Train stations are among the busiest public areas as people transit from one destination to another. Safety and security are major concerns in these areas, and effective access control and crowd management are critically vital. Train stations are susceptible to both opportunistic and organized crime that can compromise the safety of individuals and their properties. Ensuring the safety of the public is a crucial role of train station operators, and one of the essential tools used in access control and crowd management is turnstiles.
Turnstiles are a type of access control system used to control the flow of people into and out of a restricted area. They are most commonly used in train stations, stadiums, airports, and other areas that experience heavy foot traffic. The primary function of turnstiles is to prevent unauthorized entry into a restricted area and manage the flow of people. Train stations can benefit from the installation of turnstiles in several ways:
Security
Turnstiles are designed to restrict the movement of unauthorized persons within the train station. This restricts access to secure areas where valuable assets, such as tracks and trains, are located. The turnstile controls the flow of traffic, halting anyone without the required credentials, such as a valid ticket, from entering these areas without permission. This reduces the chances of vandalism, theft, and other criminal acts that can cause disruption to the smooth running of the train station.
Crowd management
Train stations can have thick crowds especially during peak hours when travellers are processing. This crowding is not only frustrating but can also compromise the safety of the public. Turnstiles provide an effective solution to manage these crowds and control the flow of people. They direct the traffic, ensure proper direction and prevent congestion in the station. This can reduce the risk of accidents and make it easier for station managers to monitor the traffic flow and improve passenger safety.
Efficient and Cost-effective
Turnstiles can work tirelessly 24/7 and with little maintenance can last for decades. Their initial installation cost is comparable to other physical security measures, and when compared to the cost of hiring security personnel, they are much more cost-effective. They are also more efficient and reliable than security personnel since physical security measures can compromise security if security personnel is not adequately trained.
Prevent Losses due to fare evasion
Fare evasion is a significant concern for train operators. Turnstiles work as a deterrent against fare evasion, as their design only allows ticket holders to enter the train station. Turnstiles can help prevent people from entering the station without paying the appropriate fare. This can lead to significant losses for train operators and reduce the quality of service provided to legitimate paid passengers.
Customizable and Versatile
Modern turnstiles are customizable and can be tailored to specific needs. This includes options of automatic or manual operation, biometric authentication, and facial recognition. Turnstiles can also be configured to fit into different areas, including those with unique infrastructure and shapes.
Conclusion
Train stations are prone to security issues, and efficient access control and crowd management should be a top priority. Turnstiles provide effective and reliable solutions to the management of crowds and prevention of unauthorized access in train stations. They are customizable, cost-effective, and can work tirelessly 24/7, making them a reliable investment for train operators. Additionally, turnstiles can help to reduce the loss of revenue due to fare evasion and enhance the safety of passengers.
In conclusion, access control systems such as turnstiles in train stations are crucial in ensuring the safety and protection of public areas. Operators and facility managers should provide adequate measures to prevent unauthorized access and minimize the risk of criminal activities. Turnstiles are an effective solution to improve access control, prevent unauthorized access, and regulate crowds in train stations. It is time for all train stations to implement turnstile systems to improve passenger safety and efficient crowd control.