Good quality doors and frames are often regarded as the key to property security. However, the door and frame are only part of the wider picture. In reality, the security of the door must include the door furniture too; the hinges, the door handle, closer and, most essentially, the locking mechanism!
A lock system is fundamentally designed to prevent entry or exit to unauthorized persons or to keep specific areas protected. Traditional locks are mechanical and come in a variety of guises which include deadlock, mortice, rim mounted. Occasionally, security with these kind of locks may be compromised as keys can be stolen and copied. Some locks also only offer a basic level of security and may be easily abused.
Fortunately, there are new trends in security hardware based upon electronic systems. Many institutions require a high level of security and are now using more sophisticated locking methods. Read on for a brief overview of some of the available options:
CARD SYSTEMS
Different areas can be easily controlled, times of access set and all information is easily changed if cards are lost or stolen or personnel changes occur. Cards can also be issued temporarily which automatically time out once the pre-defined time has passed.
There are a variety of different types of card systems available:
Magnetic stripe cards – They come with a data-encoded stripe on one face that matches previously entered criteria. These cards can hold a good amount of information, but they are relatively easy to damage.
Proximity cards – These have embedded microcircuits that emit frequencies detectable by a reader, usually within 2 to 4 inches.
Smart cards –They contain their own processor and they can store large amounts of data. These cards are likely to be the direction of the future.
Biometric cards – These are designed around the basis that they match a number of unique biometric characteristic of the individual. This can include fingerprints, handprints, eye pattern, handwriting, voice, face, and vein identification (this is the newest trend).
Magnetic switches - Contain magnetic and switch units which are combined to detect the opening and closing of relevant doors.
There are also other keyless entry systems for doors which are safer than the conventional locks:
CODE LOCKS
These open with a push-button code.
- Most models allow you to program multiple user codes – this makes it easy to create or delete unique codes.
- Saves the worry of losing or having stolen keys or forgotten passcodes.
SMART LOCKS
- These devices replace a code-based locking method and instead use an electronic system which unlocks when it receives a wireless signal from an authorised smartphone.
- Users can be given access via a code sent to their mobile which authorises them for a limited period of time.
- Smart locks can send you a notification when one of your authorised phones has opened the door, allowing you to keep tabs on who is accessing the property at any given time.
As with any other security methods, all of the above locking systems are only as good as the rest of your security. If your doors are utilising the latest technology but you are lax about who you give access to; our efforts will be rendered useless. Remaining vigilant and monitoring who has access to your property at any given time is the only way to ensure that all of your systems are thoroughly effective.
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