Access Control Systems
Access control systems help businesses manage who can enter particular buildings, rooms or restricted areas. Rather than relying solely on traditional keys, a commercial access control system gives businesses a more controlled way to manage authorised entry, whether that is employee access, visitor access or access to sensitive areas.
Pedris designs and installs access control systems for commercial premises, helping businesses manage controlled access in a way that suits their building and how it operates.
Commercial Access Control Systems
A commercial access control system can control entry through doors, restrict access to particular areas and help manage who is authorised to be where within a building. This can include managing staff access across different departments, supporting visitor management, and controlling access to sensitive or restricted areas such as server rooms or stock areas.
The appropriate system depends on the building itself, the number of users, the number of access points and the specific security requirements involved. A small office with a handful of staff has different needs to a larger commercial building with multiple departments and visitor traffic, and access control should be planned around the premises rather than fitted as a generic solution.
Types of Access Control
Several access control methods are available, and not every type suits every premises.
Keypad Access
Authorised users enter a PIN or code to gain access, giving a simple way to control entry without physical keys.
Proximity / Card Access
Access using cards, fobs or proximity credentials, a common approach for managing multiple staff and visitors.
Biometric Access
Some systems can use biometric identification where appropriate, suited to premises requiring a higher level of individual verification.
Electronic Door Entry
Electronically controlled doors and entry points, often combined with one of the access methods above.
Where Access Control Can Be Used
Access control can be applied to main entrances and staff entrances, offices, server or IT rooms, warehouses, stock areas, restricted areas and plant rooms. It can also be used on internal doors and across multi-occupancy buildings where different tenants or departments need their own access arrangements.
Access permissions can be structured around the needs of the business and the areas being protected, so that different users have access to the areas relevant to them, rather than a single blanket level of access across the whole building.
Access Control and Other Security Systems
Access control can work alongside other security measures where it makes sense for a business. It can complement CCTV systems, intruder alarm systems and intercom systems, giving a more joined-up approach to managing who can enter a building and keeping an eye on activity around it.
Access control can also be combined with physical measures such as security gates, automatic doors and security barriers, depending on the premises. Not every installation needs every system, and we would rather understand your requirements than assume a standard combination applies.
Access Control for Different Commercial Premises
Access control requirements can differ considerably between businesses. Offices and commercial buildings often need to manage staff and visitor access across multiple floors, while industrial sites, warehouses and logistics facilities may focus on controlling entry to stock areas and loading points. Retail premises often need to balance customer access with staff-only areas, and healthcare and education settings frequently need to manage access to sensitive or restricted rooms.
Construction sites and managed properties bring their own considerations too, often involving multiple contractors or tenants. Visit our sectors page to find out more about the industries we support.
Access Control Installation
Effective access control requires appropriate planning before any equipment is installed. This starts with identifying the access points that matter, understanding who requires access to which areas, and considering any restricted areas that need particular attention.
From there, we select appropriate access methods for the premises, install the equipment, configure access permissions for the relevant users, and test the completed system to check that access arrangements are operating as intended.
Access Control and Ongoing Maintenance
Access control systems contain electronic and mechanical components, from readers and controllers to door mechanisms, and these can benefit from ongoing checks over time. Keeping equipment operating correctly matters, and access arrangements are often worth reviewing as business requirements change, such as when staff join, leave or move between roles.
Our security system maintenance service covers this ongoing support, helping keep access control equipment working as intended.
Benefits of Access Control
Managed Access
Businesses can manage who is authorised to enter particular areas, rather than relying solely on physical keys.
Restricted Areas
Sensitive or restricted areas can be limited to the people who genuinely need access to them.
Adaptable Over Time
Access arrangements can be adapted as business needs change, and can support wider security systems already in place.
How to Get Started
1
Discuss Your Requirements
We start by understanding your premises, access points, users and the areas that need controlled entry.
2
Plan the Access Control System
We consider suitable access methods, doors, restricted areas and any relevant integration requirements.
3
Install and Configure
We install and configure the system, checking that access arrangements operate as intended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an access control system?
An access control system manages who can enter particular doors, rooms or areas, using methods such as keypads, cards or biometric identification instead of traditional keys.
How does commercial access control work?
Authorised users are given credentials, such as a code, card or biometric identifier, which they use at a reader or keypad to gain entry to permitted areas.
What types of access control are available?
Common types include keypad access, card or proximity access, biometric access and electronically controlled door entry. The right choice depends on your premises.
Can access control be used on internal doors?
Yes. Access control can be applied to internal doors as well as main entrances, allowing different levels of access within the same building.
Can access control work with CCTV?
Yes. Access control can work alongside CCTV systemsas part of a wider approach to managing and monitoring access.
Is access control suitable for offices?
Yes. Access control is commonly used in offices to manage staff and visitor entry and to restrict access to particular departments or rooms.
Can access permissions be changed when staff leave?
Yes. Access permissions can typically be updated or removed when staff leave or change roles, which is one of the advantages of moving away from physical keys.
Does access control require ongoing maintenance?
Yes. Access control systems contain electronic and mechanical parts that benefit from ongoing checks. Our security system maintenanceservice covers this.
Discuss Your Access Control Requirements
Get in touch to discuss your premises, access points and security requirements.