Can Your CCTV and Access Control Systems be Integrated?
When setting up security for your business, you might consider adding CCTV and access control systems. These two security measures work great to deter crime on their own, and provide even greater security when integrated. This pairing has many advantages, but it is also a complex setup that may not be right for you. There are several factors to consider when making this decision for your commercial property.
CCTV stands for closed-circuit television. Cameras that are part of a CCTV system are usually used for surveillance and security purposes. The footage is used to document and help prevent crime. Access control refers to the selective restriction of access to a place or other resource. The purpose is to grant entrance only to those who are authorized to be there.
Benefits of CCTV and Access Control Integration
Integrating your CCTV and access control systems can add an extra layer of protection to your building or facility. However, if your access control system uses proximity cards, there is an inherit risk since someone could use a lost or stolen card to enter your business.
Pairing your access control system with security cameras will allow you to monitor who is using each proximity card and mitigate improper use. If an unknown person tries to enter the building with a lost or stolen card, the cameras will either document the unauthorized access, or alert those monitoring the system.
CCTV and access control integration can be especially helpful in emergency response situations. Having video surveillance of an unauthorized access alert will help you figure out exactly what happened so you can determine whether it is a real threat to your facility or not. In the event that a crime has been committed, this is helpful when coordinating with local authorities as well.
Aside from discouraging and monitoring unauthorized access, CCTV and access control integration can also be useful for general documentation purposes. It will allow you to monitor who is coming and going from your facility, and when. This pairing could serve as an accountability tool for your business.
Is CCTV and Access Control Integration Right for You?
CCTV and access control integration may not be necessary for every type of business. Pairing these systems can be expensive, so you want to make sure this setup is right for you. Here are some questions you may want to ask yourself when making this decision:
- Do I recognize all my employees?
- Does my facility operate 24/7 or late at night?
- Does my business operate out of multiple buildings/sites?
- Does my facility contain high-security or restricted areas?
If you answered yes to most or all of these questions, it might be time to consider CCTV and access control integration. FSS Technologies can help you better understand and assess your needs. Our team of experts can give you personalized feedback for your commercial property.
Explore Our Other Blogs
5 Common Causes of Commercial Fires
Many business owners and employees think their chances of dealing with a fire in the workplace are improbable, but the numbers tell a different story. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), an estimated 116,500 commercial fires were reported nationally in 2021. These fires contributed to 115 deaths, 1,025 injuries, and over $3.6 billion in…
5 Reasons Why You Need a Home Security System
A home security system protects your home and the ones you love. While there are many reasons you may need to invest in a home security system, we have highlighted some key ones: 1. Peace of Mind Have you heard a noise in the night and ever wondered what made the noise? A home security…
Can You Get a Discount on Home Insurance if You Have a Security System?
Home invasions or burglaries are a threat to any household, regardless of where they are located. One of the biggest deterrents for burglars is a home security system that could record evidence of their actions or could notify the authorities at the time of a break-in. This is a huge motivator for homeowners when deciding…
How Security Cameras Work at Night
Security Camera Night Vision Light is crucial for a camera to work. Without light, the camera can’t see anything, so how do security cameras work at night? Infrared radiation (IR), or infrared light, is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is invisible to human eyes. It is essentially energy, a heat, that all objects emanate….
What are the Different Types of Smoke Detectors?
Smoke detectors are vital to fire safety for homes and businesses. Because they protect lives from fires or gas leaks, it’s essential to choose the best detector for your environment. There are various options to choose from, meaning you need to understand the benefits each one offers before making a selection. Learn more about the…
What is the Difference Between Dome Cameras and Bullet Cameras?
Security cameras are an integral part of a security system in any home or business. They give you access to a video stream of what is happening inside a building or on your property while also giving the owner the ability to look back on footage if necessary. There are many different types of CCTV cameras out…
Where Should Security Cameras Be Installed in a Business?
Security camera placement in a business needs to be strategically decided based on several important factors. Areas that store valuables, have high foot traffic, and enable access to your building should be some of the essential locations. Learn more about what kinds of security cameras you can use and where they should be installed in…
Holiday Security Tips
It’s a beautiful time of the year, but the holidays come with some inherent risks that you should prepare for amidst all the gift buying, cooking, and decorating. Here are some of our top holiday safety tips to keep your home and loved ones safe over the season. Theft and Burglary Prevention Do not put…
When Is Automatic Fire Detection Required?
A fire detection system is a good idea for your property, and many insurance companies offer discounts based on your level of protection. While not required in your private residence, the law does require automatic fire detection in a wide array of other facilities. Local Building Code Requirements Your state’s building code will spell out…
Best Security System Setups for Senior Citizens
According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 90% of senior citizens want to stay in their homes as they age even if they need day-to-day assistance or have ongoing health issues like early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. Unfortunately, criminals often target senior citizens as victims. Thieves assume older people will not be able…