Engineered Composites Ltd

Introducing the new ENGRail Modular Handrail System From Engineered Composites.

Across rail, utilities, and industrial construction projects, engineers are increasingly looking
beyond traditional steel barriers towards materials that offer longer service life and lower
maintenance requirements.

One of the latest developments reflecting this shift is the ENGRAIL 51mm Box Section
Modular GRP Handrail System.

Manufactured using pultruded Glass Reinforced Plastic profiles, the system has been
designed for demanding environments where corrosion, electrical safety, and long term
durability are key considerations.

Independent testing shows the system achieving 1.657 kN per metre load capacity at
25mm deflection, with full elastic recovery under load.

GRP safety systems bring several advantages for modern infrastructure projects:

• Corrosion resistance in coastal, chemical, and high moisture environments
• Non conductive properties for electrified rail and energy infrastructure
• Lightweight construction simplifying installation
• Reduced lifecycle maintenance compared with steel systems

As infrastructure asset owners increasingly focus on whole life performance and
sustainability, composite materials such as GRP are becoming an important part of the safety infrastructure toolkit.

Not all GRP is created equal.

That might sound obvious, but across the UK I am seeing composite products installed that carry no independent fire certification, no verified structural grade and no traceable test data. They look the part. They are sold as compliant. But where is the evidence?

Since March 2025, EN 13501-1 has replaced BS 476-7 in Approved Document B. Fire classification is no longer just about surface spread of flame. It now covers heat release, smoke and flaming droplets. If your supplier is still relying on legacy paperwork, that should concern you.

Structural profiles must meet EN 13706 grades. E17 is not the same as E23. Handrails must be load tested to the correct application category. Grating should comply with BS 4592. GRP rebar must be backed by tensile and modulus data aligned to recognised design guidance.

None of this is optional.

GRP is an exceptional material when it is manufactured, tested and specified correctly. It delivers corrosion resistance, weight reduction and long service life. But performance without documentation is just a claim.

If your supplier cannot provide the fire certificate, the mechanical test report and the standard reference, ask yourself what you are really buying.

Ask the questions.
Demand the evidence.
Protect your project.

Gavin Williams
Managing Director, Engineered Composites
Vice-Chair, Composites UK Construction Sector Group