Main hazards

• Cuts and punctures from metal edges, wire tips, staples or fixings; splinters from wood or bamboo panels.
• Pinch and entrapment hazards at door or gate hinges and latches, especially in windy conditions.
• Falls and impacts during installation due to use of ladders, post holes or trenches, or uneven ground.
• Overexertion and crushing when handling heavy, bulky panels or rolls.
• Fence instability or tipping if posts or anchors become loose, or in strong gusts of wind.
• Damage to buried pipes or cables when excavating for posts.
• Corrosion or rust on mesh and fittings, or rot in timber, which can weaken the structure.
• Risk to children and pets from gaps, exposed points or features that facilitate climbing.
• Electrical hazard if the fence is improperly connected to power sources or to electric fencing.

Safe use

• Read and follow the specific product instructions before installing or handling.
• Wear protective gloves, eye protection and closed-toe footwear; handle panels and rolls with two people when required.
• Mark off the work area and keep children and pets away during installation.
• Check for any buried services before digging and excavate the holes carefully.
• Work with good lighting, stable footing and no strong wind; use ladders correctly and avoid overreaching.
• Fix posts and fittings according to the manufacturer’s instructions; do not improvise joints with loose wires that leave sharp ends.
• Finish ends and edges with caps, trims or hems to prevent cuts; remove or cover any visible splinters.
• Adjust hinges and latches so the gate does not slam; fit stops if needed to limit the travel.
• Keep the fence away from heat sources or open flames (barbecues, torches) and do not use it to hang lighting or cables without appropriate accessories.
• Do not connect the fence to the mains supply or to electrification equipment if the product is not designed for it.

Storage and maintenance

• Before installation, store panels and rolls in a dry, ventilated place, in a stable position and out of the reach of children.
• Cut packaging straps or ties carefully and keep hands and face clear.
• Periodically inspect screws, staples, ties, tensioners and posts; retighten or replace loose, corroded or damaged parts.
• Clean with water and mild soap; avoid harsh products that could attack coatings or timber.
• Protect metal and timber with suitable outdoor products where applicable, following the manufacturer’s guidance.
• Clear vegetation at the base and remove heavy climbers if the structure is not intended to support them; this reduces wind load and moisture.
• Lubricate hinges and ensure latches and catches operate smoothly, without play or slamming.
• After storms, check post verticality, anchors and foundations, and repair any settlement or cracks.

Restrictions on use

• It is not a fall-protection barrier and is not suitable for use on balconies, staircases or other drops.
• It does not replace specific enclosures for swimming pools or other high-risk areas.
• Not designed to bear loads; do not climb, sit, lean your weight on it, or hang planters, awnings or heavy objects.
• Do not use the fence to contain large or aggressive animals without specialist systems; for small pets, check that the height and mesh aperture are suitable.
• Do not use the fence as a retaining structure or to shore up slopes.
• Do not add barbed wire or other sharp elements in domestic settings.
• During installation and adjustments, maintain close supervision if children or pets are in the area.