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Railings adorned temples and palaces during antiquity and became increasingly ornate through the medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque eras. Advances in metallurgy and mass production during the Industrial Revolution bolstered the use of railings in public spaces. Increased innovation, minimalist designs, and a greater emphasis on safety during modern times have blossomed into a golden age for railings.
Modular railing systems are at the forefront of this architectural upsurge, especially for commercial, institutional, industrial, and municipal applications. They are versatile, durable, easy to install, and designed to protect workers and visitors with an assurance of regulatory compliance with safety standards.
“Modular” railings are considered modular because they are designed with interchangeable and pre-engineered components that can be easily adapted, configured, and assembled to meet various needs. Essential elements include:
A) Tubular Pipe Rail
The metal pipe is used for upright posts, top rail, and mid-rail cross sections. It is constructed of high-grade aluminum silicon magnesium alloy or hot-dipped galvanized steel to ASTM A123. Both are strong, durable, and corrosion-resistant. Aluminum is only one-third of the weight of iron, with high tensile strength and superb performance in harsh environments such as exposure to chemicals or salt water.
B) Slip-on Pipe Fittings
Made from aluminum or galvanized steel to complement the pipe rail, these components are the “secret sauce” behind the modular concept. The fillings “slip onto” the pipe rail and feature case-hardened set screws that are tightened using a hex key to a torque of 39 Nm or 29 ft.-lbs.
They are available in seven inner diameter sizes from 3/8 to 2 inches (0.95 to 5.1 cm); a minimum of 3/4-inch (1.9 cm) I.D. can support an axial load of 907 kg (2,000 lbs.) per set screw with a safety factor of 2:1. A vast array of fitting types (e.g., bases, crosses, couplings, flanges, brackets, crossovers, elbows) can create railings for straight runs, corners, stairs, ramps, and handrails for accessibility.
C) Accessories and Extras
Safety railing systems can include infill mesh or panels, toe boards, decorative ball caps, and other components. Powder coating in any RAL colour and anti-bacterial coating is also available.
A) Interchangeable Components
Standardized posts, rails, brackets, connectors, and other components can be substituted or combined to suit different applications or design requirements.
B) Easy to Assemble
The components are designed for straightforward assembly using only a hex key. There is no need for welding, drilling, or specialized tools. Fast, simple installation minimizes labour costs, material waste, and disruption of on-site operations.
C) Customizable Configurations
Modular systems facilitate various layouts and adjustments, including straight runs, corners, slopes, or curves, to fit unique spaces or architectural requirements.
D) Scalability & Reusability
Sections can be added or removed to expand or modify the railing system, making it adaptable to future space or usage changes. Railings can be disassembled and reconfigured in different locations.
E) Pre-engineered for Compliance
Modular railings are designed to meet safety and building code standards for fall protection, accessibility handrails, and guardrails, reducing the need for custom engineering on every project.
F) Durability & Low Maintenance
Aluminum and galvanized steel railings are built to resist corrosion, withstand harsh environments, and endure heavy use. They maintain their integrity and appearance over time. The modular design affords fast, easy replacement in case of any damage to components.
Modular railing systems are adaptable to a wide range of applications and industries, ensuring safety and accessibility in diverse environments. Examples include:
Railings have been in use for thousands of years, and the benefits of modular railings will ensure their application now and into the future. They are strong, durable, flexible, and cost-saving and ensure compliance with fall protection and accessibility requirements. The modular concept is a practical approach that gives organizations the reassurance of safety, functionality, and aesthetics.
Kee Safety is a leading global supplier of components and custom safety systems. Our systems are quick, easy to design and install, and very cost-effective due to their modularity.