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Swinging gates
A fenced paddock is not secure until the gate is in place. A gate should swing smoothly on its strainer post and not drag or scrape along the ground.
Ideally, a gate should open both ways, although the terrain does not always make this possible.
When the fence is designed and strainer posts positioned, sufficient room must be allowed for the gate with an allowance on either side. If the gateway is too narrow the gate will not be able to swing both ways. If it is too wide, young or small stock may be able to push between the gate and the strainer post. Similarly, small animals can push under a gate that is set too high off the ground.
Before fitting the gate it should be positioned on blocks evenly between the posts. Temporary wire hinges can be used to hold the gate in place. Most factory-made hinges are pushed through holes bored in the strainer post and bolted securely in place.
The chain and catch are fitted to the opposite post and positioned so that stock are not injured as they move through the gateway. A catch that is too tight is a constant frustration but if the catch is too loose stock might try to push through the opening.
The final task required to finish a fencing job is to clear up the site. Any piles of soil should be moved and spread appropriately. Unused posts and wire should be returned to storage and tools cleaned, serviced and stored correctly. Any damaged or faulty tools or equipment should be reported to the supervisor. Off-cuts of timber and wire should be picked up and disposed of correctly or recycled where possible.
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