Once you get an access control system installed into your company's property, you've passed the first step toward good security for everyone. But this should only be a beginning. The next steps involve maintaining this system and deciding when it needs to be changed. What might need changed in your access control setup and why? Here are a few things to consider.
1. The Codes
First, every business should have a system for regularly changing access codes. Luckily, changing codes in a modern access control systems is easy and fast. This should happen on a regular schedule — such as annually or even every six months — depending on how many employees they have and what security risks the company faces.
In addition, access codes should be changed when certain events occur. For instance, you should change the codes when an employee leaves, when there is a potential break-in or data theft, or when new projects begin or end.
2. The Technology
Security technology is constantly evolving, and your company needs to keep up in order to protect itself. What was the height of new technology a few years ago may now be at risk for hacking and identity theft issues.
Proximity access control readers, for example, use older 125 kilohertz technology and appear to remain fairly modern by most laypersons' standards. But modern card readers now use encrypted technology that better prevents card duplication. A company that continues to use older systems may not even realize the security risks these systems entail unless its security team stays abreast of new discoveries.
3. The Layout
You should regularly evaluate the way your company deploys access control to determine if it still meets your needs. In a growing and thriving company, business use of the site changes over time. Workers move offices and buildings are expanded, while other locations may not be used any more. You may store things in different zones, make new products, or meet with people in new locations.
All these changes often necessitate different security layouts. If you now use additional storage areas for inventory, you may need to better secure these facilities. And if the receptionist now has customer data in their possession, their area may need better locks. On the other hand, if a management office is empty after a partner leaves, specialty access control to enter it may no longer be needed.
4. The Method
Finally, the means by which you deny and grant access may not fit your business needs any more. The good news is that today's business owners and managers have more choice than ever before in the methods you can use to achieve good access control.
But why might you want to change your methods? Consider a coded access door. After years of growth, so many people come and go through that door that entering codes now creates a bottleneck or workers tailgate each other through the door. You might change the reader method to a faster, tap-and-go method. Or management could change from an access control system that allows many admins to make changes to one in which only the owner can do so (or vice versa).
Where to Learn MoreWant to know more about protecting your business by changing your access control system on a regular basis? Start by meeting with an experienced security service that specializes in access control.
All Pro Security, Inc., is ready to help. Call today to make an appointment with one of our access control professionals. No matter what state your security is in or when it was last assessed, we can ensure that you keep up with modern business risks and solutions.
