Access Control System for Offices

eSSL Security

Electronic Access Control Systems are an essential part of the security system in offices. The scope of the system can be extended to include; Time and Attendance, Visitor Management and Parking Management. Using a single integrated system for several applications can reduce both the initial outlay and the running costs.

Apart from regular members of staff who are present on a daily basis, depending upon the nature of its business, an office is likely to receive visitors, temporary staff, field staff, etc. Although they are not there on a regular basis they can potentially blend in with office workers. It is important to keep track of who is in the office building and to ensure that unauthorized people are not able to gain access to valuables and sensitive information. Access control systems are all designed to allow access only to people with the necessary authority.

How can Access Control be Implemented?

Access control systems can range from simple inexpensive systems for small office applications to fully integrated systems incorporating many additional features and benefits.

Standalone Systems- If the office building is relatively small and you simply need to allow access only to people with the necessary authority to specific areas of the building, you can fit standalone access control systems to one or more doors and issue pass cards to authorized staff members. Although each door will be protected by a separate access control system, it is possible to program individual pass cards to allow access through two or more doors as necessary.

The advantages of using standalone access control over a lock and key system are:

• Lost pass cards can be disabled without a need to replace the locking system.
• A single pass card can be programmed to access several areas on a per user basis.
• Pass cards can’t be easily copied.

Networked PC-Based Systems (Multi-door Systems)- If you invest in a PC-based access control system, you open up the opportunity to add many additional functions to the basic door control features provided by a standalone system. Networking the system involves connecting each door controller to a standard computer network access point and connecting the host PC to the same network.

The additional benefits of using a PC-based access control system in an office building are:

• If all personnel have pass cards and their use is strictly controlled, an evacuation mustering system can be incorporated.
• A time and attendance system can be provided.
• A visitor management system can be provided by the system by issuing temporary, limited access cards to visitors.
• Vehicular access to the site and the use of the parking facilities can be managed by the same system.