Commercial operators must take measures to secure their premises and protect their staff. One of the foremost methods used to safeguard commercial spaces are best access control systems. While they come in various forms, the overriding goal is the same – controlling who can enter and access the building or specific staffing areas.
While you may be unfamiliar with the exact term, it is highly likely that you have come across an access control system in your lifetime. Whether they work via key cards, recognition technology, swipe cards or electronic locks, access control systems can be found everywhere from commercial offices to sports stadiums, municipal buildings, and many more environments.
If your business is considering access control of any kind, this article is designed to break down everything you need to know.
Access Control System – The Basics
Access control systems are fundamentally designed to limit availability to select groups and individuals. Regardless of the specific technology used, these systems offer vital protection for valuable business assets, documents, staff, inventory and technology.
The most effective versions offer high levels of protection whilst still maintaining an ease of use for authorized individuals. As an automated system, access control is also a cost-effective alternative to hiring the services of security guards and firms.
What Has Changed
Across all industries, technological advancements continue to reshape our lives – security is no different. In the past, businesses and public settings relied on sign-in sheets, mechanical keys and hired security guards. Now, an automated access control system not only offers greater protection, but also speeds up the process for busy workers, clients, and patrons.
Access control systems are available in the following forms
- RBAC (Role–Based Access Control)
- MAC (Mandatory Access Control)
- DAC (Discretionary Access Control)
- TAC (Touchless Access-Control)
We will delve into each of these in greater detail later.
Who Installs an Access Control System?
The installation of a digital access control system is generally handled by licensed locksmiths. By partnering with an experienced and reputable company, the entire installation process should be accurate, seamless and quick. In addition, the locksmith firm typically offers ongoing maintenance for the system – following the initial installation.
Three features common to these digital security systems include
- Electric Locking Functionality (automated entry/exit functionality free from keys and mechanical locks)
- Control Panels (automated verification to grant or prevent access)
- Control Database (record who enters secure areas and when)
Investing in Commercial Access Control:
An access control system represents an excellent investment for commercial operators. This technology often acts as the first line of defence and security. As a business owner, you will have likely have far too much at stake to risk any form of a security breach. So, why exactly are these systems required?
Access control acts as a countermeasure to keep out unauthorized personnel. These individuals could be thieves, disgruntled former employees or intruders. Preventing accessibility to these groups saves you from serious property damage, burglaries and finally, actively protects sensitive business data/information.
Residential Access Control:
Digital access control systems are no longer limited to work environments. These days, more and more security conscious homeowners are investing serious thought into the safety of their properties. If you are interested in elevating the security level of a home or holiday property, your best bet is contact a licensed locksmith firm and explore all the access options available.
[1] RBAC (Role–Based Access Control)
Role-based systems delegate access based on job titles, responsibility and seniority. Under this arrangement, permission to enter the building or specific staffing areas acts in accordance with the individual’s role in the company. For instance, team leaders or managers of each department may have access to meeting rooms while entry-level staff do not. This style also offers flexibility for the re-assignment of access as roles change hands.
[2] MAC (Mandatory Access Control)
Far more restrictive than other forms, mandatory access operates on a strict hierarchy where permission is only granted on specific grounds. Any action that involves entry to a secure area is tested against a standardized policy and addressed accordingly. Systems of this style are generally used in settings that prioritise confidentiality and classification (such as government of military organizations).
[3] DAC (Discretionary Access Control)
In stark contrast to MAC, a discretionary access control system is by far the least restrictive. As its name suggests, the administrator can decide which users are given the discretion to come and go. Overall, this is the most flexible arrangement found under the umbrella of access control systems.
[4] TAC (Touchless Access Control)
Touchless access has experienced a significant growth in popularity since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Over this time, many businesses have given detailed thought into minimizing shared spaces. This style, therefore, actively addresses concerns around shared settings where diseases can linger and spread via surfaces.
Instead of utilizing handles or push buttons, a TAC system employs facial recognition, hand wave or smart phone apps to activate and grant entry to authorized personnel. Business owners or managers can also choose which style they prefer based on models currently available on the Australian market.
Key Cards & Fobs
This is an approach that is currently utilized by countless businesses and buildings throughout Australia. Key card and fob activation is a proven method in which specific individuals and groups are given the tools to enter and exit via a swipe/card reader arrangement.
Of course, electric locks can still be implemented to prevent out of hours access. On the other side, however, this system can also allow staff to work out of hours when required, providing the electronic locks are adjusted accordingly
Speak to a Locksmith
Whether you’re after an access control systems for your business or home, locksmiths can provide a seamless installation experience that guarantees function and safety. These initial discussions are also the perfect time to raise any enquires or questions you may have.
Your locksmith can detail the various styles of access control systems, as well as the estimated cost of installation.
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