Banister
The term ‘banister’ (or occasionally 'bannister') refers to the assembly of uprights and handrail at the side of a staircase.
The uprights may be referred to as balusters, and collectively, along with the handrail may sometimes be referred to as a ‘balustrade’, particularly if they are ornamental.
A banister can act as both guarding and handrail.
- A handrail is ’..a rail, at hand height or a little higher, for people to hold for support’.
- Guarding is ‘…a barrier that denies pedestrians or vehicles access to another area’.
In buildings that might be used by children under 5, guarding should be designed so that a 100 mm sphere cannot pass through, it should prevent children being held fast and should be difficult to climb.
Ornate banister | Simple banister |
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Future proofing homes that are fit for purpose
Specification challenges and the role of plastic.
Thousands of new homes unlocked for brownfield sites
£68 million to 54 councils for neglected land into new homes.
Roof terraces and higher-risk buildings
Context, review, interpretation, case and guidance..
Sustainable Futures. Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living
More speakers confirmed for BSRIA Briefing 2024.
Architecture in Britain and Ireland, 1530 - 1830
Steven Brindle’s book is required reading.
Employment Rights Bill; making work pay
‘Biggest uplift in employment rights law since the 1970s’
Battle for Mill Road Free Library
Years of failures by the county and city councils.
The accolades that demonstrate and recognise outstanding achievement.
What is the Conference of the Parties ?
The who, where, what and when before no 29.
CIOB signs up to Green Skills At COP campaign
In preparation for COP29 on 11 November in Azerbaijan.
2024 ECA Industry Awards evening
Full list of electrical contractors scooping top prizes.
Briefing on the implications of the final Grenfell inquiry report
What it means for Architectural Technology professionals.
CIOB Art of Building photo contest 2024
International showcase for the very best photography of the built environment.
Celebrating architecture's eloquent champions.
Unusual perspectives on 1960s’ thinking.