Gate system safety
An automatic decision
Notice: All external entrapment protection devices must be monitored for presence. If a fault occurs, the gate operator will not function unless a continuous pressure activation device is being used.
This brochure accompanies your automated vehicular gate system and provides an overview of safety and general design considerations that should be implemented at your site.
Its purpose is to provide guidance and help familiarize you with gate and gate operator safety standards and requirements.
Review this brochure carefully and keep it for reference. If you have any questions, consult with your qualified installer for additional information.
Be safe!
Automated vehicular gate systems provide user convenience and security. However, because these machines can produce high levels of force, it is imperative that you understand how proper site design, installation and maintenance reduce potential hazards associated with gates and automatic gate operators.
This brochure highlights industry safety standards and identifies entrapment protection devices that need to be in place to avoid serious injury or death. Before the installer leaves the site, take a few minutes to inspect and test your gate system.
- Make sure your gate operator is grounded.
- If your operator is equipped with an emergency stop switch, ask the installer where the emergency stop switch is located and cycle the gate once or twice to test it.
- Learn how to turn power on and off and manually open and close the gate.
- Inspect the entrapment protection devices. Ask your installer to perform tests and show you that they are working properly.
A moving gate can cause serious injury or death!
It is the owner's and user's responsibility to be aware of potential hazards associated with an automated vehicular gate system and take appropriate steps to reduce the risk of injury.
Be sure to read the important safety information found in your gate operator's manual as it provides more details and safety considerations than can be supplied in this brochure.
Notice: The design and construction of automated gates for vehicular traffic must comply with certain safety standards and local codes. The illustrations and callouts in this brochure show the basics for gate system compliance.
Installation and maintenance
Follow the maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer and ask your qualified installer about a service agreement. On a regular basis:
- Check all entrapment protection devices in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.
- Check that the gate is level. Manually open and close the gate to make sure it travels smoothly. (Refer to the gate operator's manual to learn how to turn off power and move the gate by hand.)
- Check the gate hardware on a regular basis.
- Tighten any loose fasteners and replace any worn or damaged parts. A smooth running gate prolongs the life of your gate operator.
- Before the qualified installer leaves the site, test all features (entrapment protection devices, obstruction sensing features) to make sure the gate stops and/or reverses upon sensing an object.
- Make sure you receive instructions on all operational functions of the gate operator. Learn how to reset the gate operator, turn on and off power, and manually operate the gate.
More information websites:
DASMA: www.dasma.com
UL325: www.ul.com
Automated vehicular gate standards, ASTM F2200: www.astm.org
Disclaimer: This brochure cannot cover all possible site situations or compliance issues. Be sure to read your gate operator's manual, follow manufacturer's requirements, and consult with your qualified installer for additional information.