How Turnstiles Improve Access Control and People Flow in High-Traffic Buildings

Controlling the flow of people in crowded commercial spaces is more vital today than ever. Efficient access control and people flow help create tighter security and a superior user experience. However, traditional access control methods are insufficient to manage security and people flow simultaneously. This is where turnstiles can help.

With physical barriers and smart access technologies, turnstiles help control entry, prevent illegal access, and reduce congestion, making them a critical component of modern commercial building management systems.

The article explains how turnstiles enhance access control systems and people flow in high-traffic buildings.

Turnstile Gates- An Overview

• The turnstile gates act as physical barriers to control the flow of people.
• Individuals are granted access through the turnstile system on presentation of valid credentials, such as keycards, tickets, or biometric checks.
• The turnstile systems release the electronic lock when entry is approved and allow access.

Types of Turnstiles

There are different types of turnstiles used in several commercial spaces, such as office buildings, public transportation, and leisure areas, to secure such facilities and accelerate entry.

• Waist-high turnstiles are about 40 inches tall with a middle post and three rotating arms, flaps, or single arms that open or fold to allow entrance. These are commonly used in places where moderate security is needed, such as office buildings, gyms, and amusement parks.
• Full-height turnstiles provide maximum security and are used in factories and stadiums. Such turnstiles prevent climbing and crawling underneath.
• Optical turnstiles have infrared sensors to identify and allow people. The person is granted access if a user presents legitimate credentials to a mounted card reader at the turnstile gate.

Benefits of Turnstile Access Control Security Systems

Turnstiles offer a range of security and operational efficiency benefits in buildings with heavy footfall.

Streamlined Access Control

• When integrated with access solutions like ID cards, mobile passes, or biometrics, turnstiles allow only authorized users to pass, reducing the risk of tailgating or forced entry.
  

  

• All entry and exit points are tracked, providing valuable data for security monitoring and compliance.
• Turnstiles can be combined with CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and visitor management software for a multi-layer security solution.

Improved People Flow

One of the toughest challenges in crowded buildings is managing the flow of people, especially during peak hours. Turnstiles:

• Regulate the rate at which people can leave or come in to avoid bunching at doors or corridors.
• Guide the traffic flow, eliminating bottlenecks at entry points or lobbies.
• Encourage single-file traffic, which is both safer and more orderly.

Incorporation of Smart Technology

Turnstiles are no longer merely mechanical gates.

• Some incorporate intelligent technology like NFC, QR codes, and facial recognition to reduce touchpoints and speed up entrance.
• Managers can track traffic in real time and respond quickly to anomalies.
• Such data can streamline staffing, predict peak hours, and improve building operations.

Safety and Emergency Procedures

While turnstiles control entry, they are also designed with safety in consideration.

• The turnstiles open automatically during a power failure or a fire. They allow a swift exit when needed.
  

  

• The turnstiles have wide lanes or extra gates to ensure accessibility for all.

Cost Savings

Installing turnstiles offers significant cost-saving benefits due to

• Streamlined access control operation.
• A reduced need for security and front office staff.

Turnstiles: Guiding Movement and Enhancing Security

In crowded buildings, turnstiles are employed not only to control who gets in but also to guide people, organize bottlenecks, and facilitate access for all.

Smarter, faster, and more responsive than ever before, turnstiles today feature cutting-edge technologies. From the corporate lobby to the subway platform to the stadium entrance, turnstiles deliver secure, frictionless movement in spaces that never remain still.