Information note on automatic gates.
(1) The Private Security Authority and Automatic Gates
Automatic Gates fall within the scope of Access Control services as defined by the Private Security Authority (PSA). It is against the law for any person other than a PSA Licensed Access Control contractor to install maintain, service or repair automatic gates. Any person employing an unlicensed contractor is breaking the law and faces penalties ranging from a €3,000 fine up to 5 years imprisonment. A person includes individuals and businesses.
(2) Gate Safety
Automatic Gates are powerful machines which can pose a risk to both children and adults alike. In recent years there have been a number of serious accidents involving automatic gates. Automatic gates must be installed by trained PSA licensed installers and regularly maintained for optimum safety and security.
(3) Stay Safe Steps
• Have your gates regularly serviced by a PSA Licensed Access Control Contractor
• Never let children play on moving gates
• Check all safety features regularly
• Make sure your gates are in sight before using remote controls
• Never modify or interfere with controls
• Never use unlicensed contractors to do work on your gate
• Don’t ignore safety advice given by properly trained and qualified specialists
(4) PSA Licensed Contractors
Always use a PSA Licensed Access Control Contractor to install or service your automatic gates. PSA licensed
contractors comply with industry standards and are vetted by the PSA. When installing new automatic gates
you should ask your PSA licensed contractor for a Declaration of Conformity, User Manual and Service and
Maintenance Instructions. You should also consider entering into a maintenance contract with your PSA
licensed contractor.
When having gates installed or serviced you should ask your PSA licensed contractor to confirm that all safety
hazards have been addressed and safety features installed.
(5) Further Information
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has published Guidelines on Powered Gates. The document provides
assistance to those who have any responsibility for the specification, design, manufacture, purchase,
installation, maintenance, inspection or use of powered gates. The document can be found in the Publications
section of our website under Information Notes or on the HSA’s website, www.hsa.ie.