What is Access Control?
Access control is the restriction of entry to a physical space within a business or organization. It limits access to rooms, buildings, and other secured locations to ensure only authorized individuals can enter. In addition, access control systems typically track who enters and exits restricted areas, helping to keep people, property, and assets safe.
How is Access Control Enforced?
There are three main ways to control physical access:
- Security Personnel – Trained Security Officers who monitor and enforce entry restrictions.
- Mechanical Systems – Locks, keys, and gates used to secure doors and restricted areas.
- Technology-Based Systems – Electronic keycards, PIN codes, biometric scanners, and surveillance cameras.
Who, Where, and When?
An access control system manages:
- Who is allowed to enter or exit.
- Where they are allowed to go.
- When they are allowed to enter or exit.
Traditionally, access control relied on locks and keys. Today, advancements in technology and security systems have made access control more sophisticated and effective.
THERE ARE MANY MORE ACCESS CONTROL TYPES:
- Patrolling perimeters– Security Officer is there to prevent certain access.
- Security Officer assigned to a lobby helps prevent unwanted access
- Gated Community – SecurityOfficers assigned to help keep access secure and authorized
- Fencing
- Gates
- Turnstiles
- Locks
- Proximity Cards
- Key Fobs
- Cypher Locks
- Badges
- Facial Recognition Systems
- Fingerprint Recognition Systems
- Voice Recognition Systems
- Video Surveillance Cameras
- Motion Detectors
- Man-trap Doors (Glass box typically seen at airports)
- Mobile Phone app scanners
PHYSICAL ACCESS CONTROL
- Who – Who is allowed to enter/exit?
- What – What type of access control system is used?
- Where – Where is the location they are gaining access to?
- When – When did the entry/exit occur?
