Singapore is well-known as having one of the lowest crime rates in the world. However, as the popular saying goes, “Low crime does not mean no crime”. Businesses must always be alert against security threats. Investing in a door access system is an effective way to enhance security. These systems limit who can enter your premises or certain areas of it.

We have created this guide to help you choose the right door access system so you can enjoy security in your business.

Importance of Door Access Systems For Your Singapore Business’ Security

With crime rates in Singapore slowly on the rise, there is also a growing need for more robust access control solutions to protect businesses more effectively.

Door access control systems can be one of the remedies to your security problems. When installed, they can assist in preventing incidents such as trespassing, vandalism, theft, data breaches, and other property crimes. This is because only trusted individuals can enter.

Access control also protects your business from accidents. For instance, suppose that you have a warehouse containing hazardous materials. You can restrict access and minimise accidents by only allowing personnel who know the safety protocol.

Types of Door Access Systems

There are several door access systems that Singapore businesses can install on their premises, including:

1. Card Access and Key Fob Systems

This is one of the most common access control systems. It uses key cards that can open doors by swiping it on the card reader or through a proximity reader that detects the card at a certain distance.

An alternative to the card system is the key fob, wherein you must place the fob close to the reader to activate the door.

2. Biometric Access systems

Biometric door access control systems are often used in high-security areas. This is because the personnel must give their biometric data for authorised entry.

The access readers typically range from facial recognition, iris, and fingerprint scanners.

3. Mobile Access systems

Instead of using cards or fobs, users can also use their mobile devices to gain access to the premises. It generally involves downloading an application that allows personnel to unlock doors.

4. Keypad systems

Another common access control method is the keypad access system. Individuals have to enter a PIN or passcode to pass through the door.

Choosing the Right Door Access System for Your Needs

With the many options available, deciding on the best door access system can be difficult.

Consider making a checklist with these factors to help you choose the most suitable access control system:

• Level of Security Needed - Different access systems offer varying degrees of security, so consider the one that best meets your company's needs. A keypad reader does not offer the same level of security as a biometric access system. 

• On-site or Cloud-based Servers - On-site door access system servers will require a dedicated space and on-site IT support on your premises but offer more physical security. Cloud-based platforms offer remote management capabilities but must have stringent cybersecurity measures in place.

• Scalability - How large is your organisation? A large company may need a more advanced system that can easily scale up as they expand.

• Integration Capabilities - You may also want a door access system that can easily integrate with other security systems, such as your alarms and video surveillance.

• Ease of Use - The system's user-friendliness should also be another deciding factor. Not all employees share the same level of technological literacy, so the system should be easy for everyone to use.

• Compliance - The door access system installed should also comply with Singapore's standards for such systems.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations for Door Access Systems

Singapore's access control standards should also be considered when installing door access control systems. Let us review some vital rules below:

• The Fire Code states that access control devices installed on exit doors should be integrated with the building's fire alarm system. Once the alarm activates, the devices should automatically deactivate the locks to allow people to escape the premises faster.

• The Personal Data Protection Act requires organisations to implement adequate security measures to protect personal data from breaches. This is especially critical for companies that use biometric data for their door access systems.

• The Guidelines for Enhancing Building Security in Singapore or GEBBS also contain directions on using access control systems for better security, such as:

• The access control system should best be designed alongside the rest of the security system for seamless integration.

• Access control systems should not hinder other safety systems, such as fire alarms.

• Main entrances should have automatic locks that can be locked by outside personnel in case of emergencies.

• Doors that require protection from forced entries should have fail-secure electronic locks.

• Access control systems should still be accessible to persons with disabilities.

Access control installation specialists are familiar with all local standards and can implement them to ensure compliance.

Top Door Access System Brands in Singapore

Here are some of the top door access control brands in Singapore that our experts at D-Ron trust for security projects.

Openpath

Openpath offers cloud-based access control solutions that allow remote management for multiple locations. Their system’s features include visual identification, credentials management, remote lockdown capabilities, and occupancy trackers. They also integrate with third-party applications such as G-Suite and Zendesk.

2N

2N is a leading specialist in IP security solutions. Their access control solutions include contactless entry, video intercom systems, remote site management, and readers with multiple access control options.

Acre

Acre Security is a global security provider trusted by international companies such as Toyota, Coca-Cola, and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. They offer on-premises, cloud, and hybrid access control solutions that allow first and third-party integrations. Their solutions include management software, smart locks, control panels, credentials, and readers.

Door Access System Installation and Integration Tips

Challenges are inevitable when installing door access control systems in your business. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for any hurdles you might face during the installation process.

• Reflect on your business's security requirements first. What are your existing security measures? Can you integrate your current security systems, or must you upgrade them before integrating the access control system?

• Once you consider the different levels of security your organisation needs, you should determine the types of locks and readers needed.

• Be sure to finalise the number of doors that you need to secure so you can purchase the right amount of access readers.

• You should also finalise what additional features you want for your access control systems. This helps avoid last-minute changes with the installation, such as switching to a different lock and reader or installing different access control management software.

• While you can buy and install the access control system in-house, you can also consider hiring professionals like D-Ron for the task. They can assess your security needs and guide you through choosing an appropriate access control system.

Cost Analysis and Budgeting

The cost of installing a door access system in Singapore depends on factors such as:

• The type of system - Door control access systems cost more depending on the level of security they provide. For instance, keypad systems are the cheapest but offer low-level security. Biometric access systems offer the highest level of security but are the most expensive to install.

• The number of doors - This affects how many readers, locks, and wires you need to purchase and install per door.

• Additional accessories - Installing sensors such as those for motion detection can add to the cost.

• Management Software - Many access control systems come packaged with management software, which could save you money compared to buying separate programs. You should also consider the cost of renewing the software licence.

• Installation Process - Installing by yourself is far cheaper than paying a professional to install the system. However, hiring a specialist can prevent costly installation errors.

As the actual cost for your access control project can differ from the average, it is best to request quotes first. You can compare costs from each provider and choose which fits your budget without compromising security.

Benefits of Door Access Systems Beyond Security

Door access systems can improve your premises' security while also providing other benefits for you and your personnel.

One of these is simplifying entry for your personnel. Since your access system is now digitised, you eliminate the need to secure entry points with the conventional lock and key. Instead, you can issue cards, key fobs, passwords, and mobile applications or use your employees' biometric data to grant access.

Simplified entry also increases workplace efficiency and employee accountability. Authorised employees can access areas whenever they need to with ease without having to ask for permission or search for the personnel carrying the key. However, they are also accountable for what they do in those areas.

Access control systems also allow you to provide employees with more flexible working schedules. You can simply track their time attendance through the management system. Moreover, early employees do not need to wait for the manager to arrive and unlock the doors. Likewise, managers need not wait for everyone else to leave before manually locking the place up.

Door access control logs can also be used in data analytics to study patterns and vulnerabilities that can help improve existing security measures.

Future Trends in Access Control

With access control systems growing more prevalent, there are several trends on the rise in the near future, such as:

• Touchless access solutions will be more popular in commercial and public spaces to reduce the risk of transmitting diseases through physical contact. This means mobile app and facial recognition access will take precedence over keypads, cards, and fingerprint scanning.

• Multi-factor authentication will also be more popular for improving security in high-risk areas. For instance, personnel may need to unlock doors via phones and facial scanners.

• More access control systems will allow for easier integration with surveillance management and analytics programs instead of working as standalone systems.

• AI-assisted verification and analysis tools will aid security personnel in identifying security incidents and creating rules to trigger alarms and lockdowns.

Take Control Using Reliable Door Access Systems in Singapore

Door access systems provide you greater control over your company's security. This gives business owners, employees, and customers more reassurance over their safety.

If you need more guidance with choosing a system that meets your security requirements, do not hesitate to contact our team today. D-Ron is dedicated to helping you secure your company from external and internal threats.

FAQs

What is the difference between door entry and access control?

Simply put, access control is the system that determines whether the personnel is authorised to enter based on their access level. Door entry control refers to the security components that physically allow or deny access after the access control verifies the personnel.

An example would be a card reader for a turnstile at the MRT station. The card reader is the access controller that decides if your card has enough funds. If the reader accepts the card, the turnstile, which is the entry control device, will open for you.

What is the most secure type of entry door?

Steel entry doors are highly resistant to environmental damage and physical impact compared to aluminium, wood, or glass. This makes them the ideal door type if on-site security is a top priority.

What is the best type of door for entry?

The best entry door depends on what qualities you are looking for. For instance, metal doors offer more strength and durability but are typically more expensive and may not have the aesthetic you want for your business. Meanwhile, glass doors offer more aesthetic flexibility and allow customers and personnel to look inside the room. But they may not offer the same level of safety against brute force impact.

In any case, our team can make your access control system work with your chosen door type.

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How do you set up a door access control?

Installing the door access control system involves several steps, including:

• Setting up the wiring needed for the system

• Installing and wiring the electric door locks and readers 

• Wiring the reader to the control network

• Installing the door access management software

• Testing the readers to ensure their functionality

• Registering the administrators and authorised users into the system

D-Ron's team will set up the access control system for you to ensure that everything operates correctly.

How long does it take to install an access control system?

There is no set time for how long it takes to install door access control systems. It depends on several factors, such as:

• The number of doors that you need to secure

• Types of access control devices you will use

• Whether you want to integrate the access control system with the rest of your security platforms, such as video surveillance and alarm systems

However, our team here at D-Ron will do our utmost to install the door access control system efficiently so you can better protect your business as soon as possible.