Safety inspections on barriers and gates should only be carried out by a competent and qualified person — someone with the right technical knowledge, training, and experience to assess condition, safety, and compliance. This ensures the installation meets UK safety and maintenance regulations.
Who Qualifies as a Competent Person –
👷 Engineers or technicians trained in barrier or gate installation and maintenance
📋 Individuals familiar with BS EN 12453, BS EN 13241, and PUWER (1998) regulations
🏗️ Approved contractors or installers with recognised health & safety certification (e.g. CHAS, SafeContractor)
When Professional Inspections Are Required –
🔧 Every 6 months for manual barriers or low-use systems
⚙️ Every 3 months for powered or high-use installations
📅 After any collision, damage, or malfunction affecting performance or safety
What an Inspection Involves –
✅ Checking structural integrity, locking systems, and moving parts
💡 Verifying reflective signage and visibility markings
📁 Updating maintenance records and issuing a service or safety certificate