In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, security is paramount. Whether you’re running a business or managing a growing enterprise, protecting your assets, employees, and sensitive information is crucial. Commercial building access control are a cornerstone of modern security, providing a structured way to control, monitor, and protect entry points. But what is access control, and how can you harness its full potential? Let’s explore everything you need to know, from foundational concepts to choosing the right system for your needs.

What is an Access Control System?

Think about the lock on your front door; it’s more than just a lock – it’s access control. You have a key, and only those with a copy of that key can enter. When you install a video intercom to identify visitors before granting them entry, you’re implementing another layer of access control. Now, imagine scaling that concept up to a business or school campus environment, where you need to manage access for dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of people across multiple entry points and secure areas. That’s where commercial grade access control systems come in.

Commercial access control systems are sophisticated security solutions that combine hardware, software, and access control policies to regulate who can enter specific areas within a building or facility. A well-implemented access control solution operates 24/7, keeping your premises, people, and assets safe while providing detailed oversight of all access activities.

Why is Commercial Building Access Control Systems Important?

Centralized Command and Analytics

Modern access control functions as a centralized command center, enabling security professionals to monitor all access points, manage credentials, and execute protocols instantly from one interface. Through real-time monitoring and security data analytics, security professionals gain visibility into facility usage patterns, credential activities, and potential security anomalies. These data give valuable insights for security optimization and enable evidence-based decision making.

Improve Operational Efficiency

Modern access control streamlines security by replacing physical keys with digital credentials, allowing teams to issue, adjust, or revoke access immediately. Through advanced automation, security professionals can manage credentials and set custom access rules in bulk, while compliance reports are generated automatically, reducing manual workload and enhancing overall efficiency.

Better Compliance and Risk Management

Access control systems maintain detailed audit trails that support regulatory compliance across various industries. These records provide crucial evidence for investigations when security incidents occur and help organizations reduce their liability exposure through documented security practices.

Physical vs. Logical Access Control Systems

Before diving into the components, it’s essential to understand the two primary types of access control systems:

Physical Access Control Systems control entry to physical locations, such as buildings, rooms, gates, and secure areas. These systems grant or deny access to tangible spaces using credentials like cards, fobs, or mobile devices. Physical access control protects your people, assets, and facilities from unauthorized entry.

Logical Access Control Systems manage digital access to networks, computers, applications, and data. These systems control who can access specific files, software applications, or network resources. Think of your passwords, PINs, and biometric scans, they are all forms of logical access control.

The Components of Commercial Building Access Control Systems

Video Intercoms

Modern intercom systems have advanced well beyond basic communication, now serving as integral components of access control solutions. They are foundational to entry management and visitor screening, equipped with features like video verification, mobile connectivity, and seamless integration. These capabilities make intercoms indispensable in today’s access control frameworks.

The visual reassurance provided by video intercoms adds a crucial layer of visitor management, enabling operators to physically verify visitors before granting access. This visual confirmation, combined with clear two-way communication, allows security personnel to not only identify who is requesting access but also understand their purpose and intentions. Such detailed verification can be all you need to prevent potential security breaches in many situations.

Control Panels:

They serve as the system’s nervous system, connecting to readers, locks, exit devices, and alarm systems. When someone presents their credential at a door, the controller processes this information, determines if access should be granted, and sends the appropriate commands to the locks or other connected hardware. You increase the system’s capacity to control more doors, sensors or alarms by adding I/O expander broads. Product shown: ACS-2DR, Two-Door Access Control Starter Kit

Door Controllers:

These devices coordinate between readers, locks, and the main control panel at each entry point. Door controllers help distribute the processing load of the system and can often continue to function even if connection to the main control panel is temporarily lost, providing an important layer of redundancy in security operations. Product shown: AC-2DM-B, PoE Two-Door Access Controller, Black

Readers:

Organizations can select reader types based on security requirements and user convenience. Modern options include card readers, keypads, and mobile credential readers. Product shown: AC-PROX-1G, 1-Gang and Mullion-Mount 125kHz Proximity Reader

Electronic Locks:

Software and Management Systems

The true power of modern access control lies in its management software. Security administrators can configure access levels, monitor system status, and generate detailed reports through an intuitive interface with customizable dashboards. Advanced access control software offers open APIs and scripting capabilities, allowing administrators to easily integrate and control external applications—including video surveillance, visitor management, and building automation—to create a unified platform for security and operations, enhancing both effectiveness and efficiency across the organization.

Cloud-Based vs. On-Premises Access Control

Cloud-based access control systems operate primarily through servers managed by a third-party vendor, with minimal infrastructure required on-site beyond the essential door controllers and readers. This approach shifts the IT burden to the service provider, who handles system maintenance, updates, and data backup. Cloud-based systems typically charge monthly or annual subscription fees that include software updates and technical support, creating predictable operational expenses instead of large upfront investments.

On-premises access control systems operate on servers and hardware physically located within your facility and managed by your IT team. This traditional approach gives organizations complete control over their security infrastructure and data, with no reliance on external internet connectivity for core functions. On-premises deployments typically involve higher initial costs for server hardware, software licenses, and installation, followed by ongoing expenses for maintenance, updates, and eventual hardware replacement.

How Does a Commercial Access Control System Work?

The Essential Questions

• Who: Which individuals need access to which areas?
• What: Which doors, elevators, or rooms need to be controlled?
• Where: What specific locations or resources need to be secured?
• Why: What roles or responsibilities justify access to certain areas?
• When: During what times should access be granted or restricted?

The Access Process

When someone presents their credential – whether it’s a card, fob, or smartphone – to a reader, a quick series of checks begins.

• Authentication: Verifying the identity of individuals requesting access.
• Authorization: Determining if an individual has permission to enter.
• Access: If approved, the system unlocks the door.
• Audit: Recording and tracking access attempts and movements.

The system maintains a log of all these entries and exits, creating a valuable record of who accessed what areas and when. Detailed record-keeping makes modern access control systems an essential part of building security.

Rules and Permissions

Modern access control systems use four main types of permission models:

• Mandatory Access Control (MAC): is the strictest access control model, where the security administrator assigns access rights based on multiple levels of security clearance. This model is typically used in highly secure settings, such as government facilities.
• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): assigns access rights based on job titles, like giving managers access to executive areas while limiting staff to their work zones. This model is widely used in business settings.
• Discretionary Access Control (DAC): In this model, the security administrator defines who can access the building or specific area. This model is flexible but can be challenging to manage in large organizations.
• Rule-Based Access Control (RB-RBAC): adds specific conditions such as time restrictions, location-based access, and temporary permissions to Role-Based Access Control.

Choosing the Right Access Control System for Your Business

Selecting the appropriate building access systems requires careful consideration of several crucial factors:

Scalability

Scalability stands as a primary concern for most organizations. Your building access control must not only meet your current needs but also accommodate future growth. Consider your facility’s size, potential expansion plans, and the possibility of managing multiple sites. The system’s user capacity should be scalable for future growth and upgrades.

Integration

Integration capabilities represent another vital consideration in today’s interconnected security landscape. Modern access control systems should seamlessly connect with your security infrastructure, platforms, and building management systems. Integrations create a unified security ecosystem that enhances both protection and operational efficiency. When evaluating systems, assess their compatibility with your current technology investments and future technology roadmap.

Management Features

Management features play a crucial role in the day-to-day operation of your access control system. The user interface should balance sophistication with usability, allowing security administrators to efficiently manage access rights, monitor system status, and generate reports. Consider how automated features could streamline your security operations and reduce administrative burden.

Cost of Ownership

Consider both immediate and long-term costs when selecting an access control system. Beyond initial hardware costs, factor in software subscriptions, and training investments to understand your true ownership costs. Technology advancements have made modern access control systems more attainable, with many providers offering scalable solutions that evolve with your organization’s needs. For businesses seeking enterprise-grade security without complexity, Aiphone’s AC Series delivers powerful access management through an intuitive platform that scales as your requirements grow.

Training and Support

Consider an access control provider that provides ongoing technical training and customer support. Security administrators need ongoing training to take full advantage of system features and maintain secure operations. Comprehensive training equips your team to use the system efficiently and with confidence.

Why Invest in a Commercial Access Control System for Office Buildings?

Implementing an commercial access control system for offices and buildings is not just about keeping intruders out. It’s about creating a secure, efficient, and professional environment that protects your assets, employees, and business reputation.

The first step in implementing access control is to assess your specific needs and explore the options available. By investing in a comprehensive access control system, you’re not just buying a security solution – you’re investing in the future of your business.

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Emergency intercom systems, also known as emergency two-way communication systems, serve as lifelines in critical situations. Emergency call boxes and blue light emergency towers provide immediate access to help when it is needed most. With so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your specific needs? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about emergency communication systems and intercoms, from understanding their fundamental purpose to navigating the complexities of choosing the right solution.

What is an emergency communication system?

An emergency communication system is a network of communication devices strategically placed throughout a given area. Emergency devices can take the form of wall-mounted boxes and standalone blue light towers allow users to instantly connect with emergency responders, security personnel, or other designated parties. The most recognizable form of these systems is perhaps the blue light emergency towers, often seen on college campuses and in public parks. They serve as beacons of safety, visible from a distance and easily identifiable in times of crisis.

Read More: Prioritizing Campus Safety with Emergency Towers

How do emergency communication systems work?

What happens next after pushing the call button? When activated, these systems initiate a two-way communication channel to a customized recipient – this could be campus security, local law enforcement, or a centralized monitoring station. In situations where responders are nearby, light strobes on the towers and wall boxes help visually locate the distressed individual. Additionally, many modern intercom systems are SIP compatible, allowing integration to pinpoint the location of the call for a faster and more precise response.

The importance of intercom systems in emergency communication

In an age where most individuals carry mobile phones, one might question the necessity of dedicated emergency intercom systems. However, emergency intercom systems serve as a critical failsafe in various scenarios – dead batteries, poor reception, or damaged devices can leave individuals vulnerable when they need help the most. Emergency intercoms provide a dependable alternative, ensuring that help is always just a button press away.

The prominent placement and distinctive design of emergency intercoms, particularly blue light towers, serve as a visible deterrent to crime and a constant reminder of safety measures in place. Nonetheless, there are regulations requiring the installation of emergency communication systems in certain facilities or buildings.

Where are emergency intercom systems typically found?

Emergency intercoms, including blue light emergency phones and call boxes, are strategically placed in various locations to maximize safety and accessibility. Common locations include:

• Educational Institutions: Campuses often feature emergency towers across open areas and call boxes in buildings.
• Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals utilize wall-mounted intercoms in stairwells, parking structures, and remote areas.
• Corporate Campuses: Large office complexes install emergency communication systems to protect employees and visitors.
• Public Parks and Recreational Areas: Emergency towers provide a safety net and serve as a visible deterrence in outdoor spaces.
• Parking Facilities: Both indoor garages and outdoor lots benefit from easily identifiable emergency call points.

Read More: Enhancing Parking Lot Emergency Communication with Intercoms and Emergency Towers

Key considerations when choosing an emergency intercom system

Who’s answering the call and how do you want to get that call?

Determine who will receive and respond to emergency calls – on-site security personnel, local police, a centralized monitoring center or a combination depending on the situation. Aiphone intercoms support rigorous call transferring between answering stations, landline phones, and cell phone numbers. With the TGW Cloud Gateway, you can call even during network outages.

Strategic placements of emergency intercoms

Begin by working with your facility and IT personnel in surveying your environment to determine the ideal number and type of intercom units needed for optimal coverage. This could include a mix of towers, wall boxes, considering factors like facility size, high traffic and low traffic zones, cellular coverage, and local regulations. Strategic placement is crucial – units should be visible and accessible, with clear sightlines between locations to create a comprehensive safety net.

Consider the benefits of integration with your existing security platform

When selecting a system, prioritize compatibility with your current security platform to ensure seamless operation within your existing infrastructure. Consider solutions that build to open standards like SIP and ONVIF® to ensure broad compatibility with VoIP phones, video surveillance, and public paging systems. Integration with major industry leaders allows for triggering campus-wide notifications and initiating lockdowns to create a comprehensive emergency preparedness and response.

Is it ADA compliant?

Most state and local laws require emergency devices that meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for accessibility. Look for solutions that offer bright LEDs, raised lettering, and braille for those who are hard of hearing or need more distinct visual indicators. Verify the emergency buttons are at a height that is reachable for everyone.

What is your infrastructure?

Power and connectivity options are crucial considerations for an efficient emergency intercom system deployment. Prioritize solutions that can run on cables you already have in place, minimizing the need for extensive new wiring. This approach also reduces installation complexity and costs. For areas where running new cables is challenging, consider wireless solar-powered systems, especially for remote locations.

Does it offer high quality audio and video capabilities and reliable two-way communication?

Look beyond basic speaker systems to solutions offering clear, reliable two-way communication. Choosing an emergency intercom system with superior audio and video capabilities is crucial for effective crisis response. Seek SIP compatible systems for integration, allowing precise call origin pinpointing and callback functionality. Aiphone emergency intercom systems display which specific emergency tower or wall box is initiating the call on answering stations; by creating custom sound files, it enables immediate location and situational awareness.

How to check the system’s status and do maintenance?

Look for solutions that offer remote monitoring and device check capabilities and automation to quickly identify and address any issues. Choose systems that facilitate easy testing and maintenance to ensure reliability when needed most.

Is it durable and weather-resistant?

Choose systems with weather-resistant construction for outdoor units, ensuring they can withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and UV exposure. Opt for systems that offer IP and IK protection ratings that discourage and resist vandalism attempts, maintaining system integrity in all situations.

Conclusion

Emergency intercom systems at their core are designed to facilitate immediate and reliable communication between individuals in distress and those who can provide assistance. Choose a system that streamlines emergency response with everyday security is crucial in situations where every second counts.

Empower safety with Aiphone’s emergency communication

Explore Emergency Solution

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When we envision schools, we imagine places where students are safe, engaged, and able to focus on learning. The changing landscape of our world has made it harder for children to focus on what’s most important. A well-designed security system for schools not only enhances daily operations but also ensures that staff can monitor activity, manage entry points, and communicate effectively when needed.  

This guide explores the key components of K-12 security technology and the essential steps to develop a comprehensive approach to school safety and efficiency. 

What Are School Security Systems & Solutions? 

A comprehensive school security solution includes a combination of systems, people, and processes. These systems integrate communication systems, access control, video surveillance, detection and alarms to provide layers of protection. The goal is to prevent intrusion, deter threats, and quickly respond to incidents when they occur.

The Importance of Security Systems for Schools

Education institutions face unique challenges when it comes to security. They must balance the need for campus safety while maintaining an open, welcoming environment for students and staff. Consider a scenario where visitor access goes unmonitored, surveillance coverage is limited, and staff lack immediate communication capabilities during emergencies. Such gaps create uncertainty about student safety, causing stress for educators and families alike. By partnering with experienced security providers, schools can implement comprehensive solutions that create secure, welcoming environments where education flourishes. 

Addressing School Security Challenges with Modern Solutions 

Many schools operate with outdated security infrastructure that falls short of addressing modern safety challenges. These antiquated measures often result in significant vulnerabilities: unmonitored areas become potential risk zones, fragmented communication systems delay critical emergency responses, manual security processes waste valuable response time, and inadequate coverage leaves staff isolated during emergencies. Even well-intentioned security efforts can be undermined by these systemic shortcomings.

Choosing the Best Security System for Your School 

PASS Guidelines: A Framework for School Security Planning

As a corporate partner of Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS), we recommend schools evaluate their current security infrastructure against PASS’s Safety and Security Guidelines and School Security Checklist. These frameworks utilize five physical layers of school facilities and a tiered security component approach. This structured methodology helps schools identify security gaps, prioritize areas for improvement, and implement progressive enhancements across each security layer.

Enhancing School Safety with Intercom Systems 

Video intercoms serve as a critical first line of defense at entrance points, especially where direct visual contact isn’t possible. Video intercom systems enable staff to visually verify and screen visitors before granting them building access. These systems are key to enabling direct, clear communication between staff, visitors and security personnel, improving internal communication and response times during emergencies. By integrating intercom systems with multiple security components—like access control, video surveillance, and emergency notifications— schools create an all-encompassing safety net that protects students and staff.

Integrated Security Systems: A Holistic Approach for Schools 

A common pitfall in school security is overreliance on a single type of solution or technology to address a broad range of safety and security challenges. Schools benefit most from investing in open-platform systems that follow industry standards. This approach eliminates the constraints of proprietary solutions, allowing institutions to select the best security components from different manufacturers while ensuring smooth integration. 

Essential School Security Systems: A Complete Checklist 

Here’s a brief overview of how we integrate with leading security systems partners and the core security technologies K-12 schools should consider implementing: 

Door Control & Locks 

Installing modern, tamper-resistant locks on all entry points is a simple yet effective way to enhance security. Automated door control systems like Allegion and Assa Abloy ensure that access points can be locked or unlocked remotely, providing an additional layer of protection.  

School Access Control: Preventing Unauthorized Entry 

Mechanical locks form the base for any access control system; however, commercial building access control includes software that allows schools to customize settings, manage permissions, and set up alerts for suspicious activity. This flexibility is essential for large campuses with multiple buildings to prevent unauthorized access. 

Visitor Management Systems: Best Practices for Schools 

Solutions like Raptor and Gabriel ensure that all visitors are logged and screened, reducing the chance of improper access. 

How Surveillance Cameras Improve School Security 

Schools can utilize high-quality cameras from brands like i-Pro, Hanwha, Digital Watchdog and more to monitor key areas such as entrances, hallways, and campus grounds.  

Using Video Management System (VMS) for School Security 

Platforms like Genetec and Milestone provide centralized control over video surveillance, allowing school administrators to monitor video footage in real time, and store recordings securely. This allows for post-incident reviews and serves as a powerful deterrent against vandalism and violence. 

School Alarm Systems: How They Work with Access Control 

These systems detect and alert staff to security breaches, such as intrusions, forced entry, or emergencies. While alarms provide real-time notifications, they work in tandem with access control systems, which help prevent unauthorized entry in the first place and can trigger alerts when forced access is attempted. 

Emergency Towers, Wall Boxes, & Panic Buttons  

Emergency intercom systems, including emergency towers and wall boxes, provide staff and students with an immediate way to call for help. Placing these systems in strategic locations throughout the campus, such as parking areas, stairwells, and common spaces ensures that help is never far away. 

Smart Card Badges: Enhancing School Access Control 

In more advanced implementations, smart cards with RFID or NFC technology allow students and staff to check in electronically to the building, classrooms, and any other place where there is a need for documentation and accountability. 

By adopting these technologies, schools can create a safer, more secure learning environment that is well-equipped to handle any potential threat. Each of these systems plays a critical role in forming a comprehensive security infrastructure—and when combined, they offer schools the tools they need to ensure the safety of students and staff alike.

Leveraging Grants for School Security Systems

One major obstacle to upgrading school security systems is budget constraints. However, schools can take advantage of school safety grants to fund necessary improvements. These grants, provided by government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private entities, offer financial support to enhance existing safety measures or implement new technologies. Additionally, these grants often come with guidelines and best practices, helping schools develop more effective security strategies.

To find the most relevant grant for your school, visit SchoolSafety.gov’s Grant Finder Tool. Some of the most widely available grants include:

1. Homeland Security Grant Program: Provided by the Department of Homeland Security, this grant provides the resources required for implementation of the National Preparedness System.
2. Project School Emergency Response to Violence (SERV): Provided by the Department of Education, these funds are allocated to schools dealing with trauma caused by violent incidents.
3. COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP): Provided by Department of Justice, this program provides funding for physical security upgrades, including surveillance cameras and access control systems.

School Security Grants: What’s Covered and How to Apply 

School security grants typically offer broad coverage, allowing institutions to address various aspects of their safety and security needs. According to SchoolSafety.gov, some of the topics include:

• Bullying and Cyberbullying
• Child Exploitation
• Cybersecurity
• Emergency Planning
• Infectious Diseases and Public Health
• Mental Health
• School Climate
• Targeted Violence
• Threat Assessment and Reporting

Next Steps: Implementing the Right Security System for Your School 

Improving school security systems is not just about installing cameras or controlling access; it’s about creating a comprehensive strategy that includes modern technology, well-trained personnel, and effective protocols. Schools must prioritize these improvements to protect their students, staff, and visitors from the evolving safety challenges they face. Whether you’re upgrading your communication systems, enhancing access control, or applying for school safety grants, each step towards a more secure school and an investment in the future safety of our children.

Protect Students and Property with Aiphone

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THE SCENARIO:

Almost 3,000 mosques are established across the United States, which support nearly 3.5 million American Muslims. Crimes against these communities have become frequent, and a small network of mosques in the Northeast became concerned with the threat of intrusion and vandalism.

Their first step to a visitor management solution was to lock the entrances at all hours, but this made the mosques less accessible to members. They wanted to provide a quick and simple way for personnel and members to conveniently enter their mosques while screening members of the public to deter criminal activity. It was also important to have a flexible system that could integrate with their auditorium’s sound system. 

THE SOLUTION:

The mosques chose an IP intercom that could integrate with their existing sound system. Emergency towers and an access control system were added to complete the solution. If an emergency occurred, alerts could be broadcast through their mosques while triggering a lock down event.

Personnel and members could quickly access the mosques with their adhesive disc tags and a single administrator now had the ability to screen calls for the entire network of mosques from one location. Strategically placed emergency stations and towers with highly visible cameras discouraged unlawful activity while providing a way to call for help. 

Read the full Solution Showcase here.

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THE SCENARIO:

Threats targeting schools are a reoccurring problem across the US. Administrators of a community college in the Southwest wanted to have preventative measures in place to deter these incessant threats. 

Entrances to the college were kept locked, but this made the building less accessible to faculty and students.  

Administrators wanted a convenient way for faculty and students to easily enter their college without having to wait or interrupt the receptionist. They also wanted a security system that allowed the receptionist to speak with and see visitors before letting them inside.

THE SOLUTION:

College administrators selected a combination of an IP security intercom with emergency towers and a premium access control system with key fob credentials. 

Door stations with proximity readers were installed at each entrance, allowing faculty and students to quickly access the college with their assigned key fobs. Prior to being let inside the school, visitors could request access using the IP video door station and safely be screened by the receptionist using the inside intercom station.  

Read the full Solution Showcase here.

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THE SCENARIO:

There was a network of churches in the southern region of the US that were part of the same congregation. Entrances were unlocked during normal hours, allowing the public to enter at will. Unfortunately, church members and visitors were experiencing a surge of violent acts against them, ranging from disruptions to violence. Anyone with malicious intent could walk into any one of their churches and wreak havoc. This concerned the congregation, and they began locking all entrances 24/7.

Keeping church entrances locked during normal hours had a downside; they became less accessible and welcoming to the public. People could not simply enter these churches anymore. They now had to wait for someone to let them inside. It goes without saying, knocking for access interrupted important sermons or events taking place.

The congregation wanted a quick and simple way to allow authorized members to enter their networked churches. More importantly, they wanted to identify and record any visitors before unlocking the entrance without interrupting those already inside. 

THE SOLUTION:

The church congregation selected a combination of an IP video intercom and an access control system. Congregants could enter their respective churches by using their authorized codes. 

A full‑time administrator was assigned to answer door station calls when church access was requested. Having one person screen calls for all locations eliminated daily interruptions.

When the public requested access using a door station, the video camera recorded the interaction. The video intercom deterred criminal activity with its recording capability and allowed staff to discreetly determine a visitor’s intent before unlocking the entrance.

Read the full Solution Showcase here.

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THE SCENARIO:

Due to a growing trend in school violence, administrators of a charter school had perimeter fencing installed and added an audio intercom and access control system at the gate. The gate would be open for parents and buses for drop off and pickup. When classes were in session, the gate would be closed and locked. Along with administrators, the local fire and police departments could access the gate with authorized credentials in case of emergencies. 

Visitors and vendors would use the audio intercom to request access. The receptionist answered calls initiated at the gate and would unlock it for those who had a valid reason to be at their school. Unfortunately, a visitor was lying about being a delivery driver. The receptionist could not see the driver, and unlocked without knowing he had malicious intent to vandalize school property, which he did. 

THE SOLUTION:

Administrators now wanted a video intercom to complement their access control so visitors could be visually verified before letting them onto the school property. School administrators selected an IP video intercom to identify visitors, and they updated to an access control system using the same manufacturer—ensuring smooth compatibility between the two product lines. 

After installing the intercom, the receptionist could confidently determine a visitor’s identity before unlocking the gate, helping to keep a safer school environment. Access control management software made it easy to perform system updates and provided flexible options, all cost-effective for the school’s budget. 

Read the full Solution Showcase here.

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At the center of mobile credentialing is a digital key app, which is a secure mechanism used to send a signal from a smartphone to unlock a specific door. Using a mobile digital key to open a secure door is gaining popularity and is now being used beyond just the corporate office environment. Hotels have begun to leverage mobile digital keys, using them to remotely check-in hotel guests. This eliminates the need for a guest to visit the front desk to receive a physical key card to access their hotel room.

Regardless of the specific use case, mobile digital keys provide a multitude of benefits, touching on every aspect of access control credential management. Here are a few benefits of mobile digital key technology over a traditional access control credential. 

Mobile digital keys eliminate physical cards and reader technology

With a mobile digital key, users no longer need to have a physical key card to enter a secure area. Instead, a smartphone can be used to communicate with a secure door to gain authorized entry. 

While some people may inadvertently forget to bring their key card into the office, people rarely leave home without their mobile device. Moving the credentialing technology to a mobile device reduces the frequency of someone forgetting or losing an access control card. 

In addition, mobile digital keys do not rely upon card reader technology. While mainly used for interior doors, the digital key communicates directly with the smart lock and not with a reader. This adds an additional layer of security by eliminating a reader that can be tampered with or spoofed. 

Easily manage access credentialing and privileges

Managing people who have access control privileges in a building can be a timely and costly process. Not only does a dedicated individual need to be responsible for adding new users into an access control system, but that person also needs to coordinate the creation and delivery of a physical access control credential. This can include making sure lost cards are deactivated, printing cards that contain a photo, and ensuring there are enough cards in inventory for both new users and replacement cards.   

Unlike Bluetooth technology, a digital key mobile app provides a faster, more secure connection and does not require a card reader in order to work. Digital key mobile app technology simplifies the access control management process by eliminating physical cards completely and the need to monitor and pay for card inventory. Instead, a smartphone becomes the credential. 

Enhanced temporary credentialing capabilities

Visitors are an inherent part in a building environment, whether that is a client visiting the office, an HVAC technician who needs to enter the building to service the ventilation system, or a person delivering food. Many traditional access control systems offer visitor management capabilities, but these systems can be limiting as they require a physical card and staff interaction with the visitor to present them with a temporary credential. At the end of the visit, the temporary credential also needs to be returned.  

A digital key does not necessarily require a specific mobile application to work. Via text message or email, a visitor receives a secure message. When the link in that message is activated, it communicates with the smart door lock to unlock the door and grants the person access. Specific parameters can be placed around the temporary mobile credential, such as making the mobile credential valid on a certain date, specific window of time, or only for specific doors. 

Thanks to digital keys, access control credentialing is now easier and more flexible for both the user and system owner, literally placing access control into the palm of the user’s hand.   

Learn more about Aiphone’s AC Key digital key mobile app with visitor pass capability. 

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THE SCENARIO:

After an increased surge of anti-Semitic attacks targeting Jewish communities across the US, a network of four synagogues had become concerned about the faith-focused assaults and vandalism occurring. They began locking all the entrances to their synagogues during normal hours, but worshippers could no longer walk in since they had to wait for someone to unlock the door. Knocking for access would interrupt sermons or events taking place. 

They wanted a convenient way for staff to easily access their synagogues, as well as a way for the public to call for access—and be identified before unlocking the door—without disturbing sermons or activities. It was especially important to maintain their architectural aesthetic too.  

THE SOLUTION:

The congregation mission that led all four synagogues chose an IP security intercom with emergency towers and a premium access control system with credentials. With the flexibility to have unlimited credentials, each rabbi and congregant could easily access their respective synagogue with authorized codes. 

A full-time receptionist was hired to screen calls for all four locations, which eliminated sermon disruptions. When the public wanted to worship, they could request access using the door station, which looked polished at each synagogue’s entrance. 

In the parking lots, emergency stations and towers provided a way to call for help, but also discouraged vandalism with highly visible surveillance cameras. 

Read the full Solution Showcase here.

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However, in recent years, facility managers for these buildings have seen a growing need to improve security measures in places of worship, as the threat of violence towards religious groups becomes a growing issue. In addition, keeping these buildings accessible during all hours of the day can be problematic, especially with an increase in theft and vandalism. 

Here are four ways that places of worship can improve their overall building security. 

Install an entry control system 

Keeping a church, synagogue, or mosque open to the public and its congregants at all times is no longer feasible in today’s world. These buildings need to have security measures in place that allow those who are permitted to enter to gain full access while keeping out individuals who may have bad intentions. Installing an entry control system, such as an access control system or keypad, can enable building doors to remain locked late at night, but automatically unlock early in the morning to allow people to enter for early morning prayer. Some churches have taken limiting access a step further by giving members an access control credential or unique pin that enables them to access select areas of the facility after hours when needed. 

Leverage intercoms to manage the flow of visitors 

As more religious buildings extend their offering beyond traditional worship services, it becomes increasingly important to understand who is accessing the facility and when. Religious spaces are often extensions of the community, with classrooms, meeting areas, and banquet halls that can accommodate a variety of uses, from children’s groups like the Girl Scouts and planning meetings for the local Little League program, to non-religious support groups and private events. By installing an intercom system, a receptionist can manage a person’s requests to enter the building, communicate with visitors, and verify the purpose of their visit before giving them access. With a video intercom system, this process can be taken a step further to include visual verification and to capture a video recording as a person enters. 

Limit building access points 

Restricting building access is one way to keep a place of worship secure, but it is not always practical. Instead, many facilities are limiting how many entrances can actively be used during the day and funneling people to a central entrance where they can implement enhanced visitor management features through an intercom system. In addition, facility managers are also keeping additional exterior doors locked throughout the day, such as the rear entrance to a banquet facility and the kitchen. Using either an intercom system or an access control reader can enable a place of worship to manage this access point while still allowing vendors to use this access point to deliver food and other goods. 

Invest in parking lot emergency communication towers 

As churches, synagogues, and mosques grow and their parking lots also expand, parking lot safety also becomes an issue. Expansive parking lots that accommodate hundreds of vehicles should have proper security systems in place to enable people to call for help in the event of an emergency. For example, in the event of a medical emergency, an emergency communication tower provides a reliable means of communication since the emergency tower is a hardwired system and does not rely on a cellular network. When a person pushes the emergency call button, the emergency tower directly connects with a live individual, whether it is a front office employee or a security office, and then communicates the exact location of the emergency tower. This makes it easier to send help to the right location.  

Thanks to increasing awareness of the importance of installing security in places of worship, many of these facilities have now invested in security technology that can help keep both their facilities and members more secure.  

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