The most important aspect of any automated system is that the operator is advised how to use the system correctly, and more importantly, in a safe manner.  As you may be aware there has been numerous injuries, and even fatalities, involving automated systems in recent years -which could have been avoided with a maintenance program and system risk assessment in place.

• Never tamper or alter the settings of any automated system, the installation company would have commissioned the automated system taking into consideration the surrounding environment
• If the environment changes in the vicinity of your installation eg the construction of a wall - it is advisable to have a risk assessment carried out by a qualified engineer, as there may be a need for additional safety features to ensure safe operation.
• Never lean over or through an automated system
• Never allow children to ride on a automated gate or barrier
• Do not block or interfere with gate movement during operation
• Do not stop unnecessarily within the opening and closing zone of a gate or barrier
• Don’t activate any automated system whilst it is out of sight
• Keep all remote control devices out of the reach of children
• Do not allow children to play near a gate or barrier

• Do not pass through the gates or barriers whilst in operation - wait until the gate / barrier is fully open before passing through

• Warn entrants to the property that the gates / barriers are automatic
• Warn all staff, household members and visitors of the dangers of automated gates and barriers
• Should the gate or barrier malfunction isolate the power supply and activate the manual release
• If in doubt contact the installer or maintenance engineer, should you be unable to establish contact, call the automation supplier indicated in your handover pack and they will contact a local approved engineer on your behalf
• Ensure the installation is inspected and serviced inline with the manufacturer's recommendations, this enables the service engineer to risk assess the current environment and advise on any safety precautions that should be implemented
• Report any defects immediately no matter how trivial they may seem, any defect could seriously compromise the safety of the system
• Should you sell your property, inform the buyer of the operation features of the gate / barrier
• Should you purchase a property with an automatic gate / barrier you are advised to have a risk assessment carried out.  Your circumstances may be different from the previous occupant, eg the age of a child, and may require additional safety features
• If in doubt call your installation or maintenance company

The above points are intended as a guide line only, each installation is individual and the potential hazzards are dependent on the environment of the installation.  

If you require additional information or advice, please feel free to email your query or alternatively follow the links to www.aesif.org.uk or www.nscgb.org who will be happy to assist.