Security Is By: Peter Boriskin Timeless Utilizing existing infrastructure can help a facility make the most of their security systems. I Peter Boriskin is the direc-tor of product management for electronic access control at ASSA ABLOY. A global leader in door opening solu-tions, ASSA ABLOY is dedicated to satisfying end user demands for security, safety and convenience. For more information visit www.ASSAABLOY.com. In the current security landscape, industries that haven’t previously been mandated to maintain a security system are now tasked to meet compli-ance standards requiring the implementation of an electronic access control system. This may sound daunting; however, upgrading a mechanical lock system with access control can be a very easy and budget-friendly process. Access control allows a company or facility to dial up the level of protection commensurate with the level of threat or risk that various parts of a facility must be prepared to address. A trained security professional can essentially tailor systems to incorporate everything a facility needs to meet that required level of accountability currently put forth by government regulations or other industry-specific requirements. These individuals can look at what level of security a company needs throughout their facility and put together solutions that enable customers to go at their own pace and add solutions on to pre-existing security systems or upgrade simple mechanical locks. This is especially true in the case of wireless solutions, which are extremely effective for medi-um security openings. If a facility already has wireless fidelity (WiFi) in place, there are some solutions that are more cost effective because they require no additional infrastructure. If a facility already has a security system in place, technology with wireless capabilities would make the most sense to take full advantage of existing access control infrastructure. In addition to existing infrastructure, the security requirements of each opening are, of course, an essential consideration. Assessing Access Control When looking at access control on a sliding scale, there are numerous solutions to fit the security needs of any type of facility. For example, cylinders can be a lower cost option that records data and only transmits the information when the cylinder is audited in the field or when the key is returned. A security technology continuum best illustrates this full range of options, from key systems to full-featured, online integrated locksets with many options in between. Choosing an access control solution often depends on what infrastructure an organization already has in place. Image courtesy of ASSA ABLOY for more info Visit www.cmmonline.com and type in search keyword: Security . For more information on related products, visit www.cmmonline.com , select SUPPLIER SEARCH from the main navigation bar, and enter keyword: Access Control . With the ever-growing smartphone presence in facilities around the world, access can be con-trolled with such devices without the need for traditional keys. 22 CM/Cleaning & Maintenance Management ® • January 2012
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