There are simple guidelines when installing school gates that every company should know and be aware of.
Every school has a legal and moral responsibility to keep its students, staff and visitors safe from harm. One of the important ways that they can do this is to ensure that school gates meet specifications and are suitable for purpose. As this can represent a considerable investment, we look at the key guidelines for installing school gates.
Vehicles and pedestrians
As far as is possible, the progress of pedestrians and vehicles onto or within school property should be separate. This is to make progress for all parties as safe as possible.
The public highway
Gates should open inwards so as to avoid them impinging on the public highway or other property. If a gate opens directly onto a public highway, an additional barrier should be installed to prevent immediate entry onto the highway.
Gate clearance
The ground clearance below a gate should be a maximum of 110mm and a minimum of 60mm to avoid either entrapment or foot injuries.
Latching systems
Any gate latch should be reachable from both inside and outside the gate. Protruding latches such as bar handles should be positioned and shaped to prevent eye injury.
Hands and fingers
All gates should be checked for hand and finger traps and no gate should have any sharp edges.
Fence climbing
Any bars used in the construction of the gate should be vertical and not horizontal in order to prevent attempts at climbing and subsequent falls.
Locks and padlocks
All vehicle and pedestrian gates should be lockable either by manual or electro-mechanical locking systems. A vehicular gate should have galvanised drop bolts.
Automated gate fitting
Accidents involving school children and automated gates do occur in the UK. All automated gates should be fitted by trained installers according to the EU Directive 2006/42/EC and regularly maintained as per manufacturers’ instructions.
It’s always important to remember the simple guidelines when installing school gates, to make it as safe as possible.
An automated gate can often be the best solution for your school. At Elex Gates, we offer the very best in advice and service and would be happy to make a site visit to advise you. Please get in touch with our team today.
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All gates can be designed to how you would like them so if you are interested. If you see a gate that you like and want to know more about it then please contact us if you are interested.
