There are many applications for access control systems for businesses. These customized systems provide businesses with advanced solutions to protect assets, manage personnel access, and enhance operational efficiency. From basic office door access to sophisticated visitor management systems, these applications are integral in protecting both physical and digital assets.

With various options available, how do you determine which access control system application best fits your unique business scenario? This comprehensive guide explores the most common applications and how they can benefit your business.

Most Common Access Control System Applications

1. Office Door Access Systems

Office door access systems are designed to secure interior doors within commercial properties. They control access to specific areas, ensuring only authorized personnel can enter.

 

 

Enhancing Security and Efficiency

These systems play a crucial role in:

  • Securing Sensitive Areas: Protect IT server rooms, records rooms, and offices containing confidential information.
  • Restricting Public Access: Limit entry to areas where the public is not allowed, such as clinic exam rooms or employee-only zones.
  • Managing Multi-Tenant Access: Control access to suites within multi-tenant buildings, differentiating between employee and public entrances.

Key Features to Look For

  • Unlock/Lock Schedules: Automate door schedules based on business hours.
  • Audit Trails: Monitor who has accessed specific areas and when.
  • Versatile Credentials: Use cards, fobs, or mobile devices for access.
  • Contact Tracing: Identify who was in the building simultaneously (useful for health concerns like COVID-19).
  • Remote Access Management: Manage the system remotely, ideal for situations when someone forgets their credential.

  1. Access Control Locks

Access control locks are electronic locks that can be wired or wireless, fitting seamlessly into existing doors and openings. They use electrified locking hardware to automatically unlock doors when authorized.

Differences from Traditional Locks

  • Electronic Credentials: Utilize electronic keys instead of traditional metal keys.
  • Eliminate Rekeying: No need to change locks if a credential is lost—simply disable it and issue a new one.

Benefits for Businesses

  • Cost and Time Savings: Reduce expenses associated with rekeying locks.
  • Access Reports: Generate reports showing who accessed the building and when.
  • Remote Management: Control the system remotely for convenience.
  • Automated Schedules: Set doors to unlock and lock automatically based on business hours.
  • Issuing Credentials Remotely: Provide access to individuals without needing to meet in person, using mobile phone apps.

  1. Commercial Door Entry Systems

These systems secure exterior doors, controlling access to the entire building.

Advantages in Business Premises

  • Enhanced Security: Prevent unauthorized entry to your facility.
  • Credential Management: Issue and manage access credentials efficiently.
  • Audit Trails: Keep records of entry and exit for security purposes.

Integration with Other Security Measures

  • Cameras: Integrate with surveillance systems for visual verification.
  • HR Systems: Sync with employee databases for seamless onboarding and offboarding.
  • Property Management Software: Coordinate with systems managing tenants and facilities.
  • Tenant Integration: In commercial properties, tenants can manage their own access control systems, reducing the involvement of property managers.

  1. Access Control for Commercial Buildings

Access control systems in commercial buildings secure both interior and exterior areas, catering to the unique needs of large facilities.

Unique Requirements for Large Buildings

  • Scalability: Ability to manage multiple access points across various floors and zones.
  • Customized Access Levels: Assign different access permissions based on roles and departments.
  • Centralized Management: Oversee the entire system from a single platform.

Improving Overall Security Management

  • Streamlined Operations: Simplify security protocols across the building.
  • Enhanced Monitoring: Quickly identify and respond to security breaches.
  • Compliance: Meet industry regulations and standards more effectively.

  1. Visitor Management and Access Control

Visitor management systems control and monitor guest access to your facility, ensuring that only authorized visitors can enter.

Managing Visitor Access Effectively

  • Intercom Systems: For single-tenant buildings, audio/visual intercoms allow verification before granting entry.
  • Multi-Tenant Directories: In multi-tenant buildings, visitors can contact specific tenants directly to gain access.
  • Audio-Visual Identification: Verify visitors through calls or app alerts before they enter the premises.

Common Technologies Used

  • Phone Integration: Systems can call a tenant's phone for access approval.
  • Mobile Apps: Receive alerts and grant access through dedicated applications.
  • Desk or Wall Mounted Answering Station: Device installed in a permanent location with the specific purpose of answering the intercom.

How Access Control Systems Can Enhance Your Business

1. Integration with Other Security Systems

Integration with Surveillance and Alarm Systems

  • Alarm Systems: Use access credentials to arm or disarm alarms, simplifying the process compared to traditional keypads.
  • Surveillance Systems: Enable video verification of door usage, enhancing security oversight.
  • Contact Tracing: Monitor movement within the building for health and safety purposes.
  • Parking Control: Manage access to parking areas with gate arms and access credentials.
  • Audit Trails: Keep detailed records of who is on-site and when.
  • Employee Management: Integrate with HR platforms like Active Directory or Okta to automate access control during onboarding and offboarding.

Benefits of a Fully Integrated Security System

  • Unified Management: Control access, surveillance, and alarms from a single web portal.
  • User Experience: Provide a seamless and efficient experience for both administrators and users.

  1. Emergency and Evacuation Protocols

Facilitating Emergency Response

  • Lockdown Capabilities: Quickly secure facilities during emergencies such as security threats.
  • Emergency Plans: Implement specific responsibilities so staff know how to react.

Best Practices for Emergency Situations

  • Staff Training: Regularly train employees on emergency procedures.
  • Clear Protocols: Establish and communicate clear action plans for various scenarios.

  1. Compliance and Data Security

Complying with Data Security and Privacy Regulations

  • Network Security Standards: Utilize cloud providers that meet stringent compliance requirements.
  • Industry Requirements: Ensure systems meet specific security needs, especially for sensitive industries.

Considerations for Data Protection

  • SOC 2 Type II Compliance: Opt for systems that adhere to these standards for data security.
  • Vendor Transparency: Access 'white sheets' detailing security measures, including redundant servers and encryption protocols.

Future Applications of Access Control Systems

Future Trends in Access Control Technology

Emerging Technologies

  • Mobile Credentials/Bluetooth: Use smartphones and Bluetooth technology for access, reducing the need for physical cards or fobs.
  • Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP): Implement highly encrypted card reader technology to prevent credential spoofing.
  • Internet of Things (IoT) Integration: Connect access control systems with HVAC, lighting, and unit door locks for a smarter building.
  • Scalability via Cloud: Manage multiple sites nationally or internationally through cloud-based systems.
  • Active Directory and Single Sign-On (SSO) Integration: Streamline user management with existing IT infrastructure.

Why Choose Assured Security?

At Assured Security, we specialize in providing customized access control solutions tailored to your business needs. Our expertise in access control system applications ensures that you receive a system that not only secures your premises but also enhances your operational efficiency.

Our Advantages:

  • Expert Consultation: We assess your specific requirements to recommend the most effective solutions.
  • Advanced Technology: Utilize the latest technologies, including mobile credentials and cloud-based systems.
  • Seamless Integration: Integrate access control with your existing security measures and business applications.
  • Ongoing Support: Provide training, maintenance, and support to ensure your system operates flawlessly.

 

Secure Your Business with Advanced Access Control

Investing in the right access control system is a critical step in protecting your business assets and personnel. Whether you need a basic office door access system or a comprehensive solution integrating visitor management and IoT devices, we have the expertise to deliver.

Contact Assured Security today to discuss how our access control system applications can be tailored to meet your unique business needs. Let us help you enhance your security and operational efficiency for a safer, smarter future.