Maintaining security in manufacturing facilities is essential to safeguard assets and ensure smooth operations. One of the key components of a secure facility is access control. Automated security systems help grant authorized personnel access to designated areas and prevent unauthorized entry, significantly enhancing overall safety.

In the past, security relied on basic methods like gates, barriers, and security personnel. Today, modern access control systems leverage advanced software and hardware technologies to provide more secure and efficient solutions. At the core of these systems, the authorization process typically involves one or more of the following methods:

• Something you know: Information that only the user knows, such as passwords, PIN codes, or secret codes.
• Something you have: Physical items the user possesses, such as identity cards, key cards, or mobile phones.
• Something you are: Biometric identification methods like fingerprints, iris scans, or voice recognition.

Modern security systems combine hardware and software components, enabling automation and improving the effectiveness of security measures in production environments.

Components of an Automated Security System

An effective automated security system for production facilities typically consists of the following components:

1. Credentials: These are the means of authorization, including passwords, biometrics, key cards, and other forms of identification.
2. Reader: Devices that capture credentials from users, such as biometric scanners, RFID readers, or keypads.
3. Server: The secure database that stores authorized credentials. It verifies access attempts by matching credentials with stored data and logs each event.
4. Control Panel: This component controls locks, granting or denying access based on the verification from the server. It can also raise alarms in the case of unauthorized attempts.
5. Locks: These devices physically secure barriers and are controlled by the control panel, unlocking only when authorized credentials are verified.

Automation is a key benefit of modern access control systems. With the integration of software and hardware, access can be managed based on predefined roles, significantly reducing manual effort and increasing efficiency.

Automating Security Processes

Automated security systems in production facilities can help streamline a variety of tasks. Some common automated processes include:

• Automated Role-based Access Control: When new employees join, their access to various areas is automatically assigned based on their role. There’s no need to manually grant access to each individual, reducing administrative effort and the risk of errors.
• Automated Logging & Incident Reporting: Logging access events and generating incident reports can be automated, ensuring that these critical tasks are consistently carried out without the need for manual intervention.

Best Practices for Automating Security in Production Facilities

To ensure your automated security systems are effective and secure, here are some best practices to follow:

1. Automated User Provisioning
   When a new employee joins, role-based access control ensures they are automatically granted access to the appropriate areas and equipment. This minimizes the risk of errors and speeds up the onboarding process. When roles change, access is automatically updated, avoiding the need for manual intervention.
2. Least Privilege Access
   Employees should only have access to the areas and equipment necessary for their job functions. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access and reduces the potential for errors or malicious actions within the facility.
3. Rule-based Access Control
   Using predetermined rules (e.g., restricting access to certain areas during specific times) ensures that only authorized personnel can enter designated zones, further enhancing security.
4. Password Hygiene
   For systems that rely on passwords or PINs, it is important to regularly update these credentials and ensure they follow best practices (e.g., strong, unique passwords). Avoid using default passwords to protect against unauthorized access.
5. Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
   MFA adds an additional layer of security by requiring multiple forms of identification to access sensitive areas. By combining something the user knows, has, or is, MFA greatly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized entry.
6. Changing Default Settings
   Default security settings on new systems should be modified immediately to prevent vulnerabilities. Always change default passwords and configurations when installing new access control systems.
7. Regular Software and Hardware Updates
   Ensure that your security software and hardware are regularly updated to address any vulnerabilities. Neglecting to apply security patches can leave your system exposed to potential breaches.
8. Terminate Inactive Access
   Automate the termination of access for employees or contractors who no longer require entry, such as those who leave the company. This minimizes the risk of former employees having unauthorized access to your facility.
9. Automated Logging and Reporting
   Implement an automated logging system to track every access attempt, including who, when, and why access was granted or denied. Regular reports can be generated to monitor security trends and identify potential issues.
10. Choose a Reputable Vendor
    When selecting a vendor to install and manage your automated security system, choose one with a strong track record of reliability and security expertise. Working with a reputable vendor ensures that your system is professionally installed and maintained.