Sliding gates are heavy, and when they move they keep moving. If the safety devices aren't working, a sliding gate can trap or crush someone. These checks take a few minutes and could prevent a serious accident.
Where the hazards are
- The closing edge – where the leading edge of the gate meets the closing post
- The opening end – where the gate slides back past the post or a wall, and people or hands can get caught
- Between the gate and fixed objects – fences, walls or pillars along its run
- The rollers, wheels and motor gear – fingers can get caught
- The gate falling – if the guide rollers or end stops fail
Monthly checks you can do
- Photocell test. While the gate is closing, standing to the side and well clear of the moving gate, pass an object such as a bag or a box through the beam. The gate should stop and reverse.
- Safety edges. Look for damaged, split or loose rubber edges.
- Look along the run. Is anything stored or growing where the gate slides – bikes, bins, plants?
- Guide rollers and end stops. Look for loose, broken or missing parts.
- Warning light. Does it flash when the gate moves?
- Manual release. Do you know where the key is and how it works? See manual release.
Never test a safety edge by putting your hand or body in the gate's path. That's what force testing equipment is for.
Stop using the gate if…
- the gate doesn't stop when the photocell beam is broken
- a safety edge is damaged or hanging off
- the gate jumps, wobbles or looks like it could come off its track
- something's been bypassed or disconnected
Switch it off at the isolator, use it manually if it's safe to, and give me a call.
What a professional inspection adds
At a service, I test every safety device, check the guarding, and measure the closing forces with a calibrated force tester to make sure they're within BS EN 12453 limits. See force testing electric gates and automatic gate servicing.
Concerned about your sliding gate? Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433.
Questions people ask me
How often should I check my sliding gate?
A quick look monthly, and a professional service at least once a year – more often for busy commercial gates.
My gate doesn't reverse when I break the beam – what should I do?
Stop using it automatically and get it checked straight away.
Can a sliding gate fall over?
If the guide rollers or end stops fail, it can. That's why they're checked at every service.