The continuous loop of rubber or synthetic material driven at the same speed as the escalator steps around the balustrade, providing passengers with a grip surface and assisting stability during travel.
Full Definition
The escalator handrail is a critical passenger comfort and safety element, required by EN 115-1 for all escalators and inclined moving walks. The handrail is a laminated rubber belt formed into a continuous loop, driven by friction from the main drive machinery via drive rollers at the upper landing. EN 115-1 requires the handrail speed to be synchronised with step speed within ±2% to prevent passengers from having to grip a surface that moves at a different speed, which could cause loss of balance. At the handrail entry point at the top and bottom of the balustrade, a newel guard (handrail entry guard) must prevent entrapment of fingers, hands, or clothing in the entry slot. The handrail must be able to support a pull force of 500 N without slipping from its track. Handrail skirt guard brushes are fitted at the base of the balustrade to prevent entrapment between the moving step and the skirt panel. EN 115-1 specifies handrail height: 0.85–1.10 m above the step tread level. Regular inspection checks for cracking, splits, and contamination that could affect grip.
