People separation systems: Definition, applications, technology and digital integration

A people separation system controls pedestrian flows and allows only one person to pass at a time. These systems effectively prevent unauthorized tailgating and significantly increase security at access points. In practice, people separation systems appear as turnstiles, sensor lanes, speed gates, or mantraps/interlocks. They are used wherever security, reliable access control and controlled pedestrian throughput are essential, from office buildings and industrial sites to public authorities and data centers, as well as stadiums and healthcare facilities.

Combining modern people separation systems with cloud-based access control systems not only greatly enhances security but also creates a seamless user experience. Especially when mobile access via smartphone is used, the result is a system that is both secure and convenient, making day-to-day life in modern buildings noticeably easier.

People separation systems: meaning and purpose in detail

A people separation system (PSS) forms a physical barrier that restricts controlled passage to one person at a time. It ensures that unauthorized individuals cannot simply follow unnoticed, an inherent security risk with conventional door systems. As a result, these systems have become indispensable in modern security architectures.

Control typically takes place via various identification media: in addition to classic cards and transponders, smartphones are increasingly used. The heart of the system, however, is the intelligent sensor technology that reliably detects whether only a single person is passing through. If someone attempts to pass together with an authorized person, the system triggers an alarm or blocks further access, depending on the configuration.

A people separation system fulfills several key functions:

• Ensures that only authorized persons gain access
• Enables measurable and plannable throughput, which is crucial for people flow management
• Significantly reduces tailgating and misuse attempts by unauthorized persons
• Relieves reception and security staff considerably through automation
• Logs all entry events comprehensively, which is often essential for compliance
• Improves the overall security level without compromising user comfort

Compared to ordinary door systems, people separation systems offer a crucial advantage: they create a physical barrier that actively prevents tailgating or slipping through unnoticed. This makes them particularly valuable for sensitive areas with heightened security requirements or for organizations looking to strengthen access security in the context of security reviews and audits.

Types of people separation systems at a glance

Choosing the right system depends heavily on the specific use case, the building conditions and, not least, the budget. Each type offers distinct strengths for different scenarios:

Tripod turnstiles

Function and characteristics:
Tripod turnstiles are defined by their three-arm design and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Their robust mechanical structure allows a single 120° rotation per entry, physically enforcing single passage and preventing tailgating.

Typical use cases:
Common at production entrances, gyms, factory gates, public facilities, and sports venues, in short, wherever large numbers of people need to be channeled reliably and cost-effectively.

Advantages and special features:
Tripod turnstiles offer excellent value for money. They handle moderate throughput rates, are extremely durable and low-maintenance, and require minimal space. Their high resistance to vandalism makes them ideal for public areas.

Considerations:
The relatively low barriers can be circumvented by climbing over. In critical security areas, combine them with supplementary measures such as surveillance cameras or additional sensors. User acceptance is generally lower than with more comfortable solutions like modern sensor lanes.

Full-height turnstiles

Function and characteristics:
These cage-like, full-height turnstiles, ranging from 2.0 to 2.4 meters, offer maximum physical security. Their construction effectively prevents climbing and creates an almost insurmountable barrier.

Typical use cases:
Primarily used to secure outdoor areas, sites, high-security zones, industrial plants and critical infrastructure, locations with particularly high security requirements.

Advantages and special features:
Exceptional security performance, full weather resistance and extreme vandalism resistance make full-height turnstiles the first choice for unstaffed outdoor access points. Over the long term, they are very low-maintenance and thus cost-efficient to operate.

Considerations:
They require significantly more space than other variants and offer lower throughput than modern sensor lanes. Their visually dominant appearance may not blend seamlessly into every architectural setting. Clear evacuation routes must be defined for emergencies.

Sensor lanes and speed gates

Function and characteristics:
Modern sensor lanes use waist-high glass wings or sliding doors with precise monitoring via light barriers or LiDAR sensors. When an authorized access is granted, they open quickly and close automatically after passage. Advanced sensors reliably detect tailgating attempts.

Typical use cases:
These elegant solutions are found in high-end office and administrative buildings, prestigious lobbies, educational institutions, premium hotels and modern libraries—where security must be combined with aesthetics.

Advantages and special features:
A particularly high throughput of up to 60 people per minute is a key benefit. Additional advantages include a representative appearance with numerous design options, excellent tailgating detection and a comfortable user experience. Many models also integrate readers and displays directly into the unit.

Considerations:
Speed gates require precise coordination with the access control system and emergency egress concepts. Glass elements need regular cleaning to maintain their visual impact. While acquisition costs are higher, they are offset by increased comfort and a representative look.

Mantraps/interlocks

Function and characteristics:
Mantraps operate with two doors or wings arranged in sequence with a secure control chamber between them. They can optionally include weight sensors, 3D sensors or biometric verification. The interlock principle, one door opens only when the other is closed, provides maximum security.

Typical use cases:
Data centers, laboratories, high-security zones, vault rooms, sensitive research facilities and critical corporate infrastructure rely on this highest security level.

Advantages and special features:
Mantraps deliver the highest single-person separation of any available system. They can be perfectly combined with multi-factor authentication and optionally integrated with metal detectors or specific weight checks.

Considerations:
These systems require significantly higher investment and space than other solutions and reach much lower throughput rates—typically only 3–6 people per minute. Installation and configuration are more complex. For maximum security, regular training of responsible security personnel is recommended.

Typical use cases and objectives in practice

Depending on the industry and environment, people separation systems address different requirements. The following examples highlight their versatility:

Office and administrative buildings:
In modern office environments, people separation systems efficiently control visitor and employee flows. They form the first line of defense in the lobby and integrate seamlessly with digital ID systems and visitor management software. Particularly elegant speed gates often reflect corporate design and create a representative first impression for visitors and business partners. Information on suitable solutions for this area is also available under digital locking systems for office buildings.

Industry and logistics:
In industrial settings, robust people separation systems secure plant entrances and reliably handle shift changes with high footfall. They enable selective access to sensitive production areas and can be intelligently combined with time recording systems. Particularly robust tripod turnstiles have proven themselves here, as they operate reliably in harsh conditions and require minimal maintenance.

Data centers and research facilities:
In these highly sensitive environments, operators often implement tiered security zones with mantraps for maximum security. Complete audit trails meet strict compliance requirements, while multi-stage authentication further secures access. Protecting intellectual property and critical infrastructure consistently demands the highest available security standards.

Stadiums, arenas and leisure facilities:
At large events, people separation systems enable seamless ticketing integration and efficient entry control. They handle extreme peak loads before and after events and must be particularly robust for continuous use in all weather conditions. Full-height turnstiles provide additional protection against unauthorized entry and prevent climbing, a non-negligible risk at major events.

Healthcare:
Hospitals and care facilities use people separation systems for controlled access to sensitive areas such as medication storage and operating theaters. They protect patients and confidential health data, and integrate hygienic control concepts, increasingly with touchless access. Thoughtful integration with emergency systems for rapid evacuation is particularly important.

Educational institutions:
Schools and universities implement secure access control for libraries, laboratories, exam rooms and student housing. Efficient visitor management for parent evenings and public events increases security without being intimidating. Modern, transparent speed gates provide security without compromising the open character of an educational institution.

Residential complexes and multifamily buildings:
In modern residential concepts, people separation systems protect shared areas such as gyms, pools and lounges. They increasingly integrate with parcel lockers and smart mailboxes and securely control access to parks and underground garages. Comfort is paramount here, which is why elegant, unobtrusive sensor lanes are preferred.

Across all these areas, people separation systems pursue several core objectives: significantly increasing access security, sustainably reducing process costs through automation, improving user comfort through fast, frictionless passage, reliably supporting compliance requirements and ensuring complete traceability of all access events.

Safety, standards and compliance

A people separation system must be embedded in a holistic security concept that considers mechanical, electrical, organizational and digital aspects:

Anti-tailgating and anti-passback

Modern people separation systems use advanced sensors to reliably detect tailgaters. This is achieved through precise weight analysis, infrared scanning or LiDAR technology. Complementary, intelligent anti-passback rules prevent the same credential from being used multiple times by different individuals.

These functions are the core of any effective separation system and must be tested regularly to ensure effectiveness. Detection rates should be documented and continuously optimized to avoid security gaps.

Emergency and evacuation concepts

In alarm situations, people separation systems must respond reliably. Depending on the configuration, they switch to fail-open mode for rapid evacuation or fail-safe mode for maximum security. Proper integration with the fire alarm system and other building systems is essential.

Evacuation routes must be clearly marked and understandable for all users, especially in areas with high visitor volumes or changing user groups. Regular emergency drills ensure the systems perform as intended in a real incident.

Accessibility

Every modern access solution must provide accessible alternatives. This includes, for example, wide sensor lanes and intuitive wayfinding with tactile guidance systems. Local accessibility regulations must be fully met, not only to avoid discrimination but also to eliminate legal risks.

It is particularly important to consider different user groups already in the planning phase. Retrofitting is often costly and complex. A well-thought-out concept accounts for all potential users from the outset.

Data protection and auditability

The collection and processing of access data in Europe is subject to the GDPR and must be designed accordingly. Clear role-based access rights and tamper-proof logs are basic requirements for a privacy-compliant system.

Special care is required with biometric data, these are subject to particularly strict data protection requirements and should only be implemented after careful legal review. Consent from the data subjects and transparent information about data processing are indispensable.

Standards and regulations

Depending on the type and location of a people separation system, various safety standards and local regulations must be considered. Particularly relevant are:

• EN 16005 for power-operated doors and gates
• EN 60335 for electrical safety
• Local fire protection regulations
• Industry-specific standards in regulated sectors such as finance or healthcare

Involving specialist planners, fire safety officers and, where appropriate, security consultants early on prevents costly rework and ensures compliance with all relevant regulations.

Advanced people separation systems also include integrated monitoring functions that automatically detect and report tampering attempts, technical malfunctions or unusual usage patterns. Certifications and security classifications should match the specific risks of the deployment environment and be reviewed regularly to keep pace with evolving threat scenarios.

Digital integration – from card to smartphone

The true value of modern people separation systems is realized through integration into a flexible, future-oriented access control system. This enables seamless interaction between all components and maximizes both security and usability.

Authentication technologies compared

NFC transponders (cards, tags, wristbands)
These proven physical access media offer fast recognition and robust functionality in daily use. They are particularly suitable where smartphones are impractical or prohibited, such as in production areas or cleanrooms. Their ease of use and durability make them a common choice. See also more on transponders.

Smartphone access (Bluetooth/NFC)
Mobile access solutions via smartphone greatly reduce administrative effort for card management. They accelerate onboarding and offboarding significantly, as permissions can be issued, changed or revoked digitally in real time, without exchanging physical media. This approach is ideal for guests, temporary contractors or flexible access models in modern work environments with high turnover. Further notes on digital key management can be found in the BlueID documentation: digital key management.

Multi-factor authentication
For high-security areas, combining authentication methods is recommended, for example, a digital key plus PIN code or a biometric characteristic. This exponentially increases security because a single compromised medium is not sufficient for access. In particularly sensitive areas such as vaults or data centers, this approach is now standard.

Cloud-based management as a key factor

Central administration via web portals and apps
Modern access solutions allow all permissions, schedules, zones and visitor access to be managed through a single intuitive interface, location-independent and in real time. This significantly reduces administrative effort and minimizes errors from manual processes.

Role-based administration and multi-tenancy
Clear responsibilities, granular permissions and the ability to delegate to site leads or facility managers ensure efficient processes and compliance. The multi-tenant capabilities of modern systems also enable the secure management of multiple sites or organizational units within a shared infrastructure.

Complete logging and analytics
All access events, who accessed what and when, are recorded automatically and are available for compliance reports, security analyses and operational optimization. Advanced systems also offer visual dashboards and insights into usage patterns, providing valuable input for capacity planning and security measures.

Offline and online operation for maximum availability

Hybrid architecture for high resilience
Modern access systems intelligently cache permissions at the edge so operations continue uninterrupted during temporary network outages. This is a decisive advantage over purely server-based solutions, which can fail completely if the connection is lost.

Standardized interfaces
People separation systems can be controlled via relay contacts and wall readers, proven, standardized interfaces that work reliably in new builds and retrofits alike. Compatibility with common protocols increases flexibility and future-proofing.

Multi-layer failover
Professional systems implement thoughtful failover concepts, including local caching mechanisms, backup power via UPS, and predefined emergency scenarios. These ensure functionality and security even under adverse conditions.

Process integration for maximum efficiency

Seamless visitor management
Pre-registration of guests, automatic QR-code invitations by email and temporary digital access significantly reduce waiting times and greatly ease the burden on reception staff. Visitors receive clear information and access data before arrival, speeding up check-in.

HR system and time attendance integration
Access events can be used automatically as time bookings; onboarding and offboarding processes can be fully automated. New employees receive the required access rights immediately, while departing employees have permissions automatically revoked, without manual intervention.

Building automation and smart building
Powerful interfaces to fire alarm systems, elevators, barriers and smart building functions create a comprehensive smart building ecosystem where all systems work together seamlessly. Elevator pre-selection (destination control), for example, directs users to the correct elevator automatically, minimizing wait times and increasing comfort.

The digital integration of modern people separation systems into a holistic access management platform not only delivers higher security but also measurable efficiency gains and valuable data insights for continuous optimization. User comfort improves noticeably, which increases acceptance and ultimately the overall security effectiveness of the system.

Planning and sizing – the path to the optimal system

Successful implementation of people separation systems is based on thoughtful planning that considers all relevant factors:

1. Systematically analyze goals and risks

Start by clearly defining which areas require protection and the priority of different security objectives. Analyze potential threat scenarios, such as social engineering, tailgating or forced entry attempts, their likelihood and potential impact.

Identify all regulatory and compliance requirements applicable to your industry and location. These vary widely between sectors such as finance, healthcare or critical infrastructure.

A structured risk matrix that evaluates probability and potential damage forms the basis for informed decisions and appropriate investment.

2. Quantify people flows precisely

Accurate knowledge of expected people flows is crucial for proper sizing. Systematically record peak times such as shift changes or event start times through measurements or analysis of existing access data.

Document typical daily and weekly load profiles to determine the required throughput capacity. The necessary throughput per lane (people per minute), taking peak times into account, largely determines how many lanes are needed.

Don’t forget to factor in growth scenarios and seasonal fluctuations. A solution that suffices today can quickly become a bottleneck as user numbers grow.

3. Select system types strategically

Each type of people separation system has specific strengths for particular use cases:

• Use elegant, fast sensor lanes (speed gates) in representative reception areas to combine high throughput with an attractive appearance
• Deploy robust full-height turnstiles to secure the outer perimeter and unstaffed access points requiring extra protection against intrusion
• Implement mantraps with multi-factor authentication for high-security zones such as server rooms or research labs
• Always plan accessible alternatives with equivalent security levels for people with reduced mobility

Also consider architectural and design requirements to achieve a harmonious overall impression and foster user acceptance.

4. Specify integration precisely

Define the technical integration details early:

• Which authentication media (card/smartphone) will be used?
• What is the optimal reader placement for intuitive operation?
• Which controller and relay configuration is required?

Document all interfaces to other systems, such as fire alarm systems, elevators, time attendance and visitor management, in a detailed integration matrix. This prevents misunderstandings and ensures smooth implementation.

Ensure future-proofing through open, standardized interfaces and expansion options, requirements evolve continuously.

5. Design security and egress holistically

A well-thought-out security and egress concept is essential:

• Design reliable emergency openings (fail-open) for fast evacuation in an emergency
• Develop robust solutions for power outages, e.g., UPS protection for critical components
• Provide clear signage for escape routes and coordinate early with the fire safety officer
• Carefully document all security-relevant decisions for future audits and official approvals

Coordinate with fire protection authorities and security experts in the planning phase to avoid costly rework.

6. Plan tests, training and operations systematically

After installation, the real challenge begins:

• Conduct standardized acceptance tests (FAT/SAT) with documented test scenarios
• Develop realistic tailgating test scenarios to validate detection rates
• Create a comprehensive operations manual with clear instructions for all operating states
• Train reception and security staff thoroughly and implement a regular maintenance plan

It is especially important to involve all relevant stakeholders early, from executive leadership through IT and facility management to future users. Transparent communication of planned changes greatly promotes acceptance and prevents resistance during rollout.

Regular reviews and adjustments to the operating concept ensure the system continues to function optimally and meets evolving requirements over the long term.

People separation systems: Cost range from acquisition to operation

Investing in a people separation system involves several cost components that should be considered during planning. The following benchmarks provide a realistic overview of typical price ranges (excluding VAT):

Acquisition costs by system type

Tripod turnstiles:
Costs range from EUR 2,000 to 6,000 per unit. Pricing depends on material quality (standard steel to stainless steel in V2A/V4A quality), control electronics and additional features such as emergency mechanisms or integrated people counters.

Full-height turnstiles:
Full-height, high-security turnstiles cost between EUR 3,500 and 9,000, depending on design, material (galvanized steel or high-grade stainless steel) and additional security features such as roof structures or special sensors.

Sensor lanes/speed gates (per lane):
Budget EUR 7,000 to 15,000 for a single lane. Premium designs with glass wings, LED lighting, integrated touch displays and precise sensors are at the upper end of the range. Material choice and design options have a significant impact on cost.

Mantraps/interlocks:
Complete solutions cost between EUR 20,000 and 60,000, with pricing heavily dependent on size, integrated security features and special requirements such as ballistic protection or biometric components. Custom solutions for especially sensitive areas can exceed this range.

Additional component costs

Readers/controllers/relays:
Expect around EUR 400 to 1,500 per access point for authentication technology. The exact amount depends on the technology used (from simple RFID readers to high-security biometric systems) and the desired security level.

Installation and structural modifications:
These costs often amount to 15 to 30 percent of hardware costs. The actual effort depends greatly on the extent of necessary floor work, power supply adjustments and structural changes. Especially in retrofits, these costs can vary considerably.

Access management software:
Either one-time license fees or ongoing subscription costs apply, usually tiered by the number of managed doors/users. Cloud-based solutions often offer attractive monthly pricing models that reduce upfront investment.

Operation and maintenance:
Budget around 5 to 10 percent of hardware costs per year for ongoing maintenance and technical support. Additional costs for cloud services are typically tiered by number of users and doors.

Optimizing total cost of ownership (TCO)

Long-term costs can be optimized through the following measures:

Use of mobile access solutions:
Switching to smartphone access significantly reduces the administrative effort of card management. Costs for replacement cards are eliminated, and issuing permissions becomes far more efficient.

Process automation:
Thoughtful workflows for onboarding, offboarding and visitor management save considerable personnel costs and minimize manual errors.

Remote administration and diagnostics:
The ability to make configuration changes and run diagnostics remotely saves travel costs and enables faster response times.

Standardized interfaces:
Using open standards and proven protocols reduces integration costs and simplifies future expansions.

Scalable implementation:
A phased rollout spreads investment over time and allows adjustments based on lessons learned from early installations.

For transparent cost planning, divide the project into clearly defined phases, such as a pilot, the main rollout and the subsequent operations phase. Each phase should have its own milestones and budgets.

Don’t overlook the indirect financial benefits of a people separation system: fewer security incidents, optimized staffing, improved compliance and a more professional appearance can have substantial economic effects that should be included in a holistic ROI assessment.

Best practices for day-to-day operation and security

The long-term success of a people separation system depends heavily on well-designed operating processes. These proven measures ensure sustainable security and efficiency:

Structured access policies as the foundation

Define precise roles, zones, time windows and visitor concepts in a binding, documented policy. Review and update it regularly to meet operational requirements and legal obligations.

A clear definition of responsibilities is particularly important: Who may grant or change access rights? Which approval processes must be followed? Who is responsible for monitoring and control? A well-documented access concept forms the basis for audits and certifications.

Continuous employee training and awareness

Train reception staff, security teams and facility managers regularly on correct procedures, verification methods and escalation paths. Pay particular attention to recognizing social engineering attempts and responding appropriately to technical problems.

Security awareness starts in the mind, regular awareness training for all employees is at least as important as technical measures. Conduct recurring training and communicate security incidents transparently to sharpen awareness.

Regular security tests and reviews

Plan systematic tests of tailgating detection, emergency release and correct sensor calibration. Document test results comprehensively for later audits and continuous improvement.

Consider regular penetration tests where trained security experts attempt to bypass controls, this reveals weaknesses before attackers exploit them. Feed the findings directly into improvement measures.

Proactive data management and access hygiene

Keep your user directory up to date and implement automated offboarding to ensure departing employees retain no access rights. Regular data cleaning routines ensure a tidy, traceable permission set.

Pay special attention to reviewing special permissions and temporary access, these are often forgotten and can lead to security gaps. Implement time limits for all temporary access so they expire automatically.

Systematic monitoring and event analysis

Evaluate access logs regularly and systematically. Analyze usage patterns and unusual events to detect potential security risks early. The resulting insights also help optimize configuration and staffing.

Modern analytics tools can automatically detect anomalies, such as unusual access times, repeated attempts or access to areas that don’t fit the user’s typical profile. Such anomalies should be investigated immediately.

Predictive maintenance and regular updates

Keep all mechanical components, sensors and software up to date through preventive maintenance and timely updates. Plan maintenance windows proactively and outside peak times to minimize operational disruption.

Structured documentation of all maintenance and updates is important not only for warranty handling but also for troubleshooting and future planning. Pay special attention to security updates for all connected components.

FAQ on people separating systems

What is a people separation system?

A people separation system is a physical access barrier designed to ensure only one person passes at a time. It prevents tailgating and enhances security at controlled entry points.

Where are people separation systems typically used?

They are used in office buildings, industrial facilities, data centers, stadiums, government institutions, healthcare environments and residential complexes—anywhere secure, controlled access is essential.

What types of people separation systems exist?

Common types include tripod turnstiles, full-height turnstiles, sensor lanes (speed gates) and high-security mantraps/interlocks. Each type suits different security levels and throughput needs.

How do people separation systems detect tailgating?

Modern systems use sensors such as infrared, LiDAR, 3D detection or weight sensors to identify if more than one person attempts to pass through at once, triggering alarms or blocking access.

How do people separation systems integrate with access control?

They connect to card readers, smartphone access, PIN pads or biometric systems and can be managed via cloud-based platforms for real-time permissions, logging and analytics.