Modular sliding gate

Abstract

A sliding gate assembly is provided, comprising at least one sliding gate and at least one set of railings into which the sliding gate can be retracted. The assembly may be modular in form and finds particular use in offshore settings.

Description

Introduction

[0001] The present invention relates to a sliding gate assembly, with use in an offshore setting.Background to the Invention

[0002] The extreme weather conditions associated with offshore settings usually mean traditional gates are unsuitable or pose a danger to the user when in use.

[0003] In an offshore setting, gates are exposed to strong lateral forces from wind and rain, whilst their commonly metallic mechanisms are additionally vulnerable to corrosion due to the high salt content of the water increasing the rate of the rusting process. Furthermore, these weather conditions result in frequent and unintended opening and closing of gates, in the absence of user actuation.

[0004] When approaching an offshore rig, floating platform or similar, a user is required to exit a boat and, typically, climb a ladder to a gate that must be opened to allow entry onto the platform. This is a precarious process and highly dangerous, requiring the user of the gate to maintain three points of contact with the ladder when opening the gate. As such, the gate must be simple to actuate with a single hand.

[0005] Hinged gates are typically used in offshore settings, as specialist models allow a user to unlock the gate with one hand and then push open the gate with that same hand. These gates are typically spring-loaded to allow self-closing when the user reaches the platform.

[0006] A problem associated with known offshore gates is the risk they pose to the user(s) when they swing back towards the closed position (either because of their spring or because of the surrounding environment. i.e., wind, or both). For example, a first user might reach the platform and subsequently release the gate, causing the gate to swing back and hit a second user ascending the ladder; this may injure the second user or at least knock them off-balance (a highly dangerous situation when in the middle of the ocean).

[0007] On the manufacturing and supply side, gates are typically made and supplied in sections, meaning they arrive to the offshore platform as a set of railing panels and gate panels, allowing the fitter to simply bolt together the panels and gates as required around the perimeter of the platform. Whilst relatively simple for the fitter, the supplier must transport large numbers of these heavy and relatively space-inefficient panels over thousands of kilometers / miles to their fitting destination, making the logistics of transportation complicated, costly and environmentally unfriendly.

[0008] An aim of the present invention is to provide an alternative gate assembly which overcomes one or more of the aforementioned problems. An aim of a particular embodiment is to provide a sliding gate assembly that is modular and can be easily assembled / disassembled for transportation.Summary of the Invention

[0009] The invention provides a sliding gate assembly comprising at least one sliding gate; and at least one set of railings into which the sliding gate can be retracted, so as to have the gate in the 'open' position.

[0010] It is preferred that the sliding gate assembly is modular. Accordingly, the components of the assembly may be assembled and disassembled according to the user's requirements and convenience. Advantageously, this improves the logistics of transportation, which are typically complicated, costly and environmentally unfriendly.

[0011] The sliding gate assembly preferably comprises at least the following components: a) a first horizontal gate beam, b) a second horizontal gate beam, c) an upright beam for securing (a) and (b) together, d) a first horizontal railing, e) a second horizontal railing, and f) an upright post for securing (d) and (e) together

[0012] Accordingly, it is preferred that the sliding gate assembly comprises at least one sliding gate; and at least one set of railings into which the sliding gate can be retracted, wherein the sliding gate and corresponding railings are in modular form and comprise at least the following components: a. a first horizontal gate beam, b. a second horizontal gate beam, c. an upright beam for securing (a) and (b) together, d. a first horizontal railing, e. a second horizontal railing, and f. an upright post for securing (d) and (e) together, wherein horizontal beams (a) and (b) can slide in and out of recesses within corresponding horizontal railings (d) and (e).

[0013] It is thus preferred that horizontal beams (a) and (b) can slide in and out of recesses within corresponding horizontal railings (d) and (e); this allows for the opening and closing of the sliding gate according to the user's requirements and convenience. For the avoidance of doubt, sliding of the beams into the railings moves the gate into the open / retracted position, whereas sliding of the beams out of the railings moves the gate into the closed / projected position. It should be clear that 'sliding out' does not necessarily mean fully out, i.e., it is important that at least a portion of the beams remains housed within the recesses of the railings, so as to avoid the gate detaching from the railings entirely.

[0014] It is further preferred that components of the sliding gate are all substantially flat when disassembled, and hence can be provided in a kit of substantially flat components, for convenience, e.g. a flat-pack kit. Preferably, the gate beam and railings are substantially flat when disassembled. More preferably, all of the first horizontal gate beam, the second horizontal gate beam, the upright beam, the first horizontal railing, the second horizontal railing and the upright post are substantially flat when disassembled and can be provided in a flat pack form for convenient storage and transportation.

[0015] The horizontal railings typically have an internal diameter that is larger than the diameter of the horizontal gate beams, so as to allow the beams to be housed in the railings when the gate is in the open position. Accordingly, the beams are able to slide within the recesses formed in the railings. This is advantageous, since the overall design is more compact, when compared to assemblies about which the sliding gate operates adjacent to the railings. Thus the space-saving nature of gates of the invention is a benefit. It is also advantageous because the sliding beams are fully housed and unable to collide with objects sat adjacent to the railings, which might otherwise inhibit retraction of the gate into the open position.

[0016] Preferably, the gate beams and the railings are of substantially concentric tubular form, with the beams fitting inside the railings such that the beams can slide with a telescoping action within the railings. The beams and railings can be approximately circular or rectangular or square in cross section, and are approximately rectangular in embodiments described in more detail below. Also preferably, the railings are fixed on the uprights and the beams move with respect to the railings and the uprights.

[0017] Preferably one or more low-friction contact interfaces are provided within the horizontal railings, so as to provide a smooth sliding mechanism when the gate is moved between the open (retracted) and closed (protruded or projected) positions. These low-friction contact interfaces may include rolling elements (such as rollers, wheels or ball bearings) or sliding elements (such as wear pads, glide strips or bushings). Preferably, rollers or wear pads are used. Preferably, the wear pads are plastic wear pads. Preferably, the wear pads are disposed between the railings and the gate beams. Rollers may be disposed between the railings and the gate beams or, alternatively, they may be disposed within the gate beams. In any case, the low-friction contact interfaces are disposed within the railing recesses. Advantageously, these low-friction contact interfaces provide assistance to the sliding mechanism, making it smoother and less vulnerable to wear and tear.

[0018] The low-friction contact interfaces are particularly advantageous in offshore settings where harsh environmental conditions can significantly impair gate operation. In marine environments, the high salt content of seawater accelerates corrosion of metallic components, causing the rails and beams to develop surface roughness, pitting and oxidation that creates substantial friction and binding during sliding operations. Additionally, salt deposits, marine growth and debris can accumulate within the rail recesses, further impeding smooth movement. The low-friction contact interfaces help overcome these challenges by providing a barrier between the corroded surfaces and maintaining smooth operation even when the underlying metal components have deteriorated. This is critical for safety in offshore applications where gate malfunction could prevent emergency egress or ingress, potentially putting users at risk in already hazardous conditions.

[0019] Optionally, rollers are mounted to the post(s) and rest within the recess(es) of the horizontal gate beam(s). When mounted to the post(s), a channel is formed in the beam(s) to allow the beam(s) to effectively slide within the railing(s) without being inhibited by the fixing of the roller(s) to the post(s). The channel extends along the length of the beam by a distance sufficient to allow the gate to fully move between open and closed positions.

[0020] The railings section typically comprises two upright posts and at least two horizontal railings, wherein the horizontal railings are connected to (secured to) one another via the upright posts. The horizontal railings are thus indirectly connected.

[0021] Optionally, the sliding gate assembly comprises three or more horizontal railings. Optionally, the sliding gate assembly comprises three or more horizontal gate beams.

[0022] Preferably, the components of the assembly are made from sheet metal that is folded into the correct shape. Optionally, aluminium sheets or aluminium alloy sheets are used.

[0023] It is preferred that at least one stopper is provided, so as to prevent sliding of the horizontal gate beams out of the first and second horizontal railings when the gate is moved into the closed position. The stopper may simply be an upturned portion of the beam(s) that abuts a portion of the railing(s) when projected to the desired maximum distance. A specific example would be an upturned portion of the beam that abuts a roller mounted to the railings post that rests within a recess in the beam.

[0024] Preferably a catch is provided on the assembly, so as to prevent movement of the gate from the open position to the closed position in the absence of user actuation. This catch may be automatic, in that it activates upon sliding of the gate into the open position (without the need for the user to actuate the catch). The user would simply actuate the catch to disengage it and allow the gate to move back into the closed position. Alternatively, the catch may be fully manual, in that user actuation is required both to engage it and disengage it. Preferably, the catch can be automatic or manual, dependent on the user's preference.

[0025] To assist the gate in closing, without the need for user input, the gate may be spring-loaded. In this case, it is preferred that the spring provides enough force to safely and consistently close the gate, however not so much that there is excess resistance on opening of the gate.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, two sliding gates and two sets of railings into which the sliding gates can be retracted are provided, so as to form a sliding double-gate assembly. The two sliding gates meet at a central point, at which they are optionally fastened to one another when closed.

[0027] It is preferred that the horizontal railings comprise an open channel on one surface that extends along the length of the beams by at least the distance the gate is required to slide. As mentioned above and below, this assists in providing access to the inner recess for maintenance and proper functioning of the low-friction contact interface system (when deployed). Preferably, the corresponding horizontal gate beams comprise a similar set of aligned channels.

[0028] Accordingly, the open channel provides access to recesses within the horizontal railings and / or gate beams, such that one or more low-friction contact interfaces can accommodate these recesses and assist in providing a smooth sliding mechanism when the gate is moved between the open and closed positions.

[0029] The open channel configuration provides significant advantages for maintenance and repair operations. The channel allows direct access to internal components such as rollers, wear pads and other low-friction contact interfaces without requiring complete disassembly of the gate system. This accessibility enables routine inspection, lubrication, cleaning and replacement of worn components, thereby extending the operational life of the assembly and reducing downtime. Additionally, the open channel facilitates the removal of debris, salt deposits and / or other contaminants that may accumulate within the railings and impede smooth operation. This maintenance accessibility is particularly critical in offshore environments where equipment is subjected to harsh conditions including saltwater exposure, extreme weather and limited maintenance windows. Offshore structures often experience extended periods between scheduled maintenance visits due to logistical challenges and weather constraints. The ability to perform quick repairs and maintenance through the open channel without extensive disassembly is therefore invaluable for maintaining operational safety and reliability. Furthermore, the corrosive marine environment accelerates wear and degradation of mechanical components, making regular maintenance access essential for preventing catastrophic failures that could compromise user safety in already hazardous offshore conditions.

[0030] It is preferred that the sliding gate assembly of the invention is fitted with a deadbolt locking mechanism for securing the gate in the closed position. The deadbolt locking mechanism is fitted to a gate portion of the assembly, while the associated strike plate is fitted to either a gate post or similar (single-gate variety) or another sliding gate (double-gate variety). In any case, the deadbolt mechanism typically comprises a handle, a main body and a distal end. The handle preferably exists at an approximate 90-degree angle, compared to the main body, and is downward-facing when at rest.

[0031] The distal end of the deadbolt preferably comprises at least one protrusion that extends away from the main body of the deadbolt at an approximate 90-degree angle. Functionally, this protrusion prevents movement of the distal end of the deadbolt through the aperture in the strike plate when the handle is at rest (downward-facing). Upon lifting of the handle by a user (by approximately 90-degrees), the protrusion aligns with a widening of the strike plate aperture, so as to allow movement of the deadbolt distal end through the aperture. Preferably, two oppositely-facing protrusions are provided at the deadbolt distal end.

[0032] This deadbolt system is particularly advantageous, since gravity assists in moving the deadbolt handle to the resting position, meaning user actuation is required to unlock the gate when in the closed and locked position. In an offshore setting, a simple yet effective locking system is important, due to extreme weather conditions impacting user safety. Furthermore, common deadbolt systems that are easy to actuate with one hand (a requirement in an offshore setting) are often undesirably actuated, in the absence of user input, due to significant lateral forces (from wind / rain) being applied.

[0033] Given the modularity of a particularly preferred embodiment of the assembly, the components must be secured to one another (directly or indirectly) to form their configuration for use. It is preferred to use removable fasteners (e.g., bolts) for this purpose. Typically, the horizontal components are secured indirectly to one another via the upright components.

[0034] The invention provides use of the sliding gate assembly, as defined above and below, for fitting to an offshore structure. The offshore structure may be bottom supported / fixed or floating.

[0035] Preferably, the bottom supported / fixed offshore structure is a jack-up rig, a gravity-based platform, a compliant tower, a monopile structure, a bridge platform, a junction platform, or a jacket platform.

[0036] Preferably, the floating offshore structure is a drilling barge, a semi-submersible rig, a drillship, a spar platform, a tension leg platform, or a floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) system.

[0037] The invention further provides a method of assembling the sliding gate assembly as defined above and below, comprising the steps of: securing (e.g., with removeable fasteners) the first horizontal beam indirectly to the second horizontal beam, via the upright beam, so as to form a sliding gate portion; securing (e.g., with removeable fasteners) the first horizontal railing indirectly to the second horizontal railing, via the upright post, so as to form a railings portion; and inserting the first and second horizontal beams into the recesses within the corresponding first and second horizontal railings, such that the sliding gate portion can move between retracted (open) and projected (closed) positions.

[0038] Preferably, the method of assembly additionally comprises the step of fitting one or more low-friction contact interfaces within the first and second horizontal railings, such as to provide the sliding gate portion with a smooth movement between retracted and projected positions.

[0039] Optionally, the method additionally comprises the step of fitting at least one stopper, so as to prevent the sliding gate portion from sliding out of the railings portion when in the projected position.

[0040] Preferably, the method of assembly additionally comprises the step of fitting at least one catch, so as to prevent movement of the sliding gate portion from the retracted position to the projected position in the absence of user actuation.

[0041] The invention additionally provides a method of using the sliding gate assembly as defined above and below.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, a method of using the sliding gate assembly is provided, wherein the assembly comprises at least one sliding gate, having a deadbolt locking mechanism, and at least one set of railings, into which the sliding gate can be retracted, wherein: (i) in the closed and locked position, a user lifts a downward-facing handle by approximately 90-degrees, which rotates a main body / distal end of the deadbolt, such that a protrusion on the distal end of the deadbolt is able to pass through an aperture of a strike plate when the user moves the gate into the unlocked position by retracting the deadbolt; (ii) in the unlocked position, the user opens the gate by sliding the gate across, such that it is retracted within the at least one set of railings; (iii) in the open and unlocked position, the user closes the gate by sliding the gate across, such that it is projected out of the at least one set of railings; and (iv) in the closed and unlocked position, the user lifts the downward-facing handle by approximately 90-degrees, before projecting the deadbolt distal end through the aperture of the strike plate and releasing the handle, allowing it to fall back into the downward-facing position, hence moving the gate into the locked position.

[0043] Optionally, the assembly comprises two sliding gates and two sets of railings into which the sliding gates can be retracted, so as to form a sliding double-gate assembly, wherein the deadbolt mechanism is mounted to the first sliding gate and the strike plate is mounted to the second sliding gate, such that the two gates can be locked to one another.

[0044] The invention further provides a kit comprising the components of the assembly as defined above and below.

[0045] The invention finally proves a method of manufacturing the sliding gate assembly as defined above and below, comprising the step of folding pieces of sheet metal to provide the components. The sheet metal is preferably aluminium or an alloy thereof.

[0046] The invention hence provides a modular sliding gate assembly, for use in an offshore setting.Examples Reference Key

[0047] (1) Sliding gate assembly (2) Gate panel (4) Railing panel (6) Platform girder (8) Gate post (10) Roller mechanism (12) Deadbolt handle (13) Deadbolt main body (14) Deadbolt distal end (with 90-degree protrusion) (16) Strike plate aperture (18) Strike plate (20) Fixing bolt

[0048] The invention is now illustrated in specific examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a modular sliding double-gate assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, with a cut-away portion of a railing panel exposing the internal roller mechanism; Fig. 2 shows a sliding gate according to a preferred embodiment of the invention mostly retracted into its railings; Fig. 3 shows a close-up view of the internal roller mechanism within the railings that assists retraction / protrusion of a sliding gate according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4 shows a close-up view of the deadbolt of a sliding gate according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; and Fig. 5 shows a gate post from a modular sliding single-gate assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, with the deadbolt strike plate mounted thereon. Example 1 - Modular Sliding Double-Gate Assembly with Rollers

[0049] As illustrated in Figures 1-4, there is provided a modular sliding double-gate assembly (1), which has two slidable gate panels (2) that meet one another at a central point when projected (in the 'closed position') and can also be retracted into corresponding sets of railing panels (4), so as to move the gate assembly into the 'open position'.

[0050] In further detail, the gate panels (2) are each composed of three horizontal beams that are indirectly joined to one another via an upright beam using a set of removable bolts (20).

[0051] The horizontal beams of the moveable gate panels (2) are of a smaller diameter than that of the internal diameter of a set of corresponding railings of the fixed railing panels (4). Accordingly, this means the beams can slide in and out of recesses formed within the corresponding railings. The railing panels (4) are thus also each composed of three horizontal railings that are indirectly joined to one another via two upright posts (8) using a set of removable bolts (20).

[0052] Both the horizontal beams and horizontal railings are formed of aluminium sheet metal that has been folded in four places to create a rectangular cross-section with an internal recess and an open channel extending along the length of the beam / railing.

[0053] The posts (8) of each railings panel (4) are mounted to the platform girder (6) of an offshore structure and secured thereto using removable bolts.

[0054] Mounted to each post (8) at the intersection with each railing, there is fitted a roller (10) that, in use, accommodates the internal recess of the gate beam. As such, the mounting assembly for the roller extends from the post (8) and through the aligned channels in the railing and beam, with the wider portion of the roller (10) being fully housed within the recess. In the gate's retracted position, the beams are in contact with all rollers, whereas when in the projected position, the beams are in contact with only the rollers of one post. The rollers provide the gate assembly with an enhanced sliding motion.

[0055] The gate beams are each fitted with a rubber stopper (not shown) within their recesses, which is located at approximately 80% of the distance along the beam (away from the upright beam), such that when the gate section (2) is projected towards the closed position, the stopper abuts the roller (10), preventing further sliding of the gate section (2) away from the railings section (4).

[0056] On one of the sliding gate upright beams there is fitted a deadbolt mechanism having a handle (12), a main body (13) and a distal end (14). On the corresponding sliding gate panel there is fitted a strike plate (18) with an aperture (16) for receiving the deadbolt. When the two gates (2) are projected (i.e., in their closed positions), the user is able to lift the handle (12) upwards by 90-degrees and slide the deadbolt distal end (14) through the aperture (16) of the strike plate (18), before releasing the handle (12) and locking the double-gate assembly (1). The deadbolt distal end (14) can only pass through the aperture (16) when the handle (12) is lifted because there exists two oppositely-facing protrusions on the distal end (14) of the deadbolt, which must align with a widening in the aperture (16). When the handle (12) is released by the user, it falls under gravity to its downward-facing 'resting' position, and the protrusions no longer align with the wide portion of the aperture (16), so the distal end (14) cannot pass through the aperture (16). The gate is hence locked.

[0057] In use, to open the gates (2), the user simply lifts the handle (12) and slides the deadbolt (14) through the aperture (16) in the strike plate (18), unlocking the gates, before releasing the handle (12) and sliding the gates (2) across into their respective railings sections (4). The user can then pass through the opening and onto the platform, before reversing this process to close and lock the gates (2).Example 2 - Modular Sliding Double-Gate Assembly with Wear Pads

[0058] As illustrated in Figures 1-4, there is provided a modular sliding double-gate assembly (1), which has two slidable gate panels (2) that meet one another at a central point when projected (in the 'closed position') and can also be retracted into corresponding sets of railing panels (4), so as to move the gate assembly into the 'open position'.

[0059] In further detail, the gate panels (2) are each composed of three horizontal beams that are indirectly joined to one another via an upright beam using a set of removable bolts (20).

[0060] The horizontal beams of the moveable gate panels (2) are of a smaller diameter than that of the internal diameter of a set of corresponding railings of the fixed railing panels (4). Accordingly, this means the beams can slide in and out of recesses formed within the corresponding railings. The railing panels (4) are thus also each composed of three horizontal railings that are indirectly joined to one another via two upright posts (8) using a set of removable bolts (20).

[0061] The horizontal railings are formed of aluminium sheet metal that has been folded in four places to create a rectangular cross-section with an internal recess and an open channel extending along the length of the railing. The horizontal beams are similarly formed of aluminium sheet metal folded to create a rectangular cross-section, but without an open channel.

[0062] The posts (8) of each railings panel (4) are mounted to the platform girder (6) of an offshore structure and secured thereto using removable bolts.

[0063] Mounted within the recesses of the horizontal railings, there are fitted plastic wear pads that, in use, provide a low-friction contact interface with the gate beams. The wear pads are accessible through the open channel in the railings for maintenance or replacement. In the gate's retracted position, the beams are in contact with all wear pads, whereas when in the projected position, the beams are in contact with only some of the wear pads. The wear pads provide the gate assembly with an enhanced sliding motion.

[0064] The gate beams are each fitted with a rubber stopper (not shown) within their recesses, which is located at approximately 80% of the distance along the beam (away from the upright beam), such that when the gate section (2) is projected towards the closed position, the stopper abuts a portion of the railing, preventing further sliding of the gate section (2) away from the railings section (4).

[0065] On one of the sliding gate upright beams there is fitted a deadbolt mechanism having a handle (12), a main body (13) and a distal end (14). On the corresponding sliding gate panel there is fitted a strike plate (18) with an aperture (16) for receiving the deadbolt. When the two gates (2) are projected (i.e., in their closed positions), the user is able to lift the handle (12) upwards by 90-degrees and slide the deadbolt distal end (14) through the aperture (16) of the strike plate (18), before releasing the handle (12) and locking the double-gate assembly (1). The deadbolt distal end (14) can only pass through the aperture (16) when the handle (12) is lifted because there exists two oppositely-facing protrusions on the distal end (14) of the deadbolt, which must align with a widening in the aperture (16). When the handle (12) is released by the user, it falls under gravity to its downward-facing 'resting' position, and the protrusions no longer align with the wide portion of the aperture (16), so the distal end (14) cannot pass through the aperture (16). The gate is hence locked.

[0066] In use, to open the gates (2), the user simply lifts the handle (12) and slides the deadbolt (14) through the aperture (16) in the strike plate (18), unlocking the gates, before releasing the handle (12) and sliding the gates (2) across into their respective railings sections (4). The user can then pass through the opening and onto the platform, before reversing this process to close and lock the gates (2).Example 3 - Modular Sliding Single-Gate Assembly

[0067] As illustrated in Fig. 5, the modular sliding gate assembly (1) may have only one gate section (2). In this variation, the strike plate (18) is instead mounted on a gate post (8) about which the sliding gate (2) contacts when in the projected position.

[0068] The invention hence provides a modular sliding gate assembly.

Claims

1. A sliding gate assembly (1) comprising at least one sliding gate (2); and at least one set of railings (4) into which the sliding gate can be retracted, wherein the sliding gate and corresponding railings are in modular form and comprise at least the following components: a. a first horizontal gate beam, b. a second horizontal gate beam, c. an upright beam for securing (a) and (b) together, d. a first horizontal railing, e. a second horizontal railing, and f. an upright post (8) for securing (d) and (e) together, wherein horizontal beams (a) and (b) can slide in and out of recesses within corresponding horizontal railings (d) and (e), wherein one or more low-friction contact interfaces are provided within the horizontal railings to facilitate sliding of the gate between open and closed positions, and wherein the horizontal railings comprise an open channel on one surface that extends along the length of the railings by at least the distance the gate is required to slide.

2. A sliding gate assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first and second horizontal railings have an internal diameter that is larger than the diameter of the first and second horizontal gate beams, so as to allow the beams to be housed in the railings when the gate is in the open position.

3. A sliding gate assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the low-friction contact interfaces comprise one or more rollers (10) provided within the first and second horizontal railings.

4. A sliding gate assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the low-friction contact interfaces comprise one or more wear pads provided within the first and second horizontal railings.

5. A sliding gate assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first and second horizontal gate beams comprise an open channel on one surface that extends along the length of the beams by at least the distance the gate is required to slide.

6. A sliding gate assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one stopper is provided, so as to prevent sliding of the first and second horizontal gate beams out of the first and second horizontal railings when the gate is moved into the closed position.

7. A sliding gate assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein a catch is provided, so as to prevent movement of the gate from the open position to the closed position in the absence of user actuation.

8. A sliding gate assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising two sliding gates and two sets of railings into which the sliding gates can be retracted, so as to form a sliding double-gate assembly.

9. A sliding gate assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising a deadbolt locking mechanism for securing the gate in the closed position, wherein the deadbolt comprises a handle (12) and a distal end (14), the distal end comprising a protrusion that extends away from the main body (13) of the deadbolt at an approximate 90-degree angle.

10. Use of a sliding gate assembly as defined in any preceding claim, wherein the gate assembly is fitted to an offshore structure, optionally wherein the offshore structure is bottom supported / fixed or floating, e.g., a jack-up rig, a gravity-based platform, a compliant tower, a monopile structure, a bridge platform, a junction platform, or a jacket platform; or a drilling barge, a semi-submersible rig, a drillship, a spar platform, a tension leg platform, or a floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) system.

11. A method of assembling the sliding gate assembly as defined in any of claims 1-9, comprising the steps of: securing the first horizontal beam indirectly to the second horizontal beam, via the upright beam, so as to form a sliding gate portion; securing the first horizontal railing indirectly to the second horizontal railing, via the upright post, so as to form a railings portion; installing the one or more low-friction contact interfaces within the horizontal railings; and inserting the first and second horizontal beams into the recesses within the corresponding first and second horizontal railings, such that the sliding gate portion can move between retracted and projected positions.

12. A kit comprising the components defined in any of claims 1-9.

13. A kit according to claim 12, in flat-pack form, wherein all of the first and second horizontal gate beams, the upright beam, the first and second horizontal railings and the upright post lie flat when disassembled.

14. A method of using a sliding gate assembly (1), wherein the assembly comprises at least one sliding gate (2), having a deadbolt locking mechanism, and at least one set of railings (4), into which the sliding gate can be retracted, wherein: (i) in the closed and locked position, a user lifts a downward-facing handle (12) by approximately 90-degrees, which rotates a main body (13) / distal end (14) of the deadbolt, such that a protrusion on the distal end of the deadbolt is able to pass through an aperture of a strike plate when the user moves the gate into the unlocked position by retracting the deadbolt; (ii) in the unlocked position, the user opens the gate by sliding the gate across, such that it is retracted within the at least one set of railings; (iii) in the open and unlocked position, the user closes the gate by sliding the gate across, such that it is projected out of the at least one set of railings; and (iv) in the closed and unlocked position, the user lifts the downward-facing handle by approximately 90-degrees, before projecting the deadbolt distal end through the aperture of the strike plate and releasing the handle, allowing it to fall back into the downward-facing position, hence moving the gate into the locked position.

15. A method according to claim 15, wherein the assembly comprises two sliding gates and two sets of railings into which the sliding gates can be retracted, so as to form a sliding double-gate assembly, wherein the deadbolt mechanism is mounted to the first sliding gate and the strike plate is mounted to the second sliding gate, such that the two gates can be locked to one another.

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