Digitalization has been at the forefront of the main advances in most sectors in recent times. For some, such as security, the changes are evident: we have gone from using classic physical keys to accessing premises by remotely managing entrances and exits or face recognition.
Electronic systems have revolutionised access control for companies and it is increasingly common to see cards, PINs, mobile phones or biometric identification where once there were keys.
This article addresses technology-based access control for companies and industrial environments, and the advantages of new devices, based fundamentally on effective management and security.
What types of access control exist in companies?
Many years ago, numerous companies chose to install pedestrian access control systems, such as turnstiles or gates, to improve personnel management and prevent intruders from entering their premises. These systems are still present in many types of premises, but now coexist with others taken up by the industrial and business sphere, developed in the heat of the most recent technologies, such as mobile phone Bluetooth keys and biometric systems. The following are the main types of access control used in companies:
- Proximity system using RFID technology (e.g. with cards, bracelets and keyrings).
- Bluetooth technology for opening with mobile devices.
- Keypads with passwords and numerical codes.
- Number plate recognition and similar.
- Biometric systems, e.g. face, fingerprint, iris and even voice recognition.
Electronic locks: An easy-to-install system
To implement these new access systems, traditional locks need to be changed for electronic locks. These are electronic locks, used widely in hotels, as well as in other environments: institutional buildings, medical or educational centres and places of work, which is what concerns us here.
One of the main advantages of these systems– although many believe otherwise - is that they are very easy to install. In the vast majority of cases, the original door is maintained and, in many cases, the existing mechanics can even be used, reducing intervention to a minimum.
The benefits of access control in companies
What is achieved with this change? Here are some of the advantages of installing access control systems in companies:
Security
Although losing physical keys can pose a serious problem, the loss of electronic keys does not. For example, if a proximity card is lost, it can simply be deleted. Meanwhile, other systems are personal, with the user being the only one who can gain access; for example, using biometrics or passwords; providing the latter is not divulged, of course.
Moreover, the concept of security involves more than only possible loss. One great advantage of this technology is that access can be audited, for example, recording openings, attempted openings and exits. Thus, it is much easier to react if there is a security breach in the company, by collecting the required information, while keeping intruders at bay. In addition, these new technologies can store data in the cloud, meaning many systems can be accessed from anywhere.
For access from the outside to high security areas, anti-vandalism access control, can be installed; making it impossible to manipulate the controller.
Adaptability
Electronic locks can customise access management to the maximum: restricting access to certain areas, limiting the times you can enter and easily updating permits.
For example, workers can be authorised to enter the general premises and common areas during working hours, as well as only their specific office. Or factory employees may access changing rooms, the canteen and their specific work area, but only at a specific time according to their shifts. There can also be areas restricted for most users, such as a warehouse. Each company can therefore configure its system according to its needs.
Easy to use
In addition to being easy to install, electronic locks are also easy for administrators to set up and for users to operate. A security manager can register users, restrict access, grant new permissions or limit entry to specific areas at the touch of a button.
At Omnitec, we are specialists in access and presence control for all types of environments that require the extra security provided by electronic locks and the technology surrounding them. Feel free to contact us for more information.