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Access from the gate to the front door

Access control systems are the front lines in any security setup. Remote gate controls and surveillance systems fulfil a dual role in addition to keeping unauthorised people out and letting authorised persons through. Many access control systems can also track who comes and goes and when, such information is of utmost importance to any secured residential area.

Looking at integrated security management platforms is no less important. An integrated security solution refers to a solution that bundles together different aspects of physical as well as electronic security to provide a holistic mechanism that contributes to the overall risk management strategy of any organisation or residential area. The integration of various products installed to give a complete access control system solution for any residence can make your life easier while providing more security for your family. These include a variety of indoor and outdoor access control systems, for example access (entry/exit) controls for gates, doors, and driveway access; surveillance systems; UHF readers; mantraps etc. Various security companies in the market today can provide owners with the knowledge, service and support of remote access control systems.

Components of any integrated solution may include (but are not limited to) surveillance systems, access control systems, alarm systems, fire detection and suppression systems, electric fence, entrance control systems, physical guarding and so on. The extent as well as the scope to which each residential area may require these systems is determined by the risk profile of each one of them as some will need more than others.

The key factor at the end of the day is how these systems can be integrated to make the use thereof easily manageable, and how responsive the integrated solution is to the daily operational needs of a residential area. Alarm systems and armed response can only provide a certain amount of protection to deter intruders. Like instances when an alarm is triggered, security companies often only conduct perimeter checks as they are unable to gain access to properties. Most often by the time the guards arrive, it is too late and high value goods have already been stolen. This has highlighted the need for remote monitoring of security devices via mobile devices.

In today’s world, with crime on the increase, biometric devices are gaining popularity in the residential security market. These devices can give accurate information as to who enters specific premises, which can give a better indication of the events when an intrusion occurs. The most effective way to secure a property is to install a whole range of products that can be monitored on one platform and via mobile devices, thus allowing business owners, homeowners and security officials within the property to ‘check in’ periodically or if an alarm event is activated. With the correct placement and usage of various security products any property, whether commercial or residential will be able to ensure that the people living within their properties feel safe and secure.

Knock, knock: you know who’s there

Having a visitor management app will not only enhance efficiency within any property, but it ensures that visitors be registered within seconds, with all necessary information captured. Such an app enables authorised personnel or even the residents within an estate to preregister visitors, thus helps to streamline the waiting process at the entrance of any property.

The app also ensures the handling of visitors is in accordance with the residential estate’s policies and allows time for a watch check list before the visitor arrives. Visitor approval is sent to the authorised personnel via the app which is connected to a mobile device and the proper access rights can be assigned. All information is stored in a secure database and can be conveniently retrieved for repeat visits. Additional information can be gathered with visitor details to simplify future contacts.

The visitor management app also allows the user to track visitors, assets and deliveries as they enter and exit the premises. It helps improve the efficiency, security and visitor service of any residential or commercial property. Now there’s no more wondering – should I answer the door or not?

There are various access control products on the market today, that provide residential owners with the technology to deliver an access security solution, from simple to complex projects. While physical access requirements are not one-size-fits-all, one can leverage all access solutions to provide a well-orchestrate physical access system solution designed for your needs.

For more information, contact ZKTeco (SA), +27 12 259 1047, sales@zkteco.co.za, www.zkteco.co.za

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