New security readers coming to HQC’s main entrance

FORT BEVOIR, Va. -

Employees and visitors entering the McNamara Headquarters Complex's main entrance will soon need to swipe their Common Access Card through an electronic reader at one of six security turnstiles to gain building access.

The change only affects about 25% of employees since the rest already undergo CAC checks when entering or leaving the building through security portals previously installed at entrances between Pods 1-2, 6-7 and 8-9.

Turnstile installation is expected to begin after July 8. Signs will be posted to direct traffic, although there should be minimal inconvenience for those using the main entrance, said Jim Profita, chief of the Security and Emergency Services Division for Defense Logistics Agency Installation Management.

"Employees and visitors may be directed to use the right door instead of the left depending on what section of the turnstile station is being installed. Or they may be directed to use pod entrances for a short period of the day," he said.

The added security measures enhance, rather than change, the building's existing security policy.

"The addition of the main entrance turnstiles will rectify an existing vulnerability and significantly improve the security for all those assigned to or visiting the complex," said John Holwick, HQC site director.

Profita added that the availability of six turnstiles should eliminate potential backups for entering, and each complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

After installation, visitors and employees with carts or large packages will be directed to enter through the right-side doors for screening as normal by a police officer. Those with CACs can enter through either door and should approach a turnstile to scan their card, which will be verified through the Defense Biometric Identification System. A glass panel will then open for those allowed entry. Police officers will be available to assist those who are denied entry.

Profita said all entrants, even those with valid CACs, remain subject to random security searches by police. Random checks are also conducted at pod entrances.

Although police officers at the HQC gates already check CACs for all drivers and passengers, Profita said the addition of turnstiles in the building ensures that those who enter are authorized.

"Being on the complex and being in the building are two different things," he continued. "This also helps us know how many people are in the building in the case of an emergency."

Employees and visitors will also be required to scan their cards when exiting the building, but security staff can open all the turnstiles during emergencies to allow people to freely exit.

Updates on the installation schedule and completion will be emailed to HQC occupants through HQC Messenger.

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