Automatic Gates Kirkcaldy

Ironcraft Steel Fabrications design, install and service automatic gates to meet the individual needs of our clients acoss the Kirkcaldy area.

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Automatic gates - a great addition to your Kirkcaldy property BUT be safe!

Some time ago, you may recall incidents of people, children and pets being hurt by automatic gates. The health & safety Executive took these incidents seriously and, as a result, a new set of guidelines and regulations came into force to prevent accident so this nature happening again.

Ensuring as the Kirkcaldy homeowner with automatic gates you are up-to-speed with these changes is important and so, if you are thinking of investing in electric gates you will need to be aware of some essential information...

Can installing such gates be a task undertaken by anyone?

Considering the implication placed on you should someone be hurt by your automatic gates, it is highly recommended you employ a specialist automatic gate installer to complete the work. There are various complexities in ensuring the gates work correctly in all conditions.

How can automatic gates be stopped from closing is someone or something is in the way?

There should be two different safety mechanisms fitted to automatic gates:

Firstly, photocells - also known as magic eyes - are a simple device. Two cells are placed opposite each other and when they can 'see' each other, the gate will continue to operate. However, should something or someone interrupt this vision, the safety feature will be activated, stopping the movement of the gate.
The second safety feature is a pressure one in which the gate will stop if at certain points it feels a pressure being exerted on it. Wired and installed correctly by an expert company will mean the gates will 'back up' a few metres to release the pressure and should not begin to move again until they are told to do so.

Do Kirkcaldy homeowners need planning permission for automatic gates?

The automation of the gates themselves are not subject to planning permission; neither is installing or hanging a new gate. However, should the gates be higher than the permitted height, then you will need to seek planning consent (in some areas, this is over a metre high but always check before installing!)

What else do I need to know?

All automatic gates need to carry the CE mark. This symbol - standing for Conformité Européenne - means that the equipment used conforms to all the current safety regulations concerned with the installation, operation and maintenance of automatic gates. Without this mark, you will need to ensure that your gates do meet with all current regulation; if you plan on buying a property with electric gates, check for this important mark.

Can I convert my ordinary gate into an automatic gate?

It is a possibility but it must be done by an expert installer of automatic gates, rather than an electrician, as this company would understand all the complexities involved in installing the gates correctly.

Be safe with your automatic gates at your Kirkcaldy property - call in the experts!

Please contact us to discuss your automatic gates requirements in the Kirkcaldy area.

Electric Gates Kirkcaldy