According to the FBI, over 1 million break-ins happen each year. Some of these occur in residential areas, but commercial break-ins are also common, with 34% of all burglaries being perpetrated against small businesses.
When someone enters your office, you want confidence that they have the right to be there. That’s why access control solutions are an intelligent way to keep employees safe and secure in their work environment. This guide will explore the benefits and types of access controls solutions for your business.
What is Access Control?
At its core, access control is vague; it simply means controlling who has access to information or a place. The methods by which one grants or denies that access are called access controls solutions.
People implement access control using security technology. Some of these include card readers, pin pads, and fingerprint scanners. However, access control can be as basic as closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitoring.
The more access control points you have, your building becomes secure. But, having too many access control points is over-cautious and inconvenient. Try using at least 2 but no more than 3 access control methods at your facility, like augmenting badge scans with CCTV.
Finally, physical security and access control are separate from digital access control. Protecting your network servers with controlled access is also essential.
Benefits of Access Control
Business security is often at the top of the list for business and building owners due to liability concerns, a feeling of responsibility toward employees, and insurance considerations. Security solutions help quell those concerns and offer even more benefits.
Deter Intruders
By design, access control should deny intruders entrance to your facility. But, it can also deter them from trying to gain access. Criminals often scope out easy targets, and an office with CCTV and multiple access control points isn’t worth the effort.
Protect Need-To-Know Documents
Access control also helps prevent internal snooping. Sometimes, only a handful of people have access to certain documents. Access control helps keep that business on a need-to-know basis and protects it from prying eyes.
Increase Employee Satisfaction
Access control helps employees feel safer at work. They worry less about an unwelcome visit from disgruntled former coworkers and focus more on work. Thus, both employee satisfaction and productivity increase at your office.
Access Controls Solutions for Your Office
Every business has different security needs that require different access controls solutions. Here are some ways you can start securing your company today:
Strategic Placement of Security Tech
Identify where you need security technology in your office. Look at places like:
- Entrances and exits
- Huddle rooms
- Parking lots
- Secure information storage sites
- Online information storage
Decide which of these places are your highest priorities. Then, strategically place access controls solutions where needed.
Onsite Security Design Elements
Introduce security design elements that deter potential intruders. These may include:
- Building a fence around the facility
- Adding turnstiles to entrances and exits
- Erecting gate arms in parking lots
- Place cameras in high-traffic/sensitive areas
These are some essential physical security design elements that help with access control. Don’t forget to secure your network, too. Consider software solutions and using fiber optic technology.
Get Peace of Mind for Your Business with CSI
Access control gives business owners much-needed peace of mind. If you’re ready to start implementing access control at your business, get in touch with the experts at Communications Solutions, Inc. With over 30 years in business, CSI can help you integrate security technology into your business.
From CCTV to Brivo security solutions, we have access controls solutions for every need. Contact us today for a free consultation.