Angus has been involved in developing and writing British and International Fire & Safety standards since the mid-1980s. The list of standards that he has participated in is impressive and includes BS5839-1, BS8629, EN54-18 and ISO7240-2. Angus utilises his extensive experience to provide an authoritative perspective on the key issues that affect the Fire & Security Industry today.
We are here to help guide you through the diverse range of options available to identify the best access control solution for your individual needs.
Choosing the best access control system for you involves evaluating several key factors to ensure that the system aligns with your security requirements, operational needs, and budget.
Below there is a brief guide on some of the considerations to help you make an informed decision, and our friendly team with specialist knowledge and huge experience are always available to assist you further.
1. Security Requirements
- Level of Security: Assess the level of security you need. Higher-security environments such as hospitals may require advanced features such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), biometric verification, and encryption.
- Access Control Protocols: Choose a system that supports secure access control protocols that match your security needs. (e.g., MIFARE DESFire EV1/EV2/EV3, HID iCLASS)
2. System Features
- Authentication Methods: Decide on the types of authentication that best suit your needs, such as RFID cards, key fobs and wearables, biometrics (fingerprints, facial recognition), PIN codes, mobile credentials or a combination of these for really secure sites.
- Integration Capabilities: Ensure the system can integrate with existing infrastructure, such as CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and building management systems.
3. Scalability
- Future Expansion: Consider whether the system can scale to accommodate future growth, whether adding new doors, additional users, or expanding to multiple sites.
- Modularity: Look for a modular system that allows for easy upgrades and addition of new features.
4. User Management
- Access Levels: The system should support granular access control, allowing you to define different access levels and permissions based on roles and needs.
- User Database: Evaluate how the system manages and stores user data. It should be capable of handling your current user base and future growth.
5. Ease of Use
- User Interface: The system should have an intuitive interface for administrators and users. Ease of management is crucial for smooth operation and minimising training requirements.
- Training and Support: Ensure that the vendor provides adequate training and support for your team to effectively use and manage the system.
6. Reliability and Redundancy
- System Reliability: Choose a system with a proven track record of reliability. Look for reviews and case studies to gauge performance in real-world scenarios.
- Redundancy: Implement redundancy measures such as backup power supplies and failover options to ensure continuous operation.
7. Cost
- Initial Costs: Consider the upfront costs for hardware, software, and installation.
- Total Cost of Ownership: Evaluate ongoing costs, including maintenance, support, and potential upgrades. Ensure the system provides value for money over its lifecycle.
8. Compliance
- Regulatory Requirements: Ensure the system complies with relevant industry regulations and standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
- Data Protection: Verify that the system has adequate data protection measures to safeguard sensitive information.
9. Physical Security
- Hardware Durability: Choose hardware that is durable and resistant to tampering or vandalism.
- Installation Location: Consider the physical placement of hardware components to optimise security and accessibility.
10. Vendor Reputation and Support
- Vendor Experience: Look for vendors with a strong reputation and extensive experience in the access control industry.
- Customer Support: Ensure the vendor offers responsive and reliable customer support for installation, troubleshooting, expansion plans, and ongoing maintenance.
11. Technology Trends
- Future-Proofing: Consider emerging technologies and trends, such as mobile credentials and cloud-based systems, to ensure your system remains current, relevant and adaptable to future needs.
12. System Integration
- Compatibility: Ensure that the access control system is compatible with other systems in your facility, such as visitor management or HR systems.
- API and Integration Options: Look for systems that offer APIs or integration options to facilitate seamless connectivity with other technologies.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select an access control system that effectively meets your needs, enhances security, and provides a solid return on investment.
A little more about Fixfire®.
Operating nationally, Fixfire® is a market leading independent family business specialising in Life and Property Protection systems and equipment.
As a well-known and trusted brand, Fixfire® is renowned for delivering proven, quality and affordable solutions.
Foundational principles of honesty and integrity firmly remain as core values at the heart of the company ethos.
Driven by a passion to innovate and find better ways, Fixfire® is constantly challenging conventional norms and brings a refreshingly different approach to compliance.
We serve many different verticals including:
1. Healthcare
- Hospitals, Hospices, Nursing Homes, Clinics and Pharmacies
2. Education
- Schools, Universities, Libraries and Student Accommodation Complexes
3. Government and Public Sector
- Government Buildings, Military and Defence Sites, Data Centres, IT Facilities, Law Enforcement Agencies, Emergency Services, National Security Facilities, Legislative Buildings, Judicial Buildings, Public Sector Agencies, Research Facilities, Financial and Economic Offices, Embassies, National Archives and Secure Storage Facilities
4. Financial Services
- Banks and Investment Firms
5. Retail
- Retail Stores and Shopping Centres
6. Manufacturing and Industrial
- Factories, Warehouses, Construction, Energy and Utilities
7. Transportation and Logistics
- Airports, Ports and Shipping
8. Corporate and Business
- Office Buildings and Corporate Campuses
9. Hospitality and Leisure
- Hotels and Resorts and Convention Centres
10. Entertainment and Sports
- Stadiums and Arenas, Motorsport, Theatres and Concert Venues
11. Telecommunications
- Data Centres and Telecom Facilities
Following the recommendations of BS5839 Part 1 2017 (Fire Alarm British Standard), it is a mandatory requirement to have an up to date, clear and accurate Fire Alarm Zone Chart adjacent to your Fire Alarm Control Panel and any repeater panels you have in your premises.
The purpose of the Zone Chart is to assist persons responding to an alarm to quickly identify the specific location in the building and to help the Fire Brigade understand the building layout before they enter.
When the Fire Alarm System is installed, the building is divided into Fire Zones. Any Manual Call Point (Red Box) or Fire Detector that is fitted will trigger a particular zone when activated.
The Zone Chart shows the division of each zone area with a ‘You are Here’ arrow to identify the position of the Fire Alarm Panel. The view of the building should be orientated in relation to the Fire Alarm Panel position to minimise confusion.
What is involved in producing a Zone Chart?
- Hard copy
- Or preferably AutoCAD (dwg) format
You have a legal duty of care to dispose of waste legitimately and safely via a licensed waste carrier. Failure to do so can result in prosecution, even if you have outsourced the disposal to a third party.
The Fixfire® Extinguisher Recycling Process is your reassurance that any Fire Extinguishers we remove from your premises have been disposed of in a safe and legal manner. 97% of each processed Fire Extinguisher is recycled.
Our contracted Extinguisher Recycling Unit (ERU) is a dedicated facility offering a service for the safe processing and recycling/disposal of fire extinguishers. The facility operates closely with the local Water Authority and the Environment Agency to develop safe, efficient and environmentally friendly processes, ensuring that ISO14001 certification is upheld.
Got a question about Fire Extinguisher Disposal? Need Fire Safety Compliance advice? Get in touch today!
For over 45 years, Fixfire® has been providing quality products, systems and services for Life & Property Protection. Whatever your requirement, please call our Compliance Team for expert advice and a refreshingly different approach.
Freephone 08000 891999
False Fire Alarms remain a huge concern within the education sector- interrupting already carefully scheduled, planned and well-prepared lessons or even causing major disruption and distress to exams.
Clearly, these false alarms cause significant inconvenience and disruption to students, staff, and visitors. They compromise everyone’s safety in the school and present a significant risk to the local community since the Fire Brigade will prioritise the school over other emergency callouts.
Solutions you should consider:
The first and most straightforward way is to use anti-tamper products.
Fixfire® supplies a wide range of solutions designed to protect Fire Alarm Devices from inadvertent damage or deliberate misuse/vandalism.
Products include:
- Local plastic cover flaps which attach directly to manual call points.
- The stopper consists of a clear, tamperproof, tough polycarbonate cover, frame and spacer that retrofits over a break glass call point. When lifted to operate the break glass unit, its optional battery powered integral sounder emits a piercing 96dB (at 1m). Immediate attention is drawn to the area and a prankster will either run or be caught!
- A range of steel web stoppers designed to protect fire detectors and warning devices. They are constructed from heavy-duty galvanised steel rod which is plastic-coated for durability and external use.
- A range of polycarbonate enclosures are available for the protection of devices such as fire alarm control panels and associated control equipment. The enclosures combine tough rugged construction with stylish design and offer excellent protection with a key lock for authorised access.
We also provide anti-tamper devices for fire extinguishers and associated products.
KeyCall® is a patented anti-ligature Fire Alarm and Access Control call point. It is designed to use the same key as the doors, providing simple operation for staff whilst eliminating nuisance activations by service-users.
KeyCall® has been developed by Fixfire® specifically for approved applications where standard versions would be vulnerable to abuse.
It is one of the best solutions for SEN schools and it is also compatible with a wide range of Conventional and Addressable Fire Alarm Systems.
Got a question about False Fire Alarms? Need Fire Safety Compliance advice? Get in touch today!
For over 45 years, Fixfire® has been providing quality products, systems and services for Life & Property Protection. Whatever your requirement, please call our Compliance Team for expert advice and a refreshingly different approach.
Freephone 08000 891999
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