Gate Safety: Protecting Lives with The Hummingbird Alliance
In December of 2019 a tragedy befell the Quanbeck family when their youngest son, Alex, was killed during recess at his school in California. A rolling gate that was adjacent to the playground failed and fatally injured him. His family turned their grief toward creating good and preventing future tragedies, and made The Hummingbird Alliance in his name.
In recognition of The Hummingbird Alliance’s mission to champion October as Gate Safety Awareness Month, Bluff City Fence has compiled a list of a few of the various products that can be used to increase the safety of your gate.
Gate Safety Measures: Products for Added Protection
Safety Chain
A safety chain is welded to the top of the gate and hinge post to keep the gate from falling if the hinge were to break.
Catch Post
A catch post is used on all sliding gates, such as V-track, rolo gates, aluminum track, and cantilever gates. This is used as a fail safe if any welds were to break or wheels were to slide down. The catch post keeps the gate from falling all the way to the ground.
Photo Eyes/Through Beam
These emit a beam of light along the gate’s path. This light is used to detect the presence or absence of equipment, people, or other items crossing through the gate’s path. If any of these are detected, the gate will either stop or not move at all.
Chain Link Screening on Commercial Gates
Screening is used on commercial gates where there will be a gap greater than 2-1/4”, measured from the ground up to 6ft, to prevent a 2-1/4” diameter sphere from passing through the opening anywhere in the gate. This screening will keep people from reaching through the gate and causing entrapment.
Automated Gate Safety: Complying with 325UL Standards
If you are curious about automation safety standards, the 325UL Safety Standards are rules and regulations that must be followed in order to properly address the safety concerns and requirements needed for the automatic operation of all garage doors, vehicular gates, draperies, exterior awning, louvers, window and other opening and closing appliances rated 600V or less.
Gate Safety Advocates
Bluff City Fence recognizes the commendable and important mission of The Hummingbird Alliance and the American Fence Association in spreading awareness and resources for companies regarding gate safety in order to prevent future accidents or loss of life. We highly recommend The Hummingbird Alliance’s website as a source of information not only about gate safety, but also Alex Quanbeck’s life and memory.
To learn more visit: thehummingbirdalliance.com
In memory of Alex Quanbeck and in solidarity with The Hummingbird Alliance’s vital mission, Bluff City Fence remains committed to gate safety. As champions of this cause, we urge you to take proactive steps to enhance the safety of your gates. Whether it’s through implementing safety chains, catch posts, or other essential measures, safeguarding lives is our shared responsibility. For personalized guidance and expert assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of dedicated fence and gate experts at Bluff City Fence. Together, we can make a difference and prevent future tragedies. Your safety matters to us, and we’re here to help. Contact us today and let’s work towards a safer tomorrow.
