For the past 20 years, the American Fence Association has been working with industry leaders to raise awareness around gate safety, because we know that Safe Gates Save Lives!
A History of Gate Safety
Our collaborations, with partners like ASTM, CLFMI, DASMA, UL and NOMMA, have pioneered the process for incorporating gate safety standards into the fence industry. The development of UL325, in 1998, allowed for the safer use of electronic gate operators, which would eventually pave the way for higher safety standards in manual gates. The AFA has taught countless hours of education through AFA University, and the industry has certified many in gate design and automation.
Call to Action
A renewed sense of passion has developed in our leadership and our members, as we learned about the tragic death of 7- year-old, Alex Quanbeck, in 2019. Unfortunately, this tragedy is not an isolated incident. There have been several gate fatalities and injuries that have been caused by manual gates throughout the country. The most recent of these tragedies occurred in 2023, when a young girl was killed at her school.
With a new sense of urgency, and understanding, around these events, the AFA has spearheaded the way to create industry-wide action through our partnership with the Hummingbird Alliance. Together, with the rest of the fence industry, we are working to mutually reinforce the need for gate safety awareness and education with all stake holders. We are collaborating with other industry leaders, talking to manufacturers and installers, providing awareness to schools, code enforcement officials and AHJ’s, and offering training to any who are interested in learning these safety standards. All of us may live, work, or play near a gate, and it is important for us to work together to prevent these accidents from occurring.
Media
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: November 27, 2024
AMERICAN FENCE ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES INTRODUCTION OF BIPARTISAN FEDERAL GATE SAFETY LEGISLATION
Dallas, TX – The American Fence Association (AFA) is pleased to announce the introduction of the Alex Gate Safety Act, a bipartisan federal initiative aimed at improving gate safety standards across the United States. U.S. Representatives Jared Huffman (D-CA-02) and John Curtis (R-UT-03) introduced the legislation, which seeks to prevent accidents caused by poorly designed, inadequately maintained, or faulty gates.
This legislation, developed in collaboration with the Hummingbird Alliance, represents the culmination of months of dedicated effort by industry professionals and advocates. The bill directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to establish mandatory safety rules and launch an awareness campaign to ensure gates meet modernized industry safety standards.
The Act is named in memory of Alex Quanbeck, a seven-year-old boy who tragically lost his life after being crushed by a falling gate during recess at school. His death highlights the urgent need for updated standards to prevent similar incidents.
Congressional Support for Gate Safety
“The same gates designed to protect our children can pose serious, often overlooked risks,” said Representative Huffman. “Our community suffered an unimaginable loss when young Alex Quanbeck died in what could have been a preventable accident. A simple, cost-effective safety feature would have saved his life. This legislation addresses these hazards by implementing updated safety standards that protect all of us in schools, workplaces, homes, and public spaces.”
“Tragic incidents like the deaths of Alex Quanbeck and Esther Nakajjigo underscore the need for robust gate safety measures,” said Representative Curtis. “This bipartisan legislation incorporates straightforward, affordable mechanisms, such as fall stop posts, to prevent future tragedies. Partnering with Congressman Huffman and industry stakeholders, we are committed to enacting meaningful safety reforms that will save lives and spare families from needless heartbreak.”
Industry and Advocacy Group Endorsements
Michael Reed, Executive Director of the American Fence Association, emphasized the industry’s commitment:
“The AFA, in partnership with the Hummingbird Alliance, is proud to champion gate safety reforms. Alex Quanbeck’s story galvanized our community to act. Building on nearly two decades of automated gate safety standards, our industry is uniting once more to enhance safety measures. We are deeply grateful to Representatives Huffman and Curtis for their leadership on this life-saving legislation, which benefits all Americans.”
Eric and Dayna Quanbeck, Alex’s parents and founders of the Hummingbird Alliance, shared their perspective:
“No family should endure the loss of a loved one due to a preventable accident. This legislation ensures that simple, affordable safety measures are implemented to prevent tragedies like Alex’s. We commend Representatives Huffman and Curtis for advancing this commonsense, bipartisan effort to improve gate safety standards nationwide.”
Ben Shirley, Chair of the ASTM F14 Committee on Fences, highlighted the importance of collaboration:
“Our industry committed to reevaluating safety standards, and we successfully updated manual gate specifications to address critical safety concerns. What may seem like minor adjustments to technical language can have a profound impact, ensuring greater safety across the industry.”
Dave Monsour, Technical Director of the Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association (DASMA), reflected on the legislative process:
“DASMA is honored to contribute to this essential initiative in collaboration with the Hummingbird Alliance. The proposed regulations represent a thoughtful, balanced approach developed with input from diverse industry professionals. These measures promise to significantly enhance gate safety for years to come.”
For further information, please contact:
Catherine Mills-Reynolds
Director, Government Relations and Industry Standards
Email: Catherine@americanfenceassociation.com
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: August 30, 2024
AMERICAN FENCE ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES ENACTMENT OF CRITICAL POOL GATE SAFETY LEGISLATION IN NEW YORK
[Dallas, TX"> – The American Fence Association (AFA), in collaboration with the New York Long Island Chapter, is proud to announce the signing of vital pool gate safety legislation by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The new law, S.7731/A.9888C, marks a significant step forward in improving pool safety across the state, ensuring that pool gates meet the highest industry standards.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of this legislation, stating, “Education and proper safety standards are vital to keeping New York’s swimmers safe. The legislation signed today will go a long way in addressing these crucial issues.”
For the past year, AFA and the NYLI Chapter have been advocating for this legislation to address a persistent challenge faced by fence contractors, manufacturers, and distributors in New York. With the new law, contractors will now be able to install pool gate latches in accordance with ASTM standards, creating safer pool environments for all New Yorkers.
AFA Executive Director Michael Reed expressed his gratitude, saying, “On behalf of the American Fence Association, I want to thank our members in New York for their unwavering commitment to improving our industry. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for prioritizing pool gate safety and advancing the highest standards within the fence industry. Special thanks also go to Assemblymember McDonald and State Senator Gallivan for their leadership and dedication in championing this essential legislation.”
Mike DeLorenzo, AFA Chapter President Committee Chair Elect and former NYLI Chapter President, added, “We deeply appreciate Governor Hochul’s support and the efforts of Assemblymember McDonald and State Senator Gallivan. Their willingness to understand the critical nature of this safety issue and the mechanics of pool gates has resulted in a significant victory for New York’s fence companies.”
State Senator Patrick Gallivan noted, “By updating these safety provisions, we are ensuring that first responders and bystanders can access swimming pool gates swiftly in emergencies. Aligning New York’s regulations with international standards will enhance pool safety and provide better protection for children. I commend the fencing and swimming pool industries for bringing this important issue to the legislature.”
Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The signing of A.9888C into law is a significant step toward preventing drownings and increasing pool safety. This new law promotes the proper use of pool enclosures and improves access for first responders. I extend my thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul for signing this crucial measure into law.”
Contact:
Catherine Mills-Reynolds
Director, Government Relations and Industry Standards
Catherine@americanfenceassociation.com
Partner in Gate Safety
The AFA's major partner in gate safety is The Hummingbird Alliance. You can find out more about their organization below.
The Hummingbird Alliance is an organization making positive change by leading conversations and focusing education on school safety. Founded in memory of Alex Quanbeck, and dedicated to children everywhere.
The Hummingbird Alliance
