The Importance of Automated Gate Safety
In the UK, there are around 2.5 million automated gates in use at homes and businesses. While they are a convenient and secure way to get in and out of properties, they can also be dangerous if not used safely.
Every year, there are reports of accidents involving automated gates. In some cases, people have been seriously injured or even killed. That's why it's important to ensure that you only use Gate Safe Aware accredited installers to design, fabricate, install, maintain or repair your automated gates.
Who Are Gate Safe?
Gate Safe is a charity that was set up in 2010, in the wake of the tragic deaths of two children crushed by automated gates, in separate accidents.
The charity works to raise awareness of the dangers of automated gates and to improve safety standards. All too often, accidents happen because gates have not been installed properly or have not been maintained. That's why it is so important to use accredited installers who know what they are doing.
They also campaign for changes in the law to make sure that all automated gates are safe to use.
What does accreditation mean?
Gate Safe installers have undergone thorough training and assessments to ensure they are competent in the design, installation and maintenance of automated gates.
They are also required to adhere to a strict code of conduct. This means that you can be confident that they will install your gates correctly and safely.
What are the benefits of using aware installers?
- They have the necessary skills and knowledge to design, install and maintain automated gates safely
- They will make sure that your gates comply with all the relevant safety standards
- They will provide you with a certificate of compliance, so you can be confident that your gates are safe to use
- If something does go wrong, you will have peace of mind knowing that they are covered by insurance
Gate Safe provides a list of accredited installers on its website, so it is easy to find one in your area. If you are thinking about having an automated gate installed, or if you already have one, make sure that you use an accredited installer to design, install and maintain it. This will help to ensure that it is safe to use and complies with all the relevant safety standards.
10 important questions to ask an automated gate installer
If you are thinking about having an automated gate installed, or if you already have one and are considering having it replaced or repaired, here are 10 important questions to ask your gate designer or installer:
- What experience do they have of installing automated gates?
- Are they accredited by Gate Safe?
- Do they have liability insurance?
- What guarantee do they offer on their work?
- What safety features do they recommend for your gate?
- How will they make sure that your gate complies with all the relevant safety standards?
- What maintenance schedule do they recommend for your gate?
- What should you do if you have a problem with your gate?
- What are their charges for design, installation and ongoing maintenance
- How can you be sure that they are a reputable company?
Housekeeping tips for your steel automated gates
Steel automated gates can enhance the overall privacy of your property and add a level of security to your home, but it's important to maintain them correctly in order to ensure their safe and smooth operation.
- Keep your gates clean and free from debris – this will help to prevent problems with the sensors and the smooth operation of the gate.
- Check the condition of your gates regularly and look out for any signs of wear and tear If you spot any damage, get it repaired as soon as possible.
- Make sure that the area around your gates is clear and from obstacles. This will help to prevent accidents.
- If you have young children make sure they are not able to play near the gates or press any buttons which might cause them to open or close.
- Keep the remote controls for your gate in a safe place where only adults can access them.
- If you have an automated gate, make sure that you know how to open it manually in case of power cuts or other problems.
- Make sure that your gates are serviced and maintained regularly by a qualified engineer.
- If you are going away on holiday, make arrangements for someone to check your gates while you are away.
- Keep a record of the make, model and number of your gates in case you need to order replacement parts.
- In winter an eye on your gates and make sure that they are not covered in snow or ice, which could prevent them from working correctly
Call: 07508 485 570
Email: @latmetfabrications
Latmet Fabrications ltd
Overstone Grange Farm,
Northampton
NN3 7XA
Mon - Fri 08:30 to 18:00
Saturday 10:00 to 16:00
Sundays - Closed
