UL 325 Code Compliance sets the bar for automatic gate safety requirements. Our automatic gate openers are all UL 325 compliant, so you know that everyone passing through is all passing through your gates are safe.
The safety code applies to all Door, Drapery, Gate, Louver, and Window Operators and Systems. It is a must-have for ensuring your safety. Gate operators must meet safety requirements. What do they protect against? Safety features protect against hazards like entrapment, electrical shock, and mechanical failure. To achieve UL 325 compliance, manufacturers, installers, and property owners must follow specific guidelines and ensure proper installation of safety devices.
Industry Terms
We use several industry terms, so let’s define some of them before going into the details.
- Gate Operator: These motors and all their parts and pieces open and close automatic gates.
- Entrapment Protection Devices: Devices protect against motorized rolling doors, windows, gates, and other opening devices closing on objects.
Key Aspects of UL 325 Compliance
Entrapment Protection Devices
Gate operators must have at least two types of entrapment protection devices. These include:
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- Type A: Inherent (built-in) entrapment protection, such as motor force limits.
- Type B1: Non-contact sensors (e.g., photoelectric eyes) that detect obstructions and stop or reverse the gate.
- Type B2: Contact sensors (e.g., safety edges) that cause the gate to stop and reverse if they come into contact with an obstruction.
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These devices must monitor the system for failures, and the gate must not operate unless all safety systems function correctly.
Monitored Safety Devices
The gate operators must monitor external entrapment protection devices such as photo eyes or safety edges. What does that mean? It is a double layer of safety. Gate operators stop working when the protection fails. Fix the issue, and the gate operators start working again.
Automatic Reversal
When gates encounter obstructions when opening or closing, they automatically stop and reverse their motion to avoid injury or property damage.
Control Stations
All have easy-to-access emergency stop buttons and manual overrides. And yes, they have work. In case of an emergency or maintenance, users can override the automated system when there is an issue.
Warning Signs and Labels
UL 325 mandates warning signs or labels are on or near the gate operator. Signs alert users and bystanders to the potential dangers of the gate’s movement.
Manufacturers / Installers
Manufacturers provide clear instructions on proper gate operator installation and maintenance. Instructions include details on how and where to place entrapment protection devices.
The installer must ensure that the gate system installation complies with UL 325. Compliance includes:
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- What the proper alignment should be.
- Correct entrapment protection device installation
- Installers test safety systems during installation.
- Maintenance checkups also include testing.
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Testing & Maintenance:
UL 325 compliance is not a one-time event but an ongoing requirement. As the owner, ask your service company to set up recurring maintenance. Have them test gate operators, ensuring all safety devices (e.g., photo eyes, safety edges) work properly. Fix faults in the system right away to maintain compliance.
Residential vs. Commercial/Industrial Applications
Residential gate operators have different usage frequencies than commercial or industrial operators and often see more use. UL 325 sets specific requirements for the type and number of entrapment protection devices based on the intended usage environment.
UL 325 Code Compliance Enforcement
Those performing UL 325 compliance enforcement include:
- Local Building Codes: Many local authorities require automated gate systems for UL 325 compliance. Non-compliance results in penalties, liability in case of accidents, or insurance issues.
- Insurance Requirements: Insurers may require property owners or businesses to install UL 325-compliant gate systems.
UL 325 Code & Automatic Gate Safety
To ensure UL 325 compliance, manufacturers, installers, and operators must ensure that their part of the gate operator and the required safety devices installation happens and functions properly. As a gate owner, have regular maintenance and inspections done to keep the system compliant. Do you need a maintenance schedule set up? Contact us to schedule a visit.
