A recent alarming incident at a UK school underscores the critical need for effective gate safety measures, a message from Gate Safe UK.
Fortunately, this near-disaster didn’t result in serious injuries, but it serves as a stark reminder that lessons from past tragedies, such as the Hillsborough disaster, must be applied to prevent similar occurrences.
When designing gates for schools or other high-traffic areas, several key factors must be considered:
- Gate Size and Traffic Volume: Ensure the gate is wide enough to handle the expected pedestrian flow, particularly during peak times, to prevent crowding and potential crushing.
- Pedestrian Segregation: Implement strategies to manage and separate foot traffic to avoid overcrowding at exits.
- Mitigation of Risks: Plan for potential hazards, such as falls or trips, by designing gates that reduce the risk of injury in such situations.
This incident highlights the importance of adhering to gate safety principles to ensure that installations are both safe and compliant. Let’s use this as a reminder to prioritise safety in all future gate designs.
