Things To Consider When Installing An Access Control System

Posted: 16/3/2021

Instead of simply requiring a key to open a door at a business premises, these days, many will have integrated access control systems that require a passcode, keyfob or ID card in order to allow access. Simply put, an access control system does exactly what you’d expect from its name and it determines who is allowed to access a specific area in a building, and there is undeniably a number of benefits to installing a system of this kind at your premises. 

Businesses are now recognising the many advantages that an access control system can offer. Properly specified, a low cost system can reduce costs and increase efficiency. It will control who goes where and at what time, and when connected to doors, intercoms, barriers and turnstiles will offer a host of important factors, all increasing the professional look of your business. 

Nowadays, there are so many different access control solutions available and the vast majority of systems can be customised and tailored to meet the individual needs of businesses, so deciding what to install, and where, can be quite difficult. Of course, you will undoubtedly want to ensure that you’re investing in the most suitable type of access control system, so in order to help you do so, below are some important things to consider. Don’t forget that we are happy to arrange for one of our experienced surveyors to meet with you for a no-obligation discussion and initial quotation.

Which areas would you like to restrict access to?

This is one of the first things you should think about whenever you’re interested in installing an access control system. Knowing which areas, whether these are individual rooms or specific floors, that you’d like to have controlled access of will help you to make other important decisions later down the line, especially because your needs may change from area to area. 

Who is going to require access to these areas?

You will also need to consider who needs to access each of the individual areas that you want to control. Not only will you need to think realistically about which employees need to be able to go where, but you also need to think about other on-site workers such as cleaning staff too. The solution you choose will likely be influenced by the number of people who require access.

Are you only looking for door access control?

The vast majority of businesses will look at access control systems to simply install on the doors at their premises, however, they are more versatile than this. In fact, these systems can also be used on things such as car park barriers, boundary gates and turnstiles too. So, think about the other security systems you already have, or that you’re interested in getting, and whether they will require access control too. 

Do you need to integrate the access control system?

More often than not, businesses will already have some form of enhanced security at their premises, whether this is a CCTV system or an intruder alarm system, and you should consider whether you’d like to integrate your new access control system into these existing systems. An expert will be able to discuss the details of this with you if you don’t know much about it. Of course, if you don’t have any existing systems, you can always add them now too. As all our systems are modular you can add features when you like, without a price penalty.

How are authorised people going to gain access?

Be sure to take some time to think about the different entry methods available for your access control systems too. Usually, you can choose from classic solutions such as keypads and card readers, NFC mobile phone credentials or advanced biometric options like fingerprint scanning and facial recognition. Carefully consider the pros and cons of all of the different methods available these days. 

Have you got a budget in mind for your electronic access control?

Whenever you’re making a business investment, you will need to think about how much you’d like to spend and this is the same for your access control system. There really is a solution available for all realistic budgets, but the systems can vary quite dramatically in price. So, having a rough idea of how much you can spend is really beneficial. 

Installing an access control system at your business premises 

Hopefully, by taking the time to consider everything mentioned above, you will have a much clearer idea of what your needs and requirements are relating to your business access control system. You can then ensure that when you’re working on your unique solution and making important decisions, nothing essential is overlooked. You will then be able to confidently install your finished system knowing that it will be perfect for your premises. 

If you would like to speak to an experienced company about installing an access control system at your business premises in more detail, please don’t hesitate to contact our team here at The Electro Automation Group. Not only can we answer any questions that you may have and provide you with all of the additional information you require, but we will gladly work with you to create a comprehensive access control system that is bespoke to your business too. We look forward to assisting you further in this regard. Lastly, why not contact us and ask for a free copy of our Guide to Access Controls. It’s a comprehensive informative document that covers most if not all of the options that are available. Just send us an email and we will respond immediately.

 

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