Standards - DHF TS 008:2022

The DHF TS 008:2022 standard is a crucial guideline developed by the Door and Hardware Federation (DHF) specifically for swing and sliding automated gates, aiming to improve safety and reliability. With increasing use of automated gates in residential, commercial, and industrial environments, this standard helps ensure that automated gates meet stringent safety criteria, protecting both property and users from potential hazards associated with gate operation.

Here is a comprehensive look at the DHF TS 008:2022 standard, its scope, technical specifications, and industry relevance.

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1. Scope and Purpose of DHF TS 008:2022

The DHF TS 008:2022 standard provides guidance on the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of automated swing and sliding gates. Its primary objectives are to:

• Enhance safety by setting requirements to reduce the risk of accidents, such as entrapment or impact injuries.
• Standardize manufacturing and installation practices to ensure gates perform reliably across various environments.
• Address regulatory compliance with relevant health and safety laws, aligning automated gates with EU safety directives and UK legislation.

DHF TS 008 is primarily used by gate manufacturers, installers, and facility managers to ensure that automated gate systems are both safe and compliant with regulatory standards.

2. Key Safety Features and Performance Requirements

The standard outlines specific safety and performance requirements to mitigate risks and improve the functionality of automated gates. Key requirements include:

• Force Limitation: DHF TS 008 specifies limits on the force that an automated gate can exert to reduce the risk of injury if a person is caught or impacted by the gate.
• Obstacle Detection and Safety Sensors: Automated gates must be equipped with sensors or safety edges that detect obstacles in their path, stopping or reversing operation if an obstruction is detected.
• Emergency Stop Mechanism: The standard mandates the inclusion of a manual emergency stop control that can halt the gate’s movement in case of a malfunction.
• Automatic Reversal: In the event of obstruction detection, gates should be designed to reverse automatically to prevent entrapment or injury.
• Controlled Closing Speed: DHF TS 008 requires gates to close at a controlled speed, reducing the risk of high-impact collisions, especially in high-traffic environments.

These safety features are essential to ensure that automated gates are safe for all users, including children, pets, and the elderly.

3. Installation Guidelines and Compatibility

Proper installation is crucial for the safety and reliability of automated gates. DHF TS 008:2022 provides detailed guidelines for installers to ensure that gates are correctly fitted and fully functional. Key aspects include:

• Foundation and Structural Integrity: The installation process must ensure that gates are securely mounted and capable of withstanding regular operation and environmental stresses such as wind loads.
• Compatibility with Safety Accessories: The standard recommends compatibility with additional safety accessories, such as photocells and pressure-sensitive edges, to enhance detection of obstructions.
• Placement of Controls: The positioning of gate controls must prevent unauthorized access and allow easy operation for authorized users while ensuring that controls are located at a safe distance from the moving gate.

These installation guidelines help ensure automated gates function as intended, minimizing safety risks and prolonging the lifespan of the system.

4. Maintenance and Testing Protocols

Regular maintenance and testing are critical to ensure automated gates continue to operate safely and effectively. DHF TS 008:2022 includes recommendations for establishing a maintenance schedule, which includes:

• Routine Inspections: Scheduled inspections to check for wear and tear on components, such as motors, sensors, and hinges, that are essential to safe gate operation.
• Testing Safety Features: Regular testing of safety sensors, force limitation, and obstacle detection features to confirm they work reliably.
• Cleaning and Lubrication: Proper cleaning and lubrication of moving parts to prevent malfunctions caused by dirt buildup or insufficient lubrication.
• Documentation and Record-Keeping: The standard recommends keeping records of all maintenance activities and testing results, providing a log for regulatory purposes and future reference.

By adhering to these maintenance protocols, facility managers and owners can prevent malfunctions and ensure their gates remain compliant with safety standards.

5. Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations

DHF TS 008:2022 aligns with the Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC), a European Union regulation covering the safety of machinery, including automated gates. Compliance with DHF TS 008 assists companies in meeting regulatory requirements, reducing liability risks and enhancing user safety. In the UK, the standard supports compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act, as well as guidance provided by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on automated gate safety.

Ensuring that gates meet these regulatory requirements not only enhances user safety but also demonstrates a commitment to regulatory adherence and best practices.

6. Applications and Industry Impact

DHF TS 008:2022 is applied in various sectors where automated gates are used, including residential complexes, commercial facilities, and industrial sites. Its impact includes:

• Residential: Provides guidelines to ensure gates in residential areas are safe for residents, especially in communities with children or elderly individuals.
• Commercial: Ensures safe and secure entry control in commercial spaces, such as office buildings, where automated gates are commonly used for access control.
• Industrial: Offers durability and safety standards suitable for high-usage industrial environments, where automated gates are exposed to more demanding conditions.

Adoption of DHF TS 008 by these industries promotes a uniform standard of safety, ensuring that automated gates across different environments meet the same safety and operational benchmarks.

7. Emerging Technologies and Future Relevance

DHF TS 008:2022 recognizes the evolving nature of automated gate technology, including the use of smart technology and wireless controls. The standard encourages manufacturers to adopt safety-focused innovations while maintaining compliance with the fundamental safety requirements. As automated gate technology advances, DHF TS 008 provides a solid foundation for incorporating new safety features and improving gate performance.

8. Conclusion

DHF TS 008:2022 plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining high safety standards for automated gates. By providing clear guidelines on design, installation, maintenance, and compliance, it enables manufacturers, installers, and facility managers to implement gate systems that are safe, reliable, and in line with regulatory requirements.

In summary, DHF TS 008:2022 is a vital resource for ensuring the safety and functionality of automated gates in various settings. Its adoption helps prevent accidents, reduce liability risks, and create a safer environment for all users. For organizations committed to safety, adopting DHF TS 008 represents a proactive approach to protecting people and property.