Corbin Russwin highlights five selection criteria for electronic access control (EAC) systems in offices.

Protecting offices

Security threats are evolving rapidly, making electronic access control (EAC) systems more critical than ever for protecting corporate and office environments.

With countless EAC solutions available, businesses need to carefully evaluate their options to find the best fit for their specific needs.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the five most essential features to consider when evaluating EAC systems for corporate office applications.

1. Matching mechanical and electronic access for optimal door security

Upgrading your facility’s access control can feel overwhelming, but it all starts with pairing the right mechanical and electronic solutions for each door.

Every entry point in a corporate setting has its unique requirements based on usage, traffic and security needs.

EAC locks available on the market can offer a diverse range of configurations, blending advanced wireless technology with functional strength.

This versatility ensures that whether you’re managing high-traffic office entrances, sensitive meeting rooms or executive offices, there is a solution tailored for you.

TIP: Observe how employees use different spaces and identify any doors frequently left open. This insight helps in selecting and configuring the right access solution.

2. Integration capabilities for seamless deployment

In corporate environments, integrating EAC solutions with existing systems can be challenging. Look for vendors that offer seamless integration capabilities through wireless EAC locks.

These locks can be designed to work with a wide range of access control software and systems, ensuring flexibility for corporate spaces.

Identify vendors that partner with leading access control manufacturers to provide certified solutions that are tested for compatibility.

This means the EAC solutions can be deployed across your facility without disrupting existing infrastructure, ensuring smooth integration and a cohesive access control system.

TIP: Choose EAC solutions which offer verified integration with multiple software platforms, making your system scalable and future-ready.

3. Ease of installation for retrofitting or upgrading

Upgrading a facility’s access control can be streamlined with a partner that has a range of EAC solutions, including real-time wireless, Wi-Fi and wired options.

Wireless technology is perfect for corporate offices looking to enhance security without a complete overhaul, reducing downtime and disruption.

These battery-powered locks handle all of the decision-making locally at the lock, offering a customizable and cost-effective solution that still maintains a high level of security.

For areas needing enhanced protection, wired systems available on the market can provide robust security, integrating seamlessly with existing systems.

These systems can simplify installation compared to traditional access control and offer enhanced communication, making them ideal for doors requiring higher security levels.

TIP: Opt for wireless solutions to save on installation costs, reduce power usage and gain the flexibility to expand your access control system as your facility grows.

4. Security ratings and what they mean

In corporate environments where security is crucial, understanding the right access control ratings is essential. Look for solutions that meet rigorous FIPS 201-3 standards, making them ideal for high-security areas.

These standards allow the solution to meet US Federal Government requirements, ensuring that access control points are equipped with strong authentication protocols, particularly for facilities handling sensitive or confidential information.

These kinds of locks can offer unparalleled protection for high-risk corporate environments where data integrity and asset protection are critical.

TIP: Strengthen security in sensitive areas with FIPS 201-3 compliant solutions, offering advanced authentication and government-level protection.

5. Certifications for compliance in your industry/application

Corporate and office spaces have specific compliance requirements, making it essential for access control systems to meet these standards.

EAC solutions that come with industry certifications like ANSI/BHMA, fire-ratings, UL and ISO ensure reliability and adherence to high-quality performance and safety standards.

The ANSI/BHMA standards set the benchmark for door hardware performance, durability and strength.

Products meet these rigorous standards and are listed in the BHMA Certified Products Directory (CPD) simplify the selection process for facility managers and architects.

TIP: Consider certified products to ensure your access control system is compliant, reliable and provides top-level safety for your corporate space.

Following the above considerations will allow you to find EAC solutions that offer effortless integration, straightforward installation and tailored configurations that fit the unique needs of any office space.

When you choose the right EAC solution, you’re investing in a future-proof access control system that not only protects but also enhances the efficiency and flow of your corporate environment.

This article was originally published in the November edition of Security Journal Americas. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.