What Are Turnstiles? Everything You Need to Know

What are turnstiles? And why are they so widely used?

Turnstiles are designed to regulate pedestrian access in a controlled, efficient manner, whether to a facility, a restricted area within a building, a construction site, a stadium, a festival, etc, they offer security and convenience.

The use of turnstiles can be a great aid to security and can help monitor attendance, prevent unauthorised access, or streamline high-traffic footfall in busy areas. They have become an indispensable tool in many modern facilities due to their versatility and effectiveness.

What are turnstiles? Key Takeaways

What are turnstiles? Turnstiles, first invented in the 19th century, are access control devices designed to improve security and manage pedestrian flow. They are widely used in locations such as train stations, sports arenas, office buildings, and amusement parks, making them indispensable for modern crowd management and safety.

When was the turnstile invented?

In the 19th century, turnstiles were developed to control access to public spaces such as amusement parks and sports arenas. Back then, they were simple mechanical barriers.

But what are turnstiles in modern history? They are a culmination of decades of development, combining history with cutting-edge technology to keep up with industry changes, needs and legal requirements to manage crowd control, collect data and protect both people and assets.

What is the purpose of turnstiles?

Turnstiles have many uses. Their primary use is to control and regulate access to specific areas by creating a physical barrier to help maintain security in various environments.

But what are turnstiles other uses? They are not simply used to allow or prevent access. With the integration of modern technology, turnstiles can be used to record attendance, collect data on traffic patterns and support emergency response systems by facilitating controlled evacuations when integrated with fire safety protocols.

What are the advantages of turnstiles?

There are many advantages to the installation of turnstiles in many facilities from construction sites, and retail premises to modern office buildings, including:

• Enhanced security
• Controlled access
• Efficient pedestrian flow management
• Integration with modern technology
• Durability and long lifespan
• Reduced need for manual supervision
• Scalability for various environments
• Support for data collection and analytics
• Deterrence of unauthorised access
• Compatibility with ticketing and access systems

What are the different types of turnstiles?

So, what are turnstiles? And what different types of turnstiles are there?

Full-Height Turnstiles: These provide maximum security by preventing unauthorised access both through and over the turnstile. They are ideal for high-security areas such as stadiums, industrial sites, and government facilities.

Tripod Turnstiles: Compact and cost-effective, tripod turnstiles are commonly used in environments where controlled access is required but with relatively lower traffic volumes, including offices, schools, and public transportation stations.

Speed Gates: Speed gates are suitable for fast-paced environments like office buildings, gyms, schools and events. They offer ultra-fast passage rates and can integrate with various access control devices.

Swing Gate Turnstiles: These are accessible and accommodating for individuals with disabilities or those carrying large items. Swing gates are often used in conjunction with other turnstile types to provide inclusive access solutions.

Where are turnstiles used?

Turnstiles are now a familiar sight in a wide range of locations. They are used in public transportation such as bus and train stations, etc, amusement parks, sports stadiums, museums, corporate and commercial buildings, education facilities, government and secure facilities, industrial and warehousing, events and temporary locations, etc.

What are turnstiles in these contexts? They serve as essential tools for managing access, ensuring safety, and maintaining order in busy or sensitive environments.

What is the life expectancy of a turnstile?

The life expectancy of a turnstile can depend on numerous factors such as the type of turnstile, the usage, and the level of maintenance.

Generally, turnstiles which have been regularly maintained can last anything from 10 to 15 years. they are built to withstand heavy use and varying environmental conditions.

What are turnstiles without proper care? Regular maintenance can help to extend the lifespan of a turnstile and also helps prevent potential issues.

For more information about our turnstiles, installation and/or hire services, contact a member of our team today on 01403 472001.