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Product category: Access Control, Door Entry Systems
News Release from: Abloy UK | Subject: Security and access
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial Team on 11 November 2005

Security and access: can they co exist?

Neil Tilsley, Sales and Marketing Director of Abloy Security, examines the challenges faced in providing access and security to a building.

Neil Tilsley, Sales and Marketing Director of Abloy Security, examines the challenges faced in providing access and security to a building, and discusses the solutions available to provide the best of both worlds The balance between providing access to a building while at the same time maintaining its security is a delicate one, further compounded by the introduction of recent legislation and the equally important duty of care that a building owner or manager has for its visitors

In addition, increasing threats of terrorism and the ever present need to prevent theft and vandalism all affect the choices to be made when selecting a lock-based access control system - a challenge that has, until recently, been made even more difficult both by the limitations cost and the technology available.

Now, however, new developments in lock technology and access control equipment can allow building managers to satisfy access and security requirements while at the same time complying with both current and impending legislation.

In a situation where budgetary constraints are a limiting factor, the cheapest available option can always be tempting, but is unlikely to enable compliance with even current legislation and may not provide an upgrade path for future change or expansion.

On the other hand, some of the most technologically advanced and highly priced systems have been designed to provide the maximum levels of security and access control for major corporate or institutional users.

For many organisations, however, these systems are simply too sophisticated and costly to meet their more basic security requirements at the correct price point.

There is a wealth of hardware available for providing access control in conjunction with robust building security, ranging from traditional locks to keyless door entry devices and monitoring systems for the supervision of entire buildings.

In addition, a variety of door operators, touch pads, audible guidance systems and door hardware and furniture can be included in the specification of a system to ensure that regulations are met.

Common among existing access control systems is the use of door mounted electro-magnets, which can be a low cost option in applications where security is not a high priority or where fire and safety standards have been less rigorously interpreted.

However, tightening of controls on the use of fire doors has meant that the use of these devices may no longer be an option, particularly when security also has to be a consideration.

Fire routes naturally require a quick and safe exit, and new electric lock technology now allows final exit doors in particular to be secure from external attack yet be opened quickly and safely by means of panic exit devices, even if high side loads are being applied.

Available in either mechanical or electro mechanical versions, these devices can add even greater levels of flexibility and security when connected to a central security system, with the ability to be monitored and controlled either remotely or centrally.

Building Managers choosing access control systems, need to consider a variety of factors, including legislation, public and employee access requirements, the need for multi-level security control through master key technology, plus the design and layout of the building and the use of emergency exit routes.

This information will serve as a solid foundation on which to begin discussion with a reputable security solutions provider, who should be able to advise further on the most appropriate solution for the individual situation. Request a free brochure from Abloy UK ...

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