SOLUTIONS TO SUIT ALL ACCESS NEEDS

Allowing staff and students to easily move around university campuses whilst maintaining a safe and secure environment is a priority for university facilities managers. Integrated access and security solutions offer an ideal strategy.

For any education facility, the door hardware and access systems installed need to meet specific – and sometimes unique - security and safety demands. For university campuses, where an open-access feel is required for thousands of students and staff to move around the site with a sense of freedom, finding the balance can be difficult. spread of viruses and bacteria.

Simplifying access permissions

Cloud-based access control systems offer the flexibility and operational continuity that college and university settings need. These utilise an online platform to manage user access across a site and require only minimal work to be integrated into the organisation’s existing IT architecture. This approach offers a simple, centralised and easy to use interface for managing all user profiles and privileges.

Facilities managers can create a customised, zoned security system to control who can access certain areas. For example, student accommodation where a robust solution is required to keep students and their possessions safe, or teaching spaces like laboratories that contain equipment and materials that would be dangerous to unauthorised persons.

Another huge benefit of cloud-based systems is how quickly and easily privileges can be added, withdrawn or amended in line with staff and student turnover. This also helps in the event of a lost access media, as the missing card or fob can instantly be rendered unusable to prevent unauthorised access.

Furthermore, new features and updates to the platform can be made and rolled out immediately rather than needing to wait for the locally installed software to be updated – keeping the system working at optimum efficiency.

It is also possible to integrate smartphones alongside existing media such as cards, fobs and smart keys. This is more convenient for the user and as mobile phones are less likely to be lost or lent to other people, meaning the overall level of security can be improved. These devices also commonly include additional security measures like a PIN number, passcode and biometric verification (such as fingerprint or facial recognition), adding a further layer of security.

Keeping premises hygienic

Social distancing guidelines have changed how buildings operate. There are access solutions that can help to minimise physical contact and reduce the spread of germs, whilst still providing reliable security.

Manual swing doors can be converted to operate automatically simply by swapping the door closers and installing the necessary sensors.

Button operated automatic doors can be improved by replacing the push-pad with a contact free, microwave detection sensor.

Traditional locks and cylinders can be replaced with digital versions that support contactless access and these can be integrated into the entire, single access system.

One solution provider that suits all

Choosing a single access solution provider can improve the overall efficiency and maintenance of the access system. For example, dormakaba’s solutions and products are designed to communicate with each other, performing in a harmonised way to save time and money. Once installed, the software automatically updates, which is incredibly convenient and reduces the admin burden for facilities managers.

Our specification experts will support a project at all stages, from design to delivery, with expert knowledge on building standards and risk assessments, tailored advice for difficult project requirements and bespoke locking solutions to suit specific needs.

To find out more about dormakaba’s service offering and its full range of access control systems visit: www.dormakaba.co.uk