TAILGATING CASE STUDY

Tailgating Consequences and How Automatic Systems Products Can Help

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced workplace environments, high-speed access control systems such as speedgates are critical for balancing security, convenience, and aesthetics. However, one of the most common risks these systems face is tailgating—an unauthorised individual attempting to follow an authorised person through the gate. 

While it may appear harmless, tailgating poses serious risks to both organisations and individuals, including data breaches, physical security threats, and compliance violations. Fortunately, modern access control systems, particularly those designed by Automatic Systems, are engineered to detect and prevent such incidents effectively. 

1. Immediate Security Breach

  • Tailgating undermines the primary function of access control: restricting entry to authorised personnel.  
  • This creates potential exposure to theft, sabotage, or unauthorised data access.  

2. Operational Disruption

  • Speedgates equipped with infrared sensors, cameras, and pressure-sensitive surfaces detect tailgating attempts instantly.  
  • When triggered, they may initiate alarms, flashing lights, or barrier lockdowns, disrupting normal operations until security teams respond.  

3. Safety Risks

  • High-speed barrier mechanisms (swing, sliding, or retractable panels) close quickly to block unauthorised users.  
  • While designed for safety, the sudden closure can create confusion, crowding, or delays in high-traffic areas. 

4. Privacy and Compliance Issues

  • Many organisations are bound by compliance frameworks (ISO, HIPAA, GDPR, etc.) requiring strict control over physical access.  
  • Tailgating compromises audit trails and may lead to penalties, lawsuits, or reputational damage.  

5. Investigative Burden

  • Integrated surveillance systems capture incidents for review, but this requires time and uses security personnel’s limited resources.  
  • In some cases, legitimate users may also face access revocation, requiring manual re-verification.  

6. Escalation and Repeat Offences

  • Repeated tailgating attempts may trigger escalation procedures, such as flagging the offender, deploying security staff, or banning access altogether.  
  • Without the right deterrents in place, tailgating can evolve into a persistent threat. 

How Automatic Systems Products Help 

Automatic Systems offers advanced speedgates and access control solutions designed to proactively prevent and respond to tailgating attempts. 

Key Features and Benefits 

1. Advanced Detection Technology

  • Infrared beams, smart sensors, and overhead monitoring ensure precise detection of unauthorised entries.  
  • Reduces false alarms while maintaining high sensitivity.  

2. Fast, Secure Barrier Mechanisms

  • Swing, sliding, or retractable panels operate at high speed, closing immediately upon detection of tailgating.  
  • Engineered with moderate resistance to stop unauthorised access without risking injury.  

3. Integrated Video and Analytics

  • Built-in camera systems provide real-time monitoring and forensic evidence.  
  • Optional facial recognition technology enables identity verification and tracking. 

4. User Experience Protection

  • In cases of suspected tailgating, Automatic Systems’ solutions enforce re-authentication protocols (badge re-swipe, biometrics).  
  • This ensures security without compromising convenience for legitimate users.  

5. Centralised Alerts and Logs  

  • Events are logged automatically in the building’s security management system.  
  • Security staff receive instant alerts via monitoring dashboards or mobile devices for faster response.  

6. Customisable Escalation Protocols  

  • Solutions can be configured to match each organisation’s security policy, from mild deterrents (audible alerts) to strict enforcement (access revocation, lockdown).  
  • Supports compliance requirements with detailed audit trails. 

Conclusion

Tailgating is a serious vulnerability in access-controlled environments, with implications ranging from operational disruption to regulatory non-compliance. The good news is that Automatic Systems’ speedgates and access control solutions are specifically engineered to mitigate these risks, providing a seamless balance of security, safety, and user convenience.  

By implementing Automatic Systems’ technology, organisations can:  

  • Prevent unauthorised entry.  
  • Protect sensitive information and assets.  
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory standards.  
  • Enhance both security posture and user experience. 

 Automatic Systems products turn tailgating from a vulnerability into a controlled, manageable risk. 

   

For more information, please visit www.automatic-systems.com  

To get a quote, email us: sales.nam@automatic-systems.com 

To download this Case Study, use this link: Case Study

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