Door Industry Journal - Winter 2014

Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 92 THE door industry journal winter 2014 powered gates Force Testing: What is it and Why is it required? With gate safety having established itself as the major factor for gate installers who design, risk assess and fit upgrades to automated gates the question is often asked “why force test?” Put simply, force testing is required (*see note) to verify that a newly installed or upgraded gate equipped with safety devices meets requirements and is safe to use. All newly installed powered gates are required to meet the essential health and safety requirements listed in the Machinery Directive (Supply Of Machinery Safety Regulations in the UK). To comply with these requirements all powered gates utilising force limiting safety devices (such as motors with in-built detection or safety edges) must be tested to ensure correct application and safe function of such devices has been observed. The standard BS EN 12453 defines the force limitation requirement values, which are based on time and strength an impact and crushing force is applied before reduction in these values. The standard BS EN 12445 defines where upon the gate we carry out these tests (heights and distances) and the number of tests along with a definition of the test equipment that is to be used. Easygates Direct prides itself on providing training and equipment that enables installers to fully understand these requirements and carry out the tests confidently and competently. We are also able to help make recommendations for force testing strategy for gate installers who provide maintenance only contracts for powered gates. Easygates Direct is a UK distributor of GTE KMG force testing products and provides full training and advice on the use of these high quality units. GTE KMG-LITE (Ideal for maintenance visits and low volume installations) The KMG LITE tester provides a highly affordable solution to installers who require maximum performance & versatility from their testing equipment whilst also keeping costs down. The LITE unit carries no on-board memory or PC connectivity, allowing the user to record the results manually without the need for connection to a PC or laptop. The results can then be later input to our free web report service, which then creates a comprehensive report for you. www.forcetesttool.com GTE KMG-2000 The KMG 2000 tester is the flagship solution for installers who require great flexibility and features combined with huge measurement storage capacity. The KMG-2000 unit carries on- board memory facilities for 500 measurements (166 sets or approx. 18 doors) and provides USB PC connectivity. This allows the user to record the results from many door tests, and then produce comprehensive reports detailing the full extent of the force test data. * Force testing may not be required where radar or light curtaining safety devices are employed that prevent any possible contact of a person with ALL parts of the moving gate assembly. For further definitions of these devices and their use please consult the DHF Guide to Gate Safety & Legislation, downloadable here www.dhfonline.org.uk