SECURITY
Electronic smart locks can be reconfigured in an instant and records stored of when a lock has been activated and by whom. In short, smart security will at some point promise optimum convenience, security and access to valuable, real-time information.
Many facilities managers we speak to are already considering introducing smart security. The security of smart systems remains, however, far from secure. Whether its cases of smart baby monitors being accessed remotely or hackers hi-jacking thousands of smart kettles, examples of smart technology gone wrong continue to hit the press.
“Whether it’s voice, card, tag, smart phone or biometric data that is
used to activate the lock, the data is difficult to safeguard.”
In the case of smart security, it’s the ‘key’ element of a smart lock that is particularly problematic. This is because whether it’s voice, card, tag, smart phone or biometric data that is used to activate the lock, this data is difficult to safeguard. Not least as it can be stored within web-based storage, which presents its own risks. Whilst the UK has for a long time had excellent security standards for mechanical security - including BS 3621, 8621, 10621, BS EN 1303, BS EN 12209 and PAS 24 for complete windows and doors – the first safety standards for smart locks have only just been published. As a result, none of the smart locks currently on the market have yet been tested against the new standards. The standards are also yet to be approved by insurers and police forces, which will require that they offer at least the same level of security and safety as mechanical standards. Untested systems that are used as primary security could result in an insurer refusing to pay out on a policy that required tested security.
The Master Locksmiths Association has to date considered smart security to be a secondary security measure or the equivalent of ‘access control’. Whilst the newly developed security standards come into effect, we would continue to recommend caution and advise against using smart security as a primary security measure.
To put it simply, the role of an access control system is to limit access to certain parts of a building to specific individuals and should always be supported by primary security. They can range from a very simplistic form of digital code lock (mechanically operated push button locksets) operated by a simple code, right the way through to complex internet controlled systems that enable managers to add or delete users from a central location (smart security). While people using a facility without the level of knowledge of facility management will assume any door with a lock on it is secure, access control products have not been tested to security or attack
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standards. They could not previously be relied upon as primary security products and were used solely to restrict access (usually internally within a building).
If you are thinking of using smart security for access control or primary security, it is vital that as with any access control equipment you ensure this is used in a manner that complies with the fire safety regulations. In 2006, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO) came into force, stating that a facility’s ‘responsible person’, rather than a fire officer, now ensures a building complies with the Fire Safety Order. For most facility managers, this meant they were responsible for ensuring the facility complies with the Fire Safety Order and operates good practice in all aspects of safety and security.
As a facilities manager, you must make sure the correct rules are followed and systems specified. An incorrectly specified system could cause a life-threatening entrapment situation. A risk assessment should be carried out to check access control has the correct fail safe (doors unlocked)/ fail secure (doors locked down) operations in the event of power loss. This could include a system that fails secure during power loss from the external of the building but egress can be achieved from internally using a ‘single action’. This could be provided by means of a mechanical override such as full-width crash bars or push pads, depending on the building.
It’s also important to have a good understanding of health and safety requirements including checking escape routes and fire doors, to ensure that in an emergency there are no complications. A professional, like an approved MLA member, could help specify products that meet the requirements of the risk assessment.
“The Regulatory Reform Order 2005 states that a facility’s ‘responsible person’ has to ensure a building complies with the Fire Safety Order.”
However, when it comes to building control we still believe there is an important role for the humble key. After all, there’s a reason why the traditional lock mechanism dates back hundreds of years and why it’s still a tough system to replace. That’s not to say you shouldn’t utilise smart security, but be aware of its strengths and weaknesses. Whilst new safety standards for smart locks are rolled out and become more commonplace, we should remain cautious about how and where we use smart security. Use smart technology in addition to - but not instead of - traditional security and always follow our recommendation to supplement smart technology with fully tested mechanical locks on windows and doors.
www.locksmiths.co.uk TOMORROW’S FM | 33
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