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Is my turnstile fire compliant?

We often come across the question whilst in the field, “Is my turnstile fire compliant?” Now, the answer is not a simple one, but the eventual answer is, “Yes, if installed and integrated correctly”.

Physical access control has become a crucial part of day-to-day operations, be it a reception area with countless guests mixed with staff, or a simple factory to control time and attendance. Turnstiles, speedstiles and all other forms of physical access control has become the norm when looking to exercise more control in a bustling environment. However, the question always remained, should an emergency arise, will my access control be fire compliant?

With over 23 years’ experience, Boomgate Systems has worked closely with fire marshals as well as fire control specialists, in designing solutions that do meet the necessary criteria to be considered, fire and emergency compliant.

The company has found that integrating with the fire and emergency alarms plays a crucial part in becoming fire compliant and therefore designed its equipment to come standard with a fire/emergency trigger. This trigger will allow for a continued pulse to direct its products to either open automatically, remain open, drop away, or simply free rotate until the fire appointed parties de-active the alarm.

However, to further improve the rapid egress needed in emergency situations, it is also recommended to have a swing gate, be it full or half height, next to your physical access control installation, which will be linked to the emergency/fire trigger in addition to your turnstiles or speedstiles. This allows for a clear passage, to prevent any bottlenecks during a panicked situation, but also serves as a special needs access gate or service gate if needed.

It is important to remember that all buildings and facilities have different fire requirements and the needs might differ from the standard go-to recipe mentioned above, so be cognisant of the restrictions on a site.

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