Door access control systems: Does your business need one?

Safety and optimisation of business functionality should start the moment your employees step through the door, and access control systems are an efficient way of facilitating that. In an era where technology is constantly evolving, it makes sense for your business to take advantage of the most sophisticated technology available.

Biometric security solutions are becoming more popular among businesses of all sizes, so read on to learn what door access control systems, like ICU Pro, can do for your business.

What are door access control systems?

Door access control systems are a more sophisticated and secure alternative to the traditional door entry system which people may be more familiar with. A distinct difference between the two is that, where door entry systems require an operator to remotely open doors, a door access control system is automated. In some cases, these can use advanced biometric technology to gain access to restricted buildings or areas.

Door access control systems include a sensory device, which is typically a camera, microphone or fingerprint reader. This device is used to obtain biometric information from the person attempting to enter a building. The type of data that is ‘seen’ by the sensor device is called a biometric template, comprising biometric data of each employee. The data collected is then cross-referenced with the business’ biometric data pool to find a match. If a matching profile is detected, the employee or client will be granted automatic entry into the building or area with restricted access.

Unlocking new opportunities for businesses

Security systems that use passwords, fobs or keys are unreliable and inefficient as they are easily stolen or lost. This means the threat of unauthorised personnel gaining entry is far greater with key-based entry than door access control systems, as keys can be picked up and used by anyone.

Each time a key is lost or stolen, it compromises the security of your business, and key or lock replacement is a costly and arduous process that can be avoided. Door access control systems are an enhanced security system, with a one-off cost that doesn’t require key replacement. Our biometric technology does not simply replace fobs but offers an additional layer of security. Our technology enables a 2-factor authentication, where details of a user’s face can be uploaded onto a fob so that face-with-fob matches can be made to enhance security.

Business owners can alter access rights approval instantly, making onboarding new employees and wiping previous employees easier and more secure.

Further benefits of a door access control system include 24/7 security, so the building can be accessed without an operator. This is extremely beneficial, especially as hybrid working is now common in most workplaces. If required, employees can decide what days they want to come into the office without having to ensure an operator is working to let them into the office space.

Door access control systems can also be installed into pre-existing IT systems, helping to control and monitor access and provide timestamps. This allows managers to understand the whereabouts of employees and improved workflow visibility without employees feeling micromanaged. Plus, this feature is all the more essential in the event of fire or emergency, as you can see if any employees remain in the building.

What business benefits most from an access control system?

The answer is simple – all businesses and organisations that require a level of security or access can benefit hugely from using a secure and sophisticated access control system.

There is growing interest from schools and educating bodies to incorporate door access control systems to increase security and protect minors. In fact, St Alban’s Catholic Primary School in Warrington, Cheshire, has run a successful trial of ICU Pro for enabling secure access for staff. Education boards have realised the potential of access control systems in keeping intruders out of school premises to protect the safety of children and staff. 

Access control systems are trusted by globally recognised security systems on an international scale, as they are already used to enhance security through border control. Currently used in the USA and UK, e-Passports are now a part of security procedures to reduce processing times without compromising security levels. An e-Passport contains electronic chips with a digital photo of a person’s face, fingertip or iris. The data uploaded onto the chip is secure from unauthorised data readers to keep personal information safe.

But it isn’t just schools and airports – biometric access control solutions can offer a streamlined and secure entry protocol to businesses everywhere. If you’re not sure if it’s right for you, why not get in touch to discover the benefits?

Why might you need a door access control system at your business?

Investing in an access control system for the security of your business can provide a wide range of benefits.

1. Security and facilities management

For many, the modern workplace is now a hybrid setting, which brings new benefits to employees. However, one of the difficulties for management and business owners is knowing who is in the office and when. Access control security systems automate the information it processes, meaning that you will always have an up-to-date list of who is in the office.

2. Health and safety

The interest in hands-free tech for improved sanitation grew exponentially during the pandemic, and many people now have a heightened sense of hygiene in public spaces. Access control systems allow touch-free access points that don’t require human interaction, which may be preferable to many employees.

Access control systems also improve health and safety measures in the workplace. They can be used to restrict areas or rooms that hold potentially hazardous equipment or materials. Access control systems can also be tailored to give employees different access privileges, which is particularly relevant for businesses that use heavy machinery and equipment that can only be used by certain staff members. Security systems can be set up so that only those trained in handling dangerous equipment can access the area where it is located.

Discover ICU Pro

Innovative Technology has developed an access control system that uses a non-intrusive facial recognition system with 99.88% accuracy. Our market-leading technology uses a USB camera that can be easily fitted into pre-existing security systems to restrict access to buildings, restricted areas and storage units like safes.

Watch our video to see the ICU Pro in action