Door Industry Journal - Spring 2019

Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 101 THE door industry journal spring 2019 Automated Gates & Barriers Figure 3 shows an example of a “hold-to-run” device that could be used to operate automatic and powered gates to address hinge hazards. Figure 3 3. Mechanical Hinge Guards There are a variety of these types of solutions available on the market today. They provide a low-tech and cost- efficient solution for hinge protection. Fixed hinge guards could not be simpler (figures 4,5): a strip of EPDM or TPV flexible rubber-like material is clamped by two pieces of aluminium to the surface of the gate or piers. This shields the hinge and prevents people from getting hands or fingers trapped in this closing space. The great advantage is how simply and reliably it solves a problem that could only be remedied by the costly re- manufacture of the gate hinges. Figure 4: Available in varying size options or on a roll they can be easily cut to size on site and quickly and easily fitted to almost any swing gate installation. These systems fit butt- hinged or centre-pivot doors and gates and are suited to demanding commercial and industrial environments. These flexible guards should be durable, cover the entire hazard, and be robust enough to ensure they do not fold into the reducing gap. They will also need to be removable by key or tool for inspection and maintenance of hinges within the guarded space. Figure 5: 4. Safety Edges Safety edges (figure 6) can be utilised to protect any reducing gaps on your gate and, unlike a mechanical guarding solution, are fully monitored should there be any issue with vandalism/mechanical damage or in the event an edge should fail for any reason. Safety edges are available in sizes from 8mm upwards and offer a neat, fully monitored hinge protection solution, albeit at a slightly higher cost to a mechanical solution. Figure 6 (BBC Bircher Smart Access’ S-Coverline safety edge shown): Don’t be left exposed to potential legal action: when dealing with gates and doors, always pay attention to any reducing gaps in the hinge area. If you see any potential hazards, using one of the four solutions listed above should help reduce your liability (always follow risk assessment recommendations). Please see the IN2 Access press ad in this section of the Door Industry Journal for products that can help solve hinge protection hazards. www.in2access.co.uk sales@in2access.co.uk