Pre-COVID, touchless access solutions were taking on some traction as a convenient method of allowing authorized users access to a premise. Adding touchless access control to existing systems was deemed a ‘nice-to-have’ option prior to the pandemic. But, given the unforeseen and swift call to migrate to touchless solutions in response to the Coronavirus, the need to upgrade to touchless access has made its way straight to the top of the leaderboard.
Preventing the spread of infection that can be caused by to human-to-human contact as well as by contact with contaminated surfaces has forced many facilities to scramble for ways to eliminate touching common surfaces. While it may seem a daunting task, and not one most enterprises had prepared for, it is doable, manageable and can, yes, be affordable. In fact, implementing a touchless access control solution doesn’t mean you have to replace what you already have in place to provide access to secure doors touchlessly.
There are many options to choose from, and new hardware technology and data security measures have improved to expand those options. It should also be kept in mind that, while the pandemic catalyzed demand for no-touch solutions, many industry-leading manufacturers were actually developing them well before 2020.
No-touch technologies, including motion sensors and wireless systems, were, in fact, emerging pre-pandemic. Many were developed in response to meeting specific requirements, such as removing any and all germs in hospital settings and providing improved ADA compliance accommodations for persons with disabilities.
Detailed below are just some touchless access control solutions that can help organizations migrate to a touchless access system.
Touchless switches can be used to activate automatic door operators or de-energize locking devices. They are growing in popularity and may very well become more widely used than traditional push plate switches soon.
Another option that will allow a door to automatically open is a wireless key fob.
Two different types of receivers can be used for this in wireless systems – Wiegand wireless receivers for access control systems, and non-secure relay output receivers for general door activation. The difference? Security fobs are used to stop unauthorized users from gaining access and relay output receivers make it easier for anyone, including persons with disabilities, to enter through a doorway. Hands-free access control devices such as key tags, fobs, and card readers are an ideal solution that eliminates the need to open a door manually. And the good news is that if an access control system is already in place, only a minor system adjustment is needed to add this capability.
Mobile devices equipped with Bluetooth™ enabled mobile credentials also facilitate touchless entry to a premise. This inexpensive method of credentialing is super convenient because it means the user no longer has to carry a fob or access card. And, with regard to vehicle access, both long and short-range access control credentials can also be used to allow vehicles fast and convenient speedy entry into your facility.
We at AC Technical offer a wide range of options to help you implement a touchless access control system at your facility. Call on us today!