Security
Smart FM Access Control Solutions Strengthen Site Wide Protection
Richard Jenkins, Chief Executive of the National Security Inspectorate (NSI), explains how smart, integrated and innovative access control solutions can enhance facilities
protection in the context of an important new code of practice being launched this month.
The challenging circumstances presented by the pandemic have demanded FM security measures be freshly assessed and, where necessary,
strengthened and redesigned with smarter access
control systems. Recent innovations have addressed the detection of Covid 19 symptoms, and contactless access control to reduce the Covid transmission risk.
One example of such innovative technological solutions is CCTV based thermal temperature monitoring. Designed to help identify individuals’ abnormal temperature, it provides real time alerts to security staff. Access points including door release and turnstile controls can be interfaced with it to provide automatic access or barring of individuals, to help keep premises and people Covid safe.
Such systems and procedures aren’t fool proof but represent a practical and realistic response to now well known risks. They demonstrate the adaptability and ingenuity of system providers and how security can be enhanced by access control solutions.
Technologies can be adapted to offer both physical security and fire safety protection: electronic visitor management systems interfaced with appropriate access control solutions serve the dual purpose of access control and real time registers available for roll call verification of persons to be accounted for immediately post incident, in the event of a building/site evacuation.
Risk Assessment
Appropriate specification for access control is informed by effective risk assessment and threat determination. Carefully defining needs ensures measures are both fit for purpose and user friendly, the latter important in ensuring adoption once implemented.
Risk assessment also assists in the identification of access control needs, the location of access points to be secured/monitored, and any requirements for remote monitoring. It is factored into design, along with the risk classification of access points which can vary e.g. inside/outside working hours, during daylight/hours of darkness, at weekends, or during other open/closed periods.
Updated Code Of Practice
In response to evolving standards, in June 2021 NSI is introducing an update to its NCP 109 Code of Practice for access control systems. The Code draws on the Equality Act 2010, British Standard BS 7273 4 for fire protection (activation of release mechanisms for doors) and BS 7671 for electrical installations – all key to safe and well designed systems.
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Buyers choosing system providers who comply with the revised Code can be assured the access control system design
will
reflect specific user needs, usability and operating requirements. This latest Issue 3 of NCP 109 embraces new technologies and methods. It covers threat assessment, the determination of higher exposure points, expected people flows, means of escape in the event of a fire or security incident, and the assessment of most suitable type of recognition technology; e.g. access control systems incorporating complementary surveillance and thermal monitoring systems - the latter now accepted as a valuable tool in maintaining a Covid secure environment.
Classification
The updated Code now references BS EN 60839, which classifies each access point (door, hardware and access components) based on a risk assessment. Additionally, it defines access functions that should be included based on risk levels, for example for higher risk access points, anti pass back, door forced alarms and door held open alarms, including the remote notification of emergency release operation.
Data Management
Access control record keeping and data security are essential in today’s world. Typically, ‘log ins’ and permissions are a point of risk. Fail safe system controls and procedures can ensure recognition log ins are up to date, with permissions for staff and contractors given access being added and withdrawn in a timely fashion – simple yet essential risk management. Access control systems store personal data that must be held securely, adhering to data protection including GDPR (applicable since 25th May 2018).
Conclusion
The successful operation of access control systems is built on clear collaboration between users, specifiers and installers. Facilities managers can use this latest Code of Practice as a reassuring proxy, to check their providers are specifying and installing in alignment with recognised standards and best practice, and hold independent approval underlining their competence.
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