Construction Site Turnstiles and Access Control: a Comprehensive Guide [Updated 2025]

Construction site turnstiles are key to keeping construction sites safe, but how do they work and why do you really need them? Find out the ins and outs of commercial access control systems here.

What Is Access Control for Construction Sites?

Construction site access control is the physical system (the gate) and the technology (biometric data) used to monitor and or restrict who enters and exits a construction site. 

Given the often hazardous nature of construction environments, ensuring that only authorised personnel have access is crucial to protect the construction company, liability wise, and the staff.

That being said, effective access control installation helps to mitigate the security risks that are associated with construction sites, improve site safety, and ensure compliance with regulatory bodies here in the UK.

Modern access control in construction sites utlises advanced security measures such as biometric verification, ID cards, and turnstile entry systems. These technologies provide data on workforce attendance and enhance site security by preventing unauthorised access. 

Construction biometric access control, for example, offers a higher level of security by using fingerprint or more commonly, facial recognition. The system works to ensure that only pre-approved individuals can enter designated areas in a split second, so there is no reason to risk human error. 

Access Control Installation Process

The installation of an access control system for a construction site involves several key steps that are performed by the security team of your choice.

The process begins with a site assessment, typically when you get in touch with a construction site security team, you will be able to talk about your workforce size and then understand which kind of access control product works best for your team.

During this consultation you’ll typically go over entry points, workforce size, and the specific security requirements of the site.

In most cases, it is pretty straightforward in terms of installing the turnstile itself. Many providers offer a plug and play system, meaning there aren’t tons of wires to install nor complicated setups. 

Turnstile security systems, whether full-height or waist-height, are installed at designated entry points to control the movement of personnel effectively. 

Most importantly, construction site staff are trained on how to use the system, and initial testing is conducted to identify any potential issues. A well installed access control system is invaluable, and you can allow the security team to do the hard work for you. 

Options for Turnstiles: Full Height Turnstiles Vs Waist Height

While both options are useful, it is good to weigh up your options and assess how at risk your site is. 

Ultimately, the main difference is that a full height turnstile offers a higher level of deterrent than that of a waist weight. While a waist height is still useful for tracking and deterring tailgating, a full height turnstile combined with biometric data scanning makes it nearly impossible for those unauthorised to access your construction site. 

Full-height turnstiles offer the highest level of security by creating a full length physical barrier that prevents unauthorised access. These turnstile access control security systems are particularly effective in high-risk areas where strict entry restrictions are required. 

With heavy duty materials used by leading providers, full-height turnstiles ensure that only individuals with proper credentials can enter the site, minimising the risk of trespassing. tailgating and theft.

On the other hand you have the option of waist height turnstiles, this is an option that provides a more compact and convenient solution.

These turnstile security systems are commonly used in areas where security is needed but a full-height barrier is not necessary. While they still restrict access, they are more suited for controlled environments where personnel movement needs to be monitored and tracked for data, rather than entirely restricted.

Choosing Biometric Access Control: The Future of Security

So while the end goal is a more secure construction site, there are some things that cannot go overlooked in terms of the benefits of access control. 

The key benefit is of course, the security of your construction site. Whether it be for the materials, equipment or staff on site, a turnstile can stop the wrong people getting in and causing any disruption or theft. 

Biometric access control in particular is quickly becoming the preferred choice for construction sites looking to improve security measures on site. Unlike traditional keycards or PIN codes, biometric systems use unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints or facial recognition to verify identity, making it nearly impossible for unauthorised individuals to gain entry.

One of the primary benefits of biometric access control installation is its reliability. Since biometric identifiers are unique to each individual, the risk of lost or stolen access credentials is dramatically reduced or eliminated altogether.

Not only that, but biometric systems streamline workforce management by providing real time data on site attendance and access patterns that you can truly rely on. Project managers can quickly verify who is on-site at any given time, ensuring compliance with labour regulations and safety standards. 

With the rise of AI-driven access control technologies, the future of construction site security is undoubtedly moving towards advanced biometric solutions, so get ahead of the race and secure your construction site.

Providers for Turnstiles and Access Control

Choosing the right provider for construction turnstiles and access control systems is essential, you need a team you can trust and rely on so you can keep disruptions to a minimum.

Reliable providers like us at VIS Systems offer access control solutions tailored to the scale of a range of construction projects, supplying everything from full-height turnstiles to biometric access systems and workforce management software that can be integrated.

VIS Systems is a trusted name in the industry, providing advanced turnstile security systems and access control solutions designed specifically for construction environments. 

With a focus on durability and high level security, VIS Systems ensures that construction projects are equipped with the most effective access control measures.

For more information on our access control, turnstile, and facial recognition solutions, get in touch with us today.