Abstract: The handrail assembly includes at least one tubular metal stanchion, having a base and a hemispherical cap having a threaded receiver and at least a horizontal top rail. The horizontal top rail has an inner metal pipe, an outer plastic pipe, and at least one aperture for receiving the metal stanchion. Prior to assemblage, a threaded fastener is attached to the interior of the inner metal pipe opposite the aperture. In an alternative embodiment, the hemispherical cap on the stanchion is replaced by a threaded fastener and a threaded nut is positioned within the interior of the inner metal pipe opposite the aperture. Prior to insertion of the stanchion into the aperture, at least one tubular plastic sheath, having a first end conforming with the base of the stanchion and a second end conforming with the top horizontal rail, is slipped onto the tubular metal stanchion.

Abstract: The guardrail assembly includes at least one tubular metal stanchion, having a base and an extendable/retractable setscrew, and at least a horizontal top rail. The horizontal top rail has an inner metal pipe, an outer plastic pipe, and at least one aperture for receiving the metal stanchion. Prior to assemblage, the setscrew is retracted inside the tubular stanchion. Prior to insertion of the stanchion into the aperture, at least one tubular plastic sheath, having a first end conforming with the base of the stanchion and a second end conforming with the top horizontal rail, is slipped onto the tubular metal stanchion. Following placement of the top horizontal rail atop the stanchion, the sheath rests on the base of the stanchion and engages the top horizontal rail. The top of the stanchion or the sheath are capable of supporting the top horizontal rail. The top horizontal rail is locked in position atop the stanchion by extension of the setscrew.

Abstract: The handrail assembly includes at least one tubular metal stanchion, having a base and a hemispherical cap having a threaded receiver and at least a horizontal top rail. The horizontal top rail has an inner metal pipe, an outer plastic pipe, and at least one aperture for receiving the metal stanchion. Prior to assemblage, a threaded fastener is attached to the interior of the inner metal pipe opposite the aperture. Prior to insertion of the stanchion into the aperture, at least one tubular plastic sheath, having a first end conforming with the base of the stanchion and a second end conforming with the top horizontal rail, is slipped onto the tubular metal stanchion. Following placement of the top horizontal rail atop the stanchion, the sheath rests on the base of the stanchion and engages the top horizontal rail. The top horizontal rail is locked in position atop the stanchion by threading the threaded receiver and the threaded fastener together.