Take a moment to picture a building where employees have the ability to scan a badge or present credentials to gain access. After access has been granted, the building's tertiary systems are triggered; the lights turn on, the temperature adjusts, and security is notified that someone has accessed the building. At the end of the day, the same access credentials are used to leave the building, triggering the reverse actions of the morning-- lights are dimmed, temperatures are set lower, and the doors are locked. This is the reality of managing a smart building.
You may be familiar with access control, which acts as a trigger for all of these functions-- the entire system is run by a nuanced automation system that allows every aspect of a building's operation to be controlled from one place, whether it's lighting, intercoms, access control, video, fire safety or intrusion detection. Not only do the capabilities of smart buildings enhance security, but they also allow for significant cost savings.
When commercial facilities are retrofitted to become smart buildings, the result is a building that can not only respond to, but actually anticipate its occupants' needs and activities. As a result, smart buildings have been increasingly cropping up around the world as companies consider not only the possible cost savings, but also enhanced security. Providing security in commercial buildings involves more than selecting the right products and features. Learn how security systems like access control and digital video surveillance can be integrated into a building automation system to protect people, property, and data.
Access Control: Securing The Premises
Access control is crucial for every building where restricted access is necessary. Whether its school buildings, data centers, or hospitals, many industries rely on these systems to keep building occupants and confidential data safe. Based on your specific needs, you can implement either basic or intelligent access control readers.
It's important to work with a company who has the automation expertise to effectively integrate an access control system to work with the rest of a smart building's automation system. We integrate software that simplifies access control management-- you can receive updates and notifications that make it easy for you to oversee the building's security. Access control software works with smart building automation systems to regulate mechanical systems and provide top of the line security features that keep your building secure.
Consider this: if your building currently features an outdated access control system, you may have some holes in your security.
Here are a few signs that you can improve your security by integrating access control with other security measures:
- Inability to determine who is in the building at any given time.
- No web based user interface that can be utilized by management remotely
- No functionality that promotes engagement with system users
Intrusion Detection: Instant Updates
Although access control systems are proficient for letting authorized people into a building, it is not foolproof in keeping others out. Thieves and other "baddies" can find a way to bypass card reader systems, whether they follow an authorized person through the door or use other nefarious methods. This is why it's crucial to integrate intrusion monitoring to secure your company's assets.
With intrusion detection, if an intrusion is detected, an operation center will receive a signal instantly and follow whatever emergency protocol you have set in place. For instance, a notification can be sent to you or an operator can contact the police. It's also possible to verify the intrusion using monitored video. Comprehensive intrusion detection, integrated with other security protocols can ensure your assets are protected 24/7.
Video Surveillance Systems
An effective surveillance system is the piece that ties together smart building integration, improving the efficiency of both access control and intrusion detection.
Utilize your network video recorder to broadcast your surveillance footage feed over a secured network, allowing you to monitor multiple areas at once. More nuanced systems even offer the ability to send notifications directly to your phone in the event that the property has been broken into. Being able to monitor your building remotely can also help you to cut down on the costs of employing security officers, which will further enhance your ROI.
Property managers are always striving for more clarity and detail in the images produced by their video surveillance systems. Old surveillance systems can hold you security back.
Here are a few signs that you can improve your security by upgrading surveillance cameras and integrating them with other security measures:
- Picture clarity is dated
- HD quality is not possible
- Can’t control camera movement to identify building guests
Combining Intrusion Detection, Access Control, And Video Surveillance
Today's video surveillance and access control systems can work in tandem in an integrated system to provide security solutions for commercial buildings. Using an integrated system provides a wide variety of benefits: keeping would-be intruders away from the property, limiting access to facilities that store expensive equipment, and remotely monitoring secluded areas to reduce the risk of crime.
With an integrated approach, when an employee contacts security, lights and surveillance cameras can be activated to monitor the scene to observe the emergency, and officers can pinpoint where to intervene to thwart an attack.
United Security Incorporated | Smart Building Security Integration
At USI Integrated Solutions, we bring together a highly experienced team, keen strategic planning and in-depth understanding of the leading technologies in the field. For over 30 years we have brought peace of mind to our clients through the careful application of investigative talent and technology implementation.
Think your building has some outdated security technology? Click the link below to schedule a no-cost property evaluation.
