SafeWork NSW is reminding those who own industrial gates to get them checked after a number of serious incidents, including two deaths.

Industrial gates are a useful way to protect property at home or on worksites, but they have the potential to be extremely dangerous if not properly maintained as they can weigh hundreds of kilograms.

A lack of maintenance can cause them to fall or become unhinged and cause serious injury or even death.

SafeWorkNSW says a 64-year-old worker died in 2020 after an electric industrial gate weighing nearly 260kg fell on him as he was trying to manually open it.

The gate and surrounding fencing had been damaged and was yet to be fully repaired.

From 2017 to 2022, the authority says there were 17 serious injuries to workers involving industrial gates, including two worker fatalities. 

The top cause of injuries by falling industrial gates are a fractured pelvis and a fractured vertebra.

SafeWork NSW Inspectors have been checking industrial gates at construction, agricultural, transport and warehousing worksites, and warn that individuals may be fined up to $720 and businesses up to $3,600 for gates that pose a threat to the safety of workers and the community.

Head of SafeWork NSW, Natasha Mann asks; “If you own an industrial gate, answer this question - When was the last time you checked your gate?”