Access control: What is it? And, why does it matter?

Back in the day, access control was a lock and key. Today’s technology has made controlling access to commercial premises considerably more efficient and secure.

It has also made things more complicated because when it comes to access control systems, there are multiple options available. Which system should you choose for your commercial building?

In this article you will discover:

• What access control is
• Its benefits for commercial premises
• The different types of access control
• How to choose the most appropriate system

But first, here’s a quick definition.

What is access control?

Access control uses programmable technology to control who enters a building, the times they can enter and which areas they can access.

The system also logs and adds an identification marker to each entry and exit. You have a real-time record of who’s onsite at any given time.

The benefits of access control for commercial premises

Security and safety. You have complete control over the level of access to each area of your premises. It’s flexible because you can grant individuals different access rights depending on their role, their security clearance or the time of day.

Cost-efficiency. There’s no need to supply keys, replace them when they get lost or change the locks. The criteria can simply be reset when a staff member leaves or a new employee joins.

Real-time data. You have an accurate record of all entries and exits. If there’s a security breach, an individual can more easily be identified. If the building needs to be evacuated, you know who’s onsite. The data also helps building managers make efficient use of resources such as heating and lighting in line with occupancy.
Compliance. Access control can generate the detailed reports and the audit trail you need as proof of compliance. By showing that your business meets regulatory security standards, it reduces the risk of penalties or legal issues.

Integration capabilities. Modern access control systems can integrate with existing security measures such as CCTV. This adds an additional layer of security and gives you a 360 degree, round-the-clock view of activity at your premises.

Types of access control

There are a number of options for commercial premises. We’ll explore the most popular systems currently available:

• Access fobs and cards
• Keypad with password or PIN
• Mobile apps with barcode or Bluetooth
• Biometric devices

Access fobs and cards

Access fobs and cards allow authorised individuals to open doors and access elevators. They can also give vehicles access to car parks and loading bays.

Essentially, they are small programmable pieces of hardware which transmit identification data to door readers.

The data reader can be placed next to any door or entry point you wish to control. Every employee has their own fob or card, and you can customise their access level. For instance, areas with sensitive information or valuable assets can have limited access criteria.

This form of access control is not only more secure, it also saves the time-consuming headache of issuing, replacing and recalling keys. If an employee leaves, changes roles or loses the fob or card, the technology can easily be reset.

Keypad with password or PIN

A keypad eliminates the need for a physical object in order to gain access. Instead, individuals are assigned their own password or PIN.

Again, the keypads can be placed in any location where it’s necessary to control access. And, like fobs and cards, you can customise and amend access criteria when circumstances change.

Keypads can be useful if you want to restrict entry to specific areas, or during particular times of the day. Once the restrictions are programmed, entry will be denied even when the correct passcode is used.

Mobile access

With mobile access, individuals use their smartphones to get in and out of the building. There are multiple types of mobile access solutions on the market. Some use an app, others use Bluetooth.

After receiving access permission, people simply wave their smartphones in front of a door reader in order to enter and exit.

Access is generally managed in the cloud. As an administrator, you can grant and revoke access credentials, and you have the flexibility to decide which areas each person can enter.

Biometric devices

So far, we’ve focused on access authorisations which rely on a physical object, or remembering a passcode. With biometric access control, an individual simply needs to be present.

Biometric devices scan a person’s face or fingertip. Almost immediately, they can work out who they are, and which areas they have permission to enter.

As things stand, these systems are highly resistant to fraud and hacking. There is nothing to lose or steal, and no passcodes to share or forget.

How to choose an access control system

To make it easier to find the right option for your business, we’ve put together a list of things to think about.

Entry points. Work out the number of controlled entry points, internally and externally, and the type of entry. Ideally, you’re after an option which covers all of them with just one system.

Is it scalable and future-proof? Technology moves fast, and your business is growing. The system should be scalable, and it should offer updates as new features are developed.

Recurring costs. While the initial outlay takes up most of the security budget, don’t forget about ongoing costs. Maintenance, updates and replacing access permissions will be a factor. There may also be software licences and a software subscription fee.

Integration. Can your access control system connect with existing security measures such as CCTV, intruder alarms and fire alarms? It’s important that they all work together, with one action triggering another.

Response. Key fobs, access cards and mobile phones can be lost or stolen, and passcodes can be forgotten. Look for an access control provider who offers 24/7 rapid response and assistance.

Need some help? The team at Classic Services Group are access control specialists. Tell us about the security requirements at your premises and we’ll provide all the advice you need. Get in touch here.