Automatic gates are one of those modern upgrades that just make life better.
They boost security, add convenience, and look pretty sharp while doing it.
But like any powered system, automatic gate safety comes with several important considerations — and knowing what to watch for can make all the difference. Whether you’re installing a new gate or just want to make sure your current one is up to par, this guide will walk you through the key safety features, potential risks, and simple steps to keep everything running smoothly and safely.
Related: This post is part of our Complete Guide to Automatic Gates, covering everything you need to know about gate types, safety, and smart installation.
How Safe are Automatic Gates?
Automatic gates can be very helpful when installed and cared for properly. However, when there are issues or no safety checks, gates can cause serious injury or death. Understanding safety risks helps you prevent accidents and keeps everyone safe.
What the Numbers Say — and Why It Matters
According to U.S. government data, automatic gates have been linked to serious safety risks:
- Between 1985 and 2001, 32 deaths happened from automatic gate accidents. Sadly, 20 victims were children.
- From 1990 to 2000, around 25,000 people got hurt by automatic gates. About 9,000 of these injured people were kids younger than 15.
- Each year, hospitals see more than 2,000 automatic gate injuries. Of these, around 800 are children with injuries to head, arms, neck, or hands.
A safety group study in 2019 found that over 90% of commercial automatic gates checked were unsafe because safety features weren’t working correctly.
What Are the Biggest Safety Risks with Automatic Gates?
Automatic gates have a few common safety issues. Being aware of them helps you avoid trouble.
Entrapment and Crushing Injuries
The main danger with automatic gates is getting trapped or crushed. This can happen because gates close automatically without stopping when something or someone is in the way. Smaller children are especially at risk because they might not notice the danger until it’s too late.
For example, in July 2023, a 63-year-old woman died in Michigan after being crushed by a workplace gate. In another sad incident, an 8-year-old boy in North Las Vegas lost his life this past May after getting trapped in an electronic gate.
Malfunctions and Technical Breakdowns
Automatic gates have electronic parts that can break down or malfunction if they’re not cared for properly. This can cause gates to close suddenly, move unexpectedly, or fail to stop correctly. In 2013, a girl in Florida was badly hurt and left with permanent brain injuries because a gate malfunctioned.
Unauthorized Access Concerns
Some gates open automatically or by remote control. If someone unauthorized gets access, they could use the gate incorrectly, increasing risk to themselves and others. Keeping gate controls secure can prevent accidents and injuries.
What Safety Features Should Automatic Gates Have?
Experts tell us three main safety features should always be part of automatic gates:
- Sensors and Reversing Mechanisms: These devices detect objects in the path and reverse the gate if needed to prevent injuries.
- Limiting Closing Force: Gates must not close with more force than necessary. This reduces the chance of crushing injuries.
- Emergency Stop Buttons: Clearly marked buttons or stops allow people to quickly stop gate movement in an emergency.
Important Safety Regulations You Should Know About
Gate makers and installers follow strict safety rules to protect people. The most common safety standard is called UL 325, which requires gates to have at least two separate safety systems to prevent someone getting trapped.
Another regulation, called the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008, must be followed by gate installers to meet legal safety guidelines.
To stay safe, gate experts recommend having automatic gates inspected and serviced at least two times a year.
A quick snapshot of required safety rules:
| Safety Standard | What it Requires | Who Must Follow It |
|---|---|---|
| UL 325 | Gates must have two ways of preventing entrapment | Manufacturers and installers |
| Safety Regulations 2008 | Gates must meet clear legal safety guidelines | Installers and building owners |
How to Use Automatic Gates Safely: Simple Tips
By following these easy steps, you can make automatic gates safer for everyone:
- Hire Professionals: Always have qualified gate installers handle setup. Improper installation can make gates dangerous.
- Do Regular Inspections: Get the gate checked every six months by a professional technician. They should test sensors, motors, and emergency stop buttons.
- Educate Everyone: Teach family members, especially children, about automatic gate safety. Make sure they understand the dangers clearly and never play around gates.
- Check Safety Sensors: Frequently test gate sensors on your own. Do a quick check weekly to see if the sensor properly reverses gate movement when something is placed in its path.
- Report and Repair: Quickly report any unusual gate behavior like sudden movements, sensor malfunction, or odd noises. Stop using the gate immediately and call an expert to inspect it.
Here’s a simple safety checklist for gate users:
Regular professional maintenance every 6 months- Weekly self-inspection to test safety sensors
- Educate everyone, especially kids, about gate dangers
- Immediately report unusual gate behavior
- Keep emergency stop buttons clear and easy to spot
Are Automatic Gates Safer Than Manual Gates?
Automatic gates are typically safer than manual gates if they are installed and maintained correctly. Good automatic gates use sensors and safeguards that manual gates don’t have. Properly maintained automatic gates stop or reverse if they sense any obstruction, greatly lowering risk.
However, automatic gates can be riskier if they’re installed poorly or have safety devices that aren’t working. Unlike manual gates, automatic gates continue moving on their own once they’re activated, so extra care is needed.
In short:
- Automatic gates: Safer with correct installation, regular maintenance, and functioning safety devices.
- Manual gates: Simple to use safely because they don’t move by themselves, but inconvenient and harder for people with mobility issues.
Automatic Gate Safety: Stay Safe and Enjoy Gate Convenience
Automatic gates offer comfort and security but come with real risks. Luckily, easy solutions keep these gates safe for everyone. To stay protected:
- Always have a professional install and regularly inspect gates.
- Make sure gates meet safety certifications and expert guidelines.
- Teach kids and adults about automatic gate dangers clearly.
- Immediately report and repair any gate issues or malfunctions.
By following these simple steps, you and your family can enjoy all the convenience of an automatic gate — with the confidence that it’s safe and working as it should.
Need help or have questions about your gate?
Whether you’re thinking about a new installation or just want to make sure your current setup meets today’s automatic gate safety standards, I’d love to help. Reach out through the office, and they’ll make sure your message gets to me.
Call (702) 504-0765 or request a quote online, and I’ll follow up to walk you through your options.
Let’s make sure your gate is safe, reliable, and built to last.
source https://a1fencelv.com/automatic-gate-safety/
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