Electric gates are a type of machinery and, as such, are potentially lethal if the correct installation procedure is not followed.
In 2017, the BBC reported a death which highlighted the importance of getting your Automatic Gates fitted by an accredited company.
In April 2013, a woman died in a tragic accident at her home when her heavy metal gates fell on her as she tried to close them manually.
The gates had failed to close automatically on several occasions previously because the optical safety device had come out of alignment and disabled the electric drive.
A report on the Norfolk Police website in 2017 (which is no longer available) revealed more details. Whilst Jill Lunn had been shown how to use the gates, no instruction book or operating manual was supplied.
The investigation into the case also revealed that a complete technical file had not been produced as part of the installation process. This legal requirement would have identified that no safety mechanism had been provided to prevent the gate from falling.
DS Darren Reade, who conducted the police investigation, commented:
"Jill’s death should never have happened. If the installer had undertaken all the safety work expected of him then she would have been protected from the gate breaking in such a way."
The installer was found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter and the company who manufactured the gates pleaded guilty to three charges under Regulation 7 of the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008. Both will be sentenced in October 2017.
Edward Crick, a Health and Safety Executive Inspector, said:
"This case is a stark demonstration of what happens when companies do not comply with the relevant legislation relating to the safety of machinery.”
The only way you can be certain your gates are safe and will work correctly is to choose an accredited installer.
Blake's are a member of the Door and Hardware Federation (DHF) Powered Gate Group. This means we’re approved to install Automatic Gates to Quality Assured standards of competence and customer service.
To request a free quote for your Automatic Gates, click the green button below. A member of our team will get back to you very soon!
