After several recent fatal incidents where children have not been sensed by gate sensors and have therefore been trapped, the HSE has imposed stricter laws for those who install/modify/maintain gates in areas that people have access to. Here is the updated version of the law:

• You are required to have and use the right testing equipment to measure the closing and opening forces of the gates. This is to ensure that the gates meet safety standard. If you don’t have this equipment, then you must not install them.
• Once measured, the force of the gates should not exceed those limits set out in the British/European standards. Also ensure that the gates reverse if they hit someone/something.
• Sensors should be installed on the gates in order to stop them once an obstacle has been detected. The sensors can be in the form of light beams (photoelectric devices).
• Parts of the gates where people could possibly get trapped need to be protected, for example, at the gate bars passed the gate post.
• An emergency release mechanism is a must for all gates for occasions where someone may become trapped.

After all these requirements, you should apply for a CE Mark to reassure people that the gates have been installed properly.

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