SARGENT highlights the role of electronic access control in critical infrastructure and essential industries.

Flexible, scalable security

In 2023, physical security at critical infrastructure sites became a growing concern, with over 100 attacks on US power stations reported in the previous year, according to the Congressional Research Service.

These incidents, ranging from vandalism to planned assaults, exposed vulnerabilities across essential facilities and prompted calls for stronger security measures.

As critical infrastructure remains a frequent target, organizations need scalable, adaptable solutions to secure key access points and prevent disruptions.

Electronic access control (EAC) solutions address this challenge by offering flexible, scalable security that evolves with changing demands.

Needs across critical infrastructure

From power plants and educational institutions to healthcare facilities and government offices, security requirements can differ dramatically.

For example, a government building might need a solution like wired locks on external entry points, which can incorporate OSDP technology and meet the US General Administration’s (GSA) FIPS 201-3 standards, ensuring compliance with stringent federal security regulations.

Meanwhile, the same facility may opt for wireless locks or Wi-Fi-enabled solutions for internal office doors, minimizing installation time and keeping costs manageable.

The ability to mix and match hardware without compromising security standards is a defining feature of advanced access control solutions.

In the healthcare sector, layered security is often critical for managing access to different areas – from patient rooms to high-security labs and IT hubs.

Here, the flexibility to use wireless access control options like wireless and Wi-Fi locks alongside traditional wired systems can reduce downtime during installation and simplify upgrades, allowing hospital staff to focus on patient care rather than security logistics.

Seamless security integration for expanding needs

Security requirements in critical infrastructure are rarely static and often shift due to expansion, regulatory changes or technological advancements.

EAC solutions available on the market can be designed to adapt seamlessly, allowing facilities to scale their systems without major overhauls.

This adaptability is ideal for organizations with multiple locations or those experiencing growth, supporting a smooth transition from small setups to complex, multi-building configurations that accommodate various security protocols.

For instance, a school district might start with wireless locks on a few administrative offices and later expand to include perimeter doors, gymnasiums and other essential areas – all without needing complete system replacements.

This incremental approach minimizes downtime and reduces costs, making EAC technology an efficient and scalable solution for facilities of all sizes.

Integration and compliance

EAC solutions can be designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems, ensuring compatibility across various access control platforms.

This flexibility allows facility managers to adopt and scale these products without disrupting ongoing operations, making them ideal for organizations seeking to enhance security without extensive overhauls.

Compliance is essential, particularly in sectors like government and healthcare.

Federal facilities must adhere to stringent standards, which require robust authentication at access points.

Additionally, solutions can be customized to meet healthcare regulations, safeguarding sensitive areas such as pharmacies and data centers.

Achieving scalability and flexibility

To ensure effective access control in critical infrastructure, systems need to be scalable and flexible to meet changing security requirements.

Solutions that are designed for seamless integration allow facilities to upgrade from basic proximity cards to advanced credentials, supporting various reader types and security levels without disrupting operations.

The use of wireless technology further enhances scalability, offering a cost-efficient way to expand existing systems.

By adding wireless components, such as cabinet locks, to an established wired infrastructure, facilities can manage all access points through a unified platform.

This hybrid setup allows for gradual retrofitting – floor by floor or wing by wing – minimizing disruptions and reducing installation costs.

It also ensures robust security coverage in challenging areas, extending protection throughout the facility without the need for extensive rewiring.

Moving forward

In a world where security requirements are constantly shifting, flexibility is key.

What worked yesterday may not be enough for tomorrow’s challenges.

EAC solutions are designed to keep pace, offering the adaptability and scalability that critical infrastructure facilities need to stay secure as demands change.

Whether it’s upgrading credentials, expanding coverage or integrating new technologies, these integrated locks provide a seamless, future-ready approach for critical infrastructure that ensures your security remains robust without requiring major overhauls.

From federal buildings that must comply with stringent standards to hospitals needing to streamline access across critical areas, ensure you choose a vendor that delivers tailored solutions that grow alongside your organization.

James Blight, CPP, Director for Paladin Security takes a look at industry trends and how they could impact the guarding world.