How Turnstiles Improve Access Control & Site Security

As a business owner, ensuring the security of your premises is more important than ever, particularly with crime rates continuing to rise in the UK. 

Effective access control systems are crucial for protecting assets, safeguarding employees, and maintaining a secure environment. Turnstiles are a fantastic solution to access control, providing an efficient and reliable solution for managing pedestrian flow and preventing unauthorised entry.

In this guide, we’ll be looking at the ways in which turnstiles can improve access control and site security for your business.

What are Turnstiles?

Turnstiles are mechanical gates that allow one person to pass at a time, typically used to control access to secure areas. They are integrated into access control systems to verify credentials, such as keycards or biometric scans, before granting entry.

Turnstiles are widely used in various settings, including office buildings, industrial sites, public transportation hubs, and entertainment venues, to enhance security and streamline entry processes.

Types of Turnstiles

Full-Height Turnstiles

Full-height turnstiles are robust barriers designed to provide maximum security. They are often used in high-security areas such as industrial facilities and stadiums. These turnstiles ensure that only authorised individuals can enter or exit, making them ideal for perimeter security. The key benefit of full-height turnstiles is the ability to prevent climbing or crawling underneath. 

Waist-High Turnstiles

Waist-high turnstiles, also known as tripod turnstiles, are commonly used in places where moderate security is needed, such as office buildings, gyms, and amusement parks. They consist of a three-arm mechanism that rotates to allow one person to pass at a time after verifying their credentials.

These are typically a more budget friendly option thanks to their lower cost compared to full-height turnstiles, however, they do not provide the same levels of security.

Fortunately, thanks to their user-friendly design, they are easy for individuals to use and pass through quickly and are suitable for various environments with high foot traffic.

Benefits of Turnstile Access Control Security Systems

Prevention of Unauthorised Access

Turnstiles act as a first line of defence by physically barring unauthorised individuals from entering secure areas. By requiring credentials for entry, they significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access and potential security breaches.

Integration with Other Security Systems

Turnstiles can be integrated with various security systems, including CCTV, biometric scanners, and alarm systems. This integration provides a comprehensive security solution, enabling real-time monitoring and quick response to any security incidents.

Improved Access Control

Turnstile systems can monitor and record every entry and exit, providing valuable data for security audits and investigations. This tracking capability helps in maintaining an accurate log of who is on the premises at any given time.

Streamlined Entry Process

Turnstiles streamline the entry process by automating access control, reducing the need for manual checks by security personnel. This automation speeds up the entry process, especially during peak times, and reduces queues and bottlenecks.

Reduced Need for Security Personnel

By automating access control, turnstiles reduce the reliance on security personnel to monitor entry points. This not only cuts down on labour costs but also allows security staff to focus on more critical tasks, enhancing overall site security.

Applications of Turnstile Entry Systems

Commercial Buildings

In office complexes and retail environments, turnstile entry systems are essential for managing access and enhancing security. They help control the flow of employees and visitors, ensuring that only authorised individuals can enter specific areas. This not only improves security but also helps streamline operations by reducing congestion at entry points.

Industrial Sites

Turnstiles are vital in industrial sites such as warehouses and manufacturing plants, where security and safety are paramount. They prevent unauthorised personnel from accessing potentially hazardous areas, thereby protecting both employees and sensitive equipment. 

Turnstiles also help monitor and record the movement of people, which is crucial for maintaining compliance with safety regulations.

Public Spaces

Public spaces like transport hubs, sports arenas, and entertainment venues benefit significantly from turnstile entry systems. These systems manage large crowds efficiently, reducing bottlenecks and ensuring a smooth flow of people. By integrating with ticketing systems and access control devices, turnstiles help prevent unauthorised entry and enhance overall security.

Festivals and Events

At festivals and large events, turnstile systems are invaluable for managing large crowds and controlling access to restricted areas. By using security systems integrated with turnstiles, organisers can provide secure access to VIP areas, private facilities, and exclusive stages.

RFID security systems are often integrated with turnstiles at festivals to enhance access control. Attendees are given wristbands embedded with RFID chips, which store their access credentials. When they approach a turnstile, the RFID reader scans the wristband and grants or denies entry based on the stored information. 

This not only enhances security but also improves the attendee experience by ensuring that only authorised individuals can access special areas.

Turnstile Gate Repairs and Maintenance

At BID Group, we understand that a faulty turnstile gate can cause all sorts of issues, from disrupting operations and events to compromising security. That’s why we’ve developed a robust, responsive, and reliable service structure to guarantee your peace of mind.

With our team of over 60 highly trained engineers working 24/7, 365 days a year, we are always ready to address any issues you may have, ensuring your security gates are always operational and your business keeps running smoothly. 

Our services go beyond just fixing your turnstiles. We strongly believe in a proactive approach to security maintenance. Our preventive maintenance service includes routine inspections and regular maintenance tasks to detect and resolve issues before they escalate into major problems.

This not only helps prolong the lifespan of your turnstiles but also minimises the chances of sudden breakdowns that can disrupt your operations. 

Choosing the Right Turnstile for Your Site

Assessing Your Security Needs

Before choosing a turnstile, it’s important to understand the specific security requirements of your site. Consider the level of security needed, the type of access control system in place, and the potential threats. Evaluate the physical layout of the site to determine the most suitable locations for turnstile installation. Understanding these requirements will help you choose a turnstile that meets your security objectives effectively.

Identifying High-Traffic Areas

Identifying high-traffic areas is essential for selecting the right type of turnstile. High-traffic locations, such as main entrances or busy corridors, may require turnstiles that can handle a large volume of users quickly and efficiently. Consider the flow of people and the potential for congestion when choosing turnstiles for these areas. Turnstiles designed for high throughput can enhance the user experience while maintaining security.

Integration Capabilities

The ability to integrate with existing security systems is another important consideration. Ensure that the turnstile can seamlessly connect with your access control devices, such as keycard readers, biometric scanners, or RFID systems. Integration capabilities enhance the overall efficiency of your security setup and provide a unified approach to access control.

Turnstile FAQs

What are the main types of turnstiles used in access control?

The main types of turnstiles used in access control are full-height and waist-high turnstiles. Each type offers different levels of security and suitability for various environments.

How do turnstiles improve site security?

Turnstiles improve site security by controlling and monitoring access to secure areas. They require individuals to present valid credentials before entry, preventing unauthorised access and ensuring that only authorised personnel can enter.

Can turnstiles be integrated with existing security systems?

Yes, turnstiles can be integrated with existing security systems, including keycard readers, biometric scanners, and RFID systems. This integration allows for seamless operation and enhances the overall security infrastructure.

What maintenance do turnstile gates require?

Turnstile gates require regular visual inspections, lubrication of moving parts, and cleaning to remove dirt and debris. Scheduled professional maintenance from BID Group is also recommended to ensure optimal performance and address any potential issues.