Guide to Choosing the Correct Access Control Hardware
The safety and security of your workplace and employees is critical to the business' success. Access control hardware allows businesses to secure specific areas and control who is permitted to enter and exit and greatly reduce the risk of theft, track employees' activity, and even reduce energy costs.
These systems allow businesses to protect access through:
- Front doors
- Garages
- Elevators
- Gates
- Other sensitive areas.
With countless hardware options available, it can difficult to determine which is right for your specific application. Purchasing access control hardware that is more than your business requires can be a waste of money while selecting a system that is not adequate may leave you susceptible to risks (and possibly frustrate employees). Many system providers also enforce "no return" policies after electrical power has been run through the system, so it's extremely important to be well informed about the options available to you.
Use the following tips and questions to guide your research and ultimately help you make the right access control hardware purchase:
Access Control Hardware Options
Your application may require specific or custom hardware but the most commonly available systems is an electromagnet and armature plate. When energized by electricity, the magnet is attracted to the plate, making it extremely difficult to open the door. The door is unlocked using a controlled entry system. Keys are not the only device individuals can use to enter secured areas anymore. Options now include:
- Digital keypads
- Biometric scanners: fingerprint, handprint, and retinal
- Card readers
Digital keypads are popular hardware choices for businesses as they are compatible with outdoor weather conditions and resetting a code is a simple task in the event that an employee or authorized individual can't remember it.
How many doors do you need to secure?
Businesses with one or two doors to secure are most suited to use a keyless lock system whereas workplaces with dozens of doors and gates to secure may be more suited with an access control system that's run over a network. Consider how many doors you need to secure now and whether or not you'll need to protect more areas in the future.
How many people will need authorized access?
Small to medium sized businesses often use hardware systems that provide access to up to 50 users while some require more robust hardware that can create codes for over 100 users. Similar to the question above, take into consideration what your needs might be down the road as well.
Should individuals need to take action to exit the secure area?
When it comes to exiting the secure area, your options are free exits or controlled exits. Free exits allow individuals to leave the area with either a request-to-exit input where individuals simply push a button or a motion detector which automatically opens the door upon sensing someone approaching. If your workplace requires a controlled exit system, you may need to purchase two entry hardware systems. While this increases the level of security, it will also incur additional costs. Keep in mind that by law, individuals need to be able to exit a secure area in the event of a power outage so your access control hardware needs to facilitate this.
Is the entry point outdoors?
Weather and outdoor elements should play a large factor in selecting your hardware. If your entry point is outside, ensure you select hardware that's been treated to protect against corrosion. Fingerprint and retina scanners are typically not recommended for outdoor entry points.
Will you need assistance with installing and integrating the hardware?
The vendor you choose to purchase your access control hardware from should also offer assistance with integrating the system with any existing hardware, and provide ongoing support. If you've chosen to use a keyless door lock, check out this post for instructions on how to install it.
Selecting the right access control hardware involves unique considerations and can be difficult to ensure you're choosing one that's right for your company. Talk to an expert at Qualified Hardware to get help with researching and selecting the right access control solution.