Three factors to consider before a turnstile installation are power outages, ADA regulations, and installation requirements.
Installing security turnstiles is an excellent way to increase your facility’s security and access control. However, as with every security measure, a turnstile installation comes with a few factors that need to be carefully considered for the turnstiles to be effective. Preparing for potential emergencies and power outages, ADA compliance rules, and the installation and maintenance requirements that come with turnstiles will ensure that your facility’s security is the best it can be.
Potential Emergencies and Power Outages
Power outages in your facility will cause the loss of turnstile function unless the system is backed up by an alternate power source. Depending on the turnstile installation, the turnstiles will either default to fail-safe or fail-secure upon the loss of power.
Fail-Safe
This means that the turnstile unlocks or remains open and unlocked when without power, which allows users to exit without authorization.
Fail-Secure
In this instance, the turnstile remains locked while unpowered, which disallows any entry or exit through that turnstile installation.
Typical Configuration
The standard compromise for a turnstile without power is a fail-secure in the entrance direction and a fail-safe in the exit direction. This should prevent anyone from entering, but allows personnel already inside to leave the facility.
ADA Compliance
When planning a turnstile installation, you must meet the requirements set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Some turnstiles, including optical turnstiles, offer the option of a wider passage width to accommodate wheelchairs, which is compliant with ADA regulations.
Alternatively, a security gate with an ADA compliant width can be installed next to the turnstile. Either solution allows facilities to maintain regular security while providing access for disabled users.
Turnstile Installation
The layout size, expected number of users, and traffic patterns are all factors that will determine the number of turnstiles necessary in your chosen installation area. In smaller spaces, just one or two may suffice, but higher-traffic areas will likely need several more. Multi-lane turnstile installations can incorporate any number of standard as well as ADA width lanes, including pedestrian security gates.
Turnstile Maintenance
Contractors and installers should remember that not all turnstiles are equal. Generally, durable materials are used, such as stainless steel and acrylics that require little maintenance and can withstand prolonged use.
However, quality and features can differ between manufacturers. Turnstiles may be shipped either fully assembled and ready to install or may require assembly on site. If you know this information beforehand, you can save time and resources during your turnstile installation process.
Choose Hercules High Security to Protect Your Property
Whether you need White House-level security fencing, or you need the perfect version of a white picket fence to guard your business or residential property, trust the experts at Hercules High Security. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules High Security online or give us a call at 1-800-395-9597. Our professionals are ready to serve you from Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area to Richmond, Virginia. We have branch offices in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, and Maryland. We will ensure your investment serves your family and your business for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.