Most residential and commercial sites now have automatic gates. They offer a bit of both protection and convenience. The work, however, involves a strong force that could be dangerous if poorly executed. Metring the performance of the various gates is therefore important for the efficient safety and compliance needs.
One real concern is if electric gates can be manipulated and how; how could a possible thief force their way into an electric gate? Great physical force and mechanical leverage would make this possible. Intrusion generally would resort to leverage points or tools like a crowbar, but hefty tools like these are not that common because of people becoming aware of the force needed to use them. There are electrical gates that can be operated manually in the event of a power cut, but manual overrides should not be a reason to break in, as a reasonable force used can cause significant damage. Proper installation, regular maintenance, and added security measures can minimise such risks of forced entry. This blog offers insights not only into how the gates work but also into the main safety considerations needed for the proper functioning of an automated gate system.
What Is Gate Force Testing and Why Is It Important?
Gate force testing is an important criterion for assessment of the forces exerted by automated gates upon coming into contact with an obstruction. This unique type of testing is essential in detecting unsafe conditions which may introduce a risk of crushing, knocking, or entrapment and therefore reduce the risk of injury or even death. Such tests should inform property owners that their gates meet the EN12453 safety standard guidelines set out in law as they minimise legal risks. In addition, this will confirm that all safety devices operationally include sensors and current detection systems. By carrying out these tests regularly, properties maintain comply with the safe working standards, while highlighting hazards and maintenance requirements needed to keep the gates working in a safe and efficient manner, safety for users and property preservation.
Purpose of Gate Force Testing
- Safety Assurance: The utmost purpose of gate force testing is to make sure that the gates work as intended and do not bring any risk to the users or passersby. Through identification and the repair of potential threats, gate force testing can help to get rid of those accidents which most often luck of proper functioning.
- Legal Compliance: A great number of states and counties have a law that requires the automated gates to be registered with specific safety protocols in place. Gate force testing is providing the proof that we are fully following the rules and regulations of the supplier of this system which is crucial to property owners and managers.
- Risk Mitigation: By means of conducting gate force tests regularly, we can find the early signs of the gate safety issues that are the result of the breakdown of sensors or the not proper functioning of safety edges. This timely precaution largely leads to the elimination of accidents.
Testing Methodology
Gate force testing consists of a number of activities that contribute towards a comprehensive evaluation:
- Measurement Points: The test is conducted at several points on the gate – vertically at the bottom, the middle, and close to the top; and horizontally close to the closing edge. This approach ensures that all potential impact zones are evaluated.
- Force Limits: The standards of the test indicate different thresholds of force which are the borders that should be kept not to be injured. As an example, the dynamic force should not exceed 1400N in the beginning, then go down to less than 150N within 750ms, and further to 25N within 5 s to avoid damage.
- Testing Process: A series of tests are carried out at each point, with the average force being recorded. In case the results are beyond the safety limits, extra protective measures should be installed, and the tests need to be done repeatedly in order to comply.
Legal and Safety Standards
Full compliance with the adopted protective regulations, e.g. the EN12453, is vital in the process of granting permissions for use of automated gates. The scrutiny shall be executed by prepared workers who will utilise precise equipment to ensure that the results are dependable and correct. Violation of these rules can end in lawsuit and, at the same time, a greater risk of accidents.
Key Considerations
You need to check both innovation edges, but be aware that the entire safety across, all operational zones of the gate. is not reflected correctly. It might be necessary to carry out more tests or perform other analyses on, different, probable, hazard areas, like, the hinges of swing gates or the draw-in points of the sliding gates. Also, it is recommended to provide proper and regular maintenance and servicing to uncover and repair those old components that would possibly undermine the gate’s safety protection.
Conclusion
Gate force testing is very important for anyone who owns or manages automated gate systems. It makes sure the gates work safely and meets legal rules, keeping both users and owners safe from dangers. Regular checks by skilled professionals are crucial to keep the gates working well and safely.
This careful focus on safety and following rules highlights why gate force testing is a key part of managing automated gate systems, making sure they work well and safely all the time.
