Modern access control systems are essential for maintaining security and efficiency in busy, multi-use facilities. They help monitor and manage who enters and exits your site, streamline administrative processes, and integrate seamlessly with other security systems such as CCTV and fire alarms. A well-designed system keeps your premises safe, reduces operational inefficiencies, and provides flexible, reliable control over access for staff, visitors, and contractors.
Key Takeaways:
- Access control improves site security while simplifying day-to-day operations.
- Modern systems offer flexible options, including temporary access, mobile credentials, and time-based permissions.
- Integration with CCTV and fire alarms enhances overall safety and rapid response capabilities.
Whether you operate an office building, industrial premises, in fact any multi-use private or public sector commercial site, keeping control of who enters and exits the premises is of paramount importance.
From an administrator or facilities manager perspective, the legitimate comings and goings of all occupants – staff or visitors – is essential for maintaining a safe and secure environment.
But do you currently have the most effective access control measures in place to ensure your site security is being efficiently managed?
The Need for Effective Access Control
A modern, well-designed access control system can be highly effective at protecting any size of establishment – from a small office to a sprawling educational or hospital campus.
These systems are also designed to streamline and improve all associated management and administrative functions, reducing operational inefficiencies.
In short, smart access control simplifies day-to-day operations while keeping security robust.
The Benefits of having a Centralised Access Control System
- Highly effective at preventing and detecting unwanted access.
- Unrivalled flexibility. When the need arises to add or remove users or adjust access permissions, it’s a very straightforward process. The system administrator can review and amend data through any remote device.
- If someone requires temporary access to a particular area of the site, such as a contractor or a visitor, it’s easy to manage.
- A bespoke level of customisation can be narrowed down to specific times that an individual is allowed access.
- It can be easily integrated with other on-site security and safety equipment e.g., CCTV and fire alarms.
- Any troubleshooting that might be required can also be handled remotely, rather than by physically attending a specific entry point.
Easy Access Control Set Up
A modern access control system doesn’t rely on cards or fobs. For set up, a code is sent to an app on a user’s phone. When the user approaches the door, their information will be sent remotely to a centralised credential reader which will then unlock the door.
But what if the person’s phone is stolen? These credential readers are capable of connecting with the phone’s built-in ‘near-field communication capability’ (NFC). This is the same feature that allows contactless phone payments. If the thief can’t unlock the phone, they wouldn’t be able to gain access to the premises.
Biometric Credentials
The latest state-of-the-art access control systems we install can also work on a mobile, using biometric capability. The systems offer face and fingerprint recognition, features that are unique to that specific person, and which are virtually impossible to duplicate. When someone wants to enter a building, an access control reader transmits the information to the controller’s systems, which will either grant or deny access.
Access Control System and CCTV Integration
The system can be linked to CCTV video surveillance equipment, enhancing the level of site security. If someone accessed the premises illegally and they were picked up on a CCTV camera, the information could be sent to the administrator or head of security, and the unwanted intruder could be swiftly removed from the location.
In an emergency, the same access control/CCTV equipment integration could be used to help track someone down.
Access Control System and Fire Alarm Integration
An access control system can also be linked to a fire alarm system, providing an additional layer of safety. In the event of a fire breaking out in a building, internal doors and exit points would automatically be unlocked, enabling faster evacuation.
Our Gold Standard Access Control and Entry Systems
For all sizes of establishment, Justice Fire & Security have a range of high-quality access control systems that can be tailored to your specific requirements, from single-door, multi-door and multi-site solutions. These can be networked and integrated with other security and fire alarm systems.
The systems we supply meet stringent NSI NACOSS standards (by the National Security Inspectorate) and are installed and maintained by our fully qualified engineers, in accordance with EN50133 and NSI requirements.
Justice Fire and Security - Your Trusted Name in Commercial Access Control Systems
If you don’t yet have a modern access control system installed at your site, or your existing system is no longer fit for purpose or difficult to manage, call our main switchboard on 0345 468 0927. Our first course of action, prior to any installation, will be to carry out a comprehensive site security survey, which is free of charge.
And for further info, you can always download our FREE guide on access control here
