. Here are some essential safety features you should have on your automatic gate.
Once you have your beautiful new automatic gate installed, the safety and functionality of your new device become paramount. Some safety requirements for your automatic gate are legally compulsory, while others are just recommended. As a result, it is a good idea to speak to a professional to ensure that all safety standards are met for your new investment. Here are some essential features you should have on your automatic gate.
A Back-Up Power Supply
If your gate is wired into your home’s electrical system, your gate operator won’t work when the power goes out. When this happens, you must still have access control for your electronic gates, or you risk being trapped on or off your property.
If your gate has been installed correctly, one of three safety measures should have been implemented:
- The gate might have a single-use battery that opens the gate once and keeps it open until power is restored. This battery ensures people can exit the property during a blackout without worrying about the gate.
- Your automated gate could have a multi-use battery installed. With this battery, the gate operators will continue to function as they have throughout the blackout, keeping your property secure. Since most power outages are relatively short, you shouldn’t have to worry about the battery running out during this time.
- An automatic gate can be set to unlock automatically when power goes out, so you can open and close it manually until power returns. The mechanical lock will unlatch if there’s no power to it.
Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection Devices
A detection device lets the gate know when a vehicle or person is in the way while the gate is opening or closing. When the detection device is triggered, the gate will automatically stop, and in some cases reverse, before it can cause any damage.
Most automatic gates have vehicle detection loops installed. As the name implies, these devices can detect if a vehicle is in the way of the gate and ensure the gate stops before making contact with the car. You can adjust the settings on the detection loops according to your preferences. For example, if you frequently have guests at your home or are having a party one night, you can change the settings to allow people in and out more easily.
Reversing Edges
Any automatic gates on your property should have reversing edges. The basic idea behind these safety devices is that they force the gate to shift direction whenever something makes contact with it. For example, if your gate closes too quickly and makes contact with a vehicle trying to exit your property, this device reverses the gate so it doesn’t keep closing onto the car. The hope is that changing direction quickly after contact can minimize the damage. If your other safety devices fail or an undetected person or vehicle hits your gate, you will be glad your gate can get out of the way quickly.
Trust Kirken Gates for Your Commercial Gate Installation
Securing your business with a custom-designed gate system is an investment in your property’s safety and your peace of mind. With Kirken Gates, you can trust that every detail is handled by experienced professionals. Kirken Gates takes pride in delivering professional, reliable service to clients throughout Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. From custom designs and professional installations to round-the-clock maintenance and support, we’re committed to delivering top-tier service for your commercial gate needs.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help secure your commercial property with a high-quality, customized gate system! Contact our Main Office at 1-866-4KIRKEN (1-866-454-7536) or [email protected], or place a Service Call at 1-866-4KIRKEN (1-866-454-7536).