Access controls have been used in schools for several years now, but some still don’t quite understand their value or even how they work. In this blog, we’ll go back to the beginning and discuss what access control is and how it can help Harlingen, TX, schools protect students and staff.

SEE ALSO: Securing Learning Environments: Access Control Solutions for Schools

What Is Access Control?

Access control systems restrict who can enter a building or specific area of the school. Traditionally, locks, keys, and gates have been used to control entry; however, these methods are quickly becoming outdated as schools face new and evolving threats. Today’s access control systems leverage technology to provide higher security and greater convenience for staff.

Types of Access Control Systems

There are several types of access control systems that schools can implement. Here are a few of the most common options.

Key Card Systems

Key card systems are an improvement from traditional keys, which are easily lost or copied. Each staff member or authorized visitor receives a key card that gives them access to specific areas of the school. These cards can track who enters and exits the building and provide valuable data to administrators in case of an incident. 

Other advantages of key card systems include:

• Easy to manage and issue new cards
• Cards can be deactivated if lost or stolen
• Access can be limited to specific areas

PIN Pad Entry

PIN pad entry systems require users to enter a unique code to gain access. This method can be used alone or with key cards for additional security. The challenges of a PIN pad entry system are that users must remember their codes and that they should be required to change them regularly to maintain a secure environment.

Advantages of the PIN pad entry system include:

• Codes can be easily changed and deactivated
• Reduced risk of lost or stolen cards
• Allows for detailed access control by assigning different codes to different users

Biometric Systems

Biometric access control systems use physical characteristics like fingerprints, retina scans, or facial recognition to verify the user's identity. This method is a high level of security and is increasingly being adopted in schools as it becomes more common in everyday life—for example, many of today’s smartphones use biometric identification methods.

While the cost of biometric systems can be higher than other access controls, there are some undeniable benefits, including:

• Nearly impossible to forge or duplicate
• Provides a high level of accuracy
• Eliminates the need for cards or codes

Benefits of Access Control in Schools

Implementing an access control system in schools provides several benefits:

• Enhanced security and reduced risk of incidents
• Tracking of those who enter and exit the building
• Easily managed access for staff, students, and visitors
• Personalized access permissions to different areas of the school

Get Started with Circle Industries

If you're interested in greater school security, Circle Industries is here to help. Contact us to learn more about our access control options for schools in and around Harlingen, TX.