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An access control system is a security solution that manages and monitors who can enter or exit specific areas within your premises. Instead of using traditional keys, access is granted using credentials such as key cards, fobs, PIN codes, biometric scans, or even mobile credentials.

Here’s how it works:

• Identification – The user presents their credential (e.g. card or fingerprint) to a reader.
• Verification – The system checks the credential against a database of authorised users.
• Decision – If the credential matches, the door or barrier unlocks momentarily; if not, access is denied and the attempt is logged.

Modern systems also record entry and exit times, integrate with CCTV, and allow remote management via the cloud — making it easier for facilities teams to monitor multiple locations from one dashboard.

Installing an access control system provides far more than just convenience — it strengthens your entire security infrastructure. The main benefits include:

• Enhanced security: Only authorised personnel can enter controlled zones, reducing theft, vandalism and insider risks.
• Improved safety: Supports emergency evacuations and ensures restricted areas (like plant rooms or server rooms) remain secure.
• Detailed reporting: Track movement patterns and create audit trails for compliance and HR use.
• Scalability: Expand easily as your organisation grows — add users, doors, or entire buildings without starting over.
• Cost savings: No more changing locks or reissuing keys; lost credentials can be deactivated instantly.
• Integration: Access control can link with your fire, intruder, or CCTV systems for full building management.

For many UK businesses, access control is now an essential part of compliance and insurance requirements.

At Sigma Fire & Security Ltd, we provide a wide range of solutions tailored to each client’s operational needs and budget. Our systems include:

• Standalone access control: Perfect for small sites with one or two entry points.
• Networked or PC-based access control: Ideal for multi-site or large premises; all access permissions are managed centrally.
• Biometric systems: Use fingerprint or facial recognition for high-security areas.
• Proximity card and fob systems: Reliable and cost-effective for general business use.
• Cloud-based access control: Manage access remotely using a secure online platform or smartphone app.
• Integrated security systems: Combine access control with CCTV, fire detection and intruder alarms for complete peace of mind.

Each system is custom-designed following a professional site survey to ensure maximum security and ease of use.

Yes — integration is one of the most powerful advantages of modern access control technology. We can design your system so that access events trigger other security devices automatically.

For example:

• When a door is opened, the CCTV camera facing that area begins recording.
• If a forced entry occurs, your intruder alarm can be activated immediately.
• During a fire alarm, all controlled doors can unlock automatically to enable safe evacuation.

By integrating your systems, you not only enhance situational awareness but also streamline building management and simplify compliance reporting. Sigma Fire & Security engineers are trained to integrate most major access control brands with existing fire and security infrastructure.

Biometric systems — such as fingerprint or facial recognition — are among the most secure forms of access control available. They eliminate the risk of lost or stolen credentials since access is tied to a unique biological trait.

To protect personal data, all biometric information is encrypted and stored securely following GDPR and UK Data Protection Act guidelines. Most systems don’t store the actual fingerprint image — only an encrypted mathematical representation.

Biometric access control is ideal for sensitive environments like data centres, laboratories, and high-security commercial sites. At Sigma Fire & Security, we ensure every biometric system is fully compliant, reliable, and user-friendly.

All professional access control systems are designed with fail-safe and fail-secure modes to handle power loss. In most cases, doors connected to critical areas remain locked (fail-secure), while emergency exits unlock (fail-safe) to ensure occupant safety.

We recommend installing battery backups (UPS units) or linking the access control to your building’s emergency power supply. Our maintenance contracts include regular testing of backup systems and emergency failover functionality.

In the event of a system fault, Sigma Fire & Security’s support team can provide rapid on-site assistance or remote diagnostics to restore normal operation quickly.

The cost depends on several factors — including the number of doors, the level of security required, the type of readers (card, biometric, keypad, etc.), and whether the system is networked or standalone.

As a rough guide:

• Small business (1–3 doors): from around £1,200–£3,000
• Medium office or warehouse (4–10 doors): £3,000–£8,000
• Multi-site or high-security systems: custom-quoted after a survey

At Sigma Fire & Security Ltd, we provide free site surveys and a transparent quotation before installation. We’ll recommend the most cost-effective solution that still delivers the level of protection your premises need.

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your access control system remains reliable and compliant. We recommend at least one full service per year for standard systems, and biannual maintenance for critical or high-traffic sites.

During servicing, our engineers:

• Test each reader, lock and controller
• Check power supplies, cabling and backups
• Verify access permissions and audit logs
• Perform software and firmware updates
• Inspect integration with fire and security systems
• Preventive maintenance reduces downtime, extends system lifespan, and ensures your business stays protected at all times. Sigma Fire & Security offers flexible maintenance packages to suit every business size and system type.