Is My Electric Gate Safe? An Owner's Checklist

You don't need to be an engineer to spot most of the signs of an unsafe gate. Run through this list – it takes ten minutes. If you answer "no" or "don't know" to any of these, get the gate checked.

Paperwork

• [ ] Do you have the manuals for the gate system?
• [ ] Do you have a Declaration of Conformity, and is there a CE marking on the gate or motor?
• [ ] Has it been serviced in the last 12 months?
• [ ] Do you have a record of the closing forces being tested?

Safety devices

• [ ] Are there photocells (small sensors facing each other across the opening)?
• [ ] Does the gate stop and reverse if the photocell beam is broken while it's closing? (Test by passing a bag or box through the beam, standing well clear of the gate.)
• [ ] Are safety edges (rubber strips) on the gate or post in good condition, not split or hanging off?
• [ ] Is there a warning light that flashes when the gate moves?

The gate itself

• [ ] Does the gate move smoothly, without jerking, scraping or banging?
• [ ] Is the gate level, with no sagging or dropping at the far end?
• [ ] Are the hinges and posts solid, with no wobble?
• [ ] Sliding gates: are the guide rollers and end stops in place and secure?
• [ ] Are there any gaps where fingers, hands or a child could get trapped as the gate moves?

In an emergency

• [ ] Do you know where the manual release key is, and how to use it? See manual release.
• [ ] Do you know where the isolator switch is to turn the gate off?

Warning signs – stop using the gate automatically and call for help

• it doesn't stop or reverse when it meets something
• there are no photocells or other safety devices at all
• something's been disconnected, taped over or bypassed
• the gate has come off its track, or a hinge is broken
• children are playing on or around it

What not to do

• Never test the safety edges with your hands, feet or body.
• Never let children play with the remotes or near a moving gate.
• Never open the control box or try to adjust the force settings yourself.

Get it checked

I can inspect your gate, test the safety devices, measure the closing forces and give you a written report. Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433. See gate inspections and reports.

Questions people ask me