In high-security environments, controlling pedestrian access is crucial. The single full height turnstile is a robust and reliable access control device designed to prevent unauthorized entry while ensuring smooth, controlled pedestrian flow. Commonly installed in stadiums, factories, prisons, and secure facilities, this type of turnstile offers unmatched durability and safety.
What is a Single Full Height Turnstile?
A single full height turnstile is a one‑lane, floor‑to‑ceiling pedestrian access control gate specifically designed to allow only one person to pass per authorization. It consists of a rotating barrier mechanism with multiple horizontal arms that turn 90° or 120° with each valid entry.
Unlike waist‑high turnstiles, which can be jumped over or bypassed, a full height turnstile provides complete physical separation from floor to top, making it virtually impossible for unauthorized individuals to climb over or force their way through. This high level of security makes it an ideal solution for stadiums, industrial sites, military bases, warehouses, and restricted areas.
Single full height turnstiles are built from heavy‑duty stainless steel for durability and weather resistance, allowing them to perform reliably in both indoor and outdoor environments. They can integrate with RFID card readers, biometric recognition systems, QR code scanners, and other access control devices, ensuring secure, controlled, and trackable pedestrian flow.
In addition to enhanced security, these turnstiles offer low maintenance requirements, high throughput efficiency, and customizable operation modes (entry‑only, exit‑only, or bidirectional), making them a trusted choice for organizations prioritizing safety, durability, and access control precision.
How Does a Single Full Height Turnstile Work?
The operation of a single full height turnstile follows a secure, step‑by‑step process to ensure controlled, one‑person‑per-pass access in high‑security environments:
Authentication
When approaching the turnstile, the user must present a valid credential through the integrated access control system. Common authentication methods include:
RFID proximity card or IC card swiping.
Biometric identification such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, or palm vein recognition.
QR code or barcode scanning for temporary visitor access.
These multiple authentication options make the single full height turnstile compatible with various security systems for maximum flexibility.
Verification
Once the credential is presented, the turnstile control mechanism communicates with its database or a connected central server to verify the user’s access rights.
If the credential matches an authorized profile, the electromagnetic locking system releases the rotating arms, granting passage.
If the credential is invalid, expired, or flagged, the turnstile remains locked, and a security alert can be triggered.
Passage
After successful verification, the user manually pushes the rotating barrier arms, which turn 90° or 120° per authorized entry.
The full height design ensures that only one individual can pass through at a time, physically preventing climbing or bypassing attempts.
The mechanism is engineered for smooth rotation and long service life, even in high‑traffic or outdoor conditions.
Security Control
The single full height turnstile uses a combination of mechanical design and integrated sensors to enforce strict access control:
Anti‑tailgating features prevent more than one person from entering on a single authorization.
The turnstile can be configured for one‑way entry, one‑way exit, or bidirectional use depending on the site’s requirements.
In the event of a security breach or forced entry attempt, the system can trigger alarms and send alerts to connected monitoring systems.
Key Features of a Single Full Height Turnstile
Maximum Security
A single full height turnstile offers uncompromising access control by providing a floor‑to‑ceiling barrier that completely prevents climbing, crawling, or bypassing. This makes it ideal for high‑security areas such as prisons, military facilities, power plants, stadiums, and industrial sites where only authorized personnel should enter.
Heavy-Duty Construction
Engineered with high‑quality stainless steel (typically 304 or 316 grade), single full height turnstiles are built to withstand extreme weather, corrosion, and heavy usage. The robust frame and precision‑made rotation mechanism ensure long‑term durability, even in outdoor security installations or high‑traffic environments.
One-Person Control
The rotating arm design ensures that only one person can pass per valid authorization, physically blocking attempts at tailgating or piggybacking. This feature makes single full height turnstiles highly effective for crowd control and strict pedestrian flow regulation in sensitive zones.
Multiple Authentication Methods
Single full height turnstiles integrate seamlessly with various access control systems and support multiple authentication modes:
RFID proximity cards and IC cards for staff access.
Biometric identification such as fingerprint, facial recognition, or palm vein scanning for higher security.
QR code and barcode scanning for visitor or temporary access.
This flexibility ensures compatibility with modern security infrastructure.
Indoor and Outdoor Use
Weatherproof single full height turnstile models are available for both indoor and outdoor applications. They are equipped with IP-rated enclosures, anti-corrosion finishes, and sealed electronics, making them suitable for environments ranging from corporate lobbies to construction sites and public transportation hubs.
Integration with Security Systems
Beyond standalone operation, single full height turnstiles can connect to CCTV surveillance, time attendance systems, alarm systems, and building management software. This integration allows real‑time monitoring, data collection, and automated security responses, creating a comprehensive access control solution.
Applications of Single Full Height Turnstiles
Sports Stadiums – Crowd control during events.
Industrial Sites – Employee entry and safety control.
Prisons and Military Bases – High-security perimeter protection.
Transportation Hubs – Access control in bus depots or metro stations.
Government Facilities – Secure entry points for authorized personnel only.
Advantages
High-Level Security – Prevents all forms of unauthorized access. Durability – Can withstand years of use in harsh environments. Customizable Control – Can be integrated with various access systems.
Disadvantages
Slower Throughput – Processes fewer people per minute compared to speed gates. Requires More Space – Full height design needs more installation area.
F.A.Q.
A single full height turnstile has one passage lane, while a double version has two lanes side by side for higher throughput.
Yes. Many models support bi-directional control, allowing entry and exit in both directions.
Absolutely. Weatherproof stainless steel models are designed for outdoor environments.
It offers the highest level of physical security among pedestrian gates, preventing climbing, crawling, and tailgating.
Yes. It can connect with fingerprint, face recognition, or palm vein systems for enhanced security.
Typically, a single full height turnstile processes around 15–20 people per minute, depending on the access method.
Some models have a fail-safe design that unlocks the turnstile for free passage in emergencies.