Electric Gate Safety Checks in Hampshire: What We Test and Why

Most electric gates that aren't safe look completely normal. They open, they close, the remote works. But a photocell knocked out of line, a split safety edge or a motor that has started pushing harder can turn a gate into a real danger, especially for children, older people and pets. A safety check finds these problems before someone gets hurt.

We carry out electric gate safety checks across Southampton and Hampshire, as well as Dorset, Surrey and Berkshire, on gates we installed and on gates fitted by other companies.

Why safety checks matter

An automatic gate is a heavy machine that moves on its own. The main risks are:

• Crushing, where the gate closes against a person, a car or a wall
• Shearing and trapping, at hinges, between a sliding gate and a post, or between gate bars
• Impact, when the gate hits someone while it's moving

Safety devices and correct settings control these risks. Over time, parts wear, settings drift and sensors get knocked. That's why checking regularly matters.

Who is responsible?

Whoever owns or manages the gate is responsible for keeping it safe. For businesses, landlords and managing agents, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 means equipment people use must be kept safe, and automatic gates are included. Homeowners also have a duty of care to the people who use or pass their gate. A dated safety report shows that the gate has been checked properly.

What we test

Force testing

We use a force tester to measure how hard the gate pushes when it meets an obstruction, at the points where someone could be caught. We then check those readings are within safe limits. Force testing is done on every safety check, install and service.

Photocells

Photocells are non-contact sensors. They send an infrared beam across the opening, and if something breaks it, the gate stops or reverses. We check they're working, lined up and placed to protect the right areas. Read more in our guide to how photocells work.

Safety edges

Safety edges are contact devices: rubber strips on the gate's leading edges or posts that stop or reverse the gate when touched. We check they respond and look for splits and wear. Most gates use both photocells and safety edges, because they protect different danger zones.

Access control

We check that keypads, GSM units, remote handsets and intercoms work and operate the gate as they should.

General condition

We look over the gate, posts, hinges, motors, tracks and controls for wear, corrosion, damage, hinge gaps and finger traps.

What you get afterwards

You get paperwork confirming the check was carried out, and a written report covering:

• any defects, or anything that needs work to make the gate safe
• parts that are wearing and are likely to need replacing soon, so you can plan ahead

If something needs repairing, we'll quote for it, and you decide what happens next.

Signs your gate needs checking now

• It doesn't stop or reverse when something is in the way
• It closes harder or faster than it used to
• A safety edge is split, loose or missing
• Photocells are damaged, loose or have been moved
• You've just moved into a property with electric gates and have no service history
• It hasn't been serviced in the last six months

If you're worried, send us a photo or short video by WhatsApp to 07890 387915. If the gate isn't stopping for obstructions, stop using it on automatic and keep people clear until it's checked.

Keeping it safe afterwards

Electric gates should be serviced at least every six months. A maintenance contract tailored to your site means it's taken care of, with force testing every visit.

Frequently asked questions

How often should an electric gate be safety checked? At least every six months, as part of regular servicing.

Can you check a gate another company installed? Yes. We check gates whoever installed them.

Do you check barriers and bollards too? Yes, as well as industrial gates.

How long does a safety check take? It depends on the gate and how many safety devices it has. We'll give you an idea when you book.

What's the difference between a safety check and a service? A safety check focuses on testing and reporting. A service also includes adjustment and lubrication. Force testing is part of both.

Which areas do you cover? Southampton, Hampshire, Dorset, Surrey and Berkshire.