Private Utility Trenching in Pennsylvania

American Fence Association (AFA)

The AFA establishes best practices for fence and gate fabrication, structural design, and safety compliance. Their Certified Automated Gate Operator Installer (CAGOI) and Certified Gate Automation Designer (CGAD) programs set the national benchmark for gate safety and professionalism.

We use AFA guidelines to:

• Train installers and designers
• Verify safe gate geometry and clearances
• Stay compliant with UL-325 and ASTM F2200

Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association (DASMA)

DASMA is the governing body that publishes technical data sheets (TDS) related to automatic gate operators, overhead doors, and barrier arms.

Key publications we reference include:

• DASMA #303 — Gate Operator Safety
• DASMA #305 — Swing Gate Construction & Installation
• DASMA #306 — Slide Gate Construction
• DASMA #312 — Vehicle Barrier Gate Operators
• DASMA #321 — Guide for UL-325 Compliance

We apply these resources to:

• Validate equipment installation for UL compliance
• Design safe mechanical assemblies
• Integrate safety devices properly

ASTM International

ASTM develops the official engineering standards for construction, testing, and security applications.

Relevant Standards Used by Global Gates LLC:

• ASTM F2200 – Automated Vehicular Gate Construction Standard
• ASTM F2656 – Crash-Rating Standards for Barriers & Bollards
• ASTM F3016 – Low-Speed Vehicle Impact Testing
• ASTM F1184 – Industrial & Commercial Fence Structures
• ASTM F2912 – Performance of Active Vehicle Barriers

We reference these to ensure all crash barriers, wedge systems, and gates meet physical and safety benchmarks before installation.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL 325)

UL 325 defines the national safety standard for automated gates. We ensure every system includes required photo eyes, edges, and loops for entrapment protection compliance.

Global Gates LLC ensures:

• Every automated gate meets UL 325 guidelines
• Required photo eyes, edges, and loops are installed
• Entrapment zones are identified and mitigated
• Documentation and labeling meet inspection standards

IBISWorld — Fence Construction & U.S. Industry Data

IBISWorld provides research and economic data that influence our strategic planning and material procurement.

We monitor trends in steel, aluminum, powder-coating, and automation technology to forecast pricing, supply chain, and project feasibility for our clients.

Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation (IDEA)

IDEA offers certification programs for access-system professionals. Our technicians maintain these certifications to stay updated on code and safety standards.

We follow IDEA's structured education paths for both design and installation, ensuring our technicians remain certified and current on code changes.

Department of Homeland Security — CISA & Infrastructure Security

CISA provides standards and best practices for the physical security of critical infrastructure. Global Gates uses DHS and DoD reference guides for:

• Vehicle barrier design and threat-mitigation planning
• Crash-rating verification (M30, M40, M50 classifications)
• Integration of access control and perimeter defense systems

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

NFPA codes such as NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) guide all electrical wiring and grounding for our automation control panels, PLC cabinets, and loop detectors.

U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) & State Specifications

Global Gates complies with PennDOT, VDOT, and MDOT specifications for public-sector and roadway gate installations, ensuring foundation, trenching, and electrical design meet government requirements.