Key Clamp Horizontal Side Support for 48.3mm Tube, Galvanised

The horizontal side support fixes a tube upright to the side of a wall, step or ramp, standing the post off the face with a flat palm bolted to the structure. The tube end pushes into the closed socket and two grub screws lock it, and the palm has a 14mm hole each side for the fixings. It is the way to carry a level or sloping guard rail on the side of a step or kerb where there is no room on top. It suits 48.3mm outside diameter tube and is malleable cast iron with a galvanised finish for indoor and outdoor use. The price shown is for one fitting.

Why use a side support

Keeps the walking surface clear. The post fixes to the side of the step, ramp or wall, so the full width stays usable and no base plate sits underfoot.

Tube end is closed. The socket is closed at the bottom, so the tube cannot pass through as supplied and water and debris stay out of the post end.

No welding. Two anchors through the palm and two grub screws with a hex key. A damaged post can be swapped without disturbing the fixing.

Galvanised for outdoors. The zinc coating protects the iron on steps, ramps and retaining walls in all weathers.

Where it is used

Handrails and guard rails fixed to the sides of steps, ramps, kerbs and retaining walls, posts fixed to the faces of loading docks and platforms, and uprights on walls where a base flange would block the walkway.

Specifications

Letters refer to the dimension drawing above. Dimensions are for guide only and may vary slightly.

Know its limits

This is a non structural fitting. The maker describes it as a non structural offset side palm, so it must not be relied on alone where a guard rail has to meet a set load: ask a structural engineer to check the post spacing, the fixings and the wall. The tube cannot pass through the bottom of the fitting as supplied.

How many do you need?

One for each upright fixed to the side of a step, ramp or wall. Choose anchors or bolts to suit the wall through the two 14mm holes.

Choosing the right size

Key clamps are sized by the tube's outside diameter. 48.3mm is standard scaffold tube, often sold as 1½" or 40mm nominal bore. Measure across the tube before ordering: this fitting will not grip 42.4mm or 60.3mm tube. The same galvanised fitting is made for 33.7mm and 42.4mm tube.

Fitting and care

Mark and drill the two holes, fix the palm to sound masonry or steel, then push the post fully into the socket and tighten both grub screws with a 5/16" hex key. Check the screws and fixings after the first week and once a year after that. Touch up scratched galvanising with zinc-rich paint.

Frequently asked questions

Ordering and delivery

Order online, with Express UK Delivery to your site and same-day dispatch on orders before 2pm, Monday to Friday. For a full rail kit, call 01744 520 110 or email sales@industrialsuppliesco.co.uk and we will confirm availability and delivery before you order.