Commercial Locksmith

Alternate Entry Solutions for Businesses

Feb 11, 2019 | Commercial Locksmith, Access Control

Alternate Entry Solutions for Businesses

Here are Alternate Entry Solutions for Businesses

Alternate Entry Solutions

In the real estate industry, the adage is location, location, location.

But no matter where a business is located, there’s another thing that matters in creating a successful atmosphere: curb appeal. If the entrance isn’t friendly, if it doesn’t invite people in, the business probably won’t be in business for very long. And if it isn’t user-friendly, and provide your employees and customers with the right technology, you could be losing sales.

A front door has a lot of job requirements. It must be tough enough to withstand rain, wind, cold, and the hottest summer sun. It must stand strong against an intruder looking for an easy way through. And it must create a good first impression, inviting people in.

That’s a pretty tall order for a front door. If you’ve never thought much about your entry system, maybe it’s time you did.

Wood or wood veneer can warp, crack, or break. Metal won’t last forever either as it can discolor over time and peel away. Glass has its own unique problems; it can break and allow people to see in.

Of course, those aren’t the only considerations. How a door opens is just as important as how it looks.

With all of those considerations to take in, what’s a business owner to do?

Accessibility

Doors open. Doors close. But there’s a lot more to it than that when it comes to designing entrances for different kinds of businesses. Depending on what products or services you offer, alternate entry solutions can strengthen the process.

Standard doors come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking for elegance and select an exotic wood, or want something simple and choose a standard glass door, ease of use is mandatory.

Do you have locks in place that are easy for employees to enter?

Do you have controls in place that make it easy to change the locks as employees are hired or quit?

Do your doors function properly, to open and close easily without a catch?

Do you offer alternative entry solutions for people with disabilities, doors that are ADA compliant?

It’s important to ensure a safe entry for all of your employees and customers with disabilities as they enter and exit your location. You can select low-energy doors that are opened using push plate technology or go with full-energy sophistication, which opens for people as they approach the doorway.

Also pay attention to door openings and width. Most entrances to commercial locations use 36 inch wide doors to ensure accessibility for everyone. If you have older, narrower doors in place, it may be necessary to make adjustments using special hinges.

Pay attention to door hardware as well. Turning knobs, for example, might not be the best choice with disabilities that limit grasping, such as arthritis. This is where multiple opener options come in handy. While it’s important to understand your customer base, it’s equally important to think beyond as well.

Durability

How many times will your doors open and close throughout the day? The more customers and employees you have, the more abuse your doors will take.

It’s not just people that may enter your location. Sometimes you need alternative entry solutions for other resources entering and exiting.

Does your business utilize shopping carts? Do young parents routinely enter your location pushing strollers? Or maybe you cater to a population that frequently uses walkers and wheelchairs?

All of that action can result in bumps and scratches as they try to enter.

Of course, different sized businesses often have more than one entry. Or maybe you use different entry points for different things. Do you routinely get deliveries through stockroom entryways? Or maybe you have employees use one entrance, while customers use another.

The larger your commercial space, the more you can cater to individual needs. Don’t just provide the same entry techniques for everyone. With slight changes, you can make entry a much more appealing process.

In some cases, you may even call attention to different parts of your building. Why not cater to young families by having stroller-friendly entrances? Or offer special entrances for seniors needing a little extra support.

All of that opening, banging, knocking, slamming, crashing, and closing can have an impact. If your doors grow weaker over time, not only can they create an unsightly mess, but they can also increase your risk.

Security

In today’s world, you can’t operate a business without putting security at the top of the list. And the weakest points of every business are the places people can get in.

That means you should install security devices that meet your needs. To do that, ask yourself two questions:

• How high is the risk?
• What are you trying to secure?

A jewelry store requires different methods of security than a daycare. A grocery store has different needs than an art gallery. The best way to install the right security is to understand who needs access.

Maybe you want video surveillance to record movement 24 hours a day. Or maybe high security and restricted key access is a must to ensure only those who need to get in are the ones who can.

From traditional keyed entries to keyless entry pads to sophisticated smart technology, there are entry systems to meet every need. It starts by understanding your options. And keep in mind, it’s not always just the front door that needs control. Sometimes your entry points are inside your building.

Do you have medical equipment in need of protection? Or maybe you have a data room you need to secure? Sometimes an alternative entry solution involves sophisticated tracking, something a knowledgeable locksmith can help you install.

A thorough inspection from one of our technicians can help you hone in on your weakest points and discover the easiest ways to ensure security.

Service

Alternative entry solutions are only as good as how they work. If you rely on too simple of a lock system or don’t maintain your entry points on a regular basis, you’re leaving your doors wide open for potential problems or criminal behavior.

Having a locksmith on your team ensures your doors remain open to your customers every day of the year. From simple lock and key solutions to sophisticated security measures, we have the right technology for your commercial location.

Are you ready to upgrade your entry system?

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Harry’s is Your Go-To Company for Building Lock Replacement Services

Jan 18, 2019 | Locksmith Services, Building Security, Commercial Locksmith

Harry’s is Your Go-To Company for Building Lock Replacement Services

Harrys is Your Go To Company for Building Lock Replacement Service

For many building owners, security is a top priority. You wouldn’t trust just anyone with entry into your building. So why trust just any company with your lock replacement service? If you have a tenant move out, an employee leave the company, or another change in building occupancy, you may decide that it’s time to change or upgrade your locks.

But not any locksmith will do. You’ll want to find a company that’s reliable, trustworthy, and has a history of providing quality service and products. We’re confident Harry’s Locksmith fits the bill.

Here are our top reasons that Harry’s is your go-to company for building lock replacement service.

We Always Answer the Call

Harry’s is your go-to company for lock replacement services because we’re always there to answer the call. We understand that emergencies happen. That’s why we provide 24-hour emergency service. If you experience a threat to your safety and security and want to remedy the situation immediately, we’ll be there to provide emergency lock replacement services. Harry’s is here to work for you around the clock when you need it the most and we’re always quick to respond.

We’re Trustworthy

According to the Better Business Bureau, there are a few things to keep in mind when hiring a locksmith. For instance, you should be wary of a company that provides a low estimate but then adds expensive fees for labor, mileage, or other parts of the job.

Instead, look for a reputable company that has a history of providing reliable quotes. It’s also a good idea to ask for recommendations from those you know who have recently worked with a locksmith and to ask for the credentials of any company you hire.

Harry’s was established in 1949 and there’s a reason we’ve been in business for so long. It’s because of our strong reputation in the industry and the quality service that we provide. We will give you accurate estimates so you know exactly what our lock replacement services will cost. Harry’s also has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and is an active member of the Greater Vancouver Business Bureau, so you can be confident that you are hiring a trusted locksmith to perform the job. For more BBB tips on hiring the right locksmith, look here.

Since locksmiths will have access to your home, building, or car, it’s important to hire the right one. You can never be too careful and should do diligent research before deciding which locksmith to hire.

Our Staff is Knowledgeable

Commercial buildings have to be code compliant and that includes doors and locks. There are certain types of locks and hardware that you will need in order for your building to pass commercial inspection. For instance, you will need to have fire exit hardware and panic exit locks so that your occupants can exit the building quickly and safely in case of an emergency.

In addition to providing emergency egress, doors and hardware should be ADA-compliant. We can upgrade hardware to meet ADA standards, as well as install automatic door openers to ensure code compliance. If you are considering lock replacement services, it’s important to hire a local locksmith who is familiar with the International Building Code, as well as local laws and regulations.

It’s important the locksmith you hire provides you not only with what you need but also with what you want. There are many locks on the market and if you are looking for an upgrade, you’ll want to find someone who can provide expert advice and recommendations. That’s why it’s important to hire locksmiths who are familiar with the latest products on the market.

For instance, do you want a lock that provides a delayed egress option? This would be good for buildings in which occupants must be closely monitored. For instance, the maternity ward of a hospital could benefit from delayed egress hardware so that security can keep a close watch on those entering and exiting that part of the building.

Or perhaps you have a mag lock and need help deciding between a fail-secure locking device, which will remain locked when the power is lost or, a fail-safe locking device, which unlocks when power is lost. The former might work best for a storage room, for instance, that has valuables you want to keep secure even when power is lost.

If you’re uncertain which option you prefer or feel overwhelmed by the available choices, our expert locksmiths will work with you to determine what options are best for you and your business.

We’re a One-Stop Shop

Harry’s is your go-to company for lock replacement services because we’re a full-service locksmith. If you own a business, a home, and a vehicle, there’s a good chance that you’re going to need a locksmith on more than one occasion. Why not use a locksmith that’s well versed in all areas? Why roll the dice and take your chances each time you need to hire a locksmith? Instead, look for one that is skilled in multiple lock replacement services.

Harry’s Locksmith offers commercial, residential, and automobile services. We’re a one-stop shop for your service needs. As the Better Business Bureau suggests, if you have found a locksmith that you enjoy working with, save their contact info for the next time you need service. This will be easier if you have a locksmith that is skilled in all areas-residential, commercial, and automobile.

Are you in need of immediate lock replacement services? We get can get the job done quickly, thoroughly, and for an affordable price.

To get started, fill out this easy online form. We’ll contact you to learn more about your needs and determine how we can provide you with the best possible lock replacement service. We understand the importance of your safety and security. Harry’s is not only your go-to company. We’re key to getting your lock replacement services done right.

 

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Did You Know it’s Required for Commercial Buildings to Have ADA Compliant Locks

Jan 11, 2019 | Commercial Locksmith

Did You Know it’s Required for Commercial Buildings to Have ADA Compliant Locks

Did You Know it’s Required for Commercial Buildings to Have ADA Compliant Locks

If you are able-bodied, you probably take for granted that you can drive your car over to a business, park anywhere, walk over to the entrance, easily pop over a few steps, and open the door to enter the building.

However, many individuals right in your own neighborhood aren’t as fortunate. And as a business owner, you must be sensitive and aware of those needs – in fact, the law requires you to take action to ensure that anyone can access your facility.

Unfortunately, disabilities are too often treated as out-of-sight, out-of-mind. Unless you specifically see someone with a cane, wheelchair, or service dog, you may not be aware that someone is less capable than yourself.

But, people with disabilities are easily the fastest-growing minority in the U.S., controlling $1 trillion in total annual income. They are as deserving as anyone else to enter a business and for that reason, the American with Disabilities Act was passed – to protect the rights of these citizens.

But, depending on when the building permits were submitted, and the physical construction took place, the rules vary slightly in what is actually required by law. For this reason, it is ideal to consult with an ADA compliance specialist to ensure that your space is up to code.

Door Location Accessibility

Whether or not you anticipate someone with a disability entering your facility, you must be prepared for both employees and customers who may need the additional assistance. At least one door needs to be at the following location:

  • Each entrance with at least 60% of entrances providing access for those who may be approaching using a wheelchair or have limited impairments
  • Each tenant space in a mall or building with multiple businesses
  • Each accessible room or space within the building
  • At least one restricted or secured entrance
  • Along each escape route

While automatic doors can certainly aid someone with a disability, they are not required by the ADA.

Door Accessibility Issues

Getting to the door of your business is just one hurdle. The next is entering. This means the doors need to be wide enough to accommodate someone in a wheelchair, need to open easily for someone with arthritis in the hand or wrist, for example, and the door needs to be able to safely close behind someone.

For these reasons, the ADA requires that there is a minimum 32-inch door clearance, door hardware weighs no more than five pounds of force to operate while also operating without tight grasping, pinching or twisting (lever handles comply, but round doorknobs do not), the threshold can’t be higher than 1/2 -inch, and more.

While this seems straightforward, if you are not in contact with a professional locksmith familiar with ADA compliant locks, it’s easy to misstep, causing issues for your business and those trying to visit. And with the laws continually updating to ensure equal access for all persons, it’s imperative to work closely with experts you can trust who will ensure your space is continuously ADA compliant.

Commonly Asked Questions

If automatic doors are not required, why are they so common?

While the ADA does not require automatic doors by law, they are often used as they provide the best solution. Since the force to open the door cannot exceed five pounds, the options are limited when selecting a door since an entrance should also be protective against inclement weather like wind and forceful enough to impede unwanted occupants.

Are the laws set for “public entrances” only set for entrances used by the public?

No, this is a more generic phrase, but also applies to entrances that are used as employee-only entrances and more. It really encapsulates most entrances except for service and restricted entrances. If you have questions about your specific space, reach out to better understand if you are properly adhering to ADA codes.

Is compliance required on both sides of a door if it’s used only from one side?

If this entrance/exit is truly used from only one side, then only the side used must comply with ADA rules. However, if it is used even occasionally in both directions, then both sides must comply.

Do the rules apply to keys or keycards?

If your entrance requires keys or keycards, then those are not required by law to prevent pinching or twisting to enter. Any non-fixed portion does not apply but should be modified as needed to properly accommodate accessibility.

If new regulations are put into place, am I required to upgrade?

While you may be grandfathered in and not required to make any additional modifications right away, it is important to clarify with the experts. Additionally, the more accommodating your facility, the more customers and qualified employees you will attract. You’re only limiting yourself by not providing updated accessibility to your business.

Are residential ADA compliant locks the same as commercial ADA compliant locks?

No, commercial level handles are designed for added strength and durability to ensure longevity. While grade 2 are perfect for medical offices, hotels, religious buildings, and apartment buildings, grade 1 is best for hospitals, schools, and factories due to their higher use. Each is ADA compliant.

Looking for something different? Select a locksmith that specializes in everything for ADA compliance to access control to electrified locks and panic hardware, and you can ensure your building is secure and up to code.

The ADA was designed to provide equal access to everyone, regardless of mobility or lack thereof. As a business owner, your focus is your company, but as such, it should also be your customers and employees. Ensure that you are giving everyone an equal opportunity and have your space assessed by professionals to confirm it’s ADA compliant.

Reach out today to schedule an appointment or to discuss any specific questions you may have about your space.

How to Choose Between Commercial Locksmith Companies

Dec 22, 2018 | Commercial Locksmith

How to Choose Between Commercial Locksmith Companies

How to Choose Between Commercial Locksmith Companies

As a business owner, you have a lot to think about. You wear many different hats as you move through your busy days.

Security is important to you, your employees, and your customers. And while many business owners install sophisticated alarm systems and create authenticating processes to access their most sensitive data, they often forget that the easiest way in is through the front door.

If someone has access to a key, all they have to do is turn the lock, and they can walk right in.

So, who has keys to your space? How long has it been since you’ve changed the locks and leveled up your security? It may be time to call in a commercial locksmith.

Why should you hire a pro instead of doing it yourself? And how do you know who to trust? Who will ensure you have the best technology while helping you maintain your budget in the process?

Consider these tips.

Choose a locksmith instead of doing it yourself

It seems simple enough. You’ve had a breach, so you want a new lock on the front door. Why not find one online and have it mailed to your location? Your maintenance team can install it.

The simplest reason is security: do you trust do-it-yourself strategies to protect your core business? Can you trust the lock you purchased to prevent criminals from entering your property? Do you know everything there is to know about security?

Like other industries, a commercial locksmith does more than add a new lock to the front door. They train to become security experts, can help evaluate your location, and make recommendations to keep your property safe. A reputable locksmith that’s been in business for years should know a variety of tips and tricks for keeping thieves and trespassers at bay.

Choose a locksmith that is well known in the community

Commercial locksmiths offer a wide variety of products and services. If you haven’t talked with a locksmith before, you might be surprised at the number of services offered.

But don’t let national chains fool you; having a locksmith in your local community is important. If you have a commercial locksmith close by, they will respond quickly to your emergencies. And if you choose local, they will also have the appropriate insurance and licenses for your area. Harry’s Locksmith was picked at one of the top 3 best locksmiths in the Vancouver, WA area. 

Choose a locksmith that is licensed and insured

Did you know there are currently 15 states that require locksmiths to be licensed? Did you know Oregon is one of them?

If 15 states require licensing to operate a locksmith business, there must be a reason. Think about what you entrust a locksmith with: the security of your business, your data, your employees, and sometimes your life.

Before you trust just anyone for the job, do a little research first. You can check with the Better Business Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission, and even do a Google search to find more about the locksmith you’re considering.

Choose a locksmith with a personal touch

The ultimate purpose of a business is to grow and increase profits. For some locksmiths, the better they do, the more products and services they add. They often move away from their core beliefs, looking for ways to grow their bottom lines instead of becoming the best in the business.

Sure, it’s nice to find one-stop contractors that can handle all of your needs – install new locks, fix a window, and add new lights – all at the same time. But are they keeping up with technology? Do they have the best advice for your situation?

When you stick with a commercial locksmith who stays within the industry, we stay focused for a reason. When you get to know us, you’ll get to know the people within our business. We maintain our certifications and stay on top of the latest trends.

Think of us as part of your security team; we’re here to give you peace of mind.

Choose a locksmith that provides a variety of services

What does a commercial locksmith do? We’re glad you asked. There are a variety of things you can do on your property to ensure it’s more secure. When was the last time your security was evaluated? Are your systems old and out of date? We can evaluate the current lock systems you have in place and show you the best way to upgrade to increase security.

Do you have different areas that need separate levels of security? Why not install a high-security system and issue restricted keys to only those who need them?

Who has keys to your property? Do you know how many have gone missing, or are with employees or vendors who are no longer associated with your company? We can help by either rekeying your existing system or replacing the system to ensure that only the right people have proper access permissions.

Here’s another thing people often miss: are you ADA compliant? Whether you currently have employees with disabilities or not, it’s still important to ensure your business meets all federal regulations. That includes having disabled door operators as well.

Looking for ways to keep data or medical equipment safe? There are specific locks for those.

How about electrified locks or panic systems? We can help ensure all of those are working and in optimal condition. If you want to explore more for creating a safe environment within your commercial space, give us a call.

Choose a locksmith that’s available when you need it most

When do emergencies happen? If you said “at the most inopportune time” you’re correct. Emergencies rarely happen 9 to 5, Monday through Friday. Nothing can be more frustrating than having an emergency and calling in to hear a recording tell you, “We’ll get back to you during normal business hours.”

Commercial locksmiths are like every other business – they have normal operating hours to service your business related questions.

When dealing with routine issues, normal business hours do just fine, but you should also ensure your locksmith is available 24/7 in emergency situations. Because waiting days – even hours – can sometimes be too late.

Choose a locksmith that adheres to high standards

A commercial locksmith should also care about maintaining a reputable business and be able to show you how involved they are in building that reputation. We’re a part of the ALOA Security Professionals Association. This organization is dedicated to ensuring locksmith and security industry professionals adhere to a certain level of excellence and ethics.

To us, this is important. We not only wish to create the highest standards within our business, but we also want to show you our commitment to safety.

How safe is your business? What can a commercial locksmith do for you? Let’s find out together.

Contact to Schedule a Survey

Companies Shouldn’t Rely on Basic Lock and Key Services

Nov 22, 2018 | Commercial Locksmith

Companies Shouldn’t Rely on Basic Lock and Key Services

Companies Shouldnt Rely on Basic Lock and Key Services

Our intrinsic need to feel secure and protected led to the origin of lock and key. However, with time and the evolution of technology, there has been a dramatic shift seen in lock and key services.

People can no longer rely on the basic, traditional locks to keep homes and companies secure. It’s the new-age, smart locks that are now more in demand due to the convenience factor and better safety standards they bring to the table.

More than homes, companies need to incorporate these advanced lock and key services into their properties because from employees to vendor deliveries – a commercial property sees a larger flow of people who go in and out in the course of the day. Moreover, there are many companies that have high-security areas too which need added protection.

So, ditch the basic lock and key services and consider these six new-age ones to better meet your company’s security needs.

Electric Strike Locks

An electric strike lock is similar to a traditional lock, but the only difference is in the strike plate which is electric. It is activated by pressing the panic bar or using an electronic key card. These locks are versatile and can be easily mounted on any kind of door frame.

Electric strike locks function in the absence of power as well with the help of the panic bar attached on the door. The two types of electric strike locks are fail-safe and fail-secure locks. The fail-safe lock needs electricity in order to go into the locked mode while the fail-secure lock requires electricity to get unlocked.

Such locks are preferred in commercial buildings due to their versatility, ease of installation, and relatively lower costs.

Magnetic Locks

Magnetic locks or maglocks are reliable locks that are mostly installed on aluminum doors. These locks are based on the theory of electromagnetism. Their functioning relies on the supply of electricity.

Maglocks have two major components – the armature plate and magnet. When electricity passes through the electromagnet, it creates a magnetic flux which attracts the armature plate, causing the door to lock. Similar to electric strike locks, even maglocks are of two types, fail-secure and fail-safe, and can be deployed based on the function of the door.

Maglocks are long-term investments and save costs incurred on the production of keys. It also lets you record swipe in/swipe out data, in case you need it for security reasons.

As they come in attractive brackets, maglocks are considered to be aesthetically appealing and promise enhanced levels of security due to the powerful holding force they come with.

Mortise Locks

Mortise locks are not new in the market – they have been in use for years. The durable mortise locks are generally used on doors that are subjected to a lot of traffic.

They consist of several components such as the lock body, spindle, lock cylinder, strike plate, and handle. Some mortise locks also include day/night switches, rose plates, and hard collars. Mortise locks require a mortise/pocket to be drilled into the edge of the door to aid installation and they come in various sizes to suit your needs.

Even though they are similar to the basic cylindrical locks, they are considered to be sturdier and often more secure because they have a deadbolt integrated into the body. They come equipped with a variety of trim designs and stainless steel components that make it a pleasant addition to any door.

Electronic Keypad Locks

These door locks have grown to become a favorite of commercial properties. All you need to get access through this door is a passcode. The best thing about these locks is that they can accept multiple passcodes, allowing companies to customize access by allotting unique passcodes to different employees.

The electronic keypads don’t require you to lug keys around and the accessibility can be changed with a click of a button. So, if an employee has been fired, you can immediately change their passcode and keep a check on unauthorized entries.

Biometric Deadbolt Door Locks

Biometric deadbolt door locks are similar to keypad locks. The only difference is that the former is based on fingerprint identification. Hence, instead of allotting unique passcodes, all your company has to do is register each employee’s fingerprint – which itself serves as a unique identification. Once you place your finger, the system reads your fingerprint within seconds and unlocks the door.

When opting for biometric door locks, make sure you choose one which has a keypad too, so you are not locked out in case the system refuses to read your fingerprint.

This reliable and affordable locking system is being increasingly used across corporate offices, schools, banks, hospitals, and other commercial buildings.

Restricted Key Systems

If you wish to restrict access to certain areas on your commercial property or take extra safety measures, you should consider using restricted key systems.

There is no chance of your key getting stolen or copied here because restricted key systems are designed in a manner that only allows access from a unique key. Each key has a unique identification number and cannot be duplicated by any other locksmith. Not just that, the owner also gets to keep a record of all the unique keys issued and their respective authorized personnel.

So, if security is of paramount importance on your commercial property, restricted key systems can prove to be a very effective solution.

Whether it is protecting assets, employees, or your property, it is imperative to enhance your company’s security standards by deploying the best lock and key services available on the market that suit your budget and requirements.

Locks are best installed by expert locksmiths. So, if you want any of these locks for your company, contact us today. At Harry’s Locksmith, we have been in the business for over 60 years and take your safety very seriously. We will be happy to assess your needs and suggest suitable locks for your commercial property.

Any Good Locksmith Will Share The Importance of Access Control

Nov 10, 2018 | Commercial Locksmith, Access Control

Any Good Locksmith Will Share The Importance of Access Control

Any Good Locksmith Will Share The Importance of Access Control

There are so many reasons why more business owners are turning toward access control for their building needs. It seems like the word keeps spreading that access control is the best way to protect your commercial building from theft, security threats, vandalism, and crime, while also granting security access to large numbers of people — and it’s true!

In fact, a study conducted by Markets and Markets reported that by 2023 the access market will reach $10 billion in the U.S. It’s more than just a trend.

Access control is becoming the norm when it comes to security and if you’re thinking about upgrading your current security system or are starting a new business it might be time to ditch your clunky key set and upgrade to this instead.

When planning your next commercial property, any good locksmith will advise you on the differences between a mechanical lock and access control, but as more businesses are using access, let’s focus on the ways that access control will vastly improve the safety of your business.

First things first, what is access control?

TechTarget best explained access control as “a security technique that regulates who or what can view or use resources in a computing environment. It is a fundamental concept in security that minimizes risk to the business or organization.”

Often access control will use tools such as credential passes, access card readers, control panels, or auditing reports that will track who comes into your facility, even noting what time they enter and exit the building. This is valuable information.

Access control gives employers more control over who is allowed in their space and doors can easily be locked or opened from your access control mainframe. Many businesses who have a large number of employees use access control as a way to grant access to their buildings, and you can even control varying levels of security clearances.

But there are even more reasons why a good locksmith will recommend this dynamic and robust system. Take a look at five key reasons why a good locksmith will show you how access control can be a major asset.

1. Use access control to protect your employees

Unfortunately, we live in a time where security threats are real. Many employers feel a sense of duty toward their employees and want to protect them in times of real danger. An access control panel can automatically lock any or all entrances to a building, preventing intruders from making their way inside.

Don’t allow your staff to be vulnerable in the face of a threat. Keep them safe and use access control, which can be immediately deployed to protect the people who make your business run.

2. Use access control to track the flow of traffic in your building

Every access control system is able to audit the flow of traffic in your commercial building, which is a useful tool if you run a retail business or want to track visitors. Anyone who runs a retail store knows that the number of “converted” customers, or the percentage of people who walk into your store versus the number of people who actually purchase merchandise, is an insightful figure that can help make informed decisions about advertising, buying, and perhaps even sales abilities.

But even if you aren’t selling merchandise, auditing who comes into your building can be valuable information when trying to understand how often your commercial space is used and at what times there is the heaviest and lightest traffic flow.

Remember, when running a large shared space, knowledge can be king. A good locksmith will encourage you to use access control instead of traditional mechanical security, which will not provide you with the same kind of data.

3. Use access control to provide access to a large number of people

Let’s face it, handing out large numbers of keys and then trying to get people to return them in an orderly way is a burdensome task. Keys are bulky, can easily be copied, or even passed around, which is a security risk that no one should take.

Access control credentials, often in the form of key passes or key fobs, are relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and when you wish to discontinue access to a particular key fob you can easily shut the power off from your main access control panel. Similarly, access can easily be granted in a matter of minutes, which is excellent news for growing companies or companies where employees number into the hundreds.

4. Use access control to manage your energy bills and environmental impact

One of the best things your access control can do is monitor how often different parts of your building are being used and electronically work with your building management system to turn off lights or other energy-wasting utilities like heating or air conditioning. Reduce your waste and lower your bills by using your access control effectively.

5. Use access control to allow custom access for your employees

A unique feature of access control is that you can customize security access for a large number of people with the touch of a button. If you have employees who are at different levels of expertise, an access control system can grant varying levels of security clearance.

You can also minimize the risk of exposure to your employees by granting access based on your employees’ schedules. This is a beneficial feature to staff who might be in your building after normal working hours, like cleaning and janitorial staff. Your access control mainframe can take into account whatever specific needs your business has and a good locksmith will understand this innately.

If you’re still not sure if access control is for you, give us a call. We have experienced staff who will work with you to answer your questions and we specialize in many different types of commercial services including access control. We guarantee that our customers will leave happy.

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