Tag Archive for: access control

Does Your Business Need Access Control?

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In a world where cybersecurity has taken center stage. Businesses still need access control. An access control system manages entry into buildings and specific areas within them. It increases security and allows you to control who is entering and exiting the building.

Like cybersecurity, access control systems can integrate different forms of authentication. These include physical credentials such as a card or key fob, or even a pin or password. Biometric systems can use retinal scanners or fingerprint readers. Access control can provide multiple layers of security that incorporate video cameras and automation systems.

Some indicators that your business needs to improve access control include:

  • Keys need to be duplicated any time an individual is given access to the building. Changing the locks every time is cost-prohibitive, but if a disgruntled employee can get in your building with the same key, there’s no telling what kind of damage they can do when inside.

 

  • You don’t know who is entering or exiting the premises. A modern access control system includes badges with embedded codes or wireless transmitters that enable wearers to access a building. Everyone in the building is therefore authorized to be there, so all employees will be protected.

 

  • At some point, it’s likely an employee has forgotten to lock a door. Even though it wasn’t intended, this can leave your company vulnerable to break-ins, putting valuable business assets at risk. Access control systems lessen the burden on your employees and reduce the risk of negligence.

 

  • Employees get locked out of the building. It doesn’t help productivity if someone can’t get inside and access their work area. Preventing such a scenario means employees won’t be stranded outside if they leave for a brief time. Nor do they have to wait for someone to open the door for them.

 

  • Your company could benefit from better employee tracking. If employee lateness or theft is a problem, an access control system can help managers determine who’s to blame. For example, if something was stolen over the weekend, you can check to see who was there at what time.

 

  • Workers can get into the server or supply rooms at will. You might not want your entire workforce to have access to all areas. Access control can keep certain locations off-limits, so this problem is avoided.

 

  • Building automation is limited, which makes heating/cooling systems and lighting equipment less efficient. Automation systems connected to access control systems can turn on lights or adjust temperatures based on where employees are, which is energy and cost-saving.

 

  • There’s little or no means to control who accesses the company database. A simple key card can allow or deny employees access to parts of the company network, even certain computers. Confidential information and sensitive data can, therefore, remain protected.

What Is the Best Access Control System for Your Business?

The best system is one that accommodates the size and security requirements of your company. Access control systems offer varying degrees of automation. Some are even cloud-based and can be controlled and monitored from anywhere. Integrated reporting allows those with credentials to manage the system to analyze information and act quickly on anything suspicious.

Improve Access Control with Boyd & Associates

We offer complete security solutions, including advanced access control systems that provide authorized building occupants with digital credentials. Our solutions eliminate the need for locks and keys, provide administrators with user management tools, and include detailed reports based on card data. For more information, contact Boyd & Associates at 805-321-6664.

5 Holiday Security Tips for Businesses

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Retail and commercial theft remains a significant problem in the U.S. The 31st Annual Retail Theft Survey from Jack L. Hayes International, Inc. found more than 279,000 instances of theft involving shoplifters and employees at 20 large retail companies, in 2018. The loss prevention/inventory shrinkage control consulting firm also revealed one out of every 40 employees was apprehended for theft.

Theft (including shoplifting), fraud, and other crimes increase during the seasonal spike in holiday shopping. Stealing can lead to significant losses at any store or office. Here are five security tips to help your business improve its loss prevention strategy:

Combat Employee Theft

Employee theft accounts for more inventory shrinkage than shoplifting, administrative error, and vendor fraud. A cashier may pocket change that shoppers don’t wait around for, while a sales associate may refund an unpurchased item and add its value to a gift card. There are many possible scenarios involving staff, but these precautions can help:

  • Balance the cash register after each employee’s shift
  • Rotate employee assignments
  • Compare daily receipts to items sold
  • Schedule frequent physical inventories
  • Conduct random sales audits

Reduce the Threat of Shoplifting

It’s harder to track customers who shoplift than employees who steal. They’re less easily recognized, but you can put at-risk items closer to the checkout counter to monitor them. Also, place desirable items where there’s a good line of sight. Store managers should greet customers and make their presence known, paying careful attention to people with bags, strollers, and carriages. Other precautions include posting shoplifter prosecution policies and using electronic tags detected by sensing devices at the front door.

Take Extra Security Precautions

Additional security precautions include:

  • Installing security CCTV cameras that can provide proof of theft and enable you to report a thief to law enforcement.
  • Hiring a background-checked, trained security officer who can deter and catch shoplifters in the act.
  • Ensuring your store is well lit and that inventory is well-organized.
  • Locking dressing rooms so customers must interact with retail staff.
  • Creating a clear anti-shoplifting policy to post in dressing rooms and other highly visible areas.

Review Surveillance Information 

Having a surveillance system is not enough. You must proactively monitor it; to do this, double check security cameras to ensure they’re working and capturing potential criminal activity. If not, reposition video surveillance cameras. If there are decorations and other obstructions on your commercial property, check for, remove, or reposition them so cameras, alarm systems, or motion detectors aren’t blocked.

Monitoring your live feed is also important. These days, feeds can be conveniently accessed via mobile phone apps and remote video monitoring services provided by security companies. Consider revising your alarm notification list and submitting it to the company as well. Your intrusion alarm service provider will then know who to contact during an emergency.

Encourage Employee Vigilance

Train employees to spot and report suspicious activity. You can improve office security by training workers to react to any strangers in the office building. For example, if a suspicious individual is on the property, code words can be used to relay someone is watching them or it’s believed theft is occurring. Using tenant security activity scheduling unlocks offices only when enough employees are present to supervise an area and offer adequate protection. Access control is reactivated later in the day to lock vulnerable areas.

Work with a Private Security Company

Boyd & Associates, the largest family owned security company in Southern California, provides advanced security and burglar alarm systems as well as commercial patrol, intrusion detection, access control, and video surveillance services. To learn more, request a free quote online or call 888-907-1659.