CSLB C-27 Landscaping ContractorHardscape and FeaturesMedium
A landscape contractor is installing a new automatic gate for a driveway entrance. The gate will be powered by an electric motor and designed for frequent use. Which safety feature is legally required and most critical to prevent serious injury or death from the gate closing on a person or vehicle?
- AA manual override switch.
- BA key-pad entry system.
- CPhotoelectric safety sensors (safety eyes).
- DA flashing warning light.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Photoelectric safety sensors (safety eyes).
Photoelectric safety sensors, commonly known as 'safety eyes,' are legally required by UL 325 standards (which California often follows or exceeds) for automatic gates. These sensors create an invisible beam across the gate's opening, and if the beam is broken while the gate is closing, it immediately stops or reverses the gate's motion, directly preventing entrapment or impact injuries.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A manual override switch allows for operation during power failure but does not prevent accidental closing on an obstruction during normal automatic operation.
- B. A key-pad entry system is a security feature, not a safety feature to prevent physical harm during gate operation.
- D. A flashing warning light indicates gate movement but does not actively stop the gate if an obstruction is present.
Automatic Gate Safety Sensors
Devices designed to detect obstructions in the path of an automatic gate, preventing it from closing and causing injury or damage.
- Legally required by safety standards (e.g., UL 325).
- Photoelectric sensors are common.
- Stop or reverse gate motion upon obstruction detection.
Memory trick: An automatic gate needs EYES to see danger and a BRAIN to stop, not just a warning light.