You may not have known it but there are several different types of turnstiles from which to choose. Most people have experience with turnstiles at amusement parks, stadiums and public transportation. If you’ve been to New York or Germany you may have witnessed how some turnstiles can be easily penetrated. Where there is a will, there’s a way. The human mind will attempt to overcome any system or barrier that it believes will limit its freedom. This is why selecting the right turnstile system is imperative. When considering the right turnstile, think about who and what you’re protecting, the users, the prospective location, your existing security system and the architectural aesthetic.
Types
There are six different types of turnstiles available to you. Optical, waist length, tripod, full height, security revolving doors and portals. Opticals are the most visually appealing and the least obtrusive. You’ve seen them in the lobbies of office buildings, schools and some luxury living spaces. Optical turnstiles are ADA compliant and allow easy passage for wheelchair users. Tripod turnstiles are what most consumers are most familiar with. They’re annoying for the user, yet they are bidirectional and prevent tailgating. Full height turnstiles are most commonly found in prisons, jails, detention centers and underground New York subways – no pun intended. Security revolving doors and portals are most commonly found in airports.
Benefits
When used in conjunction with a fool proof security system, turnstiles help to manage crowd flow, prevents tailgating and loitering. Properly installed turnstiles should only admit one person per use. They are easily integrated within existing security control systems. Turnstiles control entry and exiting on both sides and alleviates pressure from your security team and receptionist. Your receptionist and unarmed security guard can only do so much. A turnstile combined with CCTV and a guest sign in booklet will provide ample security for apartment buildings and most office lobbies. Turnstiles provide a visual deterrence. When someone is up to no good, they will think two and three times before attempting to trespass. Call us if you are looking for Turnstile Installation and Repair in St. George Utah.
Features, Pros & Cons
Each turnstile has unique features and its own set of pros and cons. Optical turnstiles are the most aesthetically pleasing, offers bidirectional access and control plus accommodates users with wheelchairs. The drawback is that they are the most expensive, offer the least amount of security and can only be used indoors. Full height turnstiles offer maximum security, can be used indoors and outdoors plus are bidirectional. The downside is that they are not space efficient, they are obtrusive in appearance and require a separate door for wheelchair users. Tripods are economical, bidirectional, durable and are good for indoor and outdoor usage. Unfortunately, users can easily hop over these turnstiles and a side entrance is required for physically challenged individuals.
ADA Compliance
The American Disabilities Act of 1990 stipulates that most businesses and facilities who offer services to the public must provide reasonable access and accommodation to people with physical disabilities. Turnstiles must be installed with a minimum of thirty two inches to allow access for individuals with wheelchairs, service dogs, crutches, walkers and canes. St. George Gates and Garage Doors offers a variety of waist length turnstiles to accommodate all of the above. Making this minor adjustment sends the right message to the public about your priorities and ability to be compassionate toward all consumers. If thirty two inches seems like an inefficient use of space, consider the loss of revenue you could experience if physically challenged individuals took their business elsewhere.