Physical access control: full-height turnstiles, turnstiles or automatic barriers – which to choose?

Did you know that a modern rising barrier can handle over 1,000 passages a day? This impressive capacity illustrates the remarkable evolution of physical access control systems in our everyday environment.

Whether in gymnasiums, swimming pools, parking lots or institutional buildings, physical access control has become indispensable for securing entrances and exits. There are numerous solutions available, such as tripod turnstiles for hightraffic areas. Automatic barriers handle vehicles, while full-height turnstiles ensure maximum security.

In this article, we take a detailed look at the different access control options, their specific features and applications. We’ll help you make the right choice for your needs, whether you’re securing a parking lot, a public building or a highsecurity area.

Understanding physical access control systems

Today, physical access control is a fundamental element of any organization’s security strategy. Let’s take a closer look at this essential concept that protects our spaces from unauthorized access.

Definition and objectives of access security

A physical access control system is a device designed to filter the flow of individuals wishing to enter a specific site, building or premises. Its main aim is to authorize only those with legitimate rights to access certain areas, while preventing unauthorized entry.

The security of people, goods and data is based on a fundamental principle: determining « who is authorized to access what and when ». This system not only enhances security, but also offers many other benefits, such as improved business processes and facility management.

For optimum security, access control makes it possible to precisely define :

• Who can access a site (employees, subcontractors, visitors)
• Which doors or areas are accessible to each person
• When access is authorized
• Under what conditions access is permitted

The essential components of an efficient system

A physical access control system performs three primary functions:

identification and authentication, data processing, and unlocking. These functions are performed at each point where access is controlled.

In terms of structure, a contactless access control system is made up of four main support elements:

• The badge or identification medium (card, smartphone, biometric identifier)
• The reader or reading head that captures the identification information
• The Local Processing Unit (LPU), which processes data and makes access decisions.
• The system management center, which administers all parameters

The digital lock authorizes access to authorized persons, while the identification medium serves as an « entry ticket ». These systems are particularly effective because they replace manual access control with an automated, reliable solution.

The technological evolution of access control

The field of access control has undergone several significant transformations over the years. In the 1980s, we saw the emergence of magnetic badges with unique identifiers, gradually replacing code readers. However, this first generation had limitations in terms of data storage and generated high wear and tear costs.

The 1990s saw the advent of « 125Khz Low Frequency Proximity » contactless technology, which solved the problem of physical contact with the reader. However, this technology still suffered from data storage limitations.

Subsequently, the 13.56Mhz high-frequency smart card marked a major step forward, making it possible to increase the volume of data stored, encrypt it and modify the identifier without changing the badge.

Today, trends are moving in two main directions: strengthening the security of sensitive data, and improving user comfort with Bluetooth-enabled dematerialized badges on smartphones or biometric systems.

Security turnstiles: types and features

Turnstiles are an essential component in the arsenal of physical access control solutions. These mechanical barriers, strategically installed at entry points, effectively filter the flow of people while ensuring single passage.

Drop-arm turnstile: fast, secure access control

The drop-arm turnstile features a design optimized for environments requiring a balance between security and smooth passage. Unlike conventional turnstiles, this model features an arm that lowers instantly in the event of access authorization or emergency, guaranteeing rapid, unhindered passage. Its ultra-slim casing makes it easy to fit into tight spaces, while ensuring a modern, discreet look.

Its stainless steel structure ensures excellent durability, even under heavy use. What’s more, it features advanced safety sensors that enhance access control while minimizing the risk of accidents. With its high opening speed, the droparm turnstile ensures fast, smooth access. Its intuitive operation makes it an ideal solution for businesses, railway stations and sports centers.

Tripod turnstile: operation and benefits

The tripod turnstile is the most widely used model for pedestrian access management. This mechatronic system combines a mechanical interface with an electrical/electronic component. The main mechanism consists of a body and a tripod arm, allowing 360° rotation in both directions.

Its versatility is its greatest asset. Its stainless steel design means it can be deployed both indoors and outdoors. Another considerable advantage is its relatively compact size, making it easy to install in narrow, high-traffic areas.

In terms of performance, the tripod turnstile offers an impressive rate of 30 people per minute, i.e. one passage every 2 seconds. What’s more, recent models generally incorporate an « anti-panic » mode that automatically unlocks the mechanism in the event of an emergency, facilitating rapid evacuation of the premises.

Full-height turnstiles : maximum security

For environments requiring a higher level of protection, the full–height turnstile is the ideal solution. Unlike standard turnstiles, these devices cover the full height of an individual, preventing any attempt at unauthorized passage over or under.

The full-height turnstile offers security performance unmatched by any other type of turnstile. It is the only device capable of operating without human supervision. Its robustness also enables it to withstand extreme weather conditions, which explains why it is frequently used to secure sensitive sites.

PMR turnstile: accessibility and regulatory compliance

Universal accessibility is now a legal requirement for establishments open to the public. PMR (Personnes à Mobilité Réduite) turnstiles meet this need by offering an adapted passageway.

Unlike traditional turnstiles, these devices have a wider opening, allowing wheelchairs to pass through with ease. These gates are often motorized, making them easier to use for people with limited strength or dexterity.

This equipment must guarantee obstacle-free circulation, in accordance with the accessibility requirements of the French Construction and Housing Code. The regulations require adapted floor coverings and equipment to facilitate passage. The aim is to ensure easy access for the disabled.

Turnstile maintenance and durability

Regular maintenance is crucial to the longevity and reliability of turnstiles. Without proper maintenance, these devices risk developing mechanical problems that compromise the security of the access control system.

Turnstile maintenance can be divided into three main areas: maintenance of the external chassis, maintenance of the internal mechanism and checking of the power circuit. Essential operations include regular cleaning, lubrication of moving parts and inspection of electronic components.

For devices installed outdoors, particular attention must be paid to protection against corrosion and the elements. Cleaning with mild, non-abrasive products is recommended to preserve the integrity of sensitive components.

In short, turnstiles are fundamental elements of an effective physical access control system. The choice between tripod, full-height or PMR turnstiles essentially depends on the level of security required, accessibility constraints and the specific features of the site to be protected.

Automatic barriers: solutions for vehicles

Modern parking lots require efficient solutions to manage vehicle flows with precision and security. With this in mind, automatic barriers are the core element of any physical access control system for vehicles.

Automatic parking barrier: technical specifications

The automatic rising barrier stands out for its ability to effectively control vehicle entrances and exits. These devices are made from sturdy materials, including galvanized and lacquered steel enclosures with thicknesses ranging from 2 to 8 mm, offering optimum resistance to impact and vandalism.

Technical performance is equally impressive. Some models can perform up to 15,000 opening/closing cycles per day, while the fastest systems complete a full cycle in less than 0.8 seconds. Rail lengths generally range from 2 to 14 meters, depending on the specific needs of the installation.

In terms of operation, two technologies predominate:

• The hydraulic system is particularly well-suited to intensive use thanks to its robustness
• Electromechanical motors, often preferred for their precision and speed of operation

Other models are also equipped with wire mesh for even greater security. Such is the case with ACCOR EMEA’s BLG76 automatic mesh barrier, which combines robustness with optimized access control. Thanks to its reinforced frame and wire mesh boom, it can be used to hermetically seal off an area, while ensuring smooth management of vehicle-by-vehicle entry and exit.

This solution is a high-performance alternative to sliding gates, especially for busy sites. It offers constant performance, whatever the weather conditions. What’s more, its higher opening speed than that of a conventional gate means that traffic flows more smoothly, while guaranteeing a high level of safety.

Resistance to extreme weather conditions

Constant exposure to the elements demands exceptional resistance from automatic gates. Manufacturers use specific treatments, such as cataphoresis followed by structured epoxy paint. This achieves a thickness of over 160 µm, offering optimum protection against corrosion.

For particularly exposed sites, the choice of materials becomes crucial. Aluminum rails and electro-galvanized elements guarantee greater durability in the face of adverse weather conditions, minimizing the need for maintenance.

Selection criteria for your installation

Choosing the right access control system requires careful consideration of a number of essential criteria. The effectiveness of your system will depend directly on this careful selection.

Analysis of needs by type of facility

To select the right access control system, a risk analysis is essential. First, company managers need to draw up a document that clearly identifies vulnerabilities and determines which accesses require tighter control.

It is also essential to analyze the flow of people and vehicles through each control point. This analysis must take several factors into account:

• Number and type of entry points to be secured
• The number of users requiring logins
• The level of safety required for sensitive areas

Access rights need to be defined according to different profiles, distinguishing between standard rights and advanced rights that take more sophisticated criteria into account.

Initial budget vs. long-term operating costs

The financial viability of your project requires a balance between capital and operating expenses. Precise categorization of these expenses improves the transparency of your financial management, which is particularly important in highly regulated sectors such as banking and healthcare.

In addition to the initial acquisition cost, it’s essential to evaluate maintenance costs, technology upgrades and energy consumption. A system that’s cheaper to buy may entail higher operating costs over the long term. So a higher initial investment can often be more profitable in the long term. Taking durability, compatibility with other systems and technical support into account helps optimize overall project profitability.

Conclusion

Choosing a physical access control system is a major strategic decision for the security of your facility. The solutions available, from turnstiles to automatic barriers, each offer specific advantages adapted to different contexts of use.

Drop-arm turnstiles combine speed and security, allowing smooth passage while efficiently controlling entrances. Tripod turnstiles are ideal for managing large flows of people. As for full-height turnstiles, they provide optimum protection for sensitive areas.

In addition, automatic barriers are proving their effectiveness in vehicle access control, particularly when coupled with intelligent management systems.

An in-depth analysis of requirements, budget and compatibility with existing infrastructures is essential for making the right choice. Taking technological scalability into account also guarantees the durability of your investment in the face of future innovations.

Optimum safety is achieved through a combination of appropriate devices, regular maintenance and integration with modern identification systems. This comprehensive approach ensures effective, long-term protection of your installations.