What is a Turnstile? All You Need to Know

A turnstile is a security gate that controls and monitors access, allowing only approved individuals to pass through. Acting as both a physical barrier and an intelligent entry point, it plays a key role in regulating crowd flow while enhancing overall site safety.

How Does a Turnstile Work?

A turnstile combines mechanical design with advanced technology to ensure secure and efficient entry.

• Mechanical or sensor-based operation: Turnstiles may use rotating arms, optical sensors, or dual-barrier systems to regulate entry, allowing only one person to pass at a time.
• Integration with access technologies: They connect with proximity cards, biometric scanners, facial recognition systems, and tailgate detection sensors to verify each user’s identity before granting access.
• Automation and monitoring: Modern turnstile gates are equipped with automated monitoring features that track entry data, minimise false alarms, and maintain a smooth flow of authorised users.

Types of Turnstiles and Their Applications

Turnstiles come in various designs to suit different levels of security, accessibility, and crowd management needs.

• Full-Height Turnstiles: These tall, floor-to-ceiling barriers are designed for maximum security in high-risk or restricted areas. Featuring vertical bars or rotating arms, they allow only one person to pass at a time, preventing forced entry.
• Tripod Turnstiles: Recognised by their three rotating arms mounted on a central pole, tripod turnstiles are ideal for managing pedestrian traffic at building entrances, public transport stations, and sports arenas. They allow one person to pass per rotation, maintaining a steady flow.
• Swing Gate Turnstiles: Designed for functionality and aesthetics, these turnstiles feature motorised or manual gates that swing open upon verification of access. They ensure smooth pedestrian flow and support RFID, QR, or biometric authentication systems. Their wide lanes also make them suitable for wheelchair users or luggage.
• Flap Gate Turnstiles: These turnstile systems use retractable flaps that open after identity verification, allowing only authorised individuals to pass. These gates enhance security and efficiency by enabling one-person entry and preventing tailgating. Their modern design complements professional and public environments.
• Speed Gate Turnstiles: Built for fast and high-volume access, speed gate turnstiles feature sliding or swinging panels that open instantly upon authorisation. They combine speed, precision, and style to handle large crowds efficiently.

Purpose and Benefits of Turnstile Security Systems

Turnstiles are used to strengthen access control and maintain smooth pedestrian movement in public and private spaces.

• Prevent unauthorised access: Turnstile gates act as a secure checkpoint, allowing entry only to verified individuals and restricting access to sensitive or high-security areas.
• Manage heavy foot traffic: They help streamline pedestrian flow, ensuring an orderly, efficient flow even during peak hours.
• Enhance crowd control: Ideal for events, concerts, and transport hubs, turnstiles help maintain discipline and prevent overcrowding.
• Integrate with advanced security systems: Modern turnstiles sync seamlessly with CCTV cameras, RFID readers, and biometric scanners, offering centralised control and monitoring.
• Reduce security risks: By preventing passbacks, tailgating, and badge theft, they minimise the likelihood of security breaches or misuse.
• Enable real-time monitoring: Integrated systems provide instant access to logs, entry reports, and live tracking, helping building management maintain better oversight.
• Boost overall safety and efficiency: Turnstiles not only safeguard facilities but also enhance daily operations by promoting controlled access and reducing manual supervision.

Where Are Turnstiles Commonly Used?

Turnstiles are strategically installed in areas with high pedestrian traffic or where restricted access is required.

• Event Venues and Concerts: Turnstiles ensure efficient crowd management and ticket verification, allowing only authorised attendees to enter. This helps organisers maintain order, prevent overcrowding, and create a smoother entry experience for guests.
• Transportation Hubs: Found in subways, train stations, and airports, turnstiles regulate passenger flow while verifying valid tickets or passes. They reduce fare evasion and enable secure, automated access for millions of commuters daily.
• Building Management: In office lobbies, corporate towers, and commercial facilities, turnstiles are used to control employee and visitor entry. Integrated with ID cards or biometric systems, they enhance workplace security while maintaining a professional, efficient access process.
• Universities and Campuses: Educational institutions use turnstiles to manage student, staff, and visitor access. By limiting entry to authorised individuals, they help enhance on-campus safety and maintain secure access to libraries, laboratories, and other restricted zones.

Innovations in Turnstile Technology

Modern turnstile systems have evolved significantly, incorporating cutting-edge technologies to enhance both security and user experience.

Today’s advanced models feature optical sensors, tailgate detection, and pressure-sensitive mechanisms that accurately identify and prevent unknown entries. Moreover, the integration of facial recognition and biometric scanners has made identity verification faster, more precise, and virtually tamper-proof.

To improve hygiene and convenience, touchless entry systems allow users to gain access with a simple hand wave, eliminating physical contact while maintaining speed and security. Additionally, intelligent software platforms now consolidate all security data into a single system, enabling real-time monitoring, reporting, and centralised management.

Choosing the Right Turnstile for Your Business

Selecting the ideal turnstile for your premises requires a balance between security, functionality, and design. Consider the following factors:

• Assess foot traffic and security requirements: Start by evaluating how many people will pass through daily and the level of security your facility needs. High-traffic environments may prioritise speed, while sensitive zones require stricter access control.
• Ensure seamless integration with existing systems: Choose a turnstile that can be combined with your security systems. Our turnstile systems can be integrated with access control systems, biometric scanners, RFID card readers, and even mobile app-based authentication. This integration allows for centralised monitoring and a smoother security workflow.
• Match turnstile type to your environment: For high-security areas, opt for our full-height turnstiles that prevent unauthorised entry. In contrast, busy office lobbies or public buildings may benefit from our speed gate turnstiles, which provide fast access without compromising security.
• Explore customisation options: Also consider the finishes and design configurations to match the aesthetic and functional needs. This ensures the system blends seamlessly with your interior while maintaining performance.

Strengthen Access Control with Huntaway Security’s Turnstile Solutions

Investing in a well-designed turnstile solution not only strengthens security but also enhances operational efficiency.

As a trusted security system supplier in Singapore, we offer client-centric turnstile gates tailored to your facility’s unique needs, supported by a 2-year onsite warranty for lasting reliability. Our turnstiles feature seamless integration with face recognition, fingerprint, and RFID technologies, ensuring smooth performance and advanced protection.

Secure your premises today with Huntaway Security’s turnstile systems and expert installation services.