When buying a stair gate in the UK, it is important to check that the product meets the relevant safety standards. All stair gates and safety barriers sold by Stair-gates.co.uk comply with the applicable UK and European safety standards.
The Key Safety Standard: BS EN 1930:2011
The main safety standard for stair gates and child safety barriers in the UK is BS EN 1930:2011 — formally titled “Child use and care articles — Safety barriers — Safety requirements and test methods”.
This standard covers safety barriers designed for domestic indoor use, fitted across openings to prevent young children (up to 24 months of age) from passing through. It sets out requirements for:
- Structural strength — the gate must withstand the forces a child could exert on it
- Opening mechanisms — the gate must be openable by an adult but not by a young child
- Gaps and dimensions — to prevent children getting their head, body, or limbs trapped
- Materials and finishes — no sharp edges, toxic materials, or hazardous coatings
- Labelling and instructions — clear installation and usage instructions must be provided
When purchasing a stair gate, look for the BS EN 1930:2011 marking on the product or packaging. This confirms that the gate has been independently tested and certified.
What to Check When Buying
- The gate carries the BS EN 1930:2011 certification mark
- The gate is suitable for the width of your opening — measure carefully before ordering
- For the top of stairs, always choose a screw-fit gate — pressure-fit gates are not safe at the top of stairs
- The gate is appropriate for children up to 24 months of age — once your child can climb over or operate the gate, it is no longer effective
- If buying second-hand, verify the gate still meets the current standard and that all parts and instructions are present
Important Safety Rules
- Always keep the gate closed when not in use
- Never stack two gates on top of each other to create a taller barrier — this is extremely dangerous and can cause serious injury
- Do not climb over the gate yourself, as children will copy this behaviour
- Check the gate regularly to ensure it remains securely fitted and undamaged
- Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions exactly — incorrect fitting can compromise safety
UK Product Safety Regulations
In addition to BS EN 1930:2011, stair gates sold in the UK must comply with the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 (UK GPSR), which require that all consumer products placed on the market are safe. Manufacturers and retailers are legally responsible for ensuring products meet these requirements.
The UK Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) oversees enforcement of product safety legislation in the UK.