5 Key Benefits of Implementing Building Access Control Systems

If you're still relying on traditional locks and keys to secure your business, you're leaving yourself vulnerable to theft, unauthorized access, and operational inefficiencies.

The reality is, your building security is only as strong as your weakest link, and lost keys, outdated locks, or lax security protocols create opportunities for criminals to exploit. 

Modern businesses need modern security solutions that actually work.

Access control systems provide an advanced layer of protection that not only keeps unauthorized individuals out but also gives you complete control over who enters, when, and where.

In today's world, security isn't optional for businesses - it's essential. In fact, the share of Canadian small businesses directly affected by crime and safety issues almost doubled in the last year, jumping from nearly a quarter (24%) in 2023 to 45% in 2024, according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).

Whether you’re managing an office building, warehouse, retail store, or multi-tenant property, you need a proactive security strategy that prevents threats before they happen. That’s exactly what Sonitrol’s Access Control delivers.

Let’s break down why every business should upgrade to a building access control system, and how the right system can revolutionize your security, efficiency, and bottom line.

What is an Access Control System?

A building access control system is a digital security solution that regulates who can enter a building, specific rooms, or restricted areas. Instead of relying on physical keys, access control uses keycards, keypads, biometrics, or mobile credentials to grant or deny entry.

In a world where security threats are increasing, businesses can’t afford to take risks. A robust access control system ensures that only authorized personnel gain entry, keeping employees, assets, and sensitive information safe from theft, vandalism, and even corporate espionage.

Types of access control systems:

• Keycards and Key Fobs: Secure, easy to manage, and assignable to individuals.
• Keypad and PIN Systems: No physical key required, ideal for businesses with frequent staff changes.
• Biometric Access: Fingerprint, retina scan, or facial recognition for high-security environments.
• Mobile Credentials: Use smartphones as access keys for frictionless entry.

The Benefits of Access Control for Your Building

No matter the type, access control gives businesses more security, more flexibility, and fewer vulnerabilities. With that in mind, let’s dive into five key reasons why implementing a building access control system is a game-changer for your business.

1 - Enhanced Security and Crime Prevention

Security should never be an afterthought, it should be a top priority. Access control systems eliminate the risks associated with lost keys, unauthorized entry, and security blind spots. They restrict access to sensitive areas like IT rooms, inventory storage, and executive offices, ensuring only authorized personnel can enter.

Additionally, these systems reduce break-ins, vandalism, and internal theft by providing controlled access. Unlike conventional CCTV systems that merely record break-ins, access control prevents them from happening in the first place.

2 - More Convenient and Efficient Than Traditional Keys

Let’s not beat around the bush, managing physical keys is a hassle. Employees lose them, keys get copied, and when staff members leave, rekeying locks is both costly and time-consuming. Access control eliminates these issues entirely.

With digital credentials, access can be granted or revoked instantly, no need to track down old keys or change locks. Remote management allows you to control access from anywhere, adjusting permissions as needed. Whether it’s granting temporary access to a contractor or restricting an employee’s entry after hours, access control makes security management effortless and flexible.

3 - Audit Trails and Compliance

Wouldn’t it be great if you knew exactly who entered your building at all times? Access control systems provide full audit trails, helping your business track entry logs and meet compliance requirements. Real-time entry logs record who accessed specific areas and when, creating a detailed history that’s invaluable for security investigations.

This is also valuable for industries like healthcare, finance, and data centers that must comply with strict regulations such as HIPAA and PCI-DSS. Access control ensures your organization meets these security standards, while enhancing accountability.

4 - Scalability and Integration

With Your Security Solution Your business isn’t static, it’s growing (hopefully). Just like all other areas of your business, your security system should scale with you, not hold you back. A well-designed access control system allows businesses to add new users, locations, or access points without expensive overhauls.

Better yet, the right access control should integrate seamlessly with your other security solutions - think your verified alarms, audio intrusion technology, and fire detection systems.

Here at Sonitrol, we stand out from the industry for our integrated, verified security solutions. Unlike all other conventional security systems which install standalone access control systems, Sonitrol provides integrated verified security systems with integrated access control that work seamlessly together.

This integration means that:

• Your security solutions can be disarmed by valid access fob reads, preventing false alarms.
• Your access doors will lock regardless of programmed access door locking schedules. For example, if you have a snow day and your employees do not make it to work, your doors will not unlock because your Sonitrol security system is still armed. Another example would be if your staff leave early on the Friday of a long weekend. All you need to do is arm the security system and your access control system unlock will be overridden and your doors will be locked.

5 - Cost Savings and ROI

Investing in security isn’t an expense, it’s a long-term cost-saving strategy. Traditional locks and keys require ongoing maintenance, and a single lost key can mean rekeying an entire building. Access control eliminates these costs.

Preventing unauthorized access also means fewer losses from theft and property damage. A high-quality access control system pays for itself by preventing losses, improving operational efficiency, and reducing security management costs.

Why Sonitrol is the Best Commercial Security Solution on the Market

When it comes to securing your building, not all access control systems and security solutions are created equal. Sonitrol delivers unmatched protection with cutting-edge, verified security solutions that no other alarm companies come close to.

With our access control system we provide retinal, biometric, card and fob readers with no limitation on shifts, periods and users. Most importantly, Sonitrol integrated with your other Sonitrol security solutions and access users for a seamless security experience.

Here’s why companies choose Sonitrol:

• Verified Security Alarms: Reduce false alarms and ensure faster police response times. In fact, most police departments do not even respond to unverified alarms since they know the criminal will be long gone by the time they get there.
• Seamless Integration: Connect access control with your other security solutions for complete coverage of your business.
• 24/7 Live Monitoring: Sonitrol’s team of security experts are always on guard, ensuring real-time responses.
• Customizable for any Business Size: Whether you run a small office or a large enterprise, Sonitrol scales with your specific needs. Industry-Leading Apprehension Rates: Over 188,000 criminals apprehended and counting. All because our alarms are verified.
• $5,000 Guarantee: If Sonitrol’s system fails, we’ll cover losses up to $5,000. No other alarm company will put their money where their mouth is like we do - because they know they’ll be out of business in no time!

When you choose Sonitrol, you’re choosing a proven, battle-tested security solution that stops criminals before they even make a move.

Don’t leave your business vulnerable. Upgrade to a Sonitrol security system today and take control of your building’s security before criminals take advantage of you.