BS 6180:2011 states that a continuous handrail should always be used for balustrades unless they’re made of toughened laminated glass. This means it isn’t a legal requirement for glass balustrades to have a handrail, as long as the glass is strong enough to remain ‘in situ’ on its own.
Since toughened laminated glass has an extra layer in the middle that holds the pane together even if it cracks or shatters, it doesn’t need a secondary barrier. However, standard toughened glass is likely to need a secure frame and handrail to keep the panels in place.
That said, you need to make sure that any frameless glass balustrades without handrails can take the appropriate line load for it to be safe.
As per the disclaimer on this product page, it’s the responsibility of the customer and not Express Toughening to comply with all standards and regulations, including BS 6180:2011 and BS 6399-1:1996. Approved Document K of the Building Regulations 2010 also specifies when and how handrails should be installed along stairs and ramps.
We stock a range of glass balustrade fittings on our website, including glass balustrade posts and frameless glass balustrade profiles, so you should be able to find everything you need for safe and stable installation. Should you require more information, give us call or send us a message.