In today’s building landscape, access control can simply no longer be an afterthought. It has evolved into a sophisticated system that secures premises, streamlines operations, enhances user experience and adds a layer of flexibility for future growth. Integrating an access control system into the design phase is essential for any project’s long-term functionality and security, whether in office buildings, hospitals, schools, hotels, or co-working spaces.
With a fully integrated access control system, building managers can monitor and control who can enter and exit certain areas, track movement, and ensure the safety of both people and assets. The right system should be able to adapt to changing needs and scale with the building.
Effective modern access control provides more than just security; it plays a fundamental role in creating a functional, safe, and easy-to-manage space. It brings a sense of peace of mind, knowing that without it, buildings face operational inefficiencies, security risks, and compliance issues.
- Security: In any type of building, from offices to schools, managing who enters and exits is paramount to maintaining safety. Access control systems ensure only authorised personnel can enter restricted areas, providing a sense of security and peace of mind. This is vital for protecting sensitive information and valuable assets and ensuring safety protocols are met.
- Convenience: Modern access control systems provide users with seamless entry and exit solutions. In high-traffic areas such as hospitals, hotels, or shared office spaces, having an intuitive, easy-to-use access system can significantly improve the user experience, reducing bottlenecks and enhancing the flow of people.
- Compliance and Reporting: Certain sectors, especially healthcare and education, have strict regulatory requirements for access control. Systems that track entry and provide audit trails help organisations stay compliant and maintain the necessary records for inspections or audits.
- Future-Proofing: Buildings evolve, tenants change, and headcount grows, bringing with them new security concerns. An adaptable, scalable access control system allows for expansion and upgrades without requiring a costly overhaul. It also future-proofs the building, allowing it to accommodate the latest technological advances in security.
Critical Access Control Systems from Em-B
At Em-B, we specialise in providing tailored access control systems that meet the diverse needs of buildings across various sectors. Each system we design is customised to ensure the right balance between security, convenience, and scalability.
Here’s an outline of the three critical access control systems we offer:
1. Hybrid Access Control: combining the best of both physical security and digital convenience, these systems integrate traditional methods, such as keycards or fobs, with modern cloud-based technology. This means you can manage the system remotely – perfect for multi-site businesses or facilities that require flexibility. For example, the ability to change permissions, grant temporary access, or revoke credentials can all be done from a mobile device or web-based platform. This type of system is particularly effective for buildings like offices or co-working spaces, where user needs constantly shift.
Hybrid systems also offer robust reporting features, enabling building managers to monitor activity in real time and keep a complete audit trail of who accessed which area and when. This not only improves security but also aids in compliance, ensuring businesses are meeting regulatory requirements.
2. Hybrid Auto Doors: These systems bring together the convenience of automatic doors with advanced access control technology, offering a perfect solution for high-traffic or high-security areas such as hospitals, schools, and hotels. With hands-free entry options, hybrid auto doors are ideal for maintaining hygiene in healthcare environments so that people with reduced mobility can gain access quickly.
The system can be configured to grant different levels of access to various user groups – patients, staff, and visitors – so the building can operate smoothly without compromising security.
3. Specialist Access Control: For buildings with more complex needs, Em-B provides specialist access control solutions tailored to its unique requirements. Whether it’s a high-security zone in a hospital, a school that needs to control access at different times of the day, or a hotel managing guest and staff movements, we design bespoke systems that meet the highest security standards.
Specialist access control systems offer enhanced features, such as biometric access, two-factor authentication, and remote monitoring, providing ultimate security and flexibility. They also integrate with other building management systems, creating a holistic approach to security and operations.
A great example of how effective access control can transform a space is the Department project at Leeds Dock, a shared office environment for media and digital businesses. The building needed a flexible, scalable access control system that could accommodate a variety of users with different access needs.
We installed a cloud-based system using the Salto KS platform that allows users to gain entry using their smartphones. This system provides maximum flexibility for building managers, who can remotely control access points, track user activity in real-time, and grant or revoke access instantly. It also integrates with automatic doors and speed gates, ensuring smooth access during peak hours. Because the system is web-based, it’s future-proofed, so it can grow with the building as more tenants join.
At Em-B, we pride ourselves on our experienced, qualified access control team, who bring years of experience to every project. Whether it’s an office building, hospital, school, or hotel, our team can design, install, and maintain an access control system that meets your specific needs. We offer a full installation service, ensuring complete integration into your building’s design and ongoing support to keep your system running smoothly.
From flexible hybrid systems to specialist high-security solutions, we provide access control that enhances security and user experience. If you’re planning a project and want to explore how access control can improve functionality and safety, contact us today. Our expert team is ready to help you create a secure, modern space that meets your needs now and in the future.
