When it comes to building an effective security business strategy, controlling access to your building is crucial. Access control minimises the risk of unauthorised people getting into your business premises.

It helps keep your assets, data, equipment, and most importantly, your people safe and secure. And knowing exactly who is in the building is vital in an emergency such as a fire.

Most businesses already have some form of access control in place. You probably have a reception desk with staff registering, verifying, and badging visitors. However, nowadays, access control systems are more sophisticated. Computer-based electronic card systems ensure you control who goes where and when, both externally and internally.

This is very useful for businesses that need to restrict access to parts of the building, including confidential data centres or storage of hazardous substances. 

Benefits of access control systems

Protecting staff and property isn’t the only benefit on offer. Here are some extra advantages access control systems deliver.

Do away with keys. A computerised system means there’s no need for keys. Lost or mislaid keys are a common problem and create the potential for a security breach. And if your business has multiple buildings needing different keys, the whole process gets complicated. And the potential for error is magnified.

  • Effective people tracking. Computerised systems are more accurate than paper-based ones. If there’s an incident, accident or theft, you can quickly and accurately identify who was in the building or space at that time.
  • Reduce costs. Save on paper and the cost of replacing keys with computerised access control. Many systems can be integrated with lighting or air-conditioning systems. They automatically turn off when the building is not used, saving money on your energy bills.
  • Improve the employee experience. Your people are your best asset. Access control ensures they feel safer and more secure. Plus, quick and convenient movement in and around the building makes their daily work that bit easier.

Different components of access control systems

There are various systems to choose from with the following essential features.

  • Access cards. Most systems use access cards that work like electronic keys. Your employee swipes or scans the card to enter the building or access different areas internally. They are usually the size of a credit card and are easily carried in a lanyard, wallet or purse. Other options to consider instead of access cards include face recognition, fingerprints or smartphone apps.
  • Card readers. These are usually mounted on the exterior of doors and read employees’ access cards. Doors are automatically opened to those with permission.
  • Access control keypads. Keypads can be used instead of car readers. Employees or visitors simply insert a code to gain entry.
  • Electric lock hardware. This hardware locks and unlocks the door electronically

Access control server computer. All you need to oversee the entire operation is a standard computer. It works as the central database, file manager and monitoring tool for access control.

Expert help and advice

Deciding to go ahead with an access control system is the easy part. Selecting the right option for you is more of a challenge.

With their inside knowledge, the Matrix Security team can support you in making the right choice. They can help identify your needs, so you invest in an access control system that does the job today, and in the future.

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