Biometric Access Control Guide
Access control solutions are rapidly evolving – and biometric access control is at the forefront. To keep up with modern standards, we have seen a vast transformation in access control systems over the years, and businesses now have more options than ever to protect their premises, information and staff.
Access control is a viable solution for businesses looking to streamline security protocols without compromising safety and efficiency. At Nomico Fire & Security, we have been providing access control, and other security systems, to commercial premises and businesses for decades and have a wide range of solutions available for you to consider.
As biometric access control is one of the newest additions to the market, yet already a popular solution for those seeking advanced safety technology, we have created this beginner’s guide so you can make more informed decisions for your business. We will discuss what biometric access control is, how it works and the benefits it can provide to your premises.
What Is Biometric Access Control?
Biometric access control is a more advanced version of access control or door entry security. It is a way of controlling who can enter the building and where they can enter, allowing for greater protection over important information, the premises as a whole and your staff within it.
This particular form of access control verifies identities, thus allowing people to enter the premises, using their unique biological traits. Where traditional systems rely on keys, passwords, or access cards – which can get lost, stolen or copied – biometric access control systems use unique, personal characteristics which are difficult to replicate.
Biometric access control can be provided through:
- Fingerprints: The reader will scan the ridges and valleys on an individual’s finger, and as each fingerprint is unique this will be difficult to replicate or allow transference.
- Facial Recognition: The access control system will analyse the unique structure and features of a person’s face and use this to give them entry if approved.
- Iris or Retina scanning: Access is provided through the unique patterns in an individual’s eye.
- Voice Recognition: Identifies a person’s unique vocal patterns to provide entry.
- Hand Geometry: The shape and size of an individual’s hand is measured and scanned to verify identity.
By using individual, biological characteristics, biometric access control can provide advanced security to your premises and greater peace of mind. The access control verification is not going to be lost or stolen, nor is it easy to replicate, ensuring no unauthorised access to your premises.
This makes it ideal for high-security areas, such as document filing and storage areas, as well as entire premises where additional protection is required.
How Does Biometric Access Control Work?
There are three main steps to biometric access control operations, which are:
1) Enrollment
The individual provides their biometric data which will give them access to the premises or restricted area. Whether this is fingerprints, hand scans or voice activation, they will initially provide the data to the service provider or controller before it is converted into a digital template.
This digital template is then securely stored in the system’s database, where it can be recorded and recognised.
2) Verification
When the individual attempts to gain access using their biometric data, this is compared to what is stored on the system in real-time to verify their identity and determine whether access is granted.
3) Authentication
If the data matches, access is granted as the individual is verified and approved. If the data does not match, they will not be able to enter the premises or the secure area.
The Benefits Of Biometric Access Control
Due to their use of advanced technology, biometric access control offers some significant benefits compared to other door entry systems. This can be an amazing tool for businesses, commercial premises and organisations seeking additional protection due to the following:
Enhanced Security
The main appeal of biometric access control is the enhanced security it provides. Biometric data, such as fingerprints or irises, are nearly impossible to forge meaning only those you have been permitted access will be granted it.
Convenience
Biometric access control is very convenient, as there is no risk of people losing their cards or forgetting the passwords required for entry. This ensures a streamlined entry process and better time management from staff.
Reduced Risk Of Loss, Theft And Unauthorised Access
Where passwords can be guessed or hacked and key cards can be lost, biometric data is always secure – as it is unique to you and always with you. Using biometric access control eliminates the risk of unauthorised access, as it is difficult – if not impossible – to replicate, steal or transfer.
Scalability
The business world is always moving, and biometric access control can keep up as it is highly adaptable. It can accommodate business growth with ease, as it can be used across multiple premises or facilities or even be scaled down if required.
Compliance With Modern Security Standards
Biometric access control systems meet security standards across the UK, which is particularly useful for industries that require stringent security such as healthcare, finance or government.
Easily Track And Control
These advanced access control systems keep detailed logs of who entered the premises, as well as when and where. These accounts are invaluable for audits, investigations and overall company records.
Where To Use Biometric Access Control
All kinds of organisations require high security these days, which is why biometric access control is so popular. This is a highly versatile solution, offering a range of benefits that cna better protect your business, information and staff alike.
While biometric access control can be used in a wide range of places, it is most commonly seen in the following:
- Corporate Offices: To secure sensitive areas such as server and file storage and executive offices, as well as offer employees quick, safe entry to the premises
- Healthcare Facilities: To protect patient data by limiting access to records and administrative areas, which is required by data protection laws
- Educational Institutions: To safeguard student records, laboratories, and faculty offices to hinder access to any unauthorised personnel
- Manufacturing and Warehouses: To prevent unauthorised access to production floors, storage facilities, or inventory areas which not only protects valuable assets but maintains health and safety regulations
- Government and Defence: To ensure robust security for sensitive information areas or national assets
- Hospitality and Retail: To prevent customer entrance to staff areas, such as stockrooms or operations offices
Conclusion
Biometric access control is one of the leading security solutions on the market today, providing advanced security to commercial sites and business organisations. By relying on biometric data, such as fingerprints or hand scans, these access control systems can provide higher levels of security to the most sensitive areas and ensure that your premises are protected, compliant and safe.
At Nomico Fire & Security, we provide a comprehensive access control service and can help find the ideal solution for your company, We also offer complete servicing and maintenance to ensure your site remains safe at all times.
Stay Secure: Contact Us Today
To learn more about our access control systems or other security measures, please contact the team today.
