Access Control: The Top Ten Tips from Paxton’
For many businesses, keeping data and valuable assets secure is of vital importance, whilst ensuring that any security threats are dealt with swiftly and effectively. Letting only ...
For many businesses, keeping data and valuable assets secure is of vital importance, whilst ensuring that any security threats are dealt with swiftly and effectively. Letting only the right people in and keeping the unauthorized out without having a bouncer on the door requires the application of intelligent technology. Access system designer and manufacturer Paxton details here its top ten essentials to consider when specifying an access control solution.
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Access control has a number of benefits over using locks and keys, with an important factor being that numerous security functions can be centrally and conveniently managed. This can control the flow of people around a building and its parameters, and restrict who has access to its various parts. This is not only a benefit to a building's security, but also to the health and safety of those working inside.
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Systems can vary in type, from a secure barrier in the car park to a video intercom at the main visitor entrance, from a secure external door with hands free access to integrated CCTV and intruder alarm systems.
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Having an access control system allows for the control of power to a range of facilities within a building, meaning it can be easily integrated with other services, such as fire alarms, CCTV or intruder alarm systems as well as time and attendance services. Together they provide a convenient and easy-to-use service that businesses can utilize effectively to reduce overheads.
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Access Control is IP ready, as it sits directly on the network. This means it's on one cohesive system allowing for data to run on the same network - making for high security and flexible, controlled entry which can be easily extended.
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Systems are easy to manage from anywhere. They can be centrally managed on-site from a PC or remotely through iPhone and tablet apps, or browser-based access control software.
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Building automation and health and safety is benefited by access control, as all of the security systems can be integrated. This will save power through controlled lighting, HVAC and more. It can also prevent untrained staff from operating machinery, which assists with health and safety regulations.
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Systems can carry out a range of functions that are beneficial to a business's duty of care to its staff. This includes the automatic generation of a roll call report in the event of a fire, disabled-access compliance through hands-free access control providing convenient access for wheelchair users, access control to restrict the use of dangerous machinery and hygienic contactless access in infection-sensitive environments.
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High security options, including biometrics - methods that can uniquely recognize an individual based upon one or more intrinsic physical traits - are available for specific applications. The technology employed uses a form of identity access management and access control related to characteristics of the body. Examples include fingerprint, face recognition, DNA, hand and palm geometry and retinal scanners. More and more, biometric readers are being introduced to access control to enhance the security of existing systems.
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Technology which was once seen as futuristic is gradually becoming more common in day-to-day life. Advanced access control can include unique physical identification, enhanced security for sensitive sites, security lockdown and Near Field Communication.
- Aesthetics matter - access control can offer a variety of readers to suit any environment, ensuring that security need not be an eyesore. Access control products can include discreet tokens, wireless products or can be discreetly disguised on a door handle.
