Line offers a wide selection of visual variation, with either central or offset top rails available in nylon, stainless steel or a selection of solid timber. Not only can Modu-Line be factory prepared in the same way as our other handrail and balustrade systems, but it can also be ordered as off-the-shelf components if required and assembled on-site. This is particularly beneficial for situations where there are short lead times or tight deadlines to meet.
Left and below - central handrail in stainless steel Right - offset handrail in solid European Ash
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MODU-LINE - THE INTELLIGENT MODULAR SYSTEM
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MODU-LINE - THE MODULAR SYSTEM

Modu-Line railing system can be supplied as a pre-assembled handrail or balustrade or it can be assembled easily on site by builders, shopfitters and fit-out specialists using standard components which require minimal on-site cutting. All stainless components have a satin brushed finish The tubular components are supplied in standard lengths of 3000mm and 6000mm or cut to length. The toprail can be in nylon, stainless steel or timber, and mounted offset or central. Any changes in the angle in the toprail are made with a stainless steel ball joint, the angle can be set on site and the handrail is connected with a special clamp connector. The handrail supports are fitted with a mounting plate and fixed on site for a perfect fit. Precise adjustment of height and staircase angle are straightforward. There is no need to drill holes in the upright. No need to cut the 40mm diameter uprights. The maximum spacing between uprights is 1000mm. The upright fixing options are: a) Ground anchor with 80mm diameter cover ring b) 2 point side fixing, height adjustable, side upright spacing optional, option of fixing on site c) Round stainless steel surface fixing plate suitable for site fixing
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MODU-LINE - THE MODULAR SYSTEM
The handrail supports Handrails are fitted with a mounting plate and fixed on site for a perfect fit. Precise adjustment of height and of the required staircase angle are straightforward and do not require special components. There is no need to drill holes in the upright.
Options for mid railing or infill: Infill panel holders for on site panels or glass up to 12mm thick between the uprights; Infill mountings for offset on-site infill up to thickness of 12mm; Parallel middle rails of stainless steel, 16mm diameter, 2mm wall thickness, joint in uprights Parallel offset middle rails of stainless steel, 16mm diameter, 2mm wall thickness Additional vertical posts up to 16mm diameter, 2mm wall thickness, and accessories for the 16mm x 2mm tube such as end caps, hinges and connecting elements are available in the range.
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COLOUR, FINISH AND OTHER OPTIONS
All nylon handrails and balustrades are available in a range of solid colours which are not surface applied but are coloured material. The colours will match exactly the colour and gloss level of the Laidlaw nylon door hardware range, enabling specifiers to colour co-ordinate exactly the hardware used throughout the building. For comparison and colour matching purposes we have indicated the most similar colour codes of the NCS (Natural-Colour-System), RAL-DS (RAL-Design-System) and RAL (RAL Colour Register 841-GL). Due to the limitations of printing, please check the exact colour with colour samples which are available from your local Laidlaw Technical consultant.
19 White NCS S 0500-N RAL-DS 000 95 00 RAL 9016
67 Manhattan NCS S 2502-Y RAL-DS 080 70 05 RAL 7038
18 Dark Grey NCS S 7500-N RAL-DS 000 35 00 RAL 7043
12 Red NCS S 2570-R RAL-DS 030 30 45 RAL 3003
63 Slate Blue NCS S 4020-B RAL-DS 240 50 15 RAL 5014
37 Dark Blue NCS S 7020-R80B RAL-DS 270 20 25 RAL 5003
22 Yellow NCS S 1080-Y10R RAL-DS 080 80 90 RAL 1023
13 Green NCS S 5540-G RAL-DS 160 30 38 RAL 6016
16 Black NCS S 9000-N RAL-DS 000 15 00 RAL 9005
11 Blue NCS S 3560-R80B RAL-DS 270 30 40 RAL 5002
35 Dark Red NCS S 1080-Y10R RAL-DS 080 80 90 RAL 3005
Timber handrails A quality beech wood, steamed and kiln dried, surface treated with colourless SH-lacquer. Timber is used in combina tion with Nylon and stainless steel elements for indoor handrails and balustrades. Other timber handrails are also available, in American White Oak, European Ash and Maple.
Beech
*European Ash
*American White Oak
*Maple
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As well as the standard components of the handrail and balustrade systems, Laidlaw offer a number of additional options to satisfy specific requirements for rail materials and/or infill panels. For details and prices of all the non-standard options, please contact the Laidlaw Handrail and Balustrade Solutions Enquiry Line on 01902 600420. The non-standard options we are able to offer are: A Walnut timber option for handrails and the top rails of balustrades within the Timber Line system One-piece timber top rails for handrails and balustrades Tinted glass infill panels Glass infill panels with manifestations The extension of the infill below the stair pitch line.
Timber rails in Walnut Where the standard range of timbers within the Timber Line system (see opposite) do not provide a sufficient match with other timbers in an interior, Laidlaw offers a Walnut timber option. This option, and others, are available where the required quantity of handrail and balustrade top rail is more than 100 metre run in total.
Walnut timber rails in an apartment block, also showing one-piece timber top rails
One-piece timber rails If required, Laidlaw can supply one-piece timber top rails for the balustrades of the main stair flights, avoiding the need for stainless steel or nylon T connections to uprights. The staircase opposite shows a one piece handrail fixed to the wall and a one piece handrail used on the balustrade assembly.
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Types of infill Balustrade infill is available in three basic forms: Bottom rails and Midrails Solid infill panels, using a variety of materials Tension cables Infill panels The most common infill material is glass. It maintains an open character and helps to maximise the amount of light which falls onto the staircase. However, in some circumstances a more enclosed feel is required and several forms of solid infill panels are available including perforated metal sheet and solid laminate which gives possibilities of colour and finish combinations to be achieved.
Tension wires used as balustrade infill will need local planning consent
Glass infill panels Glass infill panels are the most popular, as they can be used for all the Laidlaw balustrade systems and they allow natural daylight to flood the stairwell. When used in conjunction with screw-stud panel holders, glass panels can be provided in lengths up to 3.5m. For normal applications, the glass is toughened to European standard EN 12150 to resist impact, although a bomb-proof film can be applied to the glass, if required. Various tinted glass options can be provided. A simple tint can often be sufficient to ensure that the boundaries of a stair or landing are recognised by a person with impaired vision, giving them a feeling of greater security.
BLUE
GREEN
GREY
BRONZE
Solid infill panels can be in timber or solid laminate for example
Tinted glass infill panel options
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Manifestation on glass Manifestation refers to markings on clear glass doors, screens and other large glazed areas to ensure that people are aware of the presence of the glass surface. It is particularly useful for visually impaired people who may not otherwise notice the barrier sufficiently quickly to avoid an accident. There is nothing in the Building Regulation Approved Documents requiring manifestation on balustrade infill panels. However, like tinted glass, it is a way of helping visually impaired people, while turning a plain glass infill panel into an attractive design feature. Options for manifestation include designs, company logos, or other emblems created by: acid-etching of the glass surface surface application of weatherproof markings (decals).
Infill extended below the stair pitch line Where there is no solid string to the stair on the stair well side, there is the possibility that the open triangle would allow a sphere of 100mm diameter to pass through (see the guidance in Approved Document K to the Building Regulations for England and Wales). To avoid this, Laidlaw can provide a balustrade infill, that extends below the pitch line of the stair to block this potentially unsafe gap.
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CASE STUDY - HEALTH SECTOR

ystem used: S Stainless steel with glass infill panels System used: Nylon with glass infill panels Exterior of Charnwood LIFT Health & Social Care Centre
Project: Charnwood LIFT Health & Social Care Centre Client: Leicester LIFT Company Contractor: Laing O-Rourke
Curved stainless balustrades with glass infill installed around all the central atrium balconies
The use of Laidlaw systems Featured on BBC Newsnight as an illustration of the Leicester LIFT public private partnership, the project utilized Laidlaws distinctive stainless steel handrail system, using circular top rails and glass infill, used extensively in areas such as atrium balconies, stairwells and corridors, while the nylon handrail system provided colour co-ordination with Normbau dark grey door ironmongery. The Local Improvement Finance Trust was established as a partnership of public sector organisations including the Eastern Leicester Primary Care Trust, Leicester City West Primary Care Trust and Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, Partnerships for Health and private company ExcellCare Limited. In all, around 29 million is being invested in the citys health and social care infrastructure. Partnerships for Health Chief Executive Brian Johns commented This vision for modern, patient-centred, state-of-the-art premises will transform health and social care in the city and is the very essence of what we are trying to do in LIFT.
Nylon system with glass infill panels
Other Laidlaw clients Victoria PCT Ipswich Hospital Charnwood Health Centre Halewood Health Centre St. Oswald Hospice Clatterbridge Hospital Winchester & Eastleigh NHS Trust Beaconsfield Health Centre
Tiverton Community Hospital, Devon
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CASE STUDY - COMMERCIAL

System used: Nylon with Trespa infill panels
Project: Headquarters Building, Macclesfield Client: Astra Zeneca Design team: The Austin Company Contractor: The Austin Company
System used: Timber with glass infill panels
Exterior of the Aztra Zeneca Headquarters
I have used Laidlaw on a number of occasions and they never fail to deliver. When you put an order in with Laidlaw, you can rely on them fabricating and installing the railing systems within the timescales you specify and theyre very often up against tight deadlines. Adrian Ward, Project Manager at The Austin Co
The use of Laidlaw systems In a new build facility on the Astra Zeneca Macclesfield site, Laidlaw won the contract to supply handrail and balustrade systems for four staircases. As three of the four staircases are within an area devoted to highly-sensitive scientific activities, Laidlaws Nylon system was specified. Nylon is the ideal material to use for handrails and balustrades in this environment as it is resistant to scratching and can easily be cleaned, reducing the risk of germ build-up. The fourth staircase, which serves the administration areas, uses the Laidlaw Timber system in oak, with stainless steel bends. Infill panels of 10mm clear toughened glass were chosen for all four staircases
Staircase in administration areas Timber system with glass infill panels
Other Laidlaw clients Pfizer Merck, Sharp & Dohme Limited Temple Quay, Bristol Halifax Building Society Lloyds TSB Boots the Chemists Network Rail Nationwide Building Society HBOS, Edinburgh Westfield Group
Nylon system with glass infill panels Temple Quay commercial development, Bristol
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CASE STUDY - EDUCATION SECTOR

ystem used: S Nylon with perforated infill panels
Project: Harrop and Buile Hill Schools, Salford Client: Salford Local Education Authority Design team: EK Architects, Manchester Contractor: Morgan Ashurst (formerly AMEC)
Exterior of Buile Hill School, Salford
Exterior of Buile Hill School, Salford
The use of Laidlaw systems As part of the Governments Building Schools for the Future (BSF) scheme, funding was approved for the 50.23 million project to rebuild Buile Hill High and Harrop Fold Schools. Buile Hill High School, rebuilt by Morgan Ashurst on behalf of Hochtief PPP Solutions (UK) Ltd, marked a further landmark for Laidlaws involvement in major education projects. The 31 million mixed comprehensive school has seen extensive use of the Laidlaw Handrail and Balustrade system. The durable, perforated infill panels used are ideal for areas of intensive use such as schools, while nylon top rails with a 4mm thick sleeve, coloured right through, will retain their appearance throughout the 25-year PPP maintenance contract. The infill panels are particularly effective for stairwells in such environments as they provide a clearly visible screen and barrier while enabling light to permeate through them.
Nylon system with perforated infill panels
Other Laidlaw clients University of Edinburgh Manchester University Aston University King Edward VI School Linden Lodge School Liverpool Community School Tunbridge Wells Grammar School Flintshire Primary School Kingswell Primary School, Aberdeen Canterbury High School
Buile Hill School corridor
St. Bedes School Aberdeen University
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CASE STUDY - RETAIL SECTOR

System used: Structural glazing with square section stainless handrail
Project: Westfield White City Shopping Centre, London Client: Marks and Spencer, House of Fraser, Boots and FCUK Design team: Lewis & Hickey, London
Exterior of the Westfield White City Shopping Centre
Westfield asked retailers to produce something special for the centre and this offered a great opportunity for us to trial a range of new design features. We have focused on helping our customers to shop easily in an environment which feels really special. Tessa Clark, Head of Store Design, Marks & Spencer
Europes biggest retail outlet, the recently opened 1.6 billion, 42-acre, 300-store Westfield-London Shopping Centre in White City saw several leading retailers use Laidlaw handrail and balustrade systems, doorsets and ironmongery . These included the prestigious Marks and Spencer, House of Fraser, Boots and FCUK outlets. The M&S design style required a greater sense of open space. Laidlaws Square Top Handrail System with Structural Glass was therefore used around all escalator areas at the 103,000 square foot, 3-floor flagship store. The free-standing balustrade requires no separate uprights and there are no gaps through which a child might squeeze. The toughened glass structural balustrade supports a 50mm top rail with a groove cut into it to enable the components to be fully adhered to one another. At the base, the glass is clamped between steel sections which are bolted to the floor structure.
Other Laidlaw clients Sainsbury Wilkinsons Matalan Pearce Retail Carlsberg/Tetley Brewers Boots the Chemist Midas Retail Asda RG Group
Marks & Spencer store in Westfield White City shopping centre
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CASE STUDY - RETAIL SECTOR

ystem used: S 3kN with nylon handrails and perforated stainless steel infill
Project: Supermarket, Selsdon, Surrey Client: Sainsbury Design team: Pick Everard Contractor: Rokbuild
Exterior view of Sainsburys, Selsdon
The reduction in vertical balustrades enables the use of larger perforated infill panels. Visually this creates a more pleasing staircase in an area which will sustain heavy pedestrian usage. Architect, Andy Robinson
The use of Laidlaw systems The requirement was for a handrail and balustrade system that could withstand heavy use by customers to the store, but was easy and quick to install. Laidlaw were successful in winning the contract to supply and install the new system principally because their 3kN system had been developed specifically to meet this requirement. It is a component-based system, manufactured to meet the heavier horizontal loading standards of BS 6399 for buildings where the general public potentially congregate in large numbers. The handrails and the top rails of the balustrade are of 40mm diameter dark grey nylon-sleeved steel. The 60mm diameter heavy-duty stainless steel balustrade uprights are used in conjunction with 3mm thick perforated stainless steel infill panels chosen for their strength, but also because they allow light to permeate through.
Stainless steel perforated panel infill
Detail of handrail and top rail terminations
Nylon-sleeved rail with reduced diameter connection to upright 2-point side fixing to stair string
Other Laidlaw clients Wilkinsons Marks & Spencer Matalan Ideal Store Carlsberg/Tetley Brewers Boots the Chemist Co-op Asda Simpsons (York)
ASDA store, Merthyr Tydfil
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CASE STUDY - REFURBISHMENT

System used: Nylon with Glass infill panels
Project: Higher Education College, Leeds Client: Trinity & All Saints College Design team: Estates Department
Interior of Trinity and All Saints College
We were delighted with the railing system installed by Laidlaw. The nylon top rails should be easy to maintain, which is ideal in an environment used by hundreds of people every day. And being 4mm thick, the material will retain its colour and appearance for longer. Working alongside Laidlaw was easy too. The Laidlaw Nylon system is an easy-to-assemble modular product that requires minimum on-site labour and yet looks very effective. Estates Manager, John Smith
The use of Laidlaw systems Trinity & All Saints College is a higher education college, accredited by the University of Leeds, with an excellent reputation for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Laidlaws Nylon railing system was the perfect choice when they refurbished the main part of the college, including 26 staircases. Conscious of the guidance in Approved Document M that handrails and balustrades should contrast with any background, navy blue nylon-sleeved steel top rails and uprights were chosen with 10mm clear glass infill panels. It was because Laidlaw offer a choice of 12 colours for the nylon sleeve that Trinity & All Saints College was able to select an option that complemented its corporate colours. Great care was taken to ensure that the detailing of the handrails and balustrades was in line with AD M guidelines. In particular, handrails and balustrades followed the key heights above the pitch line and landings, and the connection of the uprights to the top rail from the underside ensured that grip was uninterrupted along the rail.
Balustrades to stairway beside platform lift
Detail of nylon system with glass infill
Other Laidlaw clients Henley College University of Edinburgh Manchester University Harrow High School King Edward VI School Linden Lodge School Liverpool Community School Tunbridge Wells Grammar School Mountfield Primary School Emmanuel School Buile Hill School
Disney Pier, Hong Kong Jubilee Public Library, Brighton
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CASE STUDY - HOUSING SECTOR

ystem used: S Stainless steel with tinted glass infill panels
Project: Vantage Development, Clyde Street, Glasgow Client: Treetops Development Company Ltd. Design team: Jewitt, Arschavir and Wilkie Contractor: Treetops Development Company Ltd.
Interior of the apartment showing clear views over the city
With the development at 308 Clyde Street having such spectacular views over Glasgows skyline, it was important that we installed a balustrade that did not obstruct or detract from this view. We wanted a sophisticated and modern look to complement the style and feel of the apartments Laidlaws glass balustrade system met all our criteria and significantly contributed to the overall look of the development which went on to pick up a What House Magazine award and the NHBC Scottish Regional award.
Craig Proudfoot, Treetops Project Co-ordinator
The use of Laidlaw systems Vantage is a prize-winning landmark development of 22 boutique apartments and penthouses, which is built on Clyde Street at the foot of the Clyde Bridge. Kit Walker, the Treetops Managing Director, wanted the design to take full advantage of the location and was delighted that each of the 22 apartments had a view across the Glasgow waterfront to the south of the city. The penthouse levels 10 and 11, which are stepped back, feature large floor to ceiling glass facades to maximise the view across the city. The Laidlaw Stainless steel balustrade system, with green-tinted glass infill panels, was chosen to provide safe guarding to the balconies of the penthouse levels, without compromising the spectacular views across the Glasgow skyline from within the apartments.
Glass balustrade lets light deep into the apartment
Tinted glass infill panels, offset from the uprights Picture window with access to balcony
Other Laidlaw clients Bloor Homes W E Black The Riverside Group Gladman Homes Mayquest
A luxury house, Cardiff
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CASE STUDY - DDA REFURBISHMENT

ystem used: S Combi, with tension wire and glass infill panels
Project: Headquarters Ambulance Station, Hellesdon, Suffolk Client: East Anglian Ambulance NHS Trust Contractor: T Gill & Son
Exterior of the East Anglian Ambulance Service Headquarters
Once we had given them the order, Laidlaw were able to gear their delivery to our very tight work programme, due to the fact that their system is made up of stock components. Then, when they came to fit the balustrading, we could see for ourselves the advantages. For example, they were able to install it much faster than usual because large sections were put together in their factory. Nick Gale Contracts Manager
The use of Laidlaw systems Hellesdon is the headquarters of the East Anglian Ambulance NHS Trust, which covers the counties of Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Since the Trust is defined as a service provider under Part lll of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), it is their duty to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that disabled members of the public are not discriminated against because of their disability. In this case, the Trust decided that they needed to install a ramped access, in addition to the steps already provided and, because the ramp needed to be more than 2m long, they followed the recommendations in BS 8300 that there should be a handrail on both sides. Also, even though there is no requirement for guarding under Part K of the Building Regulations, the Trust wanted to provide protection so that wheelchair users could not inadvertently roll under the ramps handrail. Laidlaws Combi system, with nylon-sleeved steel balustrade top rails and stainless steel uprights, was selected for the refurbishment on the basis that the nylon gave a hand hold that was not cold to touch, yet the stainless steel was compatible with the design of the rest of the building. For the ramp access, a balustrade infill of stainless steel strained wire was selected to minimise the visual impact and a lower rail of stainless steel was used as a physical barrier to wheelchairs at ground level. The guarding, which runs from the end of the ramp access to the entrance of the building is at a higher level and includes glass infill panels. These are etched with manifestation (the name and badge of the ambulance service) to make the presence of the barrier apparent to visually impaired people leaving the building.
The entrance balustrade showing 2-point side fixing
Other Laidlaw clients Wates Rok Build The Riverside Group Osborne Rail Mowlems plc Morgan Est Rail Newcastle Council RG Group Laing ORourke Norwest Holst Kier
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LEGISLATION, REGULATIONS & STANDARDS
Laidlaw technical advisors are able to advise on legislation currently in force, in particular on how to meet Building Regulation requirements and how to design handrails and balustrades to accommodate disabled people and avoid the risk of litigation under the DDA.
Building regulations
England and Wales Approved Document M (2004) Access to and use of buildings The 2004 edition of Approved Document M includes updated sections for non-domestic buildings. The main requirement no longer makes specific reference to disabled people, but requires that reasonable provision is made to ensure that buildings are accessible and usable. The aim is to make buildings more inclusive by satisfying the needs of all users, regardless of disability, age or gender. Jubilee Public Library, Brighton P rime Ministers Better Public Building Award PFI Award: Operational Project with Best Design Regional RIBA Award: Best Designed Public Building in the South East Sussex Heritage Awards: The Community Award Building Services Awards: Major Building of the Year 2005 CIBSE: Major Project of the Year 2005. Part M applies not only to new developments, but also to existing buildings that are subject to altera tions, extensions and changes of use. In respect of handrails (and by implication balustrade top rails), the guidance in Approved Document M relates to: The size, profile, spacing and termination of handrails. The location and extent of handrails on steps, ramps and landings. The surface characteristics of handrails in relation to grip, touch and visual contrast. In order to reconcile some of the differences between the 2001 edition of BS 8300 and the 2004 version of Approved Document M, a number of key issues that concerned the construction industry were reviewed and incorporated in an amendment to BS 8300 in 2005 (see page 57). As a result, The ODPM have made available a web page of FAQs, which explains that, in respect of these key issues, the recommendations in the amendment to BS 8300 can be considered an acceptable, and more up-todate, alternative to the guidance in Approved Document M (2004). The FAQs can be found in the Building Regulations area of the ODPM web site. England and Wales Approved Document K (amended 2000) Protection from falling, collision and impact Guidance in AD K indicates that the top rail of balustrades should be no lower than 1100mm for the edges of landings and balconies. In addition, measures are included to prevent the head of a child under 5 years of age becoming trapped through the guarding.
For buildings likely to be used by children under 5, a 100mm sphere should not be able to pass through any opening in the guarding and children should not readily be able to climb the guarding. In addition, another FAQ on the ODPM web site indicates that, subject to approval by Building Control, a triangular opening between the guarding, the tread and the riser is acceptable, provided that the bottom of the guarding is not more than 50mm above the pitch line (measured perpendicular to the pitch line). Scotland Non-domestic Technical Handbook Section 4 Safety Guidance on meeting the functional requirements in the Building (Scotland) regulations 2004 is set out in Technical Handbooks, one for domestic and the other for nondomestic buildings. All guidance that was previously in Part S of the Technical Standards is now distributed throughout the Technical Handbooks, although many of the issues relating to accessibility are in Section 4 of the non-domestic volume. In relation to handrails and balustrades, Section 4.3 deals with stairs and ramps and Section 4.4, pedestrian protective barriers. The relevant heights of handrails shown in the Technical Handbook are shown in the diagram below, but there is no guidance on the size and profile of any handrail, nor its spacing from an enclosing wall. Northern Ireland Part R (2000) Access and facilities for disabled people Guidance on meeting the requirements of the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 is currently as the 1999 edition of Approved Document M for England and Wales, except that the diameter of the circular handrail is shown as between 38 and 50mm. However, consultation on an updated version of the Technical Handbook is now concluded and the revised edition is likely to be published later in 2006. This will generally reflect the guidance in the 2004 edition of Approved Document M, but is likely to follow the most recent recommendations of the 2005 amendment of BS 8300.
Handrail heights for steps and stairs

900 to 1100 (840 to 1000) above pitch line 900 to 1100 (840 to 1000)
Handrail design
Spacing from wall 60-75 Circular handrail with diameter 40-45 (32-45) 15 min radius Externally 12 risers max.for a going less than 350 18 risers max. for a going of 350 or more (generally, 16 risers maximum) Internally 12 risers max. 16 risers max, in small premises where space is restricted (generally, 16 risers maximum) 50 min 50 max Non-circular handrail, preferably 50 wide with rounded edges
300mm min
900 to 1100 (840 to 1000)
300mm min
600 where a second handrail is provided for children or people of short stature install only where there is a full height structural guarding to prevent accidents if the handrail were climbed by a child Note: Dimensions for Scotland in brackets
Ramped or stepped access Note: Dimensions from BS 8300 in brackets
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LEGISLATION, REGULATIONS & STANDARDS
The DDA
The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) The Disability Discrimination Act is human rights legislation, which imposes a duty on employers (under Part ll) and people or organisations that provide a service to the public (under Part lll), not to discriminate on grounds of disability. For education buildings, the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001(SENDA) imposes a similar duty on establishments providing educational services. A building, or a design solution, cannot be DDA-compliant. It can only be designed or built in a way that helps people meet their duties in the Act and, therefore, minimise the risk of a legal challenge. For many existing buildings, it will be necessary to make reasonable adjustments to certain physical features, e.g. to widen a doorway or to modify a staircase, where otherwise it would impossible or unreasonably difficult to accommodate a disabled person. Since any alterations to a building need to comply with building regulations, the guidance in Approved Document M, Section 4 of the Scottish Technical Handbook and Part R of the Northern Ireland regulations will be the first reference point for suitable design solutions. However, for issues that are not covered in the regulations, the recommendations in the most recent edition of BS 8300 should be followed. British Standards BS 8300: 2009 Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people Code of Practice BS 8300 provides good practice recommendations on the design of buildings so that they are convenient for use by disabled people. It is widely used as a reference document for guidance on issues not specifically covered in building regulations. The Standard, first introduced in 2001 has now undergone a complete review incorporating research by BRE into accidents on steps and stairs. The issues contained within the revised standard for handrails and balustrades are: The dimensions for circular handrails and their spacing from an enclosing wall. The definition of visual contrast in relation to light reflectance values (LRVs). The application of not cold to the touch. Handrail dimensions In the 2009 review of BS 8300, convergence has been achieved with BS 5395 Pt1 with the emphasis being placed on achieving a power grip to reduce the incidence of falls on stairs. The optimum external perimeter of the handrail is established at 100 - 140mm, giving a corresponding diameter for a circular handrail of 32 - 45mm (previously 40 - 50mm). The spacing from an enclosing wall has also been increased in line with AD M and is now recommended as 60 - 75mm. Visual contrast A persons perception of visual contrast between two surfaces appears to be strongly correlated with the difference in the amount of light reflected from their surfaces, i.e. their light reflectance values (LRVs). In theory, a perfect white has an LRV of 100 and jet black, 0, but these values are never achieved in practice. Whereas AD M (2004) gives a rigid definition of visual contrast (where there is a 30 point difference in LRV), the 2005 amendment to BS 8300 recognises that visual perception is affected by the relative area of surfaces and whether they are textured, curved, metallic or glossy. The latest guidance is that, although a difference in LRV of 30 points is a reliable indicator of visual contrast, there is anecdotal evidence that a difference of about 20 points may still be acceptable. Differences in LRV are most important between small and large areas, e.g. a lever handle and a door, than between large areas, such as walls and floors. High gloss should be avoided for doors and elements with a larger surface area. Not cold to the touch It has been a long standing recommendation within BS 8300 that handrails used externally should not be cold to the touch. This aspect was supported in the 2005 revision to the standard stating that external metal handrails can become extremely cold and uncomfortable to hold and therefore represent a safety hazard. To minimise these effects, metal handrails having a coating material with a low thermal conductivity such as plastics were preferred. However, the 2009 review recognised the need to resist vandalism and misuse. Whilst the avoidance of discomfort from excessive heat or cold remains an essential recommendation within BS 8300, the use of stainless steel handrails externally is now considered acceptable due to its comparatively low thermal conductivity and the need to address the issues of vandalism and misuse. BS 6399 Loadings for buildings Part 1: Code of practice for dead and imposed loads This is the standard referred to in Approved Document K for details of the horizontal forces that barriers should be capable of resisting. In the standard, Table 4 gives the characteristic design loads on parapets, barriers and balustrades (see simplified table below, based on Table 4). BS 6180 Barriers in and about buildings Code of practice This British Standard reiterates the minimum barrier height for guarding of 1100mm in Approved Document K. It also gives specific recommendations for barriers of concrete, glass, metals, plastics and timber, as well as generic site fixing details.
NB: The horizontal uniformly distributed line load should be assumed to act at a height of 1100mm above the floor or pitch line, irrespective of the height of the actual barrier. The three load types are not additive, but need to be treated as three separate load cases.
Horizontal characteristic design loads on balustrades Load conditions Areas, such as stairs, landings, corridors, ramps, external balconies and edges of roofs, where people congregate without overcrowding. Restaurants and bars, retail and public areas not subject to overcrowding and pedestrian areas in car parks. Retail areas, theatres, cinemas, bars, auditoria, shopping malls, discothques and assembly areas, subject to overcrowding. U.D. horizontal line load [kN/m] 0.74 1.5 3.0 U.D load on the infill [kN/m2] 1.0 1.5 1.5 Point load on infill [kN] 0.5 1.5 1.5
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GUIDE TO HANDRAIL LENGTHS
L2
L2
L3
L1 L3 L1
L4
L5
Caluclating Handrail Lengths

When specifying the length of a Laidlaw handrail or to determine a length of run of handrail the following principles apply: 1. In all instances the longest length is taken including handrails which are angled or splayed 2. At bends the outer angled length is taken 3. Rail lengths shown are L1 + L2 + L3 L1 + L2 + L3 + L4 + L5
The benefits of Laidlaws component-based system

Having a stock of key components ensures quick delivery and the fact that the majority of the assembly is carried out in the factory ensures a speedy installation once on site. The finished product is aesthetically superior to one that is made up on site because there are no unsightly welds, no sharp edges or angles, no deformation of bends and no grinding is necessary. A consistent finish is obtained within an individual installation and the same appearance is guaranteed in projects throughout the UK. The top rail and infill panels are demountable, making it easy to repair the balustrade without damaging the surroundings. The installation is sustainable as, at the end of the life of the building, all components are recyclable.
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GUIDE TO INSTALLATION
Installation Laidlaw offers a complete design, supply and installation service for their factory-assembled handrail and balustrade systems. Installation is the final stage in the process and, by adopting the best principles of supply chain management and using specialist fixing teams, Laidlaw ensures that the final installation is in strict accordance with the original design.
All installations are built to order based on the original site measurements taken by our survey team, or from architects drawings. Following the preparation and client approval of Laidlaws production drawings, the handrails and balustrades are fabricated to the agreed measurements, using stock components. To minimise on-site work, as many components as possible are assembled in the factory and supplied individually packed and wrapped to site to avoid damage. This method ensures that no cutting, bending or measurement of handrails and the balustrade structure is required on site. This means that there is less on-site assembly and overall installation time is reduced. Once the uprights and rails are in place, checks are made to ensure that line and level are correct before finally securing the uprights. Uprights, connectors and infill panel holders are secured using an Allen Key, with the screw head tucked into the upright to ensure a smooth, hidden connection. A protective covering is left on the handrails to provide protection against damage if other building work is being carried out in the building. When the balustrade uprights and top rails are fixed, infill panel templates are produced to ensure that the panels are manufactured to accurate sizes. The panels are produced offsite, then brought to site to be fitted into the balustrade quickly and easily using the clamps previously fixed to the uprights. Alternatively, panels can be made available for installation at the same time as the balustrade rail components, saving time in the overall programme. In-line infill panels are secured with 4 clamps, top and bottom, each side; offset infill panels, by screw-stud panel holders, top and bottom. When all is complete and no further damage is likely to occur, the protective covering on the handrails and balustrade is removed.
Checking the top rail is level before tightening the fixings.
Connecting the uprights, top rails and infill panel holders using an Allen Key.
Fixing an in-line glass infill panel to the four clamp type panel holders note protection to top rail.
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As the UK's leading specifier and supplier of architectural ironmongery, doorsets, handrail & balustrading and access control solutions, Laidlaw offers its unique service through a national network of 13 sales offices and trade counters.
www.laidlaw.net
Each Laidlaw sales office is supported by a centralised distribution centre at Willenhall which has the capacity to pack and despatch individual items or by doorset. To email a UK sales office use the following format: info.office@laidlaw.net (e.g. info.bristol@laidlaw.net)
Handrail & Balustrade Solutions Enquiry Line:

T: 01902 600420 F: 01902 602315 E: handrail@laidlaw.net
Barnstaple Unit 1, Brannam Crescent Roundswell Business Park (West) Barnstaple, North Devon EX31 3TD T: 01271 311920 F: 01271 311929 Bristol Unit 8, Riverside Business Park St. Annes Road, St. Annes Bristol BS4 4ED T: 0117 300 3980 F: 0117 980 3058 Cardiff Ty Cefnfor, Ocean Park Cardiff CF24 5PE T: 029 2047 1808 F: 029 2049 0250 Gateshead Unit 1 Halifax Court Halifax Road Dunston, Gateshead Tyne & Wear NE11 9JT T: 0191 461 4100 F: 0191 461 4101 Glasgow 4 Clifford Court 171 Woodville Street Ibrox Business Park Glasgow G51 2RQ T: 0141 445 8892 F: 0141 445 8871 Kinmel Bay Unit 37 Tir Llwyd Industrial Estate St Asaph Avenue Kinmel Bay, Rhyl North Wales LL18 5JA T: 01745 332151 F: 01745 332493 Laidlaw Gulf LLC PO Box 185292 Dubai United Arab Emirates T: +971 (0) 4885 7404 F: +971 (0) 4885 7414
Liverpool 3 - 5 Century Building Summers Road Brunswick Business Park Liverpool, Merseyside L3 4BL T: 0151 709 9438 F: 0151 709 9455 London The Building Centre 26 Store Street London WC1E 7BT T: 0207 436 0779 F: 0207 436 0740 Perth PO Box 15, Arran Road Perth PH1 3DU T: 01738 620581 F: 01738 633262 Salford Centurion House Dakota Avenue, Salford Manchester M50 2PU T: 0161 848 0101 F: 0161 872 9313 Sheffield Unit 4 Sheffield Industrial Estate Surbiton Street Sheffield S9 2DN T: 0114 243 8916 F: 0114 242 6591 Willenhall Strawberry Lane Willenhall West Midlands WV13 3RS T: 01902 600400 F: 01902 600490 York Saturn Architectural Solutions Ltd Unit 9 Harrier Court Airfield Business Park Elvington, York YO41 4EA T:01904 608864 F: 01904 607759
Sales Office Trade Counter Distribution Centre
Architectural Ironmongery Solutions Laidlaw is the leading specifier, distributor and technical service provider of architectural ironmongery to the UK construction industry. As with all its product portfolios, Laidlaw's huge range of architectural ironmongery, including the renowned Orbis brand, is designed to comply with European building standards. Doorset Solutions Laidlaw has pioneered the Orbis Doorsets solution which is supplied complete with the door, frame, architraves and factory fitted ironmongery to maximise efficiency and minimise on-site work. Handrail and Balustrade Solutions Using a modular system in either stainless steel, nylon, timber or a combination of these, Laidlaw's handrail and balustrade solutions are designed to satisfy each client's specifications. Offering the complete technical service, highly trained staff are involved at every stage of each project, from site surveys and design through to supply and installation. Access Solutions From simple masterkeyed cylinders up to state-of-the-art biometric access control and automatics, we have the expertise to design and supply an integrated system which will manage the access into and around even the most complex buildings to suit each specific application.
Laidlaw subscribes to NBS Plus which contains full specification clauses for all Laidlaw products and is a RIBA approved supplier of CPD seminars. Laidlaw also subscribes and is an active member of The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) which is a recognised body that promotes standards in integrity and excellence in the business of architectural ironmongery.
While Laidlaw has taken every care to ensure the accuracy of information, data and advice contained in this literature, no liability in respect of such information whether given negligently or not can be accepted by the company. Due to variations in the printing process, actual colours may differ from those shown. Laidlaw retains the right to amend the technical specification of any range of equipment shown. As part of continual efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, this brochure was printed on a FSC approved paper stock which originates from well-managed forests, controlled sources and recycled wood or fibre as indicated by the logo below.
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Laidlaw Solutions Limited April 2010/L101/005

Balustrade Solutions

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Handrail & Balustrade Solutions

THE LAIDLAW SERVICE

WHY IS A GOOD HANDRAIL SYSTEM SO IMPORTANT?

LRV values are measured using a Spectrophotometer

WHY CHOOSE A LAIDLAW SYSTEM?

HANDRAIL & BALUSTRADE INTRODUCTION

HANDRAIL & BALUSTRADE INTRODUCTION

HANDRAIL & BALUSTRADE INTRODUCTION

HANDRAIL & BALUSTRADE INTRODUCTION

COMPARING THE SYSTEMS

COMPARING THE SYSTEMS

HANDRAILS - PRODUCT REFERENCES

Diameter of handrail Nylon/Timber - 40mm Stainless steel - 32 or 40mm

Inclination of handrail h = horizontal / s = raking

BALUSTRADE - PRODUCT REFERENCES

Inclination of balustrade h = horizontal Inclination of balustrade s = raking

with bottomrail with midrails Bottom rail and midrail

U 2 U 34 Diameter Number of midrails

Stand: 19.2.99 Pros2091

Specify 1.5kN or 3.0kN loading

Type of upright fixing

STRUCTURAL GLAZING SYSTEM

NBS SPECIFICATION GUIDE

NBS SPECIFICATION GUIDE

NY HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

NY HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

NY HANDRAIL - HANDRAIL SUPPORTS & END TYPES

b Inclination of handrail h = horizontal / s = raking

NY BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW

NY BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW

NY BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT

NY BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT

NY BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS

Offset handrail options

NY BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS

373 (Non Standard)

373 (Non Standard)

NY BALUSTRADE - MIDRAILS & TENSION WIRES

WS HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

WS HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

WS HANDRAIL - HANDRAIL SUPPORTS & END TYPES

Inclination of handrail h = horizontal / s = raking

Standard connection to top rail

Reduced diameter connection to top rail

WS BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW

WS BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT FIXINGS

WS BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS

Panel holders also available In nylon

WS BALUSTRADE - MID RAIL, TENSION WIRES & OPTIONS

MK HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

MK HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

MK HANDRAIL - HANDRAIL SUPPORTS & END TYPES

b Inclination of handrail h = horizontal / s = raking

MK BALUSTRADE - GENERAL OVERVIEW

MK BALUSTRADE - TYPES OF UPRIGHT FIXINGS

MK BALUSTRADE - PANEL HOLDERS

MK BALUSTRADE - MIDRAIL, TENSION WIRES & OPTIONS

NT HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

Standard connection to top rail

Reduced diameter connection to top rail

NT HANDRAIL - GENERAL OVERVIEW

NT HANDRAIL - HANDRAIL SUPPORT & END TYPES

St. Bedes School Aberdeen University