Your building’s entryway says a lot about your organization. You want it to be welcoming, but you also need it to be secure. Finding that balance can be tricky. Modern turnstile security systems are designed to solve this exact challenge, offering everything from sleek, unobtrusive optical lanes for a corporate lobby to robust, full-height units for high-security areas. These systems are no longer just about restricting access; they are about managing it intelligently. They integrate with biometrics, mobile credentials, and visitor management software to create a seamless, secure, and efficient entry experience for everyone who walks through your doors.

Key Takeaways

Integrate for Smarter Security: Connect your turnstiles with your existing access control and camera systems. This creates a single, powerful network that provides better security, valuable traffic data, and a smoother experience for your employees and visitors.
Choose the Right Tool for the Job: The best turnstile depends on your specific needs. Use full-height models for maximum security areas, sleek optical turnstiles for professional lobbies, and durable tripod styles for managing large crowds.
Look Beyond the Sticker Price: A successful turnstile project includes more than just the hardware. Factor in the costs of installation, software integration, and a long-term maintenance plan to ensure your system runs reliably and delivers a strong return on investment.

What Are Turnstile Security Systems?

When you think of a turnstile, you might picture the clunky metal arms at a subway station. But modern turnstile security systems are much more than simple gates. They are a sophisticated and essential part of a comprehensive security strategy, designed to manage the flow of people into and out of your facility. Think of them as the first line of defense for your building, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter while keeping a smooth and orderly traffic flow.

For businesses and government facilities in the Chicago area, controlling who comes and goes is critical. Turnstiles provide a physical barrier that works in tandem with your digital security measures. They prevent common security breaches like tailgating—where an unauthorized person follows an authorized one through a door—and give you a clear record of everyone who enters your premises. Whether you’re securing a corporate office, a healthcare facility, or a transportation hub, a well-chosen turnstile system is a powerful tool for protecting your people and property.

What They Are and Why They Matter

At their core, turnstiles are automated gates that control access one person at a time. But their real value lies in what they enable. They are the physical component of your access control systems, translating digital permissions into physical entry. Instead of relying solely on a guard or receptionist, a turnstile provides a consistent and reliable checkpoint.

This matters because it enhances security, improves traffic management, and provides valuable data. By requiring every person to present a credential, you drastically reduce the risk of unauthorized entry. During peak hours, turnstiles prevent bottlenecks at entrances and exits, creating a more efficient and pleasant experience for employees and visitors. They also create an audit trail, logging every entry to help you monitor building occupancy and investigate any security incidents.

The Core Components of a Turnstile

A modern turnstile is rarely a standalone device. It’s a hub of integrated technology that connects to your broader security infrastructure. The physical barrier is just one piece of the puzzle. The real intelligence comes from the components working behind the scenes to grant or deny access.

These systems can work with a variety of credential technologies, including RFID cards, key fobs, mobile credentials, QR codes for visitors, and even advanced biometrics like fingerprint or facial recognition. This reader sends a signal to the access control panel, which verifies the credential and instructs the turnstile to unlock. For a complete solution, turnstiles are often integrated with security camera systems that record each entry, providing visual verification to match the access log.

Exploring the Different Types of Turnstiles

Choosing the right turnstile isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. The best type for your facility depends on your specific security needs, the volume of foot traffic you expect, and the aesthetic of your environment. From imposing, high-security models to sleek, unobtrusive designs, there’s a turnstile for every application. Understanding the main categories will help you identify the perfect fit for your building’s entry points.

Tripod Turnstiles

You’ve likely encountered tripod turnstiles in places like stadiums, theme parks, and public transit stations. They feature a simple design with three rotating arms that lock after each person passes through. They are a cost-effective solution for managing high volumes of people quickly and efficiently. While they provide a good deterrent, their waist-high design means they offer a lower level of security, as a determined intruder could potentially jump over them. They are best suited for environments where crowd control is the primary goal.

Full-Height Turnstiles

When security is non-negotiable, full-height turnstiles are the answer. These floor-to-ceiling gates, often resembling a revolving door, create a completely enclosed passage that is impossible to climb over or crawl under. This makes them the ideal choice for high-security environments like data centers, manufacturing plants, and government facilities. Their robust construction ensures that only one person can pass through at a time with a valid credential, effectively eliminating tailgating and providing the highest level of unmanned entry control.

Optical Turnstiles

For corporate lobbies, upscale office buildings, and museums, aesthetics are just as important as security. Optical turnstiles meet this need with a sleek, modern design. Many models are barrier-free, using infrared sensors to detect when a person passes through. If someone without credentials tries to enter, an alarm sounds. Other versions use elegant glass barriers that retract or swing open upon authorization. These systems offer a welcoming feel while still providing effective access control and integrating with advanced air, light, and sound detection sensors.

Waist-High Turnstiles

Waist-high turnstiles are a broad category that includes tripod models as well as other styles like flap barriers and swing gates. These units are sturdy, reliable, and offer a good balance between security and ease of use. They are often used in corporate and institutional settings like office buildings, fitness centers, and university libraries. Because they are less imposing than full-height models, they feel more inviting while still effectively guiding traffic and preventing casual unauthorized entry. They can easily be arranged in banks to create multiple lanes for busy entryways.

What Can Modern Turnstiles Do for You?

Thinking of turnstiles as just simple, clunky gates is a thing of the past. Today’s turnstiles are sophisticated systems that act as the frontline of your building’s security and operational intelligence. They are much more than just a physical barrier; they are a central hub that can streamline how people enter, move through, and exit your space. When you invest in a modern turnstile system, you’re not just controlling access—you’re improving traffic flow, tailoring security to your precise needs, and even gathering data to make smarter business decisions.

These systems are designed to work seamlessly with the other security technologies you already have in place, from access cards to advanced biometrics. They are built tough to handle everything from the daily rush in a corporate lobby to the harsh weather of a Chicago winter. Whether you need to secure a high-risk government facility or simply manage the flow of fans at a stadium, there’s a turnstile solution that can be customized for you. Let’s look at exactly what these modern systems can do for your organization.

Integrate with Your Access Control

Modern turnstiles don’t operate in a silo. Their real power comes from their ability to integrate directly with your building’s access control systems. Imagine an employee swiping their RFID card, a visitor scanning a QR code from their phone, or an authorized person passing through using a biometric fingerprint scan. The turnstile instantly communicates with your access control database to verify credentials and grant or deny entry. This creates a single, cohesive security network that is both highly secure and incredibly efficient, eliminating the need for manual checks and ensuring only authorized individuals can pass through.

Manage Your Building’s Traffic Flow

One of the most immediate benefits of a turnstile system is its ability to manage the flow of people. In any busy environment—be it an office building, a manufacturing plant, or a transportation hub—uncontrolled foot traffic can lead to bottlenecks, confusion, and security risks. Turnstiles create an orderly entry and exit process, ensuring people move through one at a time. This not only enhances security by preventing tailgating but also improves the overall experience for everyone in the building. You can effectively direct crowds, manage capacity, and maintain a smooth, steady flow even during peak hours.

Customize Your Security Level

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to security. Modern turnstiles offer a range of options so you can match the physical barrier to your specific risk level. For high-security areas like data centers or government facilities, full-height turnstiles provide a floor-to-ceiling barrier that is nearly impossible to bypass. For a corporate lobby where aesthetics are as important as security, sleek optical turnstiles with glass barriers offer a welcoming yet controlled entrance. This flexibility allows you to create a layered security approach that’s perfectly tailored to each area of your facility.

Built to Withstand the Elements

A security investment needs to be reliable for the long haul, and turnstiles are built to last. Constructed from durable materials like stainless steel, they are designed to withstand the constant use of high-traffic environments. For outdoor applications, you can find models specifically engineered to resist corrosion and function flawlessly in rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. This robust construction ensures your access points remain secure and operational day in and day out, making them a dependable part of your overall security infrastructure, much like your building’s core fiber network technology.

Go Hands-Free with Biometrics and Contactless Entry

In today’s world, touchless solutions are more important than ever. Turnstiles can be equipped with advanced technology for a completely hands-free entry experience. By integrating biometric readers for facial or fingerprint recognition, or by allowing entry via a mobile credential on a smartphone, you can provide a seamless and hygienic way for people to access your facility. This not only reduces physical touchpoints but also speeds up entry, creating a more convenient and modern experience for employees and visitors alike. It’s a smart way to show you prioritize both security and well-being.

Gain Insights with Smart Analytics

Beyond just granting access, integrated turnstiles are powerful data collection tools. Every time someone passes through, the system logs the entry, providing you with a wealth of operational insights. You can track occupancy levels in real-time, identify peak traffic patterns, and generate detailed reports for audits or emergency planning. This data can be integrated with your security camera systems to provide a complete picture of who is in your building and when. This business intelligence helps you make informed decisions about everything from staffing schedules to building management.

How to Choose the Right Turnstile for Your Industry

Selecting the right turnstile isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. The best choice for a corporate lobby would be completely out of place at a high-security government facility. Your industry, traffic flow, and specific security goals will determine which type of turnstile system makes the most sense. Think about what you want to accomplish: Are you trying to manage large crowds, secure a sensitive area, or simply monitor who comes and goes? Answering that question is the first step. From there, you can explore the options best suited for your environment.

High-Security Environments

For places where security is the absolute top priority—like data centers, research facilities, or power plants—you need a solution that leaves no room for error. This is where full-height turnstiles shine. These floor-to-ceiling barriers are incredibly effective because they physically prevent anyone from climbing over or crawling under them. When you integrate these turnstiles with advanced access control methods like biometric scanners or keycard readers, you create a formidable checkpoint that ensures only authorized personnel can enter. They are a clear statement that you take security seriously and are built to control access in the most demanding settings.

Corporate Offices

In a corporate office, you want security that feels professional and welcoming, not imposing. The goal is to manage the flow of employees and visitors without creating a fortress-like atmosphere. Optical turnstiles are an excellent choice here. They use infrared beams to detect passage and can trigger an alarm if someone tries to tailgate or enter without authorization. For a more traditional approach, waist-high turnstiles also work well. Both options blend seamlessly into modern architectural designs and can be integrated with your building’s visitor management system to provide a smooth, secure entry experience for everyone.

Stadiums and Entertainment Venues

Managing thousands of people in a short amount of time is the primary challenge for stadiums, arenas, and amusement parks. Your turnstiles need to be fast, durable, and capable of handling huge crowds without causing bottlenecks. Tripod turnstiles are a popular and effective solution for these high-traffic areas. They are your first line of defense, efficiently processing ticket holders while deterring unauthorized entry. For maximum effectiveness, these turnstiles should be part of a larger security ecosystem that includes video surveillance systems to monitor crowds and manage entry points during major events.

Transportation Hubs

Train stations, subway systems, and bus terminals see a constant, heavy flow of people all day long. Turnstiles in these environments must be exceptionally durable to withstand relentless use while streamlining fare collection and keeping paid areas secure. A combination of tripod and full-height turnstiles often works best, providing both quick passage and high security where needed. It’s also important to include accessible gates for passengers with luggage or mobility needs. These systems rely on a robust backend, making a solid fiber network infrastructure essential for keeping everything running smoothly.

Airports and Government Facilities

Security at airports and government buildings is non-negotiable. These facilities require strict access control to protect sensitive areas and ensure public safety. Full-height turnstiles are often the standard for securing employee-only zones, as their design makes it nearly impossible to bypass them. In more public-facing areas, sophisticated optical turnstiles with advanced sensors can prevent tailgating while processing authorized individuals quickly. These systems must seamlessly integrate with government-issued IDs and other security protocols, including emergency notification systems, to create a comprehensive and responsive security posture.

What to Expect from Installation and Maintenance

Choosing the right turnstile is just the first step. A smooth installation and a solid maintenance plan are what truly make your investment pay off. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare your facility, integrate your systems seamlessly, and keep everything running without a hitch for years to come. Let’s walk through the key phases of getting your turnstile system up and running.

Prepare Your Site for Installation

A successful installation begins long before the turnstiles arrive. Proper site preparation is essential to avoid common challenges that can cause delays or unexpected costs. First, assess the physical location. You’ll need to confirm the flooring can support the turnstile’s weight and that you have adequate space for both the unit and comfortable traffic flow. You should also map out access to power and data lines. Working with a professional integrator ensures these details are handled correctly from the start. We can help you plan the layout to prevent bottlenecks and ensure the installation process is efficient and minimally disruptive to your daily operations.

Connect with Your Existing Security Systems

Modern turnstiles are team players; they aren’t meant to work in isolation. The real power comes from integrating them into your broader security infrastructure. Turnstiles can connect directly with your access control systems, allowing you to manage entry with existing credentials like keycards, mobile passes, or biometrics. For an even higher level of security, you can link them to your security camera systems to visually verify who is passing through. This creates a unified system where every component works together to protect your people and property, from the front door to the most sensitive areas of your facility.

Keep Your System Running Smoothly

Like any important piece of equipment, turnstiles require regular maintenance to perform at their best. Proactive care is the key to ensuring longevity and reliability. This includes routine tasks like cleaning optical sensors to prevent false alarms and inspecting mechanical parts for wear and tear. While your on-site team can handle basic upkeep, establishing a professional service plan is the best way to protect your investment. Regular check-ups by a qualified technician can catch potential issues before they become serious problems, preventing unexpected downtime and ensuring your entryway remains secure and efficient day in and day out.

Solve Common Problems Quickly

Even the most robust systems can experience occasional issues. Understanding how to address them quickly helps maintain a smooth user experience and keeps your operations on track. Common problems might include a card reader failing to respond or a barrier not retracting properly. While some minor issues can be resolved with a simple reset, having a reliable support partner is crucial for more complex situations. When you work with an expert integrator like Umbrella Security Systems, you have a team on call to help you troubleshoot and resolve any challenges, ensuring your access points are never compromised for long.

Breaking Down the Costs and Return on Investment

Investing in a turnstile system is a significant decision, and understanding the financial side is crucial. The initial price is just the beginning of the story. To make a smart choice for your facility, you need to look at the full picture—from the upfront costs to the long-term value it brings. Thinking about it as an investment rather than just an expense will help you see how a turnstile system can pay for itself over time by improving security, streamlining operations, and providing valuable data.

What Determines the Price?

The cost of a turnstile can vary quite a bit, depending on what you need. The single biggest factor is the type of turnstile you choose. For example, a simple waist-high tripod turnstile is a budget-friendly option, often starting around $1,500 to $2,500. If your facility requires a higher level of security, a full-height turnstile might be a better fit, with prices typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. For a more modern and seamless look, sleek optical turnstiles are a popular choice in corporate lobbies, but they come with a higher price tag, usually between $7,000 and $15,000 per lane. The materials, finish, and any custom branding will also influence the final cost.

Look Beyond the Initial Price Tag

It’s easy to focus on the sticker price, but the purchase price is just one piece of the puzzle. The total cost includes the hardware plus any additional features you need to make it work for your space. Integrating technologies like biometric scanners, card readers, or mobile credential systems will add to the base price. You also need to account for installation, software, and any necessary site modifications. A professional consultation can help you map out these expenses, ensuring your turnstiles work perfectly with your existing access control systems and that there are no surprises down the road. Thinking through the entire lifecycle cost helps you budget accurately from the start.

The Long-Term Value of a Secure Entryway

A turnstile system is an investment that delivers returns long after the installation is complete. One of the most immediate benefits is a reduction in labor costs, as you’ll no longer need staff to manually check IDs or tickets at every entrance. They also help minimize revenue loss by preventing unauthorized entry. Beyond that, turnstiles provide a wealth of data on traffic patterns, peak hours, and attendance. This information is incredibly valuable for making informed operational decisions, from staffing schedules to resource allocation. When paired with a comprehensive video surveillance system, you gain a powerful tool for managing your facility efficiently and securely.

A Look at Top Turnstile Manufacturers

Choosing the right turnstile often comes down to selecting the right manufacturer. Each brand brings its own strengths to the table, whether it’s a focus on high-security environments, sophisticated aesthetic design, or rugged durability that can withstand the elements. The manufacturer you choose impacts everything from the system’s long-term reliability and maintenance needs to how well it integrates with your other security components. As security integrators, we work with the industry’s leading names to find the perfect fit for our clients’ unique needs. Think of us as your strategic partner, guiding you through the options to design a system that provides seamless and secure entry for your facility. Below, we’ll introduce you to some of the top players in the turnstile market, whose products we trust and recommend for their quality and performance.

Umbrella Security Systems

While we aren’t a turnstile manufacturer, our expertise lies in expert system integration. We help you select the best hardware from leading brands and ensure it works flawlessly with your existing security infrastructure, from video surveillance to emergency notifications. Our team understands the specific security challenges facing businesses and government facilities in the Chicago area. We design and install comprehensive access control systems that incorporate the ideal turnstiles for your environment, saving you the headache of vetting manufacturers yourself. We handle everything from the initial site assessment to installation and ongoing maintenance, providing a single point of contact for your entire security solution.

Hayward Turnstiles

For over 20 years, Hayward Turnstiles has been a leader in American-made access control solutions. As a family-owned company, they have a strong reputation for producing durable and reliable security turnstiles and ADA-compliant gates. Their products are built to handle a wide range of applications, from securing construction sites and fence lines to managing entry in offices, stadiums, and fulfillment centers. If you’re looking for robust, USA-made hardware that is built to last, Hayward offers practical and effective solutions designed for high-traffic and demanding environments. Their focus on quality craftsmanship makes them a dependable choice for many businesses.

Alvarado Manufacturing

Alvarado Manufacturing is known for its innovative approach to access control. They specialize in creating turnstiles and other entry solutions that are not only reliable but also incorporate smart, user-friendly designs. Their product line is diverse, offering everything from optical turnstiles that blend into a corporate environment to full-height turnstiles for maximum security. Alvarado consistently pushes the envelope with its technology, focusing on creating products that improve traffic flow while maintaining strict security protocols. For businesses looking for modern, efficient, and dependable entry solutions that can also provide valuable data on building usage, Alvarado is a manufacturer that consistently delivers.

Boon Edam

When aesthetics are just as important as security, many businesses turn to Boon Edam. This manufacturer excels at creating high-quality security entrances that are both elegant and effective. Their turnstiles are often found in corporate headquarters, museums, and high-end facilities where maintaining a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere is key. Boon Edam’s solutions range from sleek optical turnstiles to revolving doors with integrated access control. They masterfully balance robust security features with premium design, ensuring that your building’s first impression is one of both safety and style. Their commitment to quality and architectural integration makes them a top choice.

Gunnebo

As a global leader in the security industry, Gunnebo provides a wide array of security products, with a strong portfolio of turnstiles designed for various applications. Their solutions are engineered to meet the stringent security demands of sectors like public transport, airports, government buildings, and other critical infrastructure. Gunnebo focuses on creating efficient and reliable systems that can handle high volumes of people without compromising safety. Whether you need to prevent tailgating in a secure data center or manage passenger flow in a busy metro station, Gunnebo offers tailored solutions that are trusted by organizations worldwide for their performance and commitment to security.

Automatic Systems

Automatic Systems is a leading name in the world of automated access control equipment. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, they design and manufacture a broad range of turnstiles, gates, and barriers for both pedestrian and vehicle access. Their products are known for their speed, reliability, and integration capabilities, making them a popular choice for transportation hubs, toll roads, and corporate buildings. Automatic Systems prioritizes the user experience, developing technology that ensures smooth, efficient, and secure passage. Their commitment to automation and robust engineering makes them a go-to manufacturer for projects requiring high-performance access control.

How to Handle Common Turnstile Challenges

Even the best security hardware can come with a few hurdles. When you install turnstiles, you’re making a significant upgrade to your facility’s security, but it’s smart to be prepared for a few common challenges. Thinking through these points ahead of time will help you create a smoother experience for everyone who walks through your doors, from employees to first-time visitors.

Make Integration Work

A turnstile is rarely a standalone piece of equipment. For it to be effective, it must communicate perfectly with your building’s other security layers. This means ensuring it works seamlessly with your existing access control systems, whether you use keycards, mobile credentials, or biometrics. A poorly integrated system can cause frustrating delays and security gaps. Working with an experienced integrator is the best way to guarantee that your turnstiles and access control software speak the same language, providing reliable entry management and a frustration-free user experience from day one.

Get Your Team Onboard

New technology can be intimidating, and a smooth rollout depends on your team’s confidence in using it. Before your turnstiles go live, it’s crucial to get everyone on board. This includes your employees, security staff, and even regular visitors. You can prevent confusion and misuse by providing clear instructions, holding brief training sessions, and using simple signage. When people understand how the system works and why it’s there, they are more likely to use it correctly, which helps maintain security and keeps foot traffic moving efficiently through your entryway.

Work with Limited Space

One of the most common concerns we hear is, “Will a turnstile even fit in our lobby?” It’s a valid question, especially in older buildings or facilities with compact entryways. The good news is that turnstiles come in many shapes and sizes. From sleek, space-saving optical turnstiles to more traditional models, there’s likely a solution that fits your physical footprint. A thorough site assessment is the first step. This allows a professional to evaluate your space, traffic flow, and security needs to recommend a turnstile that provides control without creating a bottleneck or compromising accessibility.

Ensure Long-Term Reliability

Turnstiles are mechanical systems with moving parts, and just like any other piece of critical equipment, they require regular attention to perform their best. Proactive maintenance is key to preventing unexpected downtime and ensuring your investment lasts. This includes routine checks, cleaning sensors, and keeping software up to date. By scheduling regular service, you can address minor issues before they become major problems. This keeps your entry points secure and operational, protecting your people and property without interruption and complementing your other security measures like video surveillance systems.

Future-Proof Your Access Control

Investing in a turnstile system is a significant decision, so you want to be sure it will serve you well for years to come. Future-proofing is about choosing a system that not only meets your current needs but is also ready for tomorrow’s challenges and technologies. It means thinking about scalability, adaptability, and the long-term direction of security technology.

What’s Next in Access Control Technology?

The world of security technology moves fast, and turnstiles are no exception. We’re seeing exciting advancements that make entry points smarter and more secure than ever before. For high-security facilities, innovations like ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) turnstiles are becoming more common, adding another layer of protection for sensitive environments. The core idea is that your access control system should evolve with the technology available. This isn’t about chasing every new trend, but about understanding which advancements offer real value for your specific needs. From biometric integrations to smarter sensors, the turnstile of tomorrow is less of a simple gate and more of an intelligent checkpoint, ready to meet new challenges head-on.

Consider Sustainability and Energy Use

Thinking about the future isn’t just about technology; it’s also about sustainability. Modern security systems are increasingly designed with energy efficiency in mind. This means choosing equipment that performs at a high level without driving up your utility bills. Integrated solutions are a big part of this trend. When your turnstiles, security cameras, and access control software all work together, they operate more efficiently. For example, a system can be programmed to enter a low-power mode during off-hours. Choosing sustainable options reflects a commitment to corporate responsibility and can lead to significant long-term operational savings, making it a smart move for both your budget and the environment.

Adapt to Evolving Security Needs

Your security needs today might not be the same a few years from now. A truly future-proof system is one that can adapt. As your organization grows, relocates, or faces new types of threats, your security infrastructure should be flexible enough to change with you. This is where a modular approach to security becomes so valuable. Instead of a complete overhaul, you can upgrade components or integrate new features as needed. For instance, you might later decide to add an emergency notification system that works with your turnstiles to manage evacuations. A well-designed system provides a solid foundation that you can build upon, ensuring your investment remains effective and relevant for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to replace my existing employee ID cards to use a turnstile system? Not necessarily. One of the best features of modern turnstiles is their ability to integrate with the security systems you already have. If your team uses keycards or fobs, we can typically connect the turnstile readers to your current access control platform. This means your employees can use the same credentials they’re already familiar with, which makes the transition much smoother and more cost-effective.

What happens if the power goes out? Will people be trapped? This is a critical safety question, and the short answer is no. Turnstiles are designed with fail-safe mechanisms. In the event of a power outage or an emergency alarm, they are programmed to automatically unlock and allow for free passage. This ensures that your building can be evacuated quickly and safely without obstruction. The specific behavior—whether they fail-open or fail-locked—is something we determine with you based on your facility’s security protocol.

Our lobby is small. Are there turnstile options that won’t take up too much space? Absolutely. Many businesses worry about their entryway feeling cramped, but there are many compact solutions available. Sleek optical turnstiles, for instance, often have a very small footprint and can even be barrier-free, using sensors instead of physical arms. We always start with a site assessment to measure your space and understand your traffic flow, which helps us recommend a model that provides security without creating a bottleneck.

How do turnstiles handle visitors who don’t have an access card? Visitor management is a key part of any good turnstile strategy. These systems can be integrated with visitor management software to issue temporary credentials. This could be a QR code sent to a visitor’s smartphone, which they can scan for entry, or a temporary access card provided by your front desk. This creates a secure and seamless experience for guests while maintaining a complete record of who is in your building.

Is a turnstile just a one-time purchase, or are there ongoing costs? It’s best to think of it as a long-term investment with a few components. Beyond the initial cost of the hardware and installation, you should plan for a service agreement. Just like any piece of important equipment, turnstiles have moving parts and sophisticated electronics that benefit from regular preventative maintenance. A service plan ensures your system remains reliable, minimizes unexpected downtime, and protects your investment for years to come.

Turnstile Security Systems: Your Ultimate Guide