Implementing an access control system is the ultimate step in securing the entrances and exits of your business. Whether it’s your storefront door, security doors, overhead loading dock doors, or automated facility gates, an access control system plays a pivotal role. They stand to protect valuable assets and ensure the safety of employees and clients.
These automated door and gate access solutions do more than bolster security at your facility. An automated door access system also offers convenience and accessibility. This dual benefit not only enhances safety but streamlines the operation of your business.
When considering access control systems, businesses have a range of options to choose from. Each option is tailored to specific needs based on factors like the size, scope, and type of the business, as well as the objectives in mind. Selecting the right access control system is an integral aspect of achieving comprehensive security and operational efficiency. Before we get into that, we should go over some of the key benefits of using access control hardware. Some of the main benefits of access control door and gate hardware and software are:
- Prevent theft of equipment by knowing who is in the building, and when. You can also have a log system to refer to that can tell you who opened which door and when.
- Track employees so you know if they’re showing up for work, or if someone is in the building when they shouldn’t be.
- Prevent access to areas where software or hardware with sensitive information on it is stored.
- Do away with the need to track keys. You no longer have to worry about the return of keys, or the cost involved with getting new ones. This can save you a lot of money as locksmiths for commercial doors and keys aren’t always cheap.
- Reduce accidents by allowing access to certain equipment or hazardous areas only to those who are trained or qualified to work in these areas.
- Reduce overhead and maintenance costs associated with doors and gates by controlling access times and saving energy.
- Allow easy access to multiple automated doors, gates, buildings, etc. with one keycard or code. This can also be attached to cell phones. Apps are available that can allow your employees to use automated gates or doors just buy unlocking their cell phone. With facial recognition options this could be more secure than other options.
- Keep accurate track of which employees are where and when, streamlining timecard management.
Access control also identifies and authenticates someone with a specific job. That individual is then allowed only a key to the area they are authorized to access and no more. This strategy for access control serves not only to protect sensitive materials and information but streamlines your business’ operation and gives everyone clearly-defined roles.
Types of Access Control Systems for Commercial Doors & Gates
There are, generally speaking, three types of access control systems:
- Role-based Access Control – Rather than assigning individuals access, a system administrator assigns access based on job titles. This can also be changed at any time. If one of your employees has been moved to a different department, you can immediately change which automated gates or doors they have access to. With a digital system, this streamlines the whole process.
- Mandatory Access Control – This system is more common for organizations needing a high level of confidentiality, such as military institutions. These systems enforce control by a process of subject clearance and objects labels, such as confidential, secret and top secret. Subjects may access objects only if their clearance is equal to or more than the label of the object. These systems are expensive and difficult to control.
- Discretionary Access Control – Business owner decides who is allowed in certain locations (physically or digitally). This is the least restrictive system.
In general, small businesses choose DAC systems as the most appropriate. Role-based access control is often used in larger, multi-building companies and organizations like universities, and mandatory access control is often seen in military and government contexts. Regardless of what type of business you own, how large it is, and what you need, consulting with professionals in commercial door and gate automation will help you decide which access control systems will best suit you.