Recent surveys by Gate Safe, a UK charity dedicated to improving automated gate safety, have uncovered alarming design flaws in swing gates that compromise their safety.
The research, covering 49 gates, reveals significant issues that could lead to serious accidents.
Key findings from the survey include:
- Unprotected Gaps: A staggering 92% of gates had reduced or unprotected gaps at the gate supports.
- Insufficient Hinges: Nearly 80% of the gates lacked the proper number of hinges.
- Faulty Photocells: 75% had improperly programmed photocells, failing to inhibit the gate’s initial opening.
- Misplaced Photocells: 57% had photocells either on only one side of the gate or incorrectly positioned.
- Missing Horizontal Edges: 55% of gates lacked horizontal edges on the outside, and 51% had edges programmed incorrectly.
Gate Safe Founder Richard Jackson expressed deep concern, stating, “These findings are alarming, especially considering they represent only a small sample. If these issues are widespread, most gates in use may be unsafe due to poor design. The fact that these gates were assessed by professionals who aimed to follow best practices makes the reality of other less compliant installations even more troubling. Sadly, this suggests that another serious accident is a real possibility.”
This research highlights the urgent need for improved safety standards in gate design to prevent future tragedies.
