In today’s world, the safety of students and staff in educational institutions is paramount. Schools are searching for easier and more effective ways to protect students from harm. Whether from kids inside the school or an outside threat, schools must have a multifaceted approach to security. Access control systems for schools should be a part of any school’s protection plan. Here’s why.

What is an Access Control System?

An access control system is a computer system that allows you to grant/close access to those trying to come into a building. Access control systems are common in:

• Schools
• Hospitals
• Government buildings
• Commercial buildings
• Residential buildings
• Data centers
• Manufacturing facilities
• Warehouses
• Retail stores
• Hotels
• Casinos
• Airports
• Transportation hubs
• Military bases
• Prisons
• And many others.

Essentially, staff can access the building electronically. Guests can also enter a facility once a facility manager allows them entrance. This allows you to make sure only authorized personnel can enter the building.

Types of Access Control System

Discretionary Access Control (DAC): DAC is a popular access control system where businesses decide access permissions on-site. Each entry point has a list that allows or denies users. Typically, the business admin can update this list, like when adding a new employee or student.

Mandatory Access Control (MAC): This is the most secure access control system, often used by government and military buildings. A central system, usually located elsewhere, controls all building entry points. Only the system’s administrator sets who can enter specific areas. Unlike other systems, only the administrator can change access permissions in a MAC system

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): This access control gives access based on job roles, not individual identities. So, if someone is promoted to a role needing specific access, they’re added to the list for that entry point.

Benefits of Using Access Control Systems in Schools

There are many benefits to access control systems in schools, especially when you start integrating multiple solutions. Here are some of the benefits that schools can experience.

Enhanced Security:

Schools can prevent people from accessing the school without prior authorization. Unauthorized access can be prevented with features such as biometric scanning, card access, and facial recognition.

Efficient Visitor Management:

Access control systems allow schools to manage and sort visitors more effectively. Modern access control systems allow schools to digitally track and record visitor data. Schools can also assess how staff are interacting with the building and how people are accessing rooms or devices. For instance, schools can catalog a record of when a teacher accesses a certain room. If that teacher shouldn’t be in that location at that time, it can be notified in the system and investigated.

Integration with Other Security Systems:

An access control system is a powerful tool to keep students safe even on its own. Combined with other security tools and it’s a powerhouse! To fully protect your students you can integrate tools like surveillance cameras, alarm systems, emergency lockdown protocols, and a central security management team to lock down the school. Using devices like this can keep students safe and help spot problems before they arise. Having multiple security measures can help you tackle multiple problems.

Reduced Risk of Theft or Vandalism:

Schools have expensive essential equipment, ranging from computers to laboratory instruments. Schools can avoid the risk of theft by restricting access to only those who need to be there. This not only saves money on replacements but also ensures that the school activities and teachers won’t be hampered.

Increased Accountability:

Every entry and exit is recorded by access control systems. This implies that schools can precisely track and record staff and student movements. In the event of an incident, whether it is a security breach or an internal conflict, having a detailed record can be invaluable.

Cost-Effective in the Long Run:

While the initial cost of an access control system can be significant, the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment. Reduced theft costs, potential savings on insurance premiums, and the elimination of the need for human security measures mean that the system frequently pays for itself in a few years.

Peace of Mind for Parents and Staff:

One of the most underappreciated advantages of access control systems is the peace of mind they provide. Parents can relax knowing that their children are in a safe environment. Staff can also focus on their core role, education, without being concerned about potential security risks. The school can always improve upon this access control system and keep giving that peace of mind for years to come.

Choosing the Right Access Control System for Schools

Here are some specific ways to choose an access control system that best benefits you:

Assess Your Needs:

Understand the specific security challenges your school faces. What types of spaces will you need to safeguard and lock access to, such as:

• Classrooms
• Administrative offices
• Main entrances and exits
• Computer labs
• Science labs
• Library
• Auditoriums/gyms
• Storage rooms
• Cafeterias
• Nurse’s office
• Nurse supply room
• Counseling office
• Maintenance rooms
• Athletic facilities
• Server rooms
• Rooftops
• Utility rooms
• Special education rooms
• Testing centers
• Theatre
• And any other place in your school where students may be

Budget Considerations:

While security is critical, it is also critical to choose a solution that is within your budget. Remember to consider not only the original cost but also future maintenance and improvements. You’ll also most likely want to higher staff to maintain the system and you’ll also want to account for that in your budget.

According to Ackerman, a keypad access control system can cost around $500-$1500 per door. Here’s the rub though. For a school, you’ll often want to employ multiple methods of access control which means that the price for a school will be highly customized.

Integration Capabilities:

You need a system that can work in tandem with any other security measures, such as surveillance cameras or alarm systems.

User-Friendliness:

The system should be simple for employees to use. Consider systems that provide school personnel training for staff and ongoing support for updates. Choose solutions that come with dependable technical support. This is critical for dealing with any issues that may emerge as well as for routine maintenance.

Scalability:

Schools can rapidly expand with an influx of students, and you need a system that can adapt to that expansion. Look for systems that allow for easy upgrades or expansions.

Feedback and Reviews:

Check feedback from other schools or institutions that have utilized the same method before finalizing one. Real-world input can be quite important in how schools interact with a system. You can see a company’s claims being backed up or dismissed in real-time.

Regular Maintenance and Updates:

Determine that the access control system can be routinely updated to address new security concerns and that there is a clear maintenance protocol. Whether this be with new locks, software, or personnel. Future-proofing your system will help you save costs in the long run.

Looking for an Access Control System for Your School?

If you need an access control system for your school, 360Connect can help! We help pair customers with high-quality suppliers every day for free! Just fill out our 1-2 minute form and we’ll contact you to verify your information and needs. From there, you can sit back and relax as up to 5 different suppliers will reach out with quotes about their products and services. It’s that simple!