Access control
To define access control in its simplest terms; it is a means of controlling the access of a certain building or
area to restricted members of the public or members of staff.
In a domestic situation, it is usually tenement blocks or shared dwellings that benefit from a standard door entry system.
These panels are available in vandal resistant materials and can be labelled with each tenants name or number.
A more sophisticated level of access can be obtained by using a video door entry system, where callers can be viewed before
they are allowed to enter the premises.
On a commercial basis it is often important for companies to control access to the main building or certain areas of
the building to key or authorized personnel. This can be achieved by various pieces of equipment from the basic card
swipe installation to the more sophisticated fingerprint or retinal scan systems. These can all be linked to a PC for optimum control.
Health clubs and leisure organizations have used card swipe systems to great effect. Members can be assured of a private
and exclusive environment without the need for static security. Ex members can be denied entry by their card details being
removed from the system. The club can gather valuable information about peak times and members movements - this aids staff
deployment and improves efficiency and service for the members.
Finally, by the year 2004, under the Disability Discrimination Act, all service providers (businesses and organizations)
in the community will have to: "make reasonable adjustments to the physical features of their premises to overcome physical
barriers to access"*. Claymore can advise and assist with the installation of automatic doors to comply with this requirement.
* DRC web site: www.drc-gb.org
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