Aluminium is widely used for handrails, guardrails, balustrades and safety barrier systems thanks to its strength-to-weight ratio and natural corrosion resistance. In higher-exposure environments, additional finishes are often specified to extend service life and reduce whole-of-life costs. Among established options, anodising is a proven process used for decades across infrastructure, industrial and architectural projects where safety, compliance and durability matter.
What anodising does and why it suits safety barriers
Anodising is an electrochemical treatment that thickens aluminium’s natural oxide layer to form a hard, integral surface. Unlike paints or applied coatings that are added as a film on top, the anodic layer becomes part of the metal substrate, so it won’t peel or flake.
Anodising supports lifecycle cost efficiency by increasing durability and lowering maintenance requirements. It aligns with durability expectations under Australian and New Zealand practice, providing confidence for teams focused on performance and compliance.
Benefits of anodised aluminium for handrails and guardrails
For safety critical structures such as handrails, balustrades and guardrails in particular, anodising offers several performance benefits, including:
- Enhanced corrosion protection under long-term exposure to moisture, chemicals and saline environments.
- Abrasion resistance through its hardened finish designed for heavy use and frequent contact.
- Low-maintenance lifecycle with no peeling, chalking or flaking; and reduced surface upkeep compared with painted finishes.
- Consistency of finish with an even metallic look that weathers uniformly, including under UV exposure.
- Environmental integrity as it’s non-toxic and non-leaching, making it suitable for sensitive environments.
Anodising compared with other finishes
| Finish/Material | Comparison to anodising |
| Powder coat or paint | Offers a broader colour range, but relies on a film coating. Unlike anodising, it has the possibility to peel or chip. Anodising forms an integral oxide layer with strong abrasion resistance and no risk of peeling. |
| Mill finish aluminium | Anodising significantly improves corrosion and wear performance, while also providing predictable, even weathering compared to untreated aluminium. |
| Stainless steel | The choice depends on environment, design intent, and budget. Anodised aluminium is lighter and easier to handle, whereas stainless steel may be better in specific chemical or architectural environments. |
Key considerations for specifying anodised aluminium
When specifying anodised aluminium for safety barrier systems, consider to:
- Nominate an anodic thickness/grade suitable for the site environment (e.g., coastal, industrial, inland).
- Specify clear (natural) or colour-anodised finishes with expectations for uniformity and weathering.
- Detail mechanical finishes (e.g., brushed or polished) before anodising; design components for drainage and to avoid crevice traps.
- Select compatible materials and isolators to reduce galvanic risk with dissimilar metals or concrete.
Why anodised aluminium remains a trusted choice
For anodised aluminium handrails, guardrails and safety barrier systems, anodising delivers a durable, low-maintenance finish with a stable appearance in demanding conditions. Its long record in corrosive and high-use environments explains continued specification across treatment plants, coastal infrastructure, transport networks, industrial facilities and architectural projects—supporting compliance, durability and reliability over time.
