Ensuring the safety and security of large commercial premises is a complex task that requires comprehensive planning and implementation of various security measures and systems. One of the most critical is access control which is essential in preventing unauthorised access and protecting restricted areas, as well as managing access levels on an individual basis. In this blog, we explore everything to do with managing access control in large commercial premises.
Access control in terms of physical security is a technique used to regulate who can access certain areas within a physical space or building. A type of security system, access control acts to restrict access to only those with authorised access, therefore decreasing the risk of intruders getting inside buildings on employees entering areas or rooms they are not authorised to view.
Access control systems can take many different forms, but most commonly they include personal RFID cards or tags for each employee or occupant, in which their access is tailored to their job title and level of seniority. For example, all employees of a large corporation HQ will require access to their office. However, only senior IT staff may be able to access the server room, reducing the risk of a security breach of personal information. Another example could be a shopping centre, in which again all employees will need access to the building, but only store employees will be able to access their own stock and staff rooms.
Access control systems are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to improve site security, with recent market data indicating that the global access control market is projected to reach over $15 billion by 2029 as businesses transition away from traditional locks. This shift is driven by the need for better data and oversight, as over 70% of organisations with access control reporting less than 5 major incidents each year. Understanding what are the 4 types of access control is the first step for any facility manager looking to modernise their infrastructure.
In commercial premises, access control plays a vital role in maintaining security, ensuring compliance with regulations, and protecting assets from theft, damage, or unauthorised access.
Managing this access control however, such as with hospitals, care homes, offices or schools presents unique challenges, due to their high volume of foot traffic, multiple exit and entry points and various zones that require different levels of security. Effective management of access control therefore involves integrating multiple security technologies and protocols to create a comprehensive system that can adapt to changing needs and threats.
Many large commercial premises will house a large amount of employees, departments, tenants or visitors. Each occupant will have their own access requirements, all of which need to be set up and managed. E.g. a hospital has public areas and patient wards, but also restricted zones like operating theatres and pharmacies. Access control systems must therefore accommodate these varying levels of access while maintaining overall security.
Large commercial premises experience a constant flow of people, whether its employees, delivery drivers or visitors. Managing this traffic efficiently without compromising security can be a challenge. Whilst manual sign-ins and physical keys are not sufficient for such environments, a modern access control system can create automations to streamline entry and exits whilst ensuring only authorised individuals gain access. For those managing access control in large commercial premises, the ability to grant temporary digital credentials to contractors or delivery staff reduces the administrative burden on front-of-house teams.
Access control systems in large commercial sites are most commonly part of a wider security system and can be integrated with other internal systems such as CCTV and alarm systems, to create a coordinated response to any incidents or security breaches that may occur, which in turn enhance the site’s safety and security. This is particularly effective when integrating intruder alarms with fire safety systems, as it allows for a unified dashboard where all alerts are managed centrally.
Effectively managing access control in large commercial premises requires a combination of the right technology, policies, and practices. Here are some strategies for managing access control for these sites:
For effective management, a full assessment of the site’s security needs should be conducted. This involved identifying all exit and entry points, understanding the flow of people, identifying areas which require restricted access and also identifying more vulnerable areas in which unauthorised access could occur. Security threats to consider are theft, vandalism, natural disasters, fire and intrusion. For specialised environments, such as those in healthcare or education, these audits must account for specific safeguarding requirements.
Using a combination of physical barriers (such as fences and locked doors), electronic systems (like card readers and biometric scanners), and procedural measures (such as security personnel and visitor management systems) all create a separate layer of security to protect a premise. Each layer provides an additional level of protection, making it more difficult for unauthorised individuals to gain access.
As technology advances, so does the level of protection a premises holds allowing for enhanced security and streamlined management. Key technologies include:
The 2024 UK Government report on cyber security breaches highlights how interconnected systems are increasingly targets for digital intrusion. This makes access control trends particularly relevant, as the industry moves toward encrypted mobile credentials and cloud-based management to mitigate these risks.
Integrating access control systems with surveillance cameras and monitoring tools enhances security by providing real-time visibility into who is entering and exiting the premises. Security personnel can quickly respond to unauthorised access attempts or other suspicious activities, and it also provides a record of access events that can be reviewed in case of an incident. In the retail sector, this integration is vital for reducing stock shrinkage and ensuring staff safety in stockrooms.
As the needs of a premises change, so should the access control measures. Regular audits of the system can identify any gaps in security, such as outdated access privileges or malfunctioning equipment. Updating the system ensures that only authorised personnel have access to restricted areas and that the technology is functioning correctly. This proactive approach mirrors predictive maintenance in fire safety systems, where potential failures are identified before they compromise the safety of the building.
Effective access control requires the cooperation of all building occupants. Training staff on the importance of access control and how to use the systems correctly is essential. Clear communication of access control policies, such as not sharing access credentials or propping open secure doors, helps maintain security integrity. Creating a security-first culture in your workplace ensures that employees understand their role in the wider safety ecosystem.
Access control systems should be designed to respond to emergencies, such as fires, power outages, or security breaches. This may involve setting up automated lockdowns, integrating with fire alarm systems to unlock exit doors automatically, or providing emergency access overrides for first responders. Ensuring that the access control system can adapt to emergency situations is critical for the safety of all occupants, particularly when developing a business continuity plan that accounts for both fire and security risks.
Managing access control in large commercial premises is a complex task. As threats evolve, so must the strategies for managing access control. Modern facilities, from logistics hubs to property management portfolios, require a partner that understands the nuances of multi-site security. At BusinessWatch, we are specialists in access control systems, providing protection for some of the UK’s leading organisations across multiple industries.
Beyond just installation, we provide a holistic view of your security posture. By ensuring your systems meet the latest standards, you may also find benefits in terms of risk reduction that positively impact your commercial insurance premiums. Whether you are managing a single site or a national estate, our team provides the technical expertise and ongoing support required to keep your premises secure 24/7.
From installation and maintenance of your access control system to support managing access control in large commercial premises, we’re here to help. Get in touch for a free quote by calling 0330 094 7404.
