Modern educational institutions face increasing challenges in security alongside efficient access management. When numbers of on-campus students, staff, and visitors can be in the hundreds and even thousands, it’s essential to have advanced entry solutions and prioritise technology that boosts security.
One solution that’s helping businesses of all shapes and sizes, including schools and colleges, is the speed gate turnstile. Designed to increase operational efficiency and enhance site security, speed gate turnstiles are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for schools and colleges.
In this blog, we’ll be exploring what speed gate turnstiles are, their benefits for educational institutions, how they integrate with existing systems, and the considerations for implementation.
What is a speed gate turnstile?
A speed gate turnstile is an advanced access control system that regulates pedestrian flow through secured areas. Unlike traditional turnstiles, speed gates utilise high-speed sliding or swinging barriers controlled by sensors to permit or deny access. These systems rely on authentication methods like ID cards, biometrics, or QR codes to grant entry to authorised individuals while deterring unauthorised access.
Speed gate turnstiles are ideal for environments like schools and colleges, where the balance of security and convenience is an essential consideration. These solutions promote smooth and efficient entry, contributing to a safer and more organised campus.
Why schools and colleges need speed gate turnstiles
Education sites are bustling environments that need robust systems to manage large numbers of people daily. Speed gate turnstiles address various challenges by offering the following benefits:
1. Enhanced security for campuses
Schools and colleges are responsible for creating a safe environment for students and staff. A speed gate turnstile acts as the first line of defence against unauthorised entry. By requiring credentials to pass through, it only allows verified individuals access to the campus or specific buildings.
These systems can integrate with surveillance cameras and provide real-time alerts in case of suspicious activity. For example, if someone attempts to tailgate through the gate, the system will trigger an alarm and notify security personnel immediately.
2. Efficient management of entry and exit points
Managing entry and exit points during peak hours can be a daunting task and feel overwhelming for your staff. Speed gate turnstiles facilitate smooth pedestrian flow, reducing congestion and making sure that access points are used efficiently.
At the start of the school day or a college event, hundreds of individuals may need access within a short time frame. With speed gates installed, you’ll minimise delays while maintaining security standards.
3. Customisable access control
Schools and colleges often have different areas that require varying levels of access. Whether it’s laboratories, administrative offices, or faculty lounges, you’ll want the option to restrict entry. Speed gate turnstiles can be programmed to allow access based on specific credentials, such as staff ID cards or student passes. Creating bespoke access control offers increased security and operational efficiency by limiting unauthorised movement across the campus.
4. Improved attendance tracking
Speed gate turnstiles can come equipped with integrated attendance systems, automatically recording when students or staff enter and exit the premises. This reduces the administrative burden of manual attendance tracking and also offers greater accuracy for attendance records.
This feature is also a great way for education sites to identify patterns, such as tardiness or absenteeism, and take proactive measures to mitigate future incidents.
How speed gate turnstiles work with existing systems
One of the greatest advantages of speed gate turnstiles is their compatibility with existing security and operational systems. Here’s how they integrate:
- Biometric systems: speed gates can work with fingerprint scanners or facial recognition systems for enhanced security.
- RFID and smart cards: institutions already using ID card systems can link them to speed gates, allowing entry for authorised individuals.
- Surveillance cameras: integrating speed gates with CCTV systems ensures that every entry is monitored and recorded.
- Emergency protocols: in the event of an emergency, speed gates can be programmed to open automatically, allowing unhindered evacuation.
Having this level of adaptability means speed gate turnstiles can be installed without requiring a complete overhaul of existing systems, which means less disruption for your team.
Factors to consider before implementing speed gate turnstiles
While speed gate turnstiles offer numerous benefits, institutions should carefully evaluate their needs and resources before implementation.
1. Assessing campus requirements
Each institution has unique requirements based on size, student population, and campus layout. A comprehensive assessment will help determine the number of turnstiles needed, their placement, and the type of authentication system to use.
2. Ensuring compliance with regulations
Schools and colleges must comply with local regulations regarding accessibility and safety. Turnstiles should be designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, compling with laws like the Equality Act.
3. Maintenance and staff training
Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity of speed gate turnstiles. Education institutions should onboard entry solutions that offer maintenance services and provide training for staff to handle basic troubleshooting.
Proper training allows staff to operate the system effectively. Our team help with set up, installation and ongoing maintenance of your speed gate turnstiles.
Why speed gate turnstiles are a long-term investment
While the initial installation of speed gate turnstiles may require an investment, their long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. Enhanced security, improved operational efficiency, and reduced monitoring manpower are just a few of the benefits.
On top of this, their ability to integrate with existing infrastructure minimises the need for additional tech or security products, making them a cost-effective solution for educational institutions such as schools and colleges.
Get started with speed gates
Introducing speed gate turnstiles in schools and colleges is a smart and forward-thinking decision. These systems provide next-level security, streamlined entry and exit processes, alongside the ability to adapt to the unique needs of individual educational environment.
Safety and efficiency are top priorities, and speed gate turnstiles stand out as the best entry solution to hit these key goals. Allow students and staff to focus on what truly matters – education, whilst your access control does the rest.
Contact our specialists to determine which speed gate or turnstile is right for your school.
