UK colleges are busy spaces with a high traffic flow going in and out of campus buildings. This means, institutions are facing growing challenges in securing campus entry points.
Traditional systems such as manual reception checks and ID cards aren’t catching everything. In fact, they’re not just leaving gaps in security, they’re slowing down campus traffic.
That’s where speed gates and speed gate turnstiles come in, offering a modern entry solution that helps boost college security and make access efficient at the same time. So, why are colleges turning to speed gates?
Why college security needs effective security solutions
A busy campus is managing large crowds day in day out, so its needs to keep buildings secure. Being stuck with a slow or weak system intensifies security risk and is why a robust entry solution matters. Speed gate systems offer controlled, seamless access. Plus, they deter tailgating and unauthorised entry whilst at the same time, offering increased efficiency and user experience.
Security isn’t just about preventing intruders, it’s also about giving students (and staff) peace of mind. A safe campus allows students to focus on learning. Colleges that invest in entrance security are building trust with students, parents and staff. It’s all about demonstrating a proactive approach to modern risks.
What is a speed gate turnstile?
A speed gate turnstile is a fast-acting, automated entry barrier, letting one user through at a time while verifying their credentials. Often integrating with RFID, biometric systems or ID cards, it’s way ahead of traditional turnstiles. Speed gates offer sleek design and higher throughput, making entry secure without causing queues.
Speed gate turnstiles are designed with safety in mind. Sensors detect unauthorised attempts, and many models include emergency modes. These allow gates to open quickly in case of evacuation, providing colleges with both controlled access and compliance with safety regulations.
How speed gate turnstiles improve college security
These systems prevent unauthorised access and tailgating and they work well with existing RFID ID cards or access control systems. They support CCTV, alarms and visitor management systems, making sure campus safety is paramount as well as offering complete audit trails of entries.
Speed gate turnstiles also help identify patterns of movement, allowing colleges to see which facilities are most used and when. This data helps improve campus planning, staffing and even energy management.
Another key benefit is deterrence. Visible, modern entrance security discourages people from attempting to trespass. Knowing that access is monitored lowers the risk of anti-social behaviour and theft.
Speed gates as efficient entry solutions
Speed gates are a great way to speed up entry traffic during peak times. This makes them great for exam halls, libraries, dorms and sports facilities, with a modern style that suits modern campuses. Supporting disabled students, they’re often built with inclusive design in mind, making speed gate solutions ideal for making access at college entrances easy and user-friendly.
Think of a typical morning rush. Hundreds of students may arrive at once. A manual ID check creates queues and frustration. That’s where the speed gate turnstile scans IDs in seconds, cutting congestion. Plus, staff don’t have to physically monitor entrances, which saves on resource and lets them focus on other duties, such as student welfare or emergency response.
Then there’s flexibility. Speed gates can be set to restrict access to certain groups at certain times. For example, only exam candidates may enter a hall, or gym members may access fitness facilities. This flexibility makes them an effective management tool.
Cost-effectiveness and long-term value of speed gates
Over time, speed gate systems reduce load on security staff and with minimal maintenance required compared to older mechanical barriers, they’re a solid choice for busy institutions. Ok, so the initial investment might be higher than a manual solution, the long-term benefits (efficient access, reduced staffing needs, and fewer security breaches) make them worthwhile. In short, they are a future-proof entry solution.
Then there’s durability. High-quality speed gate turnstiles are designed for heavy daily use. They withstand thousands of entries per day without loss of performance. Energy efficiency is also improving, with many gates designed to use less power in standby mode. The result? Savings that add up across a large campus.
And the cost of security breach can be significant. Lost equipment, theft, or vandalism can be expensive. By preventing unauthorised entry, speed gates protect valuable resources, making the return on investment financial and reputational.
Case study: college entrance security at Fareham College
We’ve helped many colleges save resources and boost security with speed gate entry solutions. They’ve seen major improvements with our systems, such as the EA Swing HG Speed Gates, as used by South Hampshire College Group. The boost in security prevents unauthorised entry has generated a smoother traffic flow that reduces bottlenecks, offering a future-ready, scalable entry system that strengthens campus safety and efficiency. Want to read the case study in full? Head here.
Choosing the right speed gate entry solution for your college
When deciding on an entry solution, you should consider:
- Design and architecture: opt for styles that match campus aesthetics.
- Throughput capacity: assess peak entry numbers to size the system correctly.
- Integration and scalability: make sure there’s compatibility with access control and CCTV systems.
- Installation constraints: check for underfloor services and ensure infrastructure isn’t disrupted.
- Budget versus long-term value: think beyond the upfront cost, factor in security gains and savings later.
Professional installation offers reliability and reduces the risk of costly mistakes – our team can help. We advise on the best speed gate option for optimal layout, student flow, and future expansion.
It’s time to prioritise campus security with speed gates
Speed gates and speed gate turnstiles are changing the game for college entrance security across the UK. Improving safety, reducing congestion and offering long-term reliability, they deliver robust security whilst being able to blend with existing systems.
Looking ahead, we can expect speed gates to become even smarter. Integration with mobile credentials, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based monitoring will soon be standard. Colleges that adopt these tools now are positioning themselves for the future.
If you’re looking for a future-proof entry solution for your campus, our speed gates are the way forward. Chat to our team today to get started and organise a site visit.
