Construction Site Access Control

    Discover how UK construction teams are using biometric access control to speed up sign-ins, track accurate hours, and keep unqualified workers off site.

    Why Use Construction Site Access Control?

    Prevent Unauthorised Entry Icon

    Prevent Unauthorised Entry

    Modern systems use facial recognition, QR codes, or RFID to verify each worker. When linked with inductions and credentials, only approved personnel gain access—helping keep sites safe and compliant.

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    Speed Up Entry & Reduce Admin

    Biometric turnstiles and mobile sign-ins replace paper logs and lost cards. Sign-in takes seconds, reducing bottlenecks and saving valuable admin time.

    Improve Labour Tracking & Visiblilty

    Each sign-in/out is recorded automatically—providing a live headcount, accurate hours for payroll, and fast reporting in case of an emergency.

    Watch: Seamless Construction Site Access Control with HammerTech (Powered by Irongate)

    In this video, you'll learn:

    • The “lost ID pass” challenge many contractors face and its impact on site security.

    • How HammerTech & Irongate integrate biometric turnstiles, RFID and QR code check-ins to streamline site access.

    • Real-world results from a multi-site rollout – including time savings (1 hour/day) and improved workforce tracking

    Download the multi-company case study: 'Overcoming Lost Security Passes'

    FAQs: Construction Site Access Control

    What is construction site access control?

     

    Site access control refers to the systems used to manage and monitor who enters and exits a construction site.

     

    These can include turnstiles, facial recognition, QR codes, RFID, or PIN codes—often tied to induction status and worker credentials to ensure only authorised personnel gain entry.

    What are the benefits of biometric access control?

     

    Biometric systems (like facial recognition or fingerprint scanning) improve accuracy, reduce the risk of lost or shared credentials, and speed up sign-ins.

     

    They also create reliable, real-time records of worker attendance and help enforce safety and compliance rules at the gate.

    How does facial recognition work when workers wear PPE?

     

    Most modern systems are built to recognise workers wearing hard hats or face coverings.

     

    If the face is too obscured (e.g. sunglasses), backup sign-in options like QR codes, RFID badges, or PIN codes ensure smooth access without delays.

    How does access control connect to inductions and safety?

     

    Integrated systems can sync with a safety platform, so only inducted and approved workers can access the site.

     

    If a worker’s certification is missing or expired, the system automatically blocks access—helping maintain compliance and site safety.

    What data is collected, and is it secure?

     

    Access systems typically collect time and attendance data, plus biometric data if facial recognition is used.

     

    When deployed responsibly, these systems encrypt data, limit access, and comply with GDPR and regional privacy laws.

    Can this help track labour hours and payroll?

     

    Yes. Each sign-in/out creates a timestamped entry tied to a worker’s profile. This automates labour tracking for payroll, billing, and compliance reporting—and removes the need for manual timesheets.

    Is biometric access control suitable for small sites?

     

    Absolutely. Systems can scale from large multi-gate projects to smaller sites using QR codes on a tablet or mobile app.

     

    Even without full turnstiles, small teams can benefit from digital records, verification, and real-time tracking.

    Can I integrate access control with my existing safety system?

     

    Yes. Many access control systems integrate with safety software to centralise worker data, inductions, and site access permissions.

     

    For example, HammerTech and Irongate offer a fully integrated platform where inductions, approvals, and access control are all connected.

    Additional Resources

    Close-up image of a construction worker with a hard hat on, scanning face with facial recognition for site access control in UK and Europe.
    Case Study

    Overcoming Lost Security Passes: A Multi-Company Case Study

    5-Minute Read

    HammerTech & Irongate Solutions partner for seamless construction site access. Learn how several contractors solved the lost ID issue an...

    See the results
    Construction Worker passing through Irongate construction site access turnstile.
    Blog

    Seamless Construction Site Access

    9-Minute Read

    HammerTech + Irongate: A partnership that enhances site efficiency and safety for construction clients, while solving the “lost security...

    Read the blog