========================
The shift to electronic locking occurred in the hotel sector around 20 years ago due to security concerns regarding people retaining keys and accessing rooms.
Whilst card operated access control systems are now commonly used on hotels and commercial buildings, their use on residential buildings is relatively scarce. However, this is likely to change as the private rental sector is likely to grow by 24% in 2021, meaning one in four people will be renting rather than owning a property.
Increasingly, the developers of these schemes can see the advantage of extending a building’s access control system from the external perimeter doors onto the apartment entrance doors, as this will give building management long-term flexibility.
========================
Though the initial cost of the electronic access-controlled lock is more than a conventional lock, the operating cards are a fraction of the cost of replacement keys. If a resident leaves and keeps the card, the lock can be reprogrammed rather than replaced.
Whilst a traditional mechanical locking hardware provides security, an access control system offers a higher level of security as businesses can track and control who has access and when exactly they have access. It also allows businesses to restrict certain areas within the building if it was needed.
37 million people in the UK use a smart phone and an access control system that can be operated using Bluetooth technology gives individuals more convenient ways to open doors.
Access control systems are becoming a preferred choice for investors in the private rental sector as individuals can gain immediate access to a rented room through their smart phone within a matter of seconds, all through an app.
This is an ideal solution for those who travel on business and rent out apartments on a regular basis, as they don’t have to rely on a receptionist to pick up the keys and they can come and go as they please.
These apps can also be developed with management companies to allow the residents to carry out other actions such as booking meeting rooms.
In the private rental sector, there can be a high turnover of residents with many staying for a short-term. The knowledge that a previous resident cannot have a key for your home is reassuring, as is the thought that if you lose your card or phone, a new electronic key can be instantly issued.
This isn’t the only security aspect of these electronic locks, as they have been tested to the PAS24 security standard in conjunction with the doorset in accordance with Building Regulations Part Q.
Traditional hotel style access control systems are large and not particularly attractive, which can be an issue for apartment schemes where aesthetic appeal of a system is an important factor to consider. The new generation of systems have separate small readers and can be used with any lever handle. They are sleek, minimal and contemporary and can be tailored to suit individual projects.
Access control systems are much easier to manage and maintain. When it comes to upgrades and new features, they can be applied automatically and seamlessly, without the need for site visits by technicians, thus saving time and money.
=========================
What’s next for access control systems?
We live in an era where the majority of what we do is controlled through our mobile phones therefore access control systems that allow access to your home will inevitably become the norm.
Wireless technology and cloud-based systems will lead the way, with more companies providing a service rather than just a product. Security is enhanced, costs are minimised, and individuals are protected – it’s a win-win situation all around.
Aspex UK,
Unit E Blaby Industrial Park,
Winchester Avenue,
Blaby,
Leicester,
United Kingdom,
LE8 4GZ
Phone: 0116 278 3506
Fax: 0116 278 4069
Embedding sustainability within any organisation requires a broad, strategic perspective. Scrutiny should include the physical infrastructure itself: According to the IEA, buildings consume around 30% of global energy*. ASSA ABLOY has more…
Posted in Access Control & Door Entry Systems, Architectural Ironmongery, Articles, Building Industry News, Building Products & Structures, Building Regulations & Accreditations, Building Services, Case Studies, Doors, Facility Management & Building Services, Information Technology, Research & Materials Testing, Retrofit & Renovation, Security and Fire Protection, Sustainability & Energy Efficiency, Video of the WeekDespite one of the wettest starts to the year on record, customers are starting to plan for brighter days with HydroPro Garden Paint from HMG Paints.
Posted in Articles, Building Industry News, Building Products & Structures, Garden, Innovations & New Products, Paints, Paints, Coatings & Finishes, Restoration & Refurbishment, Retrofit & Renovation, Site Preparation, Sustainability & Energy Efficiency, Waste Management & RecyclingAbloy UK is set to unveil its latest line-up of access control systems at The Security Event 2024, welcoming guests to explore its cutting-edge electromechanical and digital solutions on stand 5/F50.
Posted in Access Control & Door Entry Systems, Architectural Ironmongery, Articles, Building Industry Events, Building Industry News, Building Products & Structures, Building Services, Doors, Exhibitions and Conferences, Facility Management & Building Services, Health & Safety, Information Technology, Retrofit & Renovation, Security and Fire ProtectionIn times of emergency, you’re in safe hands with Strand Hardware. Although there are many considerations for building specification, few decisions can be as critical as selecting the right emergency exit/panic hardware.
Posted in Access Control & Door Entry Systems, Architectural Ironmongery, Articles, Building Industry News, Building Products & Structures, Building Services, Doors, Facility Management & Building Services, Health & Safety, Restoration & Refurbishment, Retrofit & Renovation, Security and Fire Protection