The benefits of having turnstiles

by Katie Daniel | February 3, 2017 10:18 am

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by Nick Simon
One of the best options for improving the physical security of buildings and facilities is the use of turnstiles to control employee and visitor access. Besides improved security, turnstiles offer many benefits over the use of doors, including effective integration with the facility’s access control system and increased operational flexibility.

Generally, some variety of door is the first point of entry to a facility. To control access and thus provide extra security, card readers and electric locks are commonly added. While readers and locks require a valid credential to gain access, they are unable to control how long the door is open or how many people enter through it once it is open. Unauthorized individuals can follow authorized personnel through an open door, resulting in a common security issue referred to as ‘tailgating.’ Further, a door cannot isolate the direction of authorized passage. For example, if a door is activated for an exit, it will not prevent an unauthorized user from entering through the open door.

Unlike doors, turnstiles can both limit the number of people entering or exiting on a valid credential and control the direction of passage. Some also have enhanced detection features, which include identifying loitering in the passage area and forced entry attempts.

Access control integration
Turnstiles easily integrate with a building’s access control system, as well as other security equipment such as cameras, to ensure only authorized individuals enter the facility.

In order to gain entry through a turnstile, a user must first present a valid credential. Then, the access control system signals the turnstile to allow a single passage. After the user passes through the turnstile, it immediately communicates back to the access control system the passage has occurred. The integration between the access control system and turnstiles instantaneously provides useful information, such as the specific identity, time, and location of each person who entered or exited the facility. This allows security personnel
to track system users, pinpoint alarm locations, and identify potential security threats.

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If an invalid credential is presented, the access control system signals the turnstile to notify the user of a rejected credential via illumination of a red light or an audio sound. In the event of an alarm condition such as a tailgating or forced passage attempt, the turnstile can provide an output to the access control system. Simultaneous outputs can also be provided to activate nearby cameras or lock down secondary doors.

Operational flexibility
Turnstiles enhance facility operations by streamlining the entry process, allowing guard staff to be more effective with their time. Additionally, turnstiles are able to accommodate a wide array of credential readers, including:

• barcode;
• magnetic stripe;
• proximity (radio-frequency identification [RFID]/near-field communication [NFC]); and
• biometric.

Turnstiles with integrated readers allow users to present credentials to gain entry. The self-validation function lessens the burden placed on receptionists and security guards, allowing them to focus on their primary job functions instead
of constantly verifying credentials.

Turnstiles can be configured to control a single direction or function
bi-directionally. Passage modes are independent for each direction and include free passage, controlled passage, or locked modes. Allowing entry without authorization, ‘free passage’ is often employed when users are not required to card out to exit. Controlled passage, on the other hand, requires a valid credential before entry or exit will be permitted. In locked-down mode, the turnstile remains locked and prohibits passage, even when presented with a valid credential.

Security personnel can schedule specific modes to activate at certain times of the day to meet operational requirements. For example, specific turnstiles may be set as entry-only during morning hours when employees are arriving to work and then switch to exit-only in the afternoon when employees are leaving. Turnstiles can also be locked down at night and on weekends when the facility is closed. Turnstile modes are typically set through the access control system or, for more advanced turnstiles, controlled remotely using an application on the facility’s network.

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Additional considerations
There are many other considerations when installing turnstiles to ensure both user and facility security.

Power loss/emergencies
Power outages will cause loss of turnstile function unless they are backed up by an alternate power source. In case of an emergency, the building’s fire-safety system can integrate directly with installed turnstiles to allow free passage as part of the facility’s emergency response protocol.

Depending on configuration, turnstiles default to either fail-safe or fail-secure (sometimes called fail-lock) upon loss of power. Fail-safe means the turnstile unlocks or opens when power has been cut, allowing users to freely exit without authorization. Fail-secure means the turnstile locks when unpowered, prohibiting any entry or exit through that entrance. The typical configuration is fail-secure in the entrance direction and fail-safe in the exit direction. This prevents anyone from entering to maintain security, but allows personnel inside to exit the facility.

Special needs passage and local code compliance
When installing turnstiles, it is important to consider special needs requirements, as well as state and local regulations. Some optical turnstiles offer a wider, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)–compliant passage to accommodate wheelchairs. For turnstiles without this option, a security gate with an ADA-compliant width can be installed next to the turnstile. Either solution allows facilities to maintain security while providing access for disabled users and deliveries.

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Installation and maintenance
The layout, size, number of users, and traffic patterns of the installation area determine the number of turnstiles necessary. In smaller areas, one or two may suffice, while higher-traffic areas require more turnstiles to accommodate the needs of the facility. Multi-lane configurations can incorporate any number of standard and ADA width lanes, as well as pedestrian security gates. In addition to turnstiles and gates, modular barriers or fencing may be necessary to fill in any remaining space between the turnstiles and other fixed objects.

Not all turnstiles are created equal. Generally, manufacturers use durable materials such as stainless steel, which requires little maintenance and can withstand prolonged use. However, quality and specific features can differ greatly between manufacturers. Depending on the manufacturer, turnstiles may ship fully assembled and ready to install or may require substantial assembly onsite. Being aware of this can save time and resources during the installation process. Additional considerations include:

• manufacturer location;
• shipping location; and
• availability of support resources from the factory or authorized dealer network.

A reseller, unlike a manufacturer, may not have the resources to support the installer or end user after the sale. A knowledgeable partner will be able to help clients choose the correct equipment and ensure pre-installation requirements (e.g. anchoring, power, and communication conduits) are met.

AUBURN UNIVERSITY

The optical turnstiles installed at Auburn University display open and closed status lights to indicate which lanes are open for use in the direction of travel. Two exit lanes (left) illuminate a green light and three entry lanes (right) illuminate a red light. Auburn University (Auburn, Alabama) incorporated optical turnstiles with barriers to control access into the university’s new $72 million, 22,296-m2 (240,000-sf) Recreation and Wellness Center. Auburn replaced originally installed equipment with optical turnstiles and a tandem motorized gate, which blended well with the recreation center’s environment and provided reliable access control. The university installed five optical turnstiles—three for entering and two for exiting. Users present ID cards at designated entry-only turnstiles to access the facility. To exit, users pass through designated exit turnstiles, which open automatically as users leave. The tandem motorized gate has an 1828-mm (72-in.) passage width, allowing large equipment and large groups to enter and exit the facility.

Selecting the appropriate turnstile
Turnstiles fall into three primary categories:

• optical and barrier optical;
• full-height; and
• waist-high.

Depending on the specific application, a different type of turnstile may be preferred. Choosing the right style requires consideration of various factors, including:

• interior versus exterior use;
• the desired level of security;
• budget;
• necessary features; and
• aesthetic preferences.

Optical turnstiles
Optical turnstiles consist of two cabinets set apart to create a passage lane, which use sensors to detect and track any person passing through. They can operate with or without physical barriers, but when used for security purposes, they typically operate with a motorized barrier. Barrier-free optical turnstiles only ‘sense’ an unauthorized passage; they are generally used for passive security or where an attendant is always present.

Optical turnstiles are ideal for facilities where speed of entry and aesthetics are important, such as corporate lobbies, multi-tenant buildings, university recreation centers, and modern health clubs. Typical applications include main lobby, employee, and elevator bank access points. Advantages of these systems include:

• being aesthetically pleasing for upscale and corporate settings;
• providing bi-directional access control;
• offering various types and heights of barriers;
• tailgating, loitering, and anti-pass back detection; and
• accommodating users with mobility devices.

However, optical turnstiles have disadvantages as well. These include their limitation to indoor use, higher cost than traditional mechanical alternatives, and the lower level of security inherent in barrier-free options.

Full-height
Full-height turnstiles consist of mechanically rotating barriers extending from the floor to the top of the turnstile, similar in structure to a revolving door. Full-height turnstiles can be single units or tandem units. The latter combines two turnstiles operating within a smaller footprint.

Full-height turnstiles are best suited for facilities requiring higher levels of security, especially in unmanned locations. They are commonly used at military bases, nuclear and energy facilities, distribution warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. Full-height turnstiles are the best option for perimeter control, fence line security, and parking lot access. These mid-range-cost systems have various benefits, including:

• maximum security;
• bi-directional access control; and
• usability in outdoor environments.

However, full-height turnstiles are large and obtrusive. Further, they require the addition of a gate or door to accommodate users with mobility devices.

Waist-high
Waist-high turnstiles consist of a tripod barrier arm installed at waist height, which rotates to allow entry. Sturdy construction and mechanics allow waist-high turnstiles to last for decades, even under extreme use.

Waist-high turnstiles are frequently used in public locations, such as theme parks and stadiums, to manage large crowds entering the facility. They are also commonly used in lobby areas, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and cafeterias. Advantages of these systems include:

• durability;
• bi-directional access control;
• usability in both indoor and outdoor environments; and
• a relatively affordable price point.

However, waist-high turnstiles can have several disadvantages. For example, they allow for the possibility of unauthorized users climbing over or under the barrier arm. Also, an additional door or gate is necessary for users with mobility devices.

Conclusion
Turnstiles improve security and integrate easily with facility access control and visitor management systems. With multiple types, features, and options, turnstiles easily meet requirements and enhance the security of today’s modern business facilities. Before specifying, purchasing, or installing turnstiles, one should consult federal, state, and local building codes to ensure the installation meets access requirements, as these may differ between jurisdictions.

FEDEX FULL-HEIGHT TURNSTILES

[5]FedEx Ground uses full-height turnstiles, full-height gates, and custom-fabricated barriers to increase security around the perimeter fence line of its facilities. The product package is designed specifically for FedEx Ground facilities to provide reliable access control within the company’s budget—as there are more than 280 installations around the world. These full-height turnstiles use exclusive technology providing controlled rotation to eliminate jarring stops, thereby reducing wear on all moving parts and extending the life of the turnstile. Every gate and full-height barrier ships fully assembled, while the turnstiles ship in five pre-assembled parts for easy installation—saving valuable time and money.

Nick Simon is the national sales manager of security products at Alvarado. He has worked in the physical security products industry for more than 14 years. Simon has been involved in thousands of turnstile projects. He can be reached via e-mail at nsimon@alvaradomfg.com[6].

Source URL: https://www.constructionspecifier.com/the-benefits-of-having-turnstiles/

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