Access control systems are designed to help you secure your site or building, while also making it easier to control and record who goes in or out. With over 50 years of experience in professional security, CIA can provide access and visitor management systems to suit sites of all sizes and complexity – everything from a single building to a multiple site enterprise.
Access Control – combining security with convenience
What is Access Control?
Access control commonly refers to electronic security systems which control multiple doors or entry points throughout a building. Its purpose is to allow authorised users access whilst restricting access to others and protecting against unwanted visitors.
Suggested points you should consider, when planning an access control system include how many doors are to be controlled, the desired level and type of security, method of operation and device ID technology, any access requirements for any disabled people and if any integration is needed into other systems. (Fire alarms, CCTV for example).
Access control solutions we can offer you include:
Standalone – a simple keypad with pin or proximity reader controlling a single door, with simple management of users.
Networked based – Multi door, multi-site systems all centrally managed via easy to use software and if required remotely via an intuitive app.
Wireless locks – If required hybrid solutions incorporating battery operated wireless units synced to a PC for easy management solution.
Multiple options available for user access methods including proximity tokens, RFID, smart card technology, Bluetooth, facial recognition, or biometric technologies.
Door entry Solutions (Intercom systems)
We provide modern and user-friendly door entry systems from single to multiple entry locations. Sleek and stylish handset options are available from standard handsets to flush or surface touchscreen monitors.
CIA intercom options include:
Audio only – affordable entry level option incorporating any desired number of handsets, we can even include a coded access keypad integral to the unit if required.
Video entry – two-way audio communication with the added benefit of a full colour video image. Systems can call multiple handsets or touchscreen monitors independently or simultaneously; the choice is yours. Our video entry solution also supports the option of a simple APP for remote control of the site should you need this feature.
SIP integration – we can also incorporate many of our systems into your existing office SIP phone system so door entry can be seamless with the day to day running of your offices.
CIA can also integrate with your existing barrier and gate automation for both domestic and commercial properties, or if required, we can provide a new gate automation or barrier solution with our approved contractor. Gate safety is very important to CIA and all our work is carried out be qualified and safety trained personnel.
For more information, please contact the Sales team
Our smart doorbells connect direct to your WIFI and offer you connectivity via an easy-to-use App, so you never miss a visitor or delivery. The doorbell incorporates night vision for a clear image any time night or day, motion detection for push notifications direct to your phone, all in a HD video resolution. Our smart doorbells can be hard wired so no batteries are required to be changed, plus optional internal chime can also be included.
Access control systems control entry (or exit) through nominated doors, gates or even vehicle access via a control panel and some form of electric locking equipment. Authorised users such as employees can use a ‘key’ which can come in the form of:
• PIN code entry – A basic mechanical or electronic keypad system requires the user to key in a PIN to activate the lock release mechanism via a control unit inside the entrance.
• Magstrip readers – The user has an encoded keycard a bit like a credit card, sometimes worn on a chain around the neck; each entry point will have an associated card reader and by swiping the card, the user gains entry.
• Proximity readers - The user carries a card or a tag but instead swiping it, they simply present the card or tag up to a reader, which typically will read the card from a distance of about 100mm; this non-contact makes for a faster method of entry.
• Smartcard readers - Smartcards are access cards or tags which also carries additional information which can be used for accessing other building services, such as vending machines.
• Long-range readers – Using active cards, long range proximity readers can automatically unlock or open a door when the reader detects the card – particularly beneficial in respect of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) as no action is required by the card bearer.
• Biometric readers - Biometric readers significantly increase the level of security by using unique human characteristics – fingerprints or the retina. Unlike cards or tags, these cannot be lost or stolen.
What’s great about many of these solutions is that all the user data can be stored and managed using computer software on-site or even remotely. So key management becomes a much smoother process.
As we’ve mentioned, Access Control can be a valuable asset for your safety & security and for supporting the workflow of people moving around your site.
There are a multitude of options available and the right solution for you will depend on your needs.
Points to consider, when planning an access control system:
• How many and where are the entry/exit points
• The desired level of security
• The movement of staff around the building
• A method of operation
• Future growth of the building
• The turnover of employees
• Access for the disabled
• Interface with other systems – eg fire alarm, intruder alarm, CCTV
Our professional security team will be happy to help you plan the best solution for your site. Whether it is master key suiting, a simple stand-alone electronic solution or a sophisticated networked system designed to integrate with other existing security installations, such as intruder alarms and CCTV, CIA can deliver.
While there are separate solutions for visitor management that are worth considering, access control can provide basic assistance for welcoming visitors to your site.
In a building with access control, there are three common ways for visitors to announce their presence:
• A simple door bell system will alert your staff to the fact that someone is waiting outside
• An audio intercom panel will allow a two way conversation between the visitor and a member of your staff and, if appropriate, the door can be remotely released
• A video audio intercom panel will allow your staff to see who is there, as well as speaking to them, before remotely opening the door
• Visitors can then be issued with a card or PIN number which will allow them access to permitted areas.
A dedicated visitor management system adds another layer by helping to streamline the process for booking appointments, signing in and other administrative duties for visitors.
