Homeowners warned about new safety rules on automatic gates
Homeowners are being warned about new safety rules that have come in force on automatically operated gates – that may require older gates to be updated.
Engineers at Stanair Industrial Door Services say the health & safety regulations were brought in after a series of accidents across the UK, many involving children.
“The problem with automatic gates is getting them to stop if there is a person in the way while they are closing,” said Stanair’s Steve Harrison.
“There have been some dreadful accidents over the last couple of years and the Health & Safety Executive has issued new guidance.
“However, since the guidance is an update to a directive issued in 1998, technically that means that old gates will need to be updated so that they pass new safety tests.”
The company has recently invested several thousand pounds on new safety testing equipment.
By placing a testing meter between the gate and the gatepost, it can measure how much force an automatic gate will provide.
“The new guidelines state how much force there should be before the gate stops trying to close and returns to its open position.
“In theory, this will prevent major injury to children. We are recommending every homeowner with automatic gates gets them force tested, and has the gates adjusted as necessary to meet the new guidelines.”
Stanair installs and services automatic gates for businesses and homes around the area.
VAT registration number 121807693.
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