The safety of electronic gated access points does not pertain to just a single element. There are plenty of components that make up this product, which have to be combined with other elements to deliver good results and satisfy its purpose.
In general, electronic gated access points are designed and manufactured to function in the safest way possible. It has to comply with the stringent requirements of the Australian Standards. By these provisions, the safety of electronic gates should be superior.
Nonetheless, since an electronic gate roughly weighs hundreds of pounds, and moves with an appropriate amount of force and speed that’s controlled by a mechanism, one cannot help but think of possible getting injured because of it. It is vital, therefore, to take the necessary precautions and be familiar with the safety features of an electronic gated access point.
Once a week, the gate has to be subjected to safety checks and if there are obvious faulty mechanisms, the gate must either be fully open or fully shut down until completely repaired. Many old electronic gates installed before government safety standards were set have no safety mechanisms. As such, this warrants an upgrade with modern safety fittings as well.
The importance of proper installation
The safety of electronic gated access points begins with its installation and design. Cutting corners to these two factors to save on cost might be risky and fatal for anyone going in and out of those gates.
A professional who understands the mechanism and follows the manual and standards must facilitate the installation and the adjustments of the gates. Carelessness and lack of ability to set up and operate an electronic gate can result in accidents like electric shock, fire, or the gate falling off.
During the installation, entryway access must be closed off until the work is done. Installers must never remodel any part of the electronic gate beyond what is stipulated.
Identifying the hazards
Owners and operators must also be aware of the hazards and danger zones of the electronic gates. As such, it’s important to discuss these details with the fencing installer first.
For instance, there shouldn’t be any area in the electronic gate system where a person can likely get stuck or injured. Swing gates, sliding gates, and trappings on the ground must always be secured. There should be safety devices between the moving object, such as the main gate itself, and the stationary components, such as the gatepost that will prevent crushing people.
The gate must have stable and uninterrupted power supply. The gate’s auxiliary safety beam sensor must be set up on the right mark to be able to properly detect those passing in the entryway to prevent any collision.
Other concerns that can be raised during your discussion with the installer include the following:
- Are there potential ways the operating systems can be bypassed and misdirected?
- Can children and the public access the operating system?
- Can the gates detach and fall over due to wear and tear?
- Can the change in weather – heat, rain or snow – affect the electrical circuits?
A good installer should be willing to go over these issues with you to put your safety concerns to rest. Electronic gates, when set up right, can be the most beneficial, convenient and safe security feature you have for your home.
Get the assistance you need from professional fencing contractors Newcastle
If you’re interested in having electronic gated access in your property, our team at Fencing Specialist can help you find the most ideal system that works for your needs. Talk to a knowledgeable and capable professional, who can give you detailed information and alleviate your concerns about electronic gates.