Security teams at higher education facilities continually face the challenge of finding funds for their growing lists of security enhancements needed on their campuses. To get the most out of limited resources, a disciplined, team approach is needed, as well as a comprehensive security plan that addresses security issues throughout the campus. The plan should recognize that security planning is an ongoing process and no one solution fits every situation. For the best results, partner with a security consultant who can best identify ways to enhance security applications and ensure that security applications will continue to grow with campus needs.

Here are some of the most effective security solutions available to colleges and universities today:

Access management systems seamlessly integrate a variety of technologies using open architecture design standards. These systems offer advanced access control, alarm monitoring, digital video, photo ID badging and visitor management functions, all from a single software platform. Flexible and scalable, security management systems eliminate the need to access multiple systems or flip to different screens.

Card credentials or "smart" cards capture important information and data about the user on one, easy-to-use plastic card. The cards contain memory or microprocessor chips that allow them to provide access control, automate certain functions and manage various types of school accounts. Smart cards provide the user with access to residence halls, libraries, recreation centers and other electronically controlled facilities on campus. They also can act as debit cards for school purchases in bookstores, cafeterias or labs. Cards can be deactivated quickly if they are lost or stolen, and they can be replaced easily, unlike mechanical keys.

Digital video surveillance systems transmit digital video feeds over the Internet to a monitoring control center. Digital systems provide improved image quality and storage, enhanced search capabilities, ease-of-use, and the potential for integration.

Wireless access solutions provide the benefits of online access control without the wires. Unlike traditional wired solutions, they are easy to install and provide superior access control. Wireless electronic locks, when combined with access control units, can provide the benefits of a network system in terms of functionality, flexibility, control and security.

Wireless systems can be applied to doors, elevators, exit devices, gates and electric strikes. More important, wireless systems connect to any of today’s access control systems. That means users do not have to replace their existing panel, keys or ID credentials. Such systems are an attractive alternative to offline, stand-alone locking systems, because they offer a real-time solution that is compatible with all brands of access control panels.

Keypad programmable solutions provide the same dependable protection as traditional keyed locks while adding a heightened level of convenience and freedom. The devices use personalized codes or electronic credentials rather than keys to allow entry. User identification information can be added or deleted at any time without the expense of re-keying locks.

Mass notification systems provide an effective way to notify people of possible threats or security emergencies. These notification systems involve sending text messages to students’ cell phones and other mobile communications devices, linking campus buildings to a public address system, and broadcasting messages to a variety of communication channels. Mass notification systems should fit the local situation and type of campus organization. When possible, redundant systems provide the best solution.

Biometrics incorporates products that can verify hand geometry, fingerprints or face characteristics to ensure that only persons who actually are authorized can gain access to a particular door. In a network, they may be combined with various sensing and monitoring products placed around the opening or integrated into the latching and locking mechanism to detect, deter and delay an intruder and signal that a breach has occurred.

Hand readers minimize the risk of people transferring IDs for admittance into campus facilities, such as recreation centers, residence halls and labs. Instead of verifying a card or code, the readers verify the person who is at the entrance by looking at the three-dimensional size and shape of a user's hand. The result of 90 hand measurements, including lengths, widths, thickness and surface areas, is converted into a nine-byte mathematical representation of the hand, which is stored for later use and verification.

Open architecture – or modular – security systems also help leverage one card credentials. With these systems, campus security can focus initially on providing access control to high priority areas, such as residence halls, labs, classrooms, recreation facilities. Other applications can be added as the campus grows and security needs evolve.

Key management systems refer to mechanical locks and key systems that are an important part of any security plan and serve as the foundation for the rest of the solution. They can be used to secure doors that do not require electronic security. Patented key systems can provide an extra layer of security for key override of electronic security solutions.

Restricted keyways have strict limitations on use and distribution. The system provides a way to control who can make copies of keys to the school's entrances. Plus, a restricted keyway makes it extremely difficult or impossible for employees to make unauthorized copies of keys.

Electronic stand-alone locks provide a level of security traditionally found in hardwired or networked solutions but without the associated costs. The programmable, battery-powered locks can be networked through software to provide audit trail capabilities and time-based scheduling for restricting access.

With a unified approach to access control, campuses are able to enhance their investment in security solutions. The good news is that everyday actions can get you there.

Ingersoll Rand can work with you to make small changes now that will add up to a big impact in the future, while staying within your budget. We can also help you plan and implement the right solution for every area of your building or campus.