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How To Incorporate Access Control Into Your Perimeter Security

incorporate access control

Perimeter Security is an important aspect of protecting your business or property from unauthorized access. One way to enhance your perimeter security is to incorporate access control systems into your security plan.

What is access control equipment?

Access control equipment refers to a variety of tools that are used to restrict access to certain areas or zones within a location. These tools utilize modern technologies to provide security and peace of mind for business owners, their clients, and their employees.

Access control systems are designed to restrict access to certain areas or facilities by using various methods, such as access cards, biometric scanners, or keypads. Here are a few ways you can incorporate access control into your perimeter security plans:

Install access control gates

One way to incorporate access control into your perimeter security plans is to install access control gates at the entrances to your property. These gates can be activated using access cards, fobs, biometric scanners, or keypads, and can be programmed to allow access only to authorized personnel. Access control gates can help to prevent unauthorized vehicles or individuals from entering your property and conducting criminal activity.

Use access control barriers

Another way to incorporate access control into your perimeter security plans is to use access control barriers. These barriers can be activated using access cards, biometric scanners, or keypads. Access control barriers can be particularly effective at controlling pedestrian traffic and preventing unauthorized entry.

Implement ANPR

Access control software such as ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) is a tool that can be used to manage and monitor vehicular access to your property. This software reads number plates and cross-checks them against a list of approved visitors. By implementing access control software, you can have a comprehensive view of who is entering and exiting your property and when, and shut out any unwanted visitors.

Use RFD readers

RFID readers are a cutting-edge technology that can be incorporated into perimeter security strategies. These readers are connected to a network and can be installed at gates or certain areas of a building. When a token is held near the reader, the system checks if the individual is allowed access. If access is granted, a green light flashes; if not, a red light flashes. RFID readers can be particularly useful for reducing the need for physical security guards or limiting access to certain areas to specific personnel.

Radio Receiver

Another tool for controlling access is a radio receiver. Remotes can be linked to a radio receiver unit that can be placed inside or outside of a site, as it has a protective coating that can withstand various weather conditions. Additionally, the controls can be operated remotely, allowing you to open gates or garage doors without physically being at the location.

LED traffic lights

LED traffic lights can be utilised to enhance vehicular access control measures. These lights are often used for traffic control purposes such as at loading bays, weighbridges, and ports to safely guide visitors to a site. LED traffic lights can be paired with an automatic barrier that is activated by an illuminated keypad or intercom system.

Intercom systems

Another tool in the access control arsenal that can be used in several ways is an intercom system. They can be used as a tool to provide access to delivery drivers, staff and visitors, or used as a means of communication in large warehouses or units.

By implementing a combination of access control gates, barriers, software, and signage, you can create a secure perimeter and protect your business or property from potential threats.

Use access control signage

In addition to physical security measures, it’s also important to use access control signage to clearly communicate access restrictions to your property. This can include signs indicating authorized personnel only, or warning against unauthorized entry. Access control signage can help to deter potential intruders and to prevent unauthorized access to your property.

Gateway Automation can help businesses and organisations to protect their assets from serious crime with minimum disruption while maintaining safe and comfortable working environments for clients, contractors, customers and other highly important individuals. For a free no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey please contact Gateway Automation on 01522 682255. Alternatively, you could download our brochure can

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Is Your Business At Risk For Unauthorised Access?

unauthorised access

No matter the size or stature of your business, preventing unauthorised access and entry to your site is likely one of your key objectives when it comes to security planning.

While no two businesses are ever the same, almost all will hold assets, data, money, or staff members that need to be protected from criminal activity. Failing to do so can result in serious financial damage, reputational impact, poor staff morale, and even litigation.

Let’s take a look at some of the risk factors, and how you can protect yourself, starting today.

What is Unauthorised Access?

Unauthorised access is the action of gaining entry to premises without the proper credentials or approval from those in charge of a building or site. Trespassers may include criminals looking to exploit a business, employees gaining access to areas they are not allowed, or simply members of the public who should be restricted from hazardous areas for their safety.

Dealing with Threats

Now that we understand what unauthorised access is. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that entry is commonly gained and in turn, how it can be prevented.

Tailgating

One of the most common ways that criminals gain access to properties is through tailgating. This is when an unauthorised person follows behind someone else who has gained access in a lawful manner – such as an employee or approved visitor. Tailgating can be prevented through the use of turnstiles, bollards, barriers, and gates.

Forced Entry

Another way that criminals gain entry is through brute force or opportunism. For example, a weak security door, an old and poorly maintained gate, or a window that has been left open. Here, it is important to not only have a robust security plan in place that employees know to follow (i.e. shutting windows and locking doors) but also that the integrity of your security equipment is high. Choosing high-quality, robust equipment, and ensuring that it is properly looked after is key.

Key Cloning

Keys can prove a headache for many businesses. Physical keys can be easily lost or even cloned to provide easy access to criminal gangs. To guard against this – you can take advantage of high-tech equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers, and automatic number plate recognition systems to accompany gates or barriers.

Insider Access

Unfortunately, a sad reality is that occasionally access is given to criminals by existing employees. They may be looking for a quick and easy financial payoff, or even be forced against their will to co-operate with criminal gangs. No one knows your operations better than your employees and so their knowledge can lead to a smooth experience for thieves and burglars. To prevent this, you should install interior access controls so that staff are afforded entry rights according to the needs of their role, and seniority.

If reading these scenarios, you feel that your business could be vulnerable, then you should waste no time in reaching out for support and advice. Here at Gateway Automation we regularly assess properties for risk making sure that they are adequately secured and recommending any ways that we think security could be improved. Call us today on 01522 682 255 to discuss how we can help to keep you safe.

/ By admin / access control • access control equipment • access control systems/ 0 Comments

Guide to access control equipment

access control equipment

Perimeter security should always encompass a variety of different methods and tools to enable complete protection. While commonly this will include traditional features like gates and barriers, there are a plethora of interesting and exciting new technologies that can be adopted into a holistic security plan for maximum protection against crime. Let’s take a look at some of the best access control equipment options currently available.

What is access control equipment?

Access control equipment is (as the name suggests) a range of tools that are designed to limit entry to specific areas or zones of a site. Modern access control equipment incorporates the latest technologies to provide protection and reassurance to business owners, their clients and their employees.

Let’s start with RFID readers as an example of an interesting new technology that can be integrated into perimeter security plans. An RFID reader is a network-connected device that can be fitted to your gates, or to specific areas of a building. A token is read by holding it within close proximity of the reader, this triggers the system to look up as to whether this individual should be allowed access or not. If access is granted a green light flashes, if not then a red light flashes. This can be especially useful if you are trying to reduce the need for manned guarding, or want to find a way to limit access to specific areas to specific staff.

A similar tool for this purpose is a radio receiver. Remotes can be assigned to a radio receiver unit which can be housed in the interior of your site, or the exterior where it is also well-suited due to its all-purpose weather coating. What’s more, you can operate the controls with your remote from a distance, enabling you to open gates or garage doors without having to manually do so.

Another slightly different use for access control equipment is safety. Photocells for instance can be used to prevent accidents with vehicles or pedestrians. Acting as infrared sensors, they can detect motion and prevent an automatic gate from closing on objects, vehicles, or people that are coming within proximity of the gate’s path.

LED traffic lights can also be used to upgrade your existing access control measures. Commonly utilised for traffic control applications such as loading bays, weighbridges and ports, they are used to safely signal access instructions to visitors to your site.

LED traffic lights might be used alongside an automatic barrier that is triggered by an illuminated keypad or even an intercom system. Intercom systems can also be used internally to block off sensitive internal areas, or areas that house important goods and information. They might also be used in traditional business or public sector settings to allow visitors to communicate with staff who can check credentials and ultimately grant access without having to leave their posts.

Finally, one high tech option for access coordination that has previously been the preserve of police forces and high-security institutions is that of ANPR systems. Adoption of this new technology in the private sector is increasing as businesses look for ways to facilitate free-flowing movement without compromising their own security protocols.

ANPR systems are effectively number-plate recognition systems that determine access by reading a registration plate. Gateway Automation offers ANPR Camera Systems which are accompanied by access Guardian. This provides business owners with access to a specialist server holding details of white-listed or blacklisted vehicles. This enables them to control their automatic barrier and decide who can enter or leave their site. They also provide traffic monitoring allowing users to search records of up to 25,000 registration entries by date time and location, along with high-resolution photos of vehicles.

Get in touch

Arranging effective perimeter security is not something that you should go at alone. No matter the size or nature of your business, we can provide you with a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess the security requirements of your organisation. For more information on any of the security options above, or for further advice on how to protect your business premises from criminals, please contact us here or call us on 01522 682 255.

/ By Gateway Team / access control • automatic barriers • automatic gates • barriers • bollards • business security • perimeter security • physical security/ 0 Comments

Questions to ask when choosing physical security

SecurityIf you’re reading this blog; then the chances are that you have identified perimeter security as an area of your business that needs to be addressed. Like many businesses, you may be concerned about the massive derailment of operations that can result from a serious security breach. If this is the case then read on to discover how perimeter security is fundamental to safeguarding your income, reputation, and peace of mind. And importantly, what questions you should ask when discussing your needs with a provider.

Whether in the middle of a recession, or in times of prosperity, crime remains a constant source of worry for many businesses up and down the UK. Even the most minor security breaches can result in repairs, losses of income, delays to operations, and can be a detriment to the confidence of customers and shareholders.

What is perimeter security?

Perimeter security entails the protection of your buildings and assets through the deployment of tools and equipment designed to limit access, deter criminals, and ultimately safeguard your property. However, before you begin planning, or reviewing your current measures, you should ensure that you have a good understanding of which measures will be right for your business.

How is my business different?

One size doesn’t always fit all. One of the most common sources of headaches for businesses that we discover in conversation comes from a lack of personalisation. Without a proper understanding of their operations, owners may be “upsold” to products that are either not suited to their particular type of business, or that they don’t need at all. This is why you should always seek out an experienced supplier and discuss with them how your business works and what needs you have. Afterall, no one knows your business as well as you.

What are my current security protocols?

It is rare to find a business that hasn’t at least invested in some rudimentary forms of physical security. However, there may be blind spots in your current blueprints that need to be addressed. It is important to identify weaknesses in your current strategy, as this is exactly what criminals will aim to do. If you can beat them to the mark, then you stand a good chance of deterring them from ever trying to take advantage.

How up to date are my current measures?

Like owning a car or a computer, security measures sometimes need to be reviewed and replaced. While products may be well built, time can wear on some, and repairs might be required to maintain their effectiveness. Equally, advances in technology may mean that your current measures are now outdated and need to be upgraded with advancements such as biometrics.

How do I build a strong perimeter?

To adequately protect your business, you need to start from the outside in. In the same way that castles would rely on drawbridges to keep safe, you too need to consider your entry and exit points.

Gates are one of the strongest forms of physical security out there and offer up both a physical and mental barrier that can upset criminal plans. Installed with thought and care, and given proper levels of maintenance – swing gates, sliding gates, and bi-folding gates should be a cornerstone of any physical security approach. Other fundamentals of external security include security posts, bollards, and outdoor turnstiles which provide effective solutions in specific environments.

How do I manage vehicular access?

Unwanted vehicles can be another sore point for some businesses. This may come in the form of unwanted heavy goods vehicles, caravans, or other unauthorised visitors. At the same time, vehicles can be a powerful tool for criminals, allowing them to use brute force to enter sites, or providing them with means of escape.

To combat this, businesses can employ a range of measures. Height restrictor barriers are often seen in car parks to block access to specific types of vehicles, while allowing permitted ones to enter. Security posts offer versatility in blocking access at specific times of the day, such as when your business is closed. Elsewhere, speed ramps can be used to reduce traffic speed, and automatic rising kerbs can be used to inhibit access in a formidable way.

What about internal security?

While a great amount of thought is often put into external security, there is an ever-growing need to address internal measures. In specific sites, entry may be granted freely, which means that there is a risk of visitors obtaining access to areas that need to be restricted. Equally, you may have high-value assets that need to be accessible by specific staff members only. Adopting tools like turnstiles and access control equipment can be a good place to start.

How do I know I’m making the right choice?

A quality supplier should leave you with no doubts about the options available to your business, and which tools should be used in cracking down on crime. A comprehensive risk assessment can be undertaken to address weaknesses and advise on the best course of action.

Here at Gateway Automation we provide you with a free, no-obligation risk assessment, feasibility survey, and quotation process free of charge. We also provide a nationwide reactive callout service with engineer response times of 8 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 7 days. This means any problems can be addressed in a timely fashion, and disruption can be kept to a minimum.

For more information on any of the security options above, or for further advice on how to protect your business premises from criminals, please contact us here or call us on 01522 682 255.

/ By Gateway Team / access control • bank security • biometric security • bollards • key pads • turnstiles/ 0 Comments

Physical Security for Banks to Consider

Banks 2While all types of business premises can benefit from a security review, some sectors particularly need to keep their finger on the pulse. One of those is banking as banks are traditionally a top target for criminals. Here we discuss the physical security for banks to consider.

The Importance of Security for Banks

While banks are typically highly secure, the potential high reward for criminals means that they remain a top target for organised gangs and individual criminals. The result of a successful crime can go on to have long-lasting implications on their business. Let’s take a look at a few of the ways that banks can benefit from bolstering their physical security tools and take advantage of emerging technologies.

Alarm Systems

From traditional intruder alarms, manned security, and CCTV, there are several security options that businesses in the financial sector can take advantage of. Having these systems installed helps provide peace of mind to employees and customers alike. They also help provide a level of control to the business.

Access Control

Access control equipment such as intercoms, keypads, cards, fobs, or even turnstiles can all improve safety levels on-site. From protecting staff, customer files to other critical assets. This is particularly useful in banks, where the safety of employees working in restricted areas needs to be secure.

Turnstiles

Banks are busy environments and they receive heavy footfall from customers, staff, contractors, and suppliers alike. With all this coming and going, systems must be in place to restrict access to specific areas to only those who need it and are authorised to be there. Access control equipment and turnstiles can effectively cordon off areas for these purposes. For instance, for cash-in-transit firms and technicians who must be able to access secure enclosures regularly throughout the week.

Biometrics

Biometrics is another exciting development that can give the financial sector the security levels that are so essential to their businesses. Biometric technology utilises forms of identification that are more difficult to crack or clone, such as fingerprints, iris scanners, and voice recognition. Rather than relying on keys, fobs, or passwords, which can be copied or shared, biometrics offer a reliable and personalised means of restricting access robustly.

Gates and Barriers

Another consideration for banks to review is perimeter security. It is vital to be able to control access to external areas that are reserved for contractors and visitors. Barriers for instance can be used to restrict vehicular access to authorised personnel. Swing gates, sliding gates, and bi-folding gates can secure your premises between visits, and bollards, or road blockers can be used to reduce the threat of ramming.

Provide a balance

With all these considerations in mind, it is important to not overlook the fact that banks are customer orientated environments. Banks need to balance ease of access to the public with a strong and robust approach to physical security. Compromise can be found with knowledge and expertise in this area. Security enhancements can be achieved in a way that is tasteful but still achieves its target of securing assets. Providing peace of mind to both customers and employees of an institution.

Gateway Automation provides a range of perimeter security systems to help businesses and individuals to secure their sites and also provides nationwide servicing and repairs to gates, barriers, and other perimeter security equipment. To find out more, please contact us on 01522 68255 or take a look at our brochure.

/ By Gateway Team / access control • automatic barriers • barriers • business security • height restrictor barriers/ 0 Comments

What to Consider when Buying Barriers

Gateway BarriersIf you’ve decided it’s time to upgrade your security systems at your site, then one of your first ports of call should be perimeter security. One essential component of site security that should always be considered when enquiring about upgrades is a barrier. Here is what to consider when buying barriers.

Why invest in barriers?

A simple but effective solution, barriers are, when used the right way, are a highly effective tool in preventing crime. They deter opportunists and leave them with no doubts that your business takes things seriously. Barriers ensure that you have control over who can access your site, and when they can do so. Allowing you either to automatically, or with the help of manned personnel, control entry to your premises. However, while you may have already heard enough to interest you in a barrier, there are some important factors to consider before making a purchase.

Level of Security needed

One of the first questions you need to ask yourself is with regards to the level and robustness of security that is needed at your site. While for some businesses security needs are understandably at the very top of their agenda, some businesses have other agendas to balance. For instance, a site that receives heavy traffic might require a different type of barrier to one which is only occasionally accessed. Equally, you may be a business that wants to balance its security needs with a friendly and welcoming environment.

Automatic or Manual?

A second consideration is whether you require automatic barriers or manual. They each are suitable in different situations. Automatic barriers require electricity in order to operate, so somewhere isolated may prefer to install manual barriers, particularly if electricity access is restricted. Additionally, your business may prefer, for security or logistical reasons, to have a manned manual barrier in place over an automatic barrier.

While manual barriers are often preferred in more rural settings, automatic barriers do offer many specialised benefits. Automatic barriers are more difficult for criminals to bypass and overhaul which makes them a particularly reliable choice.  They can be enhanced with access control equipment and also provide support to businesses who do not have the budget or manpower to physically attend a manual barrier and provide access to visitors. Automatic barriers are often found at parking facilities, checkpoints, and for other types of restricted areas.

Height Restriction

Height restrictor barriers are another popular choice. Especially for car parks and service stations where the risk of overstays and unauthorised long-term parking issues. They are also great for where you need to prevent access to high vehicles. They are also a welcome addition to areas where automatic barriers are either not cost-effective, or not required.

Cost

Cost is always a key consideration for businesses and understandably it is important to make sensible decisions to match your budgets. Businesses should take part in a feasibility study before making a decision on which products to choose. This will help ensure you are recommended the best solutions to match your needs. Not only can you be confident that you’ve picked the right product, but you are also protected against criminal activity.
Gateway Automation provides a range of perimeter security systems to help businesses and individuals to secure their sites. We also provide nationwide servicing and repairs to gates, access control equipment, barriers, and other perimeter security equipment too. To find out more, contact us on 01522 68255 or take a look at our brochure

/ By Gateway Team / access control • biometric fingerprint readers • biometric security • biometrics • business security • physical security • security/ 0 Comments

7 Physical Security Measures Every Organisation Should Implement

SONY DSCNo matter whether you are a small, medium, or large organisation, there is always a place for physical security. Your business is home to your data, your employees and more so you must ensure they are protected as much as possible. Not only does physical security help protect your premises from an in-person attack but it also helps boost the strength of a company’s cybersecurity as well. Here are seven physical security measures every organisation should implement.  

Set up surveillance  

Although a business should have other security measures to stop people from breaking into the premises, it is important to know that if the worst-case scenario were to happen, you can have video evidence of who the intruder is. When installing a surveillance camera, ensure you place it in the optimum position to get a good, clear view of the entrance and exit points. Not only can surveillance cameras monitor the site continuously, but they can also use motion detectors and only record when there is movement. Most surveillance cameras now come with a notification process where it sends a warning to a mobile to say there is suspicious activity.  

Ensure you have supporting signage near the surveillance cameras that state they are in use. People need to be warned there are cameras in operation, but they also have the added effect of being a physical deterrent for potential criminals. 

Lock the server room  

The server room is a vital location on any business premises as it contains sensitive data which would be detrimental if it fell into the wrong hands. If criminals attack your server room it can lead to significant downtime and cost to a company. Have sturdy locks on the door and have access control where possible, to ensure that only authorised personnel has access. 

Have access controls  

A business should have a method of access control in place. Access control equipment can vary in sophistication and range from a keypad that requires a keycode to be entered, to using a keycard or even fingerprint recognition. So, depending on your budget, there is still a way for you to use this technology to create a more secure environment.  

Use ID cards for staff 

Using ID cards has been proven to be an effective security measure that all companies can adopt. If you have a security guard, it should be a protocol that all ID cards are checked before they are allowed onto the premises. The ID cards can also be used in conjunction with access controls for even tighter security. For example, if a business has an entrance foyer, turnstiles can be installed that only allow access to those who have their ID card. 

Have car park security  

It is not just the building itself that should be secured. If there is a staff car park, security measures should be in place here as well. For example, gates, barriers, fences, bollards, and surveillance cameras. If there is no physical security around your car park it can lead to criminals gaining close access to your building, especially if they can park right next to the building. Having these measures also help make the staff feel safer whilst they are at work. 

Install Exterior Lighting  

Whilst it can easily be overlooked, a great form of physical security can be the lighting. This low-cost option can have a major impact. Having exterior lights around the proximity of the property can help deter any criminals as they cannot hide in the dark. Staff will also feel safe entering or exiting the premises if they know there is sufficient lighting. 

Provide regularly security training  

All members of staff should be trained to understand the importance of physical security and know what measures are in place. To remain as secure as possible, a company needs to adopt a security culture in the workplace. Everyone should understand what the risks are and what measures they need to follow. Even one staff member who does not follow the correct procedures can end up putting the whole company’s data and assets at risk. 

This list is just the start of things organisations should consider implementing to protect their business. They are the most essential security measures that businesses should implement now if they haven’t already done so. Although there is an investment, the benefits they provide outweigh the cost as they provide peace of mind that you have done everything you can to keep your business safe and secure. 

/ By Gateway Team / access control • CCTV • perimeter security • school • school security/ 0 Comments

7 Security Measures for Schools

School Slow Traffic Warning SignWhilst schools are a place of learning, they are also at risk of potential crimes and therefore robust security measures need to be put in place. Here, we discuss 7 security measures for schools. 

Have access control 

Access control measures are a great way to ensure the flow of people into the school is limited. Having keypads at entrances to buildings that require a pin code or an ID badge can help keep track of who is in a building at any one time. Access control cards can also be assigned to students as well as staff. This will create even greater control of who is on-site at any given moment.

Use signs effectively 

It has been proven that barriers, gates, and other perimeter security measures can be complemented with the effective use of signs. These signs can be used to not only deter criminals (For example, by installing signs that state CCTV cameras are in action on-site) but, can also highlight exits in cases of emergency, keeping everyone safe and aware of what to do in an emergency.

Ensure the perimeter is secure 

It is vital that the entire perimeter of a school is protected. Perimeter security measures such as barriers, gates, and turnstiles can all be used effectively to ensure there are no easy access points. Assess the perimeter on a regular basis to check there are do damaged areas to the perimeter. For example, check for any holes in fences or any weak points that need to be repaired. 

Try and install metal gates and fences where possible as although they are more costly, they will last longer when properly maintained.

Consider having a gated entrance, ideally one that requires keypad or swipe card entry. Although during peak times such as the start or end of the day, the gate may have to be left open, having the added gate protection can help staff feel safe when they are leaving work after the children have gone home.

Although securing the perimeter is vital, whatever is installed needs to be able to unlock in case of emergencies when an alarm is triggered, so bear this in mind.

CCTV

Install CCTV in key areas, for example where high-value items such as computers and money are kept. Having this extra layer of security helps protect the higher risk areas. Although the CCTV footage may not be reviewed regularly, it is invaluable to consult after an incident such as theft, fires or vandalism. 

Keep track of visitors 

Ensure all visitors naturally have to walk past the reception of the school. Try and limit the places on the school grounds that a visitor can access without temporary access cards. Keeping access limited will help stop unauthorised personnel from being able to wander around the school site.

Install security lighting 

During the colder, darker months, it is always a good idea to install security lighting through the site. Especially near playgrounds and footpaths to ensure accidents and trips are avoided and the staff and students feel safe walking around outside.

Carry out regular risk assessments

Security requirements will inevitably change over time. More security solutions will be available and the needs of the school may alter. Therefore, you should assign someone to be in charge of assessing the site. Alternatively, you can hire a security company to come in to carry out the risk assessment. The benefit of using someone external is the fresh eyes and new perspective they can provide.

Enforcing these measures will help create a safe environment that will benefit the staff and students alike. By have strictly enforced security measures like the ones discussed above ensures that learning can take place without being disruptive, there is higher morale, less cost in the long run as theft and other criminal damage will be reduced. In addition to this, schools that can be clearly seen putting safety as a key priority will gain a great reputation which will benefit the school for years to come.

What’s Next? 

For more information on how Gateway Automation can help keep your premises secure, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment. 

/ By Gateway Team / access • access control • access control equipment/ 0 Comments

6 Ways to maintain access control

Finger scanner on the scanner glass by card.Installing access control is a simple concept and is simple to incorporate into your security system, however, a business must also maintain access control. Although they are extremely efficient and effective, a business needs to ensure that the access control equipment is maintained in order for it to fulfill its potential and provide the best level of security.

Here we discuss 6 ways to maintain access control:

Remove dirt build-ups

A build-up of dirt can severely impact your security. It can stop the card readers from working which can cause several issues and prevent anyone from entering the building. 

Back up your system

It is vital for your systems to be backed up on a regular basis. If there was a system failure, data could be lost and the access control system would not be able to be used until this data is reloaded. If there is no backup, the process of reloading could be substantial- as would the chaos it would cause. 

Update your system

Jus like system backups, ensuring your systems are up to date is equally as important. If you have the system connected to the internet, it shouldn’t take long to update remotely. If not the process will have to be done locally.

Conduct Emergency testing 

Regular tests need to be done on the systems to recreate a real-life emergency scenario. If the fire alarm goes off, for example, your system needs to be working correctly. Tests need to be done to ensure they automatically unlock and no one is at risk of being trapped in the building. 

Keep your information up to date 

When an employee leaves, you must ensure their information is removed from the system and if necessary, pin codes changed. Disable any access cards or fobs that have had a large period of non-use as well.

Be careful with keypads

A maintenance task that can often be overlooked is cleaning the keypads for access control. Fingerprints can often be seen on the digits that make up the code. If the code is only a few digits long, the combinations are not that endless. For example, if the keypad code is only 4 digits, there are only a total of 24 combinations. If an intruder can see what these 4 digits are, they could work through these combinations.

There is a lot more to maintaining an access control system than just seeing if the door opens when you enter the correct code or provide your ID card. However, having these checks booked regularly can provide you with the peace of mind that the security is working at its best.

What’s Next? 

For more information on how Gateway Automation can help keep your premises secure, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment. 

/ By Gateway Team / access control • physical security/ 0 Comments

5 Ways to Protect Your Business from Internal Crime

Internal CrimeUnfortunately, a significant number of reported fraud or thefts from companies comes from an internal source. When hiring, it is important that not only can the successful candidate carry out their job but they are honest and trustworthy. Although internal crime does not impact every business, all businesses should implement ways to protect their business from internal crime. Here, we discuss some of the most effective methods 

Check that your physical security is sufficient 

Carry out regular checks that your physical security is up to scratch. Even if you have robust barriers and gates to form your perimeter security will not help the threat of internal crime. Therefore, you need to consider additional physical security measures that complement the perimeter measures. For example, use CCTV cameras where possible and other surveillance methods. Even the fact that the CCTV is in place can sometimes be enough to deter any crime. 

Have strict access policies 

Only allow employees access to data and areas that are directly related to their job role. If they do not need to enter a certain part of the building in order to carry out their daily tasks, then they do not need to be granted access.  

Ensure your building is maintained  

You need to ensure that your business’ premises are maintained correctly. Doing so not only makes the business look more professional and clean, it helps keep everything in order and easier to keep on top of. This is especially important for those businesses that have a lot of equipment, devices and stock. Not having them tidy and in an organised manner can lead to problems as it could mean you are unaware if things start going missing. If you have a robust and accurate system, you can avoid any internal theft. If the theft still occurred, you would be in a better position to realise quickly and sort out the security breach.

Have strong policies in place 

When it comes to protecting a company’s assets, both physical and data, then companies should ensure that they have detailed and robust policies in place. A major policy that companies should have is a BYOD (bring your own device) policy. In recent years, it is becoming increasingly popular for members of staff to use their own laptops and mobiles to carry out their work. Although this is convenient for the member of staff, it can cause a significant headache for a business. A BYOD policy states what is and issues allowed along with property guidance for best practices. Having these policies ensure that all members of staff are aware of the risks.

Train Staff  

Having policies in place is not enough. Although you can make employees read the policies, you have no control over how much of the information they are taking in. Therefore, employers should provide their staff with regular training. This training can go through the policies, warn employees the impact any internal crime will have, and let them know what they should do if they have any suspicions about other members of staff. Ensuring these training sessions are regular, set out thorough procedures and ensure staff know who they can speak to regarding any issues can all go a long way to a more secure and safe environment. 

What’s Next?

For more information on how Gateway Automation can help keep your premises secure, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.