Designing efficient access controls is truly an art. Without it, the access system that was put in place will always have issues, and you will constantly deal with dissatisfied customers or users. Systems that are poorly constructed need ongoing maintenance and frequently malfunction, leaving a site vulnerable to security threats. The process of designing an access control system begins when a security study has been done, and the consultant and/or client have decided on the necessary mitigation measures. An excellent list of factors to think about while designing an commercial access control system or installation is provided below:
The Number of People Who Need Access
The number of people who will need access to the facility will be greatly influenced by the project’s scope and intended use. Greater security may be possible with fewer users, whereas high foot traffic and the need for quick throughput may necessitate simple, high-speed authentication procedures and high-speed door/barrier opening and closing. The kind of users will also influence the system selection; are they all regular, registered users (such as residents or personnel) or are there a lot of unauthorised visitors who require entry to and from the building.
Does Access Control Have To Be Used At Every Gate Or Door?
Make sure that every gate and door you have listed for access control requires both an access control system and a locking mechanism. Think about whether or not access control is required for every door or whether there are any entries or exits where it would be problematic.
Are The Access Points Internal Or External?
The choice of devices, particularly in outdoor or severe locations, will be determined by the location of access control or door intercom systems. It is also important to take temperature and light fluctuations into account, especially while working outdoors. Many door intercom systems come with built-in cameras so the resident or security guard (for instance) can see who is visiting from a distance. The picture quality can be significantly impacted by low light levels at night and glare (caused, for example, by the sun’s location). Body temperature sensing has been used more frequently in access control and intercom systems as a result of the coronavirus pandemic to help identify fever-like symptoms and stop the virus from spreading among employees or residents. Thermal detection systems are advised for interior use for the best outcomes because the reliability of these devices can be significantly impacted by outside ambient temperatures.
Are Audio And Video Communications Necessary For The Access Point?
It is not necessary to interact or communicate with another person at a typical “access control” point to prove your identification and, thus, acquire access. However, in cases where unexpected visitors need access and are essentially “ringing the doorbell,” audio and/or video communication is necessary to speak with a specific apartment occupant or the employees of the reception/security office. The capability of video and/or audio communication is, in essence, what distinguishes access control equipment from a door intercom device. Consequently, if audio/video communication is necessary, a door intercom device will be needed.
There are many intercom devices with a wide range of capabilities and authentication options on the market. However, if you need a system or device for communication, you must specify one with built-in microphones and/or cameras. Naturally, in such circumstances, a resident’s or staff member’s “answering device” is also necessary, and this will typically be in the shape of a phone, videophone, or answering panel. And more and more, remote access and replying via smartphone are becoming common features for IP intercom.
What Is The System’s Total Number Of Access Location Points, And How Will They Be Used?
Numerous access points for personnel, guests, and vehicles may be present in large-scale projects. To determine the proper amount and functionality of access or door intercom endpoints, a thorough site assessment must be performed to confirm all access (entrance and leave) points, including external and internal closed doors, gates, obstacles, car park access, and secured separate buildings.
Exit strategies
Everything that goes in has to come out again! The form of egress (exit) on each door or access point should therefore be taken into account in addition to entrance into the building. The level of security for exiting the facility is typically lower than for entering.
