Every business must limit access to its buildings, all or part of the time. Doing so ensures the company’s assets remain protected. In addition, some business owners must limit access to provide security while maintaining privacy. Different strategies may be used to determine who enters and moves about the building.
Physical Barriers
Physical barriers remain the most common way business owners limit access. Locked doors and security gates are common among businesses, as they are effective at keeping unauthorized individuals out. Heavy-duty turnstiles may be used, or the company might invest in perimeter fencing and controlled entry gates.
Fencing is another option for restricted areas, particularly when it comes with anti-climb features. Gated parking areas can prevent individuals without the necessary credentials from accessing the area. Minimizing entry points and fortifying them decreases the number of vulnerabilities.
Access Control Systems
Business owners may also consider installing access control systems to prevent unauthorized movement into or throughout the building. Countless offices and residential buildings use keycard or badge systems to restrict movement. Each person must use their card or badge to open doors. For areas that require enhanced security, biometric systems often incorporate fingerprint or facial recognition scanners, as they are difficult to forge or impersonate.
Small buildings are ideal for smart locks. People control them with PIN codes or mobile apps. An administrator can add or remove individuals immediately when a security threat is detected. Multi-factor authentication involves the use of multiple factors to verify a person’s identity, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.
Surveillance
Surveillance systems deter intruders while allowing individuals to monitor the system in real time. Many businesses have closed-circuit TVs at entrances, in hallways, and throughout parking areas to record activity in these areas. If a breach occurs, it will be caught on film. Motion detection and night vision are two features many business owners invest in for added security. Surveillance and access control systems are often used in conjunction for an added layer of protection.
Visitor Management
Visitor access control is essential for building security. This system ensures that only authorized guests enter the building and are permitted to move only within the authorized areas. The visitor may be required to pre-register, allowing them to be checked before arrival. When they visit the building, they receive a badge that limits their access to specific areas. If the visitor accesses sensitive areas, an employee may be required to go with them.
Employee Training
Employees must be trained and familiar with all security policies and procedures. They need to know what to look for in terms of suspicious behaviour and how to safeguard their credentials. Access privileges are often based on an employee’s role and responsibilities. The company’s security team should regularly audit access logs to identify any unusual patterns that warrant investigation.
Contingency Planning
Every business must prepare for emergencies. The company must determine how to strike a balance between security and safety in the event of an emergency. Emergency exit systems allow people to exit the building rapidly and safely. Backup power is needed to ensure access control systems remain functional during an outage. The company must also determine how to handle system failures or lost credentials.
Business owners recognize the importance of employing a multifaceted approach to restrict access within buildings. Implementing robust systems and creating a security-focused culture will help any business protect its assets and occupants. However, these measures must be regularly reviewed to confirm they remain effective in the face of evolving threats.
