When we hear the term, ‘access control’ it conjures up images of areas with high-security levels and enforced by stringent checks before entering a building. In today’s blog, we’re going to take a closer look at the topic of access control.
What is Access Control?
Access control allows you to restrict and grant access to a place or other resource. This process is known as access management. The practise of restricting access to the entrance of a property is often confined to set buildings or rooms, and only authorised access is granted to authorised persons.
Essentially, it is a system that controls physical access, specifically who, where and when individuals enter a building.
Physical security
Access control that is enforced by physical security is often carried out by a security guard, bouncer, border guard or ticket checker. But, this type of access control can also be defined by security fencing that prevents the perimeter of a property from being accessed.
Electronic access control
This type of access control is one that solves the problem of not being able to put limitations and restrictions on mechanical locks and keys.
Why use an access control system instead of keys?
The main reason for installing an access control system in your workplace is because keys have their limitations and flaws. While keys are the simplest form of physical access control, and ideal for small organisations, for bigger companies they can present real problems.
Unfortunately, people lose keys
When someone loses a key, which is inevitable. We’re human, mistakes happen and people are clumsy and forgetful.
Keys don’t provide you with an audit trail
When someone uses a key, you don’t know or can’t keep track of it. Therefore, you don’t really know who’s entered or at what time.
They are difficult to manage
Depending on how large your company building or buildings are, you may need multiple keys for entering and exiting different buildings or rooms. This can become inconvenient to carry around and with each new key, it increases the security risk, especially if employees label them.
Contact Matrix Fire & Security
If you would like to find out more about access control for your home or business and whether Matrix Fire & Security solutions are right for you, give us a call on 01296 614440 or fill out an online contact form.
