Choosing the right commercial access control system is important for any business. It will provide the safety and physical security a business owner wants and needs, reassuring them that nothing detrimental will happen to their company. This is due to traditional keys can be difficult to manage, particularly for businesses with multiple employees, visitors or restricted areas, making access control systems a suitable choice for many businesses.
Access control systems are useful for managing access with who can enter a building and when. Access will be controlled for individual doors, departments, restricted areas, gates and barriers. The type of system will depend on the premises, the number of users, the entry points, and the required level of security.
Access control systems work by using electronic credentials instead of traditional keys. These credentials consist of
- Key cards
- Key fobs
- Pin codes
- Biometric identification
- Mobile devices
These systems are safer than traditional keys, as they replace easily copied metal keys with digital credentials that can be revoked and tracked via audit logs and customised with time-based permissions, eliminating the vulnerability posed by lost or stolen physical master keys.
Keycards and key fobs
Key cards and key fob access systems are easy, straightforward, day-to-day systems that allow individuals access to a property through cards or fobs. To grant access, the individual will need to place either their key or fob onto the wall or door reader, which will then unlock the door. They replace traditional keys with trackable, easily deactivated credentials, reducing the employer’s worry about the building’s security. This sort of system is perfect for offices, schools, apartment blocks and commercial premises.
Keypad and PIN entry systems
Keypads and PIN entry systems will require users to access the premises or a restricted area with an authorised code. This is a straightforward choice for businesses, as it eliminates the need to carry a physical credential and is perfect for smaller teams within a controlled environment. Keypad and PIN entry systems provide less individual accountability than personal credentials, as there is no physical item needed to unlock the door.
Biometric Access Control
Biometric access control systems verify identity by using physical characteristics such as fingerprints, facial recognition and hand geometry. This type of security is suitable for areas that require stricter access control, such as high-security areas, server and data centres, and pharmaceutical or research facilities, as these sorts of credentials cannot easily be lost or shared.
Mobile and app-based access
Mobile and app-based access control systems use smartphones as digital keys to enter a secure building, room, or gate. Mobile credentials reduce reliance on traditional keys and fobs by communicating via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to grant instant entry. This allows permission to be managed electronically, suitable for businesses using compatible systems and devices.
Video door entry and intercom systems
Video door entry and intercom systems allow employees to see and speak to a visitor before granting access. This is done through linking an outdoor call panel with a camera to an indoor monitor or mobile app, using electronic locks to manage who gets in. This is useful for reception areas, offices and communal buildings managing visitors and deliveries, as well as supporting security at entrances that are not continuously staffed.
Access control for automated doors, gates and barriers
Controlled access can be applied to both pedestrians and vehicle entrances using physical barriers and electronic verification systems. These types of access control systems verify credentials before granting access, keeping unauthorised people and vehicles away from restricted areas. This sort of access control is suitable for warehouses, factories and industrial premises, by helping manage staff, contractors and delivery access.
What Should a Business Consider When Choosing a System?
The Size and Layout of the Premises
Selecting the correct access control is critical for a business. The right choice will contribute to the security of the building, as well as to legal compliance and long-term costs.
The size of a building will determine what type of access control is needed throughout the property. A small business with a single entrance may only require a simple keypad or key fob system. Whereas, larger premises with multiple entrances, doors, and floors may benefit from a more strategic solution, including more advanced access control systems.
The Number and Type of Users
The number and types of users are important to consider, including permanent employees, temporary employees, contractors, and visitors. Different groups may require different levels of access and permissions.
For example, an office building might benefit from either door codes or key fobs, as permanent employees will typically be based on the premises and require regular access.
The Required Level of Security
Depending on the business will determine the required level of security. For example a general office may have different requirements from a server room, stock room or industrial compound, which all require door access control systems that are stricter.
Access Times and Permissions
Access times and permissions will affect what type of control system your business will need. If employees need access at all times. Businesses should consider who needs access, which areas they need to enter, and when they need access. For example, an office may only need a straightforward fob or keypad. However, if employees, contractors, or visitors need access outside working hours, other systems may be better suited.
Integration With Existing Security
Access control systems might be integrated with CCTV, video entry systems, intruder alarms, automated gates and other compatible security equipment to help the building be even more secure. Integrating these systems allows different security measures to work together, helping businesses monitor activity, control access, and respond to potential security threats more effectively.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Reliable control readers, locks, and credentials are essential to maintaining a business’s security. Faulty equipment could prevent authorised users from accessing the premises or create potential security vulnerabilities.
By monitoring, servicing and maintenance can help identify faults before they become serious problems, ensuring the system continues to perform as intended. Regular checks can help maintain the reliability of the access controlled system, helping minimise disruptions, and ensure that the access remains secure and available to authorised users.
What Are the Benefits of Commercial Access Control?
There are a number of benefits of using commercial access control. Not only will it provide greater control over who enters the premises, but it also reduces the reliance on traditional keys, and allows lost or stolen cards or fobs to be quickly deactivated. Access control can also provide different levels of access for employees, contractors and visitors, offering greater peace of mind for business owners. This helps ensure that people within the building only have access to the areas they are authorised to enter.
Access control systems can also provide businesses with records of access activity, allowing business owners to monitor who has entered and exited the premises. This can make it easier to manage changes in staffing and access requirements, as permissions can be updated or removed when employees leave, roles change, or temporary access is no longer required.
Which Businesses Can Benefit From Access Control?
Access control can benefit businesses of all sizes and industries. They are useful for premises where controlling who can enter, when they can enter, and which areas they can access is important.
- Offices and business centres can use access control to manage employee and visitor access and restrict entry to areas.
- Warehouses and factories use access control systems to prevent theft and track visitors and workers’ movements.
- Retail premises use access control systems to prevent shoplifting, protect cash and inventory and manage employee access securely.
- Schools and educational facilities benefit from access control systems by replacing vulnerable physical keys with key cards, fobs, and PINPINs.
- Healthcare and care settings benefit from access control systems by enhancing physical safety, protecting medications and patient data and preventing visitors from disrupting daily care operations.
- Apartment blocks and communal buildings use access control systems to keep unwanted people out, protect residents from crime, and replace physical keys with secure digital key cards, fobs, or entry codes.
- Industrial sites and secure compounds use access control systems to prevent unwanted visitors from entering restricted areas and to track those who enter and leave the premises.
Professional Access Control Installation and Monitoring
At PSES, we specialise in the professional installation of access control systems, helping businesses keep their properties secure, efficient, and under control. Our solutions provide business owners with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their property, people, and assets are protected.
Our expert team is capable of installing and maintaining a diverse range of systems, from video door entry systems, commercial and office door entry systems, our access control systems can be integrated with both new and existing CCTV setups.
Commercial Access Control Installation in Telford and Shropshire
At PSES we provide commercial access control installation throughout Telford, Shropshire region, as well as surrounding areas including Shrewsbury, Newport, Shifnal and Bridgnorth.
We offer a comprehensive range of control solutions, from desk-mounted handsets, to smart card readers and video monitors. Our reliable solutions are designed to help make sure that your property is safe and under control at all times, helping protect the people and assets within the building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which access control system is best for a business?
The best access control system for your business depends on your premises, the number of users and entry points, and your security requirements. It’s also important to consider how you’ll manage access permissions, including who can enter specific areas and at what times. A professional assessment can help identify the most suitable system for your needs.
Can access control be added to an existing building?
Access control can often be installed in existing commercial premises. Depending on the building, door and existing equipment will contribute to what type of security feature will be installed.
Can one access control system manage multiple doors?
A single access control system can manage multiple doors and control several entrances or restricted areas.
Can access control be integrated with CCTV?
Access control can be fully integrated with CCTV, offering a clear record of access events.
What happens when an employee loses a key card or fob?
If a keycard or fob is lost, it can usually be deactivated and replaced without changing every physical lock in the building. This employee will typically be given a replacement keycard or fob.
Do commercial access control systems require maintenance?
Commercial access control systems are critical to ensure systems perform to standard, giving business owners peace of mind that their access control is working at its best.
Improve Access Security at Your Premises
If you are considering a commercial access control system for your premises, contact PSES to discuss your installation requirements. Our experienced team offers professional access control installation, monitoring and maintenance across Telford, Shropshire and the surrounding areas.
