Garage doors are an essential part of modern homes and businesses, providing convenience, security, and functionality. However, due to their size, weight, and complex mechanisms, garage doors can also pose serious safety risks if not properly installed, operated, and maintained. To ensure the safe use of garage doors, there are various garage door safety standards in place that outline the requirements and guidelines for manufacturers, installers, and users. In this blog, we will explore some of the key garage door safety standards that you should be aware of.

1. UL 325 – Standard for Safety: Door, Drapery, Gate, Louver, and Window Operators and Systems UL 325 is a widely recognized standard for garage door openers, gate operators, and related systems. It is published by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a globally recognized safety certification organization. UL 325 provides guidelines for the construction, performance, and testing of these products to ensure their safe operation. This standard covers various aspects, including electrical safety, mechanical safety, and entrapment protection. It requires garage door openers to have safety features such as photoelectric sensors or edge sensors that can detect obstructions and stop or reverse the door’s operation to prevent entrapment or injury.
2. ASTM F2200 – Standard Specification for Automated Vehicular Gate Construction ASTM F2200 is a standard published by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) that specifically addresses the safety requirements for automated vehicular gates, including garage doors. It covers the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of these gates to prevent potential hazards. ASTM F2200 includes provisions for gate construction, gate operator installation, entrapment protection devices, and warning signs. It also provides guidelines for testing, maintenance, and documentation to ensure ongoing safe operation.
3. DASMA 116 – Standard for Safety and Performance of Sectional Overhead Doors DASMA 116 is a standard developed by the Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association (DASMA) that focuses on the safety and performance requirements for sectional overhead doors, which are the most common type of garage doors used in residential and commercial applications. DASMA 116 provides guidelines for the design, construction, installation, and operation of sectional overhead doors to ensure their safe and reliable use. It includes provisions for door materials, hardware, springs, tracks, and safety devices, such as photoelectric sensors and emergency release mechanisms.
4. ANSI/IDCA 1-2017 – Standard for Inspection and Maintenance of Commercial Garage Doors The ANSI/IDCA 1-2017 standard, published by the International Door Association (IDA) and the Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation (IDEA), focuses on the inspection and maintenance requirements for commercial garage doors. It provides guidelines for routine inspection and maintenance procedures to ensure the safe and reliable operation of commercial garage doors. The standard covers various aspects, including door materials, hardware, safety devices, and operational mechanisms, and provides recommendations for repair or replacement of worn or damaged components to prevent potential safety hazards.
5. OSHA Regulations In addition to industry standards, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations that apply to garage door safety in commercial and industrial settings. OSHA requires employers to provide a safe working environment for their employees, including ensuring the safe operation of garage doors. OSHA regulations include requirements for machine guarding, lockout/tagout procedures, training, and hazard communication related to garage door operation.

Garage door safety is of paramount importance to prevent potential accidents and injuries. Adhering to industry standards and regulations can help ensure the safe design, installation, operation, and maintenance of garage doors. If you are a garage door owner or operator, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with these standards.