Abstract: A removable safety barricade, comprising a cross piece supported by a retaining cup and a latch and able to withstand large forces. The latch supports the cross piece in a U-shaped, lower support area, the cross piece not normally being in contact with the upper release mechanism. The invention further provides for a one way gate opening only inwardly of the latch to close off the support area and confine the gate within the latch, the gate hanging at an angle with respect to the top of the latch when closed so that its own weight automatically closes the gate and resists accidental opening. The gate can have an extending tab to provide for easy opening, and the invention further provides for a spacer plate disposed within the support area of the latch to prevent the cross piece from accidentally striking open the gate.