Risk Assessments
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Any organisation that operates automated gates or barriers has a duty to ensure that the system is regularly maintained. Whilst annual servicing will address the major tasks, the HSE stipulates that a competent person should check the system on a regular basis:
"All safety devices and features should be checked on a regular basis and in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to ensure they continue to function as designed to ensure that safety is maintained." (http://www.hse.gov.uk/safetybulletins/electricgates2.htm)
Most manufacturers recommend that theses safety checks be carried out on a monthly basis, along with some routine preventative maintenance tasks.
Typically, this check would include the following:
- Check safety cells operating (Opening and closing cycles)
- Clean safety cells
- Test safety edges or ensure gate reverses on obstacle detection
- Operate manual release and lubricate locking mechanism
- Lubricate hinges and other moving parts
In addition, other site or equipment specific tasks may be required, these are not limited to, but may include:
- Cut back plant growth where it may impede the gate or safety features
- Check for leaks on hydraulically operated systems
Although the above tasks do not need to be carried out by a qualified person, they should be undertaken by a competent person who is aware of and understands the safety features fitted to the gate or barrier in question.
Wessex Gate Safety can provide an ongoing competent person service to ensure that your system continues to work both safely and efficiently. This service may be of particular interest to property management companies who are responsible for multiple sites. As part of the service we would maintain a log of each visit along with the tasks carried out.