Raise awareness for safety gates

08/09/2020

The Baby Products Association, in collaboration with Nottinghamshire County Council Trading Standards, through the Primary Authority partnership*, would like to highlight important safety issues in relation to the use of safety gates (also known as stair gates) for the benefit of those buying and installing these products. We believe it is important to raise awareness of these key safety messages more widely, to help the purchasers and their friends, family and visitors identify potentially unsafe installations of safety gates in the home.

When advising consumers purchasing safety gates, please pass on the following information:

Important things to consider when purchasing safety gates

• Ensure the safety gate you select conforms to an up to date safety standard, for example EN 1930:2011. This should be marked on the gate itself as well as being visible in information provided at the point of sale.
• Measure all openings where you intend to use the safety gate and ensure that both the minimum and maximum size of opening specified on the packaging is suitable for all the places you intend to use it.
• Consider where the gate will be located – it is not recommended that pressure fit gates are installed at the top of stairs.

Installing and using safety gates safely

• Ensure you read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly and keep them for future reference.
• Make sure that the safety gate properly fits the opening and that there is no ‘play’ in it when closed.
• Always close the gate properly when you leave the room but never leave a baby unattended.
• Never climb or step over the gate, especially when holding a baby.
• Do not affix any toys or decoration to the safety gate to attract a baby to play with it or get close to it.

WARNING: As children get older, their ability to climb increases. If they attempt to climb over the gate, it is time to teach them to use the stairs safely. Safety gates are only suitable for use with children up to 24 months of age.

DO NOT install multiple gates in the same doorway or opening. This may create a risk of entrapment and strangulation. The Baby Products Association and Nottinghamshire Trading Standards are aware of some serious incidents resulting from this misuse of safety gates.

*Nottinghamshire County Council Trading Standards and the Baby Products Association have a co-ordinated Primary Authority partnership, which involves the provision of tailored advice in relation to regulatory matters affecting members of the association. More information on Primary Authority is available at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/local-regulation-primary-authority