A car dealership is a hub of activity as families make memories of buying their first cars and upgrade their vehicles. Behind the scenes, there's a busy environment of service representatives, managers, mechanics, security guards, and more. 

This constant activity means that high-performance garage or storage area doors open hundreds of times a day, which is a primary safety concern for any dealership. Manufacturers have designed several high-quality safety features for enhanced security throughout dealerships. 

Door Safety Features at a Car Dealership

Car dealerships can mix and match several door safety features to create the perfect fit for their layout. Worker and vehicle safety is a top priority to protect time, money, and people.

Photo Eyes

Photo eyes are a convenient safety feature that can prevent countless accidents. These devices resemble miniature video cameras fixed on both sides of the rolling door. They use an invisible infrared beam to sense employees, vehicles, and even animals. 

If there's an obstruction, the sensor automatically stops the door from closing to prevent an accident. The photo eye also alerts car dealership management to let them know that something is blocking the door. 

Activation Sensors

There are several different types of door activation sensors available depending on the activity at a car dealership. A few of the main options include: 

• Manual activation: Instead of automation, manual activation uses remote controls or push buttons in low-traffic areas.
• Automatic activation: These sensors rely on hands-free methods for opening and closing doors, such as floor loop sensors, motion and presence detectors, and more.
• Enhanced activation: These sensors target the area in front of the door and allow the user to target the surrounding area with programmable sensors.

Reversing Bottom Edge

The reversing bottom edge can be a life-saving addition to a high-performance rolling door. If there's an obstruction under the door, sensors in the bottom edge will reverse to prevent crushing anything underneath. 

The technology uses two electrically conductive contact elements within a foam cushion on the bottom edge of the door. When the cushion touches an object, the edges compress and cause the contacts to touch. This connection sends an electrical signal to the motor control unit to stop or reverse motion. 

Safety Light Systems

Safety light systems provide sensing technology to notify the automatic door if there is an obstructed path. An important safety light system is the warning light. A flashing amber light can warn nearby auto dealership employees that the door is about to close so that no one accidentally steps underneath. The light should be as bold and bright as possible. This feature will warn people walking on foot or riding in vehicles from any angle approaching the door. 

Select Your Door Safety Solutions Today

Here at Cookson, we believe that safety for equipment and personnel is one of the most important business values. That's why we've been building safer and more reliable solutions for more than a century.

Ready to learn more? Contact us online or find a local dealer to find your door safety solution now.