4 Mistakes Businesses Make When Installing Access Control

Access control is a powerful security solution, but if it’s going to provide all the advantages it’s designed to deliver, care and attention must be applied when choosing, installing and maintaining this technology. Here we look at the common mistakes businesses make with access control, and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Installing out of date access control technology

Access control has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years, and it’s all thanks to technology-related advancements. Biometrics such as facial recognition and fingerprints, together with smart phone access, have started to replace keypads, fobs and swipe cards, enhancing security in the process.

Choosing an older system may seem like a cost-effective strategy, but it will likely cost more in the long run, as outdated technologies fall out of support and throw up vulnerabilities, and as repairs become prohibitively expensive, and sometimes even impossible.

What’s more, outdated access control will generally be weaker against modern hacking threats, putting data security at risk. Even if your system is well-maintained, if it relies on outdated technology, it will never have been designed to contend with today’s cybersecurity threats.

Modern systems that use biometric technology also remove the issue of cloning that is known to be associated with access cards and fobs.

So, when choosing an access control system, it is important to think about where your budget is best allocated: to investing in the new, or maintaining and fending off the risks of the old.

Mistake #2: Failing to maintain the access control system and review risks

It is not uncommon for businesses to consider the installation of an access control system a one and done process. But this is where many will fall down, because ongoing maintenance, and risk assessment reviews, are crucial if the system is to continue providing the protection you expected.

It is vital to ensure access control systems are functioning as they should be, and equally important to carry out fresh risk assessments on a regular basis. These regular reviews will allow you to ensure your access control goes on protecting your premises as they evolve in layout and occupation levels. As well as the system itself, doors should be regularly inspected and adjusted where required, with door closers, hinges, strikes and mechanics periodically cleaned and lubricated.

Further, as today’s access control is technology-driven, it is important not to forget that keeping software up to date is crucial. Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, making it essential to keep on top of all the latest security patches so that your system doesn’t fall victim to hacking threats.

Mistake #3: Selecting an access control system that doesn’t match specific needs and risks

With such extensive choice available, it is not always straightforward to choose the most appropriate access control system so that it aligns with organisational structure, staff needs, premises layout and specific threats.

Requirements will vary extensively from one business to another. Companies with a need to safeguard sensitive data or high value assets will demand the highest possible levels of protection. Choosing a system that is not specifically designed to perform at these levels will be a false economy.

Taking advice from a security professional who is fully conversant with all the latest access control products on the market is a necessity. They will be able to analyse your precise needs, assess your individual risks and recommend the ideal solution that will serve you well now, and into the future.

Mistake #4: Overlooking the importance of professional installation and service

There is little point investing in a cutting edge access control system if you are going to compromise on the installation.

To ensure the system is primed to meet its full potential, a professional installation is always advised. Further, some insurance providers and regulatory organisations will demand that the access control installer is approved by a sector certification body, such as the National Security Inspectorate (NSI). So anyone thinking of going down the DIY installation route, or hiring a non-professional installer, should be wary of the pitfalls.

Lastly, a service contract with an approved company will ensure that, in the event of an issue with your access control system, you will be protected under a favourable service level agreement, with priority access to support.

To avoid access control mistakes, talk to Barry Bros Security

As an NSI approved installer, Barry Bros Security guarantees a 24-hour call-out service, with a 24-hour response for access control.

We are an approved installer of brand leading NSI compliant products including Paxton and Salto access control systems, offering NSI-audited installations, servicing and maintenance to both residential and commercial properties.

To learn more about how access control could benefit your business, you are welcome to get in touch, or call in to discuss your individual requirements in person with a member of our team at our London showroom.