Your company’s garage doors are an important asset, and they’re one that you should pay particular attention to. Improper care of these doors can result in damage to company vehicles and equipment, costing your business money in repairs or replacements. If employees get injured due to the malfunction or improper use of these doors, you can also be legally and financially obligated to pay damages. To protect your business’s assets and personnel, follow these essential tips.

A Glance at Commercial Garage Door Safety

Safety Regulations You Must Follow

To prevent dangerous accidents, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) regulates commercial overhead door maintenance and repairs. To avoid costly fines and penalties, property owners and factory managers must use manufacturer guidelines to maintain and inspect equipment. The sensors, photo eyes, and other entrapment devices recommended by the manufacturer must also be used. You should keep a detailed history report of all upkeep and repairs performed on the system, just as you would with a vehicle.

Features to Look for in a New System

If you install a new commercial garage door, it should have an auto-reverse component. If an object blocks the sensors or the door is met with resistance when closing, it will either reverse direction or immediately stop. There also should be motion detector sensors installed on the entrance. Once the sensors detect moving objects, garage door lights illuminate the area. When working at night, this ensures employees can see what they’re doing. In the event of a power outage, employees should be able to use manual controls.  

Standards for Equipment Maintenance

To prevent accidents, garage doors should be inspected each week. Impacts could force the tracks out of alignment, so also check after collisions with service vehicles or equipment. You should also invest in a maintenance plan with a professional garage door company. Qualified technicians will replace broken springs and cables, fix faulty electrical connections, put the track back in alignment, test the sensors, and perform additional tasks to increase safety during operations.

With over 50 years of experience, the technicians at Overhead Door Co. of Lycoming County, a division of Schrader Architectural Products, will make sure your commercial garage doors meet safety regulations. This family owned and operated business — “The Genuine, The Original Overhead Door Company” — is located in Williamsport, PA. Beyond servicing your current investment, they will also outfit your factory or warehouse with a new fire-rated system by one of the industry’s leading brands. They can also install garage doors in a variety of materials. To schedule garage door service, call (570) 326-4749. View available products on the company’s website.