How to manage access to toilets with a simple and affordable barcode system
Many establishments today are dealing with the same problem - unauthorized entry into areas that are supposed to serve only customers. Most often, it is access to toilets in bistros, restaurants, petrol stations, sports venues, coworking centres or cultural facilities. Unwanted visitors put a strain on staff, increase cleaning requirements and can reduce the comfort of paying guests.
One of our customers contacted us with this request. He needed to restrict access to people "from the street", but at the same time wanted to leave convenient access for visitors who purchase something in the establishment.
Solution: barcode entry from the receipt
We designed a simple and inexpensive system based on verifying the barcode printed on the receipt. After paying, the visitor receives the receipt, attaches it to the reader at the door and the system automatically checks it:
- whether the code is valid
- whether it has already been used
- whether it corresponds to the set time rules
If everything is in order, the relay controlling the lock opens the door. Otherwise, the reason for rejection (expired code, duplicate use, etc.) is displayed on the screen for the visitor.
Hardware used: Zebra CC600 interactive kiosk
For this project we chose the Zebra CC600 kiosk, which combines:
- touch screen
- integrated barcode reader
- the ability to control a relay for an electronic lock
- display of information or advertising content when idle.
When the code is read, the kiosk displays a clear alert or confirmation of entry, accompanied by a thank you message. In the meantime, the device can present the establishment's menu, advertising or instructions for use.
The results: less cleaning, less operator hassle and higher spending
After the introduction of controlled entry, several benefits were confirmed for the customer:
- A decrease in unauthorised entries and thus reduced cleaning requirements.
- Relief for staff, who no longer have to deal with individual access permissions
- increase in average spend - many visitors prefer to make a small purchase to gain legitimate access
The solution has proven to be effective, reliable and affordable. The customer is satisfied with the result and the system's versatility makes it suitable for other types of businesses where access to selected areas needs to be controlled.
