Access controls are not just for business or residential buildings. They are crucial in schools because they safeguard the students and the building. The well-being of students, employees, and visitors depends on maintaining a safe and secure environment.
“One report from Teaching Times suggests almost half of UK schools experienced technology theft in the last three years,” said Security World Market, UK.
Why are access controls essential in schools?
Access control refers to the systems and measures put in place to regulate who can enter or exit a building or specific areas within it.
- Safety: Access control systems help prevent unauthorized individuals from entering school premises, reducing the risk of intruders or unwanted visitors.
- Protecting valuable assets: Valuable assets such as computers, equipment, and confidential records are safeguarded.
- Emergency response: In emergencies, such as fires or lockdown situations, access control systems help manage the movement of individuals, ensuring a more efficient and safer evacuation or lockdown process.
Best practices for access controls in schools
Every practice has to be by the UK’s national school inspection body.
- Access Control System Design
Collaborate with security experts to design a tailored access control system that suits the specific needs of the school. This includes determining which areas need restricted access and the types of access control technologies to be used.
- Biometric Access Control System
Implement biometric systems for high-security areas. Biometrics, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, provide a higher level of security by ensuring that only authorized individuals can gain access.
- Door and Gate Access
Install secure locks and access control mechanisms on all exterior doors and gates. Consider card readers, keypads, or proximity cards for entry.
- Visitor Management
Implement a visitor management system that requires all visitors to check in at a designated entry point. Issue visitor badges that identify authorized visitors.
- Access Control System Installation
Ensure that the installation of access control systems is carried out by trained professionals to guarantee proper functionality and integration with other security systems.
- Access Control System Maintenance
Regularly maintain and update access control systems to ensure they remain effective. This includes software updates, hardware checks, and routine inspections.
- Emergency Protocols
Develop and communicate clear emergency protocols that involve access control systems, ensuring that staff and students know what to do in various situations.
KBO's access control systems for schools
KBO commercial access control systems are suitable for a wide variety of premises, including schools and other educational institutions.
KBO also offers the option to integrate commercial door entry systems with other security systems for seamless and efficient centralized management.
