Gate Automation Safety

When considering the installation of electric gates, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Unfortunately, there have been incidents where individuals, particularly children, have suffered injuries or fatalities due to improperly installed gates.
That’s why all of our electric gate systems comply with BS/EN 12453, which is the current legislation that all automated gates must follow.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:

The Importance of Professional Installation

  • Qualified Engineers Only: Automatic gates should be installed exclusively by trained professionals who adhere to current legislation. It is essential that the installation is compliant with safety standards to prevent accidents.
  • Regular Safety Inspections: For non-domestic settings, automatic gates must undergo an annual safety inspection. For commercial and multi-residential properties, inspections should be conducted every six months to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.

Why Choose Magtec Electric Gates?

At Magtec Electric Gates, our team comprises qualified engineers with extensive experience in gate installation and safety compliance. We prioritize the safety of our clients and the general public by:

  • Adhering to Regulations: Our staff are up-to-date with all current legislation and possess the necessary qualifications for safe gate installation.
  • Investing in Training: We continually invest in the education and training of our engineers to uphold the highest safety standards in our work.
  • Membership in Trade Bodies: We are proud members of the Powered Gate Group of the Door & Hardware Federation and GATESAFE. This affiliation ensures that all our installations meet stringent safety standards and quality requirements.

Essential Safety Equipment

When selecting a contractor for your gate installation, ensure they can provide the following safety elements:

  • Safety Edges: These edges are crucial for preventing crushing and shearing. They are used on swing gates and barriers, causing them to stop and reverse if an obstacle is detected. Compliance with health and safety legislation requires the installation of safety edges for all automatic gates.
  • Force Control: Gates that close with excessive force can be dangerous and may lead to quicker motor wear. At Magtec Electric Gates, we calibrate and set our installations to ensure that the force exerted by the gate’s motors is appropriate for safe operation.
  • Photocells: Most new automatic gate systems utilize photocells. These devices, placed opposite each other, send an infrared beam across your driveway. If the beam is interrupted by an obstacle, the gate will stop closing.
  • Induction Loops: Similar to photocells, induction loops can be used to control gate operations. They detect vehicles and prevent gates from closing if the drive is obstructed.
For further information on gate safety legislation and standards, please refer to the DHF or GATESAFE guidelines.

Get in Touch

If you’re considering the installation of new electric or automatic gates, contact Magtec Electric Gates for a no-obligation quotation. We also offer assessments of existing gate systems to ensure they comply with safety standards and can carry out necessary upgrades. Your safety is our priority!