What Are Commercial Security Access Control Systems?

Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published in June 2018 and has been revised to reflect industry updates.

Safeguarding against theft is just one of many responsibilities a business owner must undertake. This involves proper protection for the physical building, as well as employees and assets. 

While some organizations might enlist a private security company for 24/7 surveillance, this can be expensive. It’s recommended instead to implement commercial access control systems integrated with real-time smart automation, which can save time and money. Such technologies include keycards, remote video monitoring and surveillance, and intercom entrance systems. These enable businesses to limit and authorize specific individuals within buildings and other restricted areas.

Such capabilities keep business owners informed of internal and external activities, even when they can’t be onsite to maintain a watchful eye for any atypical behavior. Access control systems also help keep a watchful eye on employees with unsavory intentions—detecting theft, identifying lack of productivity, and alerting supervisors to non-compliant working hours and extended breaks.  

Learn more about the many benefits and features of commercial security access systems, as well as various types and applications. 

Commercial Security Access Benefits

Keeping unauthorized people from entering workspaces is a key aspect of effective security. Commercial security access systems help screen and manage those entering and leaving corporate buildings and offices. Keycards, remote video surveillance and monitoring systems, and entrance intercoms help provide 24/7 protection.

It’s best to enlist a reputable provider such as General Security to conduct a thorough facility inspection and assessment prior to recommending a custom solution. This includes updated fire and building codes, compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations, and testing and training.

Learn more about the main components of an optimized commercial security access system for your place of business: 

Keycards

Comprising either a card or key fob, these swipe, magnetic, or ID cards are read by electronic controllers installed at various entry points. Most common technology types include:

• Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) 
• Smart Automation
• Proximity 
• Wiegand 
• Magnetic Stripe Readers (MSRs)

Keycards grant or restrict access to particular entryways. This prevents unauthorized parties from gaining access to specific spaces. If someone loses credentials, access rights can be rescinded to thwart unapproved use. This also applies to lost or stolen cards.

Instead of changing locks or adding new keys, this technology can be conveniently reset or wiped clean when an employee leaves, is terminated, or undergoes security clearance changes. It also removes instances of duplicate keys unbeknownst to management.

Keycard entry systems can also be integrated with Alarm.com Business Activity Analytics to monitor important data and insights, such as occupancy and people counting, and crowd control.

Intercom/Entrance Systems

Sometimes referred to as telephone entry systems, video intercom monitoring at entrances and exits helps identify who is trying to enter your place of business at any time. This two-way audio/video technology can be remotely monitored, armed, and disarmed to ensure unsuspecting visitors and solicitors don’t gain access. 

Remote Video Surveillance & Monitoring

Used in tandem with intercom entrance systems, appropriately placed indoor/outdoor security cameras can capture 24/7 surveillance through high-resolution images and video footage.

This provides real-time insights into what’s occurring in and around buildings, shop floors, or office areas. In some cases, it can even assist law enforcement with identifying alleged suspects. 

Commercial Security Access Control System Uses

Learn more about common usage areas for commercial security access control systems. 

• Office Buildings: Safely manage access points, while also monitoring employee productivity. 
• Industrial Facilities & Warehouses: Ensure technicians are working within safety guidelines and only those with appropriate clearance are present. 
• Parking Lots & Garages: Gain insight into vehicle arrivals and departures, as well as watching for thefts, break-ins, and vandalism.
• Schools: Effectively manage public safety threats and incidents. 
• Community Centers: Keep employees, visitors, and volunteers safe, ensuring they don’t wander into unauthorized areas.
  
  

Safeguarding Employees & Assets

Whether managing a large corporation or small business, securing your employees, property and assets are always top of mind. When enlisting a reputable company such as General Security, you can rest easy with 24/7 protection and insights, at all times.

General Security provides commercial security systems featuring key cards, video surveillance, intercom/entrance systems, and more to protect businesses of various sizes across multiple industries.