New British Standard for automated gates

Safety is paramount when it comes to the installation and operation of automated gates. This is why Innovate Security will design, install, and test every system to comply with regulations such as EN12453 and EN12445.

However, a new standard has been introduced for new and retro-fitted doors in public spaces, which also has an effect on automated gates. Here’s what you need to know.

British Standard (BS) 8613:2017

Despite the fact that the recent BS 8613:2017 provides guidance on the best finger protection devices for doors, certain aspects of the regulation should also apply to both automated and manual gates, as this remains a prevalent problem.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents suggests that there are around 40,000 incidents every year of fingers, mainly those of children, being trapped in doors. Therefore, this new regulation could go a long way in reducing cases involving mechanically operated and automatic gates as well, which tend to be a lot heavier and dangerous than household doors.

What to consider with BS 8613:2017

A summary of the points included in BS 8613:2017 are:

Doors should have finger trap protection. This also applies to gates.
Young children are involved in a disproportionate number of finger trap accidents. The same can be said for gates.
Protection should extend to within 15mm of the bottom of the door. Again, this should be the same for gates.
There should be three hinges on every door, as this will prevent catastrophe if one part fails. Gate Safe, a charity set up to ensure the safety of automated gates, has been promoting this for some time.
The testing of protection devices should exceed 200,000 operations and be the standard for any finger trap components supplied for gates
The standard refers to ‘child appeal’ and states that any guard should not act as a magnet, otherwise it could attract the attention of a small child.
The guard should extend up to 1.8-2.0m, while those able to reach this height must be aware of the dangers. However, this may need to be reviewed if special needs patients regularly use the door or gate.
The standard refers to the importance of regular maintenance to ensure the guards are checked for signs of wear and tear or damage

A full version of BS 8613:2017, which includes specifications, safety requirements, and test methods, can be downloaded from the BSI’s shop website.