Abstract: A hand rail for use along hallways or stairways is disclosed which is particularly well suited for use in retirement homes, hospitals, etc. The hand rail comprises an elongated support means which is secured to the wall by a plurality of bolts extending therethrough and which has the rail element mounted thereon. The rail element comprises a flat vertically disposed outer member having an inwardly extending arcuate portion at its upper end. A support means is secured to the lower inside surface of the flat member and is adapted to be secured to the support means mounted on the wall. The two support means have mating beveled surfaces for properly positioning and supporting the rail element relative to the wall. The rail element is comprised of a particle board material having a high pressure plastic laminate secured thereto and extending around the exposed surfaces thereof.