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  1. Access Control Systems – A Must Have for the Safe Reopening of Offices post-COVID

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    Access control systems will likely become a must-have for companies keen on ensuring a safe return to the offices for their staff post-COVID, security experts believe.

    Organizations planning an orderly and safe return to offices need to determine how long they will have to manage occupancy rates to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus, as well as consider where employees will work and how.

    One of the main advantages of using an electronic access control system with full reporting capabilities is that organizations can easily access data for occupancy management.

    Ensuring that space doesn’t exceed government thresholds has been important for mitigating the spread of the virus. Moving forward, organizations that are using their access control systems (ACS) for people counting can take advantage of the data they are collecting to help with office management.

    By deploying an office management solution that aggregates and analyzes the data from existing electronic access control systems, organizations can leverage what they already own to better understand how employees are using space within their facilities.

    Working with pre-set thresholds, this type of solution can determine how frequently an individual comes into the office and how long they stay. Then, with this data presented visually on a dashboard with clear metrics, an organization can get an accurate picture of how their facilities are being used, which can help them achieve a smaller footprint in the future.

    For example, an office management solution could compare how many employees are coming into work on different days of the week as well as determine peak days on different floors. With these insights, organizations can determine how many employees require permanent or shared desks to then make informed decisions about how much space they actually need.

    Access Control UK – expert suppliers of end-to-end Physical Identity and contactless biometric solutions

    Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, time and attendance biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

  2. Touch-Free Access Control – An Increasingly Popular Trend in School Security

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    Touch-free, contactless access control systems are starting to become some of the most popular security solutions for protecting students and staff on university and college campuses, industry experts believe.

    As part of their solid efforts to eliminate touchpoints, schools are replacing keypad-entry systems with touchless devices, such as smart-card readers that offer a hands-free option. The credentials for these readers can easily be incorporated as part of any teacher or student’s identification card.

    A smart card is usually scanned at a reader at the door and sends a signal to the access-control system to either permit entry or deny it, based upon whether an individual has permission to access a building on the weekends, for example.

    Entry would also be denied if the card is no longer valid. This can be especially helpful to safely manage access for students who may need to use a science laboratory on the weekend or in the evening. A keypad, on the other hand, has to be touched by many different people, which increases the risk of spreading germs if the device is not wiped down after every use.

    Many fitness facilities on campus have deployed smart-card technology since it enables them to also monitor who is using the fitness area at a specific time. This can alert security staff if someone enters the facility alone and does not leave for a long period of time, indicating a possible medical or safety issue.

    Access Control UK – Experts in Deploying Contactless Access Control Systems for the Educational Sector

    Touch-Free Entry
    Tensor Access Control Systems offer a variety of contactless solutions that enable users to securely verify their credentials and gain access through a door without touching any surfaces. These include:  
    Tensor Proximity Card Readers: Slim, sleek and attractive, proximity smart card readers deliver multi-card format compatibility with extensive functionality. They are designed to work perfectly with Tensor contactless smartcards, as well as EM, HID Prox™, MiFare & HID iClass™ (depending on model), meaning that users never have to touch the actual reader in order to gain access.Manufactured using high quality materials and sporting an attractive design, Tensor readers are perfect for installations where aesthetics are of paramount importance, but where security is vital.
    Facial Recognition TerminalsThe Facial Recognition Terminals are among the world’s most compact face recognition stations, offering very high matching speeds, accuracy, and level of security.Non-Contact Facial Recognition Access Control Technology provides a fast, highly accurate biometric solution for identifying employees and/or visitors and granting or denying them access to site.Packed in a compact and an ergonomically-designed structure, these terminals provide exceptional performance and usability for diverse access control and time attendance applications of any size.
    Latest versions of the Tensor Mobile Self-Service Module (SSM) iOS/Android app: The “Door Status” feature implemented in the Mobile SSM App Version 3.803.26 and available when used in conjuction with the 4.2.0.x Series of Tensor.NET software provides users with an overview of the current status of the access doors controlled by Tensor access controllers and also enables the automatic door locking or unlocking directly from the app.
    Automated Door Opening
    Automatic door drivers are the key elements in a truly contactless door entry access control solution. These systems (also known as automatic door closers) increase the level of safety within a building by allowing touch-free entry through the door itself.
    Automated doors also help prevent the forming of long queues at the access door – yet another important element in preventing the spread of COVID-19 within the workplace.
    Contactless Exit Buttons
    The Tensor S-1-EXITIR Contactless Exit Buttons are the perfect hygienic access control exit solution for all the locations where a no-touch functionality is required.The infrared detection system within the S-1-EXITIR contactless exit button allows users to activate the switch with just a hand being in close proximity, without needing to make contact with the device. 
    The surface-mounted S-1-EXITIR features an easy-to-clean, single gang stainless steel back-plate and an illuminated red and green changing LED and allows users to modify the door open period, as well as the proximity range per their specific requirements.
  3. US Army Looking at Biometrics for Access Control

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    The US Army is seriously considering moving away from the plastic ID cards that make up their Common Access Card and implementing a biometric-based ‘Pandemic Entry & Automated Control Environment’, industry sources have been able to suggest.

    The military’s Common Access Card is used by military personnel, both uniformed and civilian, to gain access to installations and is needed to access certain government computers.

    It’s also required for making purchases at commissaries and exchange shops. But the Army says a physical card is ‘subject to compromise and in a pandemic environment results in a significant risk to the population that is to be protected.’

    The Army’s aim is to develop a “Pandemic Entry & Automated Control Environment” that makes use of biometrics — such as facial recognition or other physical traits — and data such as a password to enable base entry, the bid announcement said.

    “Use of PEACE provides real-time validation of persons at the entry point location as well as within the installation and various facilities,” the Army announcement said.

    Access Control UK – suppliers of choice of advanced access control and facial recognition systems

    Given the level of security required for stadia and sporting arenas, implementing a very solid access control and surveillance system is really a must, and this is specifically where Access Control UK could leverage its extensive experience in this field.

    Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies, including here facial recognition, to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

  4. Implementing a COVID Secure Access Control Solution Will Be a Must Post-Pandemic

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    COVID Secure access control solutions have become extremely important since the start of the Coronavirus pandemic, and will likely become the norm moving forward, security experts believe.

    According to the research firm Memoori, a global technology research firm, access control, which generally serves the biggest buildings and the largest companies, has experienced the strongest occupant safety mandates, symbolized by the long-term or permanent work-from-home policies of big tech firms. Consequently, this segment has felt a lot of disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its various mitigation measures.

    Because business operations and the security function have collided during the COVID-19 crisis and are sure to be more intertwined moving forward, health and safety mandates are expediting the migration for almost every building’s secured entrances and interior doors to touchless solutions aiming to reduce every possible transmission path for pathogens.

    Facilities can also consider designating ingress only, and egress only entrances at exterior entrances to facilitate social distancing and traffic flow. Most systems integrators warn clients against opting for a quick fix by retrofitting existing swinging doors with automatic, low-energy, electric operators, designed for disabled entry, warning that this approach can make unauthorized intrusion much easier.

    Instead, integrators and security consultants recommend more advanced security entrance technology such as optical turnstiles and revolving doors that have featured touchless options for decades in various commercial and institutional venues and are specifically designed to protect facilities from intrusion.

    An integrated solution using turnstiles, revolving doors and portals makes it possible to deliver a fully touchless experience for users that truly enhances the security of most access control systems by combining biometric and other proximity technologies. By reading a device carried by an approaching individual, or recognizing their face, the security entrance can verify credentials and enable access by automatically opening turnstile doors or turning the wings of revolving doors. Thus, providing a highly secure and touchless post-pandemic environment.

    Access Control UK – expert suppliers of end-to-end Physical Identity and contactless biometric solutions

    Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, time and attendance biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

  5. Access Control Systems – Providing Your Business with Better Security, More Control

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    Access control systems can improve the security of your business by preventing or minimizing the risks of such occurrences such as property damage, assets loss, theft or breach, and other criminal actions that can cause irreversible harm to your organization.

    These solutions will ensure convenient and hassle-free access of authorized people to your premises while also limiting the probability of unauthorized persons entering the building.

    Access control systems have numerous features organizations of all types and sizes will certainly find useful, including here the capabilities to provide quick access to employees, the ability to grant the right to enter a certain area to a limited number of people, as well as the options to deliver reliable protection against unauthorized entry, so the system alarms on penetration without permission.

    Furthermore, these systems offer a number of additional features beyond security, including here business analytics – access control system combined with the functions of time attendance and movement fixation can become a real tracking system for conducting analytics.

    Another interesting feature is the ability to reduce fixed costs, as an access control system can help reduce additional security expenses.

    Access Control UK – suppliers of latest-generation access control solutions

    Whatever your requirements, Access Control UK specialists are available to help you get the best from your system.

    Access Control UK are leading providers of proximity smart card and biometric access control systems and software for both large and small companies.

    A UK-based manufacturer, we have over 30 years of experience in designing, installing and commissioning outstanding security solutions. We take great pride in our commitment to provide the best possible customer care and adhere to the highest British and International security standards, which is why we’ve been formally accredited by several accreditation bodies (visit our Accreditations page for more information).

    The Access Control Systems supplied by Access Control UK are modular and fully scalable in design, thus allowing you to build your access control system to match your specific requirements, whether you’re a small company with under 250 personnel or a large multinational corporation.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

  6. Access Control & Authentication Market to Reach $22.7 Billion by 2027, Research Report Reveals

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    The Access Control and Authentication Market CAGR is set to grow at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2020, reaching an estimated $22.7 billion by 2027, a recent market research report has been able to suggest.

    The paper from Meticulous Research suggests that an array of factors such as growing acceptance for advanced biometric technologies including fingerprint recognition, face recognition, IRIS recognition, voice recognition, and smart cards along with consistently proliferating consumer demand for modern devices; stringent government regulation for asset safety; growing investments, particularly in education, public sector, healthcare, and banking industries; and perpetual technological advancements in ACA technology are driving the growth of the access control and authentication market.

    Furthermore, increasing strategic partnerships among players operating in this market and growing penetration of ACA products, particularly in hospitality, residential & commercial, government & public sector, and IT & telecom sectors are also contributing to the growth of this market. However, the high initial cost involved in deploying biometric access control systems and lack of awareness, especially in developing countries, may limit the growth of this market to some extent.

    Currently, any interaction or physical access of traditional access control and authentication devices poses a level of risk to spread multiple infection, including COVID-19, flu, or the common cold. The advent of coronavirus is further demonstrating the need for contactless biometric access control devices as the consumers are hesitant to interact with shared contact-based authentication devices. The situation has been evolving in unpredictable ways, and the companies operating in this market are adapting to the new reality, anticipating and planning for various scenarios.

    Majority of access control and authentication companies are investing in modern contactless access control technologies to avoid any contamination due to coronavirus.

    Access Control UK – expert suppliers of end-to-end Physical Identity and contactless biometric solutions

    Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

  7. Touch-Free Access Solutions can Help Protect Hospital Occupants and Staff

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    As part of its ongoing efforts to manage infection control from COVID and other viruses, Milton Keynes University Hospital has recently deployed a touch-free door entry system to protect workers, patients and visitors, a recent news report has been able to suggest.

    Four independent units were installed in different buildings of the hospital. One was installed at The Campbell Centre, a 38-bed acute inpatient mental health unit, another system fitted at the hospital’s dental surgery, a system fitted at the entrance of urgent care and a final one at Eaglestone Health Centre – a specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) facility. The system with touch free entry points delivers huge benefits to the hospital by safeguarding patient, visitor and NHS staff safety as well providing easy and convenient access since minimal contact remains key to reducing the spread of the coronavirus.

    We are comitted to help our customers reopen their businesses safely, in line with Government guidelines. This is is why we can supply contactless, touch-free access control solutions that aim to ensure a higher level of hygiene and reduce the risk of infection with COVID-19 and/or other dangerous viruses or bacteria.

    Touch-Free Entry
    Tensor Access Control Systems offer a variety of contactless solutions that enable users to securely verify their credentials and gain access through a door without touching any surfaces. These include:  
    Tensor Proximity Card Readers: Slim, sleek and attractive, proximity smart card readers deliver multi-card format compatibility with extensive functionality. They are designed to work perfectly with Tensor contactless smartcards, as well as EM, HID Prox™, MiFare & HID iClass™ (depending on model), meaning that users never have to touch the actual reader in order to gain access.Manufactured using high quality materials and sporting an attractive design, Tensor readers are perfect for installations where aesthetics are of paramount importance, but where security is vital.
    Facial Recognition TerminalsThe Facial Recognition Terminals are among the world’s most compact face recognition stations, offering very high matching speeds, accuracy, and level of security.Non-Contact Facial Recognition Access Control Technology provides a fast, highly accurate biometric solution for identifying employees and/or visitors and granting or denying them access to site.Packed in a compact and an ergonomically-designed structure, these terminals provide exceptional performance and usability for diverse access control and time attendance applications of any size.
    Latest versions of the Tensor Mobile Self-Service Module (SSM) iOS/Android app: The “Door Status” feature implemented in the Mobile SSM App Version 3.803.26 and available when used in conjuction with the 4.2.0.x Series of Tensor.NET software provides users with an overview of the current status of the access doors controlled by Tensor access controllers and also enables the automatic door locking or unlocking directly from the app.
    Automated Door Opening
    Automatic door drivers are the key elements in a truly contactless door entry access control solution. These systems (also known as automatic door closers) increase the level of safety within a building by allowing touch-free entry through the door itself.
    Automated doors also help prevent the forming of long queues at the access door – yet another important element in preventing the spread of COVID-19 within the workplace.
    Contactless Exit Buttons
    The Tensor S-1-EXITIR Contactless Exit Buttons are the perfect hygienic access control exit solution for all the locations where a no-touch functionality is required.The infrared detection system within the S-1-EXITIR contactless exit button allows users to activate the switch with just a hand being in close proximity, without needing to make contact with the device. 
    The surface-mounted S-1-EXITIR features an easy-to-clean, single gang stainless steel back-plate and an illuminated red and green changing LED. and allows users to modify the door open period, as well as the proximity range per their specific requirements.
  8. Industrial development schemes can benefit from enhanced security and access control provisions

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    Planning for the deployment of comprehensive security and access control solutions should really be a must from the earliest stages of an industrial scheme’s development, such as the recent one in Leighton Buzzard that has received the green light from Central Bedfordshire Council.

    Approval has now been granted for the development’s reserved matters application, which set out details for its appearance and layout, a recent news report in the local business media has been able to suggest.

    Located near junction 11 of the M1, the speculative scheme comprises eight grade-A units, ranging from 12,000 sq ft to 130,000 sq ft.

    Work on site will begin in the coming weeks, with the first units due to be delivered in the third quarter of 2021.

    Chris Webb, partner at Firethorn Trust, said: “Firethorn has big ambitions for 2021, so we’re excited to be able to start the year with this key step in bringing Ascent to life.

    “Covid-19 has accelerated ecommerce growth, but this has exposed a real shortage for modern, high-quality midbox warehousing that is able to effectively meet increasing occupier demand.

    “The development of Ascent Logistics Park not only responds to this urgent need, but will also look to attract significant interest from occupiers, bring economic benefits to the region and enhance connectivity within the UK industrial network.”

    Access Control UK – suppliers of choice of advanced access control and facial recognition systems

    Given the level of security required for stadia and sporting arenas, implementing a very solid access control and surveillance system is really a must, and this is specifically where Access Control UK could leverage its extensive experience in this field.

    Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies, including here facial recognition, to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

  9. Biometric Access Control Technology to See Continued Growth in 2021

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    Biometric access control technology will continue to grow throughout 2021 as more and more organizations are looking to defend themselves from attacks. In fact, in its September 2020 report, “Navigating The Emerging Risks Of Biometric Technologies,” Forrester Research projected 60% of global security decision-makers polled were planning to implement or expand their use of fingerprint, facial or voice biometrics in 2021.

    Furthermore, the global biometric system market is expected to see an 18% compound annual growth rate through 2025, with the market hitting $57.7 billion in just five years, according to a separate November 2020 Research and Markets report.

    The use of fingerprints for identification goes back more than a century, while cybersecurity tools using fingerprints, iris scans and other biometric identifiers have helped organizations with highly sensitive security needs control access to physical and digital assets for decades.

    Despite a number of challenges, experts said they expect more organizations are likely to adopt biometric security technology moving forward, adding it to the tools they use in their enterprise environments, rather than using a biometric option as a standalone authentication mechanism.

    Access Control UK – suppliers of choice of advanced access control and facial recognition systems

    Given the level of security required for stadia and sporting arenas, implementing a very solid access control and surveillance system is really a must, and this is specifically where Access Control UK could leverage its extensive experience in this field.

    Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies, including here facial recognition, to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

  10. Data Security Requires Solid Access Control Systems

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    While most threats to data security are indeed in the virtual realm, the truth of the matter is that the threat of physical breaches into data centres is also real and requires a coordinated security strategy using a layered approach.

    An organization’s data centre holds delicate and highly confidential information that requires highest level of security. Therefore, it requires an access control solution that begins at the perimeter and moves to the building itself, then into the facility, the data center or server room and finally securing the cabinets and racks containing the wiring arrays and equipment. The security layers may feature perimeter barriers and surveillance, or secured entrances with high-level access control like mantraps and turnstiles, badging, multi-technology biometrics and analytics.

    While physical security may not be the first thought in an environment of cloud computing and virtualization, it should not be overlooked or underrated as a critical tool for cyber security. Controlling access to and within the building and its servers is critical to overall data center security.
    An immediate priority would be to limit access points into any facility housing a data center, while keeping unencumbered exits required for exit by fire codes. A high-security facility would require people entering the building to authenticate themselves a minimum of three times. Outer secured entrances to the facility could be a badge-in door with a buzzer or intercom system for guests.

    A sophisticated visitor management system would require guests to receive temporary access rights via mobile or RFID access cards tied to the access control system for tracking. In the case of a co-location facility, security revolving doors with anti-tailing sensor systems can be used.

    Access Control UK – The Experts in Designing, Installing and Maintaining Secure Access Control Solutions for Data Centres

    Installing a very solid and reliable access control system at the company’s new sites is really a must, and this is specifically where Access Control UK could lend a helping hand.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, time and attendance biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

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