From simple electronic locks to computer-managed standalones, hardwired or wireless technology systems, the right access control solution is available.
Creating a security system for a retail facility is, in many respects, just like creating a security system for any other building. Safety, ease of use and cost are the primary factors. Yet, special considerations such as shrinkage and loss prevention in the warehouses and storage areas must also come into play. Not to mention that the public-facing doors in retail facilities are typically made of glass, requiring unique glass-friendly solutions.
Back doors, fire exits and storage areas in larger retail buildings necessitate integrated access control systems that easily allow for monitoring and control. There are many types of locks on the market today that effectively protect assets and can be utilised in flexible ways. Putting some thought into your access control system will undoubtedly save time and money in the future.
If your organisation is planning a new facility, it is best to meet with architects and engineers before the building is specified and built. At this point, you can decide whether to install a networked or standalone access control system. A networked system, which requires wiring, is easiest to install while a facility is being newly built. Wiring after construction is usually quite difficult and costly, however.
When upgrading your access control system at an existing retail facility, however, you will probably pursue a standalone access control door security solution or wireless solution. That is because they cost much less than hardwiring a building during a retrofit.
Moving up the retail (access control) chain
Major chains face a different paradigm. While fashion may sometimes successfully go retro, with locking systems it is a safer bet to look to the future. With the increased flexibility, heightened security and lower costs offered by electronic locking systems, it is small wonder that they are having a profound change on the world of retail access control. Moving from mechanical locks to an electronic locking system is the first step toward total, integrated access control. Electronic locks let businesses retrofit doors to become part of an overall system, using the same credentials throughout a retail facility or even multiple facilities. Electronic systems even allow intermixing of credentials.
The question is simple. How do you provide security - after the fact - that will protect people and assets? Today, you have four main choices. You can use programmable electronic locks, a computer-managed locking system, a hardwired system or go wireless. Let us look at these alternatives.
Programmable electronic locks
This is your most economical solution. At an installed cost starting around $655 US per door, programmable electronic locks provide a solid choice for organisations with a limited number of users and access points. A step above the traditional generations-old strictly mechanical pushbutton lock, they are standalone, microprocessor-based, battery-powered locks that provide increased value in a retail situation. Until it receives an authorised code, the clutching lever simply gives way, discouraging vandals and others from breaking it to gain entry.
With these new generation locking systems, you can quickly program up to 120 individual user codes, right at the keypad. Floor supervisors can easily add or delete users in less than a 10-second process. Recently-introduced programmable locks additionally feature iButton ports, 12-button keypads and standard builder's cylinders. Models are available for use with a wide range of doors, latches and exit devices, including narrow stile aluminium doors.
If the need is to provide controlled access to multiple users sharing access to multiple openings, programmable electronic locks and trims are the first step in a migration from mechanical key systems to fully electronic access control.
Transparent electronic solution for main street shops
Securing glass doors on main street retail outlets is getting easier and easier with these types of locks because they merge multiple access control components into one secure system solution. With minimal work, main street retail facilities can take advantage of electronic access control security hardware that interfaces easily with most common aluminium and glass door hardware.
Computer-managed locking systems
The next step in an intelligent migration from mechanical locks to total integrated access control involves computer-managed (CM) locking systems. These standalone, programmable, battery-powered locks are networked through software to provide audit-trail capability and time-based scheduling for restricting access. Using CM locks, managers and employees have many of the benefits of a networked system without the associated costs or network wires.
The CM system is very easy to retrofit, and can support a variety of credential types including PIN codes, magnetic stripe cards, iButtons, proximity cards and biometrics. Whatever the credential used, one intuitive, user-friendly software programs all - the locksets, exit device trim, strikes and magnets (through the offline controllers) - from a PC or PDA. With the system's software, assignment of access privileges and adding and deleting users and access points can be quickly and easily accomplished.
Next step: inviting third parties using hardwire systems
Beyond CM locking systems are the VIP (value integration platform) locks, which let retail facilities monitor door openings with their own existing, third-party access control panels and software. Contrary to CM locks, one does not to go to the locks themselves to program them or download audit trail information. The VIP open architecture platform seamlessly connects the specially designed door lock to a panel interface board (PIB) that connects to any present access control panel. There is no need for separate components or multiple manufacturers' products. Users access the VIP lock with either magnetic stripe or proximity cards.
As a result, credential data and door status information required by the access control panel, such as door position or request-to-exit status, are passed via RS485 communication from the lock to the panel via the PIB provided with the locks. The access control panel maintains control of the lock status and status indication on the VIP locks as it does with present electric strike or electromagnetic locking systems. All monitoring is captured at the remote monitoring station. Regardless of software employed, retail operations have the benefits of a networked system without the costs.
Going wireless
The most recent addition to the options for total integrated access control is the application of wireless technology in physical security environments. Wireless systems use less hardware and install five to 10 times faster. With wireless systems, it becomes extremely easy to retrofit electronic access control solutions in facilities and applications that have previously held back due to budget constraints or installation limitations.
In addition to providing access control at a door in the form of a wireless lock, organisations can now take advantage of wireless solutions for elevators, gates, and other exit devices. Importantly, the wireless system easily integrates into all existing access control systems and customers can continue to use their existing keys or ID credentials.
Check with 'the man'
Beyond security, cost and implementation pros and cons, retail facilities are also governed by local and other regulations. While you are concentrating on preventing unauthorised access, construction, fire and life safety regulations will demand that you provide free egress from the building. Be sure to consult with an expert before embarking on a new access control system so that you have the big picture and create the perfect system for your facility now and into the future.
Marilyn Collins is the Schlage Electronic Security VIP product marketing manager at Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies.
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