metal pipe hand rails

[Tonyz]

have a number of possibly 50mm dia metal pipe hand rails up small flights of steps.

They need repainting.
Id suspect its old oil based paint.
Iam 72 so health safety dont scare more anymore.

How do I give them an even scrub (paint has chipped/broken off in places) rough edges.

what is my plan of attack.

[China]

80 grit paper, if goes through to metal prime those bits then coat with killrust or similar

[Bob38S]

80 grit is a good start but don’t get too enthusiastic especially if the metal was galvanised. You’ll scratch through the gal but will also probably have fairly severe scratches in the transition of paint to bare metal, this will be seen when you re-coat. Follow up with a finer paper to ensure a smooth transition between paint and metal and to eliminate scratches.

Rub your hand over it when you think you are finished, if totally smooth you are good to go, if not, go to a finer grade.