For modern businesses, security is paramount. Business owners must protect their premises, people, and assets from danger or intrusion. Minimising the risk of vandalism, theft, and hacking are top priorities.
Over time, as with all facets of our lives, technology has improved security. Mechanical keys and locks are old hat. Today, access and entry can be managed with electronic locks, key fobs, biometric fingerprint readers, ANPR cameras, and endless more solutions. This range of technology beefs up security, automates administration processes, and improves convenience for users.
One solution that businesses might choose for access control is a video entry system.
What are video entry systems?
Video entry systems facilitate communication between people inside a building and visitors outside it. They give residents inside the opportunity to see and speak to visitors before remotely unlocking the door and granting access.
The two key components of a video entry system are:
The external door station is located outside the entry point to the building. This is where visitors approach and initiate a call signalling that they wish to enter the building. Generally, the door station consists of a camera and a microphone, and one or more call buttons. Meanwhile, the internal monitor is where people inside the building receive calls from visitors. They see a video feed from outside on the monitor screen, and can press a button to release the lock and allow the visitor to enter.
Different technologies exist for video entry systems. They may be standalone, networked, or integrated with a third-party access control system. Each type comes with advantages and disadvantages. The type or construction of a building may influence which type is best suited, as well as the requirements of the business and its day-to-day users.
Benefits of video entry systems for business security
Enhanced surveillance and monitoring
Video entry systems enable businesses to keep a close eye on their entry points. Door station cameras provide a clear view of anyone who arrives at the door. In addition, many systems offer photo and video recording capabilities. This allows businesses to keep records for monitoring purposes and for reviews in the aftermath of any incident.
Deterrence of unauthorised access
If security officers inside the building can see and speak to visitors before granting them entry, then unauthorised access will necessarily decrease. Businesses can visually check the identity of known visitors before allowing them in. On the other hand, for unknown faces, visitors can be asked to prove their appointment or justify their entry upon arrival.
Moreover, just the simple fact of having a visible system in place can prove a psychological deterrent to potential intruders. If your business is clearly investing in access control systems, then intruders are likely to assume you’ve also invested in other security measures that could put paid to their plans.
Improved visitor management
When customers, visitors, and deliveries arrive, a video entry system provides a smooth and organised first impression. It allows the business to handle people coming in efficiently and securely, with a professional appearance. Visitors are not left waiting or confused by complex entry systems. They are welcomed swiftly and politely and then quickly moved on to wherever they need to be.
Things to consider when implementing video entry systems
What are your business’ security needs?
Every business is different. Every premises where a business is located is different. And that means there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to video entry systems. The first steps in implementing video entry is analysing your business’ specific needs for security. For example, you’ll need to think about:
- How many regular users will manage the system?
- How many entry points are there?
- Where and how will visitors arrive at the business?
- How many visitors do you expect to receive?
How do you choose the right system?
Choosing the right video entry solution isn’t always simple. Your installer will be able to help guide you. Broadly speaking, the choice is between a standalone system or a networked system.
A standalone system, such as 2EASY 2-Wire, operates on its own network, and is therefore resilient to any potential downtime in the building’s internet service. On the other hand, a networked system such as 2EASY IP runs off existing building networks and is simply powered by Ethernet cables.
Considerations for installation
You should always hire professional installers with experience in video entry systems for your projects. A good installer will help you to assess, plan, and design your video entry solution according to the specific needs of your business. Some of the factors you will need to consider include:
- How many door stations and monitors do you need?
- Where will the door stations be placed for optimal camera coverage?
- Do you need products that will withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, coastal conditions, or potential vandalism?
- Do you need a solution that might one day scale up (or down) to accommodate the needs of the business?
- Is a standalone or networked solution more appropriate for your building?
- How disruptive will the installation be, particularly considering factors such as cable-laying?
Video entry for businesses
In summary, video entry solutions provide businesses with better monitoring and more robust security for visitors. By adding a layer of video and audio contact between security officers and visitors, businesses can validate visitors’ identity before granting them access to the premises. This critical step ensures that only authorised individuals can enter, while potential intruders are deterred.
The 2EASY range by CDVI provides both standalone and networked video entry solutions. For more information on 2EASY, or to find an installer for your project, visit our website.
