Top 5 to Consider
Effective access control management is essential for securing any facility, be it an office, industrial site, or multi-residential building. Proper access control practices not only enhance security but also streamline access, protect assets, and ensure a safe environment for authorized personnel. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the best practices for managing access control systems, with a focus on integrating access levels, handling credentials, and optimizing hardware like fobs, maglocks, and request-to-exit devices.
1. Define and Segment Access Levels
One of the most fundamental elements of access control management is establishing well-defined access levels. Access levels categorize who can enter which areas and at what times. This segmentation is especially useful in large facilities where different personnel need access to different parts of a building. For example, administrative staff may require access only to certain floors, while technical teams may need unrestricted access to equipment rooms. By assigning clear access levels, you reduce the risk of unauthorized access, creating a streamlined, high-security environment.
2. Regularly Update and Review Credentials
Credentials are the backbone of any access control system. They may include physical items like fobs or keycards, or digital options such as mobile credentials or biometric data. Regularly reviewing and updating credentials is essential to prevent unauthorized access. When an employee leaves or a tenant vacates, their credentials should be deactivated immediately. Regular audits of active credentials, especially in online access control systems, can help identify any unused or outdated permissions that could pose a security risk. Inevitably, fobs and cards will occasionally be lost or stolen. Create a clear protocol to report lost credentials quickly. Regularly updating your policy and ensuring that employees are aware of the procedure will help to mitigate risks associated with lost or stolen credentials.
3. Use Maglocks and Request-to-Exit Devices Strategically
Maglocks (magnetic locks) are powerful locking mechanisms that are activated by an electric current, making them ideal for securing doors that need to stay locked in case of power failure or fire. They can also be paired with request-to-exit (RTE) devices, which allow for quick and safe egress when someone is leaving the secured area. RTE devices work well in areas where people frequently enter and exit and should be configured to prevent unauthorized entry when someone exits. These systems can also work with sensors that disable the maglock momentarily to allow people to exit while maintaining door security.
4. Regularly Train Staff on Access Control Protocols
Employees play a crucial role in operating and maintaining an effective access control system. Regularly training staff on security protocols and door security is essential to ensure compliance. Educate personnel on the importance of not sharing credentials, the appropriate use of request-to-exit devices, and how to report suspicious activity. By creating easy-to-follow, written procedures, you ensure that when staff turnover occurs, new employees can quickly understand, adopt and manage the system without compromising security.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance and System Audits
Access control systems require regular maintenance to ensure all components work correctly. Periodic checks can identify any wear-and-tear in fobs, keypads/readers, maglocks, or biometric readers, reducing the chance of malfunction. Scheduling routine audits of your access control system also allows you to verify if current settings are still in alignment with your organization’s security needs. Regular audits can highlight areas for improvement, such as upgrading from standard fobs to smart cards or biometrics for higher security.
Final Thoughts
Effective management of access control systems is critical for both security and operational efficiency. By implementing these best practices, you can create a robust access control framework that adapts to your security needs. Managing access control is an ongoing process that requires regular review, adjustment, and modernization.
CDVI’s ATRIUM-KRYPTO online access control allows administrators to monitor, configure, and adjust access settings from a centralized dashboard or even remotely. Instant updates and real-time tracking are features that help ensure a secure and efficient environment for all users.
