What are Electronic Access Control Systems?
The practice of restricting entry to a building, a room or an area is known as ‘Access Control’. Access Control can be achieved by a human (security guard etc.), through mechanical means such as locks and keys or by technological means such as Electronic Access Control Systems.
Access control can be simply defined as who, where and when. Who is allowed to enter and exit, where they are allowed to enter and exit and when they are allowed to enter and exit.
The limitation of Access Control achieved by humans is obvious and the use of lock and key brings its own problems. When a door is locked only an individual with a key can enter or exit and there is no restriction as to when that key can be used, nor is there any record of who has used the key, or when. Electronic Access Control Systems solve the limitations of human and mechanical means.
Electronic Access Control Systems use computers and credentials, such as a card, or a fob, to grant access to a building, a room or an area based on the credential it has been presented with. The credential is normally held close to a reader that will be located in the vicinity of a door and access will be granted or denied, with a record of the transaction stored electronically. An Electronic Access Control System can also monitor if a door has been forced open or held open for too long after it has been unlocked.
Where can Electronic Access Control Systems be used?
Retail – Retailers can ensure ‘staff only’ areas are kept secure by using Electronic Access Control Systems. Not only will these areas have an additional layer of security, an electronic record of who has gone where and when will be stored. This electronic data could even be used to record staff attendance and assisting with payroll and other HR functions.
Corporate Buildings – Many businesses have valuable equipment and individuals on-site. An electronic Access Control System helps keep track of who is coming and going from site. Corporate buildings often require more than one door to be under access control to ensure there is appropriate control of who goes where, when. Access control can also be used to control the flow of people in this setting and be used to, not only count the people on site but control how many people are allowed in any given area at a time.
Gyms & Leisure – An Electronic Access control system can be used effectively in this setting. Often these environments allow access, primarily to ‘members-only’ and utilizing an electronic database of members allows easy entry and exit using simple credentials. Staff-only areas can also be set up to ensure members of the public are restricted from entering certain areas. Access control can be used to control how many people are allowed on-site at any given time.
Hospitality – Hospitality settings can ensure ‘staff only’ areas are kept secure by using Electronic Access Control Systems. Not only will these areas have an additional layer of security, an electronic record of who has gone where and when will be stored. This electronic data could even be used to record staff attendance, assist with payroll and other HR functions.
Healthcare Settings – Hospitals, Clinics, Dentists, Pharmacies and other Healthcare providers especially recognize the importance of Electronic Access Control Systems. The systems help control the flow of people in both public and private areas and can be customized to the exact needs of the customer.
FAQs
Do I need Electronic Access Control?
If you want to protect your premises, your people and your assets – YES, you need access control.
What is wrong with a key and a lock?
Using locks and keys can be effective, but it brings several flaws and limitations.
- People lose keys
- Using locks and keys does not provide any audit trail
- Multiple doors will require multiple keys
What credentials should I use?
We can supply cards and clamshell fobs for ease. Cards can be held in a holder attached to a lanyard for ease of use, while clamshell fobs can be easily attached to a keyring.