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Businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance security while improving operational efficiency. Traditional keys are increasingly being replaced by advanced alternatives such as proximity cards. These high-tech solutions offer businesses enhanced control, convenience, and safety. This shift reflects a broader evolution in how organizations approach access control and security.

At Avon Security Products, we proudly serve over 25,000 clients across Canada. With our expertise in large-scale identification projects and a commitment to long-term client satisfaction, we play a pivotal role in redefining security solutions for organizations of all sizes.

Let’s explore the key differences between proximity cards and traditional keys, how each impacts modern business security and why proximity cards are emerging as the superior choice for access control.

Traditional Keys: A Security System Past Its Prime

For decades, keys have been the standard for controlling access to physical spaces. While simple and familiar, they come with significant drawbacks. Keys are easily lost or stolen, creating vulnerabilities for businesses. In fact, Lost and found offices handle an average of 70 misplaced items monthly, with keys, wallets, and cell phones topping the list. A misplaced key often necessitates costly and time-consuming lock replacements, especially if multiple locks are affected.

Moreover, keys offer no way to monitor or control who uses them. Once handed out, they provide unrestricted access to the holder. This lack of traceability can pose security risks, particularly in larger organizations where multiple people require access to sensitive areas. In a world where data breaches and physical security are top concerns, traditional keys no longer meet the needs of most modern businesses.

Proximity Cards: The Future of Access Control

Proximity cards, on the other hand, are a game-changer for business security. These cards use radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology to grant or restrict access to secured areas. By simply holding a proximity card near a reader, users can unlock doors without physical contact, enhancing both convenience and hygiene – a feature especially appreciated in the wake of recent global health concerns.

Our proximity cards are not just about ease of use; they also provide enhanced control. Administrators can easily deactivate a lost or stolen card, eliminating the need to change locks.

Cost Efficiency and Scalability

While proximity card systems require an initial investment, they are more cost-efficient in the long run. Replacing a lost card is significantly cheaper and faster than changing locks and reissuing keys. For growing businesses, proximity card systems are also highly scalable. New employees can be issued cards in seconds, and access permissions can be updated instantly without replacing hardware.

Traditional keys, by contrast, become increasingly unwieldy as businesses expand. Managing hundreds – or even thousands – of keys introduces logistical headaches, from tracking who has which key to ensuring keys are returned when employees leave. Proximity cards eliminate these challenges, making them the ideal solution for scaling security systems.

Enhanced Security with Unique Proximity Cards

Modern proximity cards from Avon Security Products offer even greater security through unique proximity cards customized to ensure that no two cards are alike. These cards carry unique identifiers, reducing the risk of duplication and unauthorized access.

Businesses can also integrate these cards with advanced software to track entry logs, providing a digital record of who accessed what and when. This feature is invaluable for maintaining accountability within an organization.

Whether you need to secure sensitive financial records, research facilities, or employee-only areas, unique proximity cards offer security and monitoring that keys cannot match.

Integration with Modern Technology

Proximity cards integrate seamlessly with other technologies, further enhancing their appeal. For instance, they can be combined with time-tracking systems to monitor employee attendance or linked with smart building systems to control lighting, heating, and more. These integrations improve operational efficiency and align with sustainability goals by reducing energy waste.

Traditional keys lack this versatility, reinforcing their limitations in today’s technology-driven environment. By adopting proximity cards, businesses can future-proof their security systems while taking advantage of additional technological benefits.

A Smarter Choice for Businesses

When comparing proximity cards to traditional keys, the advantages of the former are clear. Proximity cards offer enhanced security, better control, and significant convenience, making them the smarter choice for businesses looking to protect their assets and employees. Organizations that have embraced this technology, such as those served by Avon Security Products, are leading the way in redefining what business security means.

Whether managing access for a small team or securing a facility with hundreds of thousands of employees, proximity cards provide a flexible, scalable, and secure solution that meets the demands of the modern workplace.

Conclusion

As businesses strive to adapt to a rapidly changing world, upgrading from traditional keys to proximity cards is more than just a trend – it’s a necessity. By investing in this innovative technology, companies can ensure a safer, more efficient future.

The landscape of business security will likely continue to evolve rapidly in 2025. With the rise of sophisticated cyber threats, increased workplace access control needs, and growing concerns over fraud, it’s essential to prioritize security.

IBM’s latest Cost of a Data Breach Report reveals that the average cost of a data breach surged to $4.88 million in 2024, up from $4.45 million in 2023 – a 10% increase, marking the steepest rise since the pandemic.

Avon Security has been at the forefront of delivering reliable, scalable, and innovative security solutions to businesses of all sizes. By staying true to our Canadian roots and long-term vision, we help companies safeguard their operations with robust security measures. This article explores essential security products businesses should consider to protect their operations in the coming year.

Advanced ID Card Printers and Software

One of the most effective ways to enhance workplace security is by implementing advanced ID card systems. An ID card printer paired with robust ID card software allows businesses to create highly customizable and secure employee badges. These tools facilitate quick identification and also streamline access to restricted areas.

Modern ID card software offers real-time encoding, smart card integration, and tamper-proof designs. This sophistication ensures that counterfeit cards cannot compromise your security protocols.

Additionally, having a reliable ID card system demonstrates your business’s commitment to employee and visitor safety, which can boost trust and morale.

Biometric Access Control Systems

Traditional keys and access cards are no longer enough to secure facilities. Biometric access control systems are now considered essential, utilizing fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scanning. These systems are nearly impossible to duplicate, offering unparalleled accuracy and security, making identity verification essential.

Biometric access control ensures that only authorized personnel can enter specific areas, preventing breaches and unauthorized access. This technology enhances security and reduces administrative tasks like managing lost keys or forgotten passwords.

Video Surveillance with AI Integration

Video surveillance systems have undergone a significant upgrade thanks to artificial intelligence. AI-powered surveillance cameras can detect unusual activity, identify potential threats, and send real-time alerts to security personnel.

These systems also offer advanced features like facial recognition, license plate tracking, and heat mapping, which can be crucial for monitoring high-traffic areas. Implementing AI surveillance ensures that your business is proactive in preventing security incidents rather than reacting to them.

Visitor Management Systems

Managing visitors is a critical component of any business’s security strategy. A visitor management system streamlines the check-in process while maintaining detailed records of all visitors. These systems are especially valuable for companies handling sensitive information or operating in regulated industries, where the importance of identity verification plays a crucial role.

By verifying the identity of every visitor, businesses can prevent unauthorized access, ensuring that only approved individuals enter specific areas. Integrating visitor management with ID card software allows you to issue temporary visitor badges granting limited access, further enhancing safety and accountability. This seamless process protects your operations and leaves a professional impression on guests and stakeholders.

Cybersecurity Solutions for Hybrid Workforces

Cybersecurity solutions tailored to remote and on-site environments are indispensable as hybrid work continues to define the post-pandemic era. Firewalls, VPNs, and endpoint detection systems protect your digital assets, while two-factor authentication and biometric logins add layers of security.

Partnering with IT specialists to evaluate your current cybersecurity infrastructure ensures that your defences are updated to combat emerging threats. Investing in these solutions protects your data and fosters trust with your clients and employees.

Why Investing in Security Is a Long-Term Strategy

Security is not just an operational necessity; it’s a strategic investment in your business’s future. By adopting the latest technologies and practices, businesses can minimize risks, improve compliance, and create a safer environment for employees and customers.

Avon Security’s commitment to providing cutting-edge products and personalized service ensures that businesses across Canada can rise to the challenges of 2025 and beyond. If you have questions about implementing these must-have security products or need assistance with a custom solution, don’t hesitate to reach out. As always, we’re here to help protect what matters most.

Branding extends far beyond logos and advertisements; every interaction and visual cue can reinforce a company’s identity. One often overlooked but powerful branding tool is the employee ID badge.

We offer the best security products that are more than just functional. Our ID badges can enhance brand visibility, communicate professionalism, and foster a cohesive company culture. When thoughtfully designed with the help of our experienced team, these badges can improve security and serve as a subtle, daily reminder of the company’s values and brand identity.

Let’s explore how leveraging ID badges as part of your branding strategy can strengthen your corporate image, instill employee pride, and make lasting impressions on clients and visitors.

Creating a Unified Brand Image

Every company seeks to cultivate a cohesive brand image, and ID badges offer an easy, effective way to accomplish this within the organization. Modern ID badges go beyond basic security and can include features like holographic overlays and CR80 ID card sizes, which are industry-standard for durability and compatibility with ID card systems.

Professional tools like a badge template and direct-to-card printing methods ensure a consistent, polished look that aligns with the brand’s visual identity. Branded ID badges unify employee appearances, giving everyone a polished, professional look that enhances security and the company’s image.

A well-designed ID badge includes the company logo. It can also incorporate brand colours, fonts, and other design elements that reflect the organization’s visual brand identity. The consistency of ID badges across departments and locations creates a unified brand presentation, reinforcing brand values and instilling a sense of employee pride.

When customers or clients interact with employees, in-person or virtually, seeing the company’s branding on a customized ID badge fosters recognition and strengthens their brand impression. This is particularly effective in retail, healthcare, and other customer-facing industries, where the employee’s ID badge serves as a mini billboard, reminding clients of the brand’s professionalism and attention to detail.

Enhancing Security with Branded ID Card Systems

Security is essential to any business, and ID card systems play a significant role in maintaining workplace safety. However, companies can also leverage these systems to enhance brand identity. High-quality ID badges with brand elements and security features like holograms, custom barcodes, or unique brand-specific symbols demonstrate the company’s commitment to security and branding. Incorporating branding into security products protects employees and reinforces the company’s image as a trustworthy, professional entity.

Moreover, using top-tier ID card systems and the best security products with a branded design reflects a company’s dedication to safeguarding its people and assets. This reinforces customer and employee confidence, showcasing the company’s attention to security as a core component of its brand identity. Building a Sense of Belonging with

Customized Proximity Cards

Employee engagement is vital for creating a positive, productive workplace culture. Branded ID badges, such as customized proximity cards from Avon Security Products, offer a sense of inclusion, making employees feel valued in the organization. Customized proximity cards are designed to enable quick and secure access to different work areas and can include individualized information, such as the employee’s role, department, or team affiliation, which fosters a sense of belonging.

Employees who feel strongly connected to the brand will likely take more pride in their work and feel more loyal to the company. Branded ID badges are a daily reminder of their affiliation and value within the organization, contributing to greater satisfaction and alignment with the company’s values. This increased engagement benefits the company’s branding efforts by fostering a team that truly embodies and promotes the company’s ethos.

Supporting Brand Recognition in Events and Networking

ID badges are powerful tools for promoting brand recognition during events, conferences, and networking activities. Branded ID badges help employees stand out and make a professional impression at these events, as the badges immediately convey affiliation with a particular organization.

Employees who attend industry events with branded badges effectively act as brand ambassadors, allowing others to recognize and remember the company’s branding. This recognition is particularly beneficial in competitive fields, where distinguishing a brand can lead to potential client connections and collaborations.

A distinctive badge design, consistent with company branding, allows the brand to remain memorable even after the event ends. As more people associate the brand with a particular design and logo, brand visibility increases, increasing the company’s long-term brand equity.

The holiday season is a time of increased foot traffic and shopping enthusiasm, but it’s also a period of heightened security concerns for retailers. The influx of customers brings greater risks of theft, fraud, and general security issues that require a proactive approach.

Shoplifting and retail theft now account for an annual loss of $5 billion, raising alarms for the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) as incidents become increasingly bold and violent, with some involving weapons. This can become a more prevalent problem during the holidays as many shoplifters aim to steal during the holiday rush to blend in with the crowd.

Implementing effective security practices protects assets and ensures everyone a safe and smooth shopping experience. Here are some strategies to safeguard your retail space during the holiday rush.

Strengthen Employee Identification Systems

One of the most effective security measures is having a clear and robust identification system for all employees. During the hectic holiday season, when seasonal staff are often added to the team, using employee ID cards is essential for verifying the identity of individuals within restricted or sensitive areas.

A good ID system ensures that only authorized personnel access specific parts of the store, reducing the likelihood of internal theft or unauthorized access to stock rooms. Investing in high-quality ID cards and training employees on the importance of wearing them can help reduce confusion and prevent issues before they arise.

Customer Engagement Strategies

Engaging with customers can be a powerful strategy to deter theft. By promoting friendly communication and creating a welcoming environment, retailers can foster customer loyalty and satisfaction, which naturally discourages shoplifters. When staff members are attentive and interact with customers, it reduces theft opportunities while enhancing the shopping experience.

Implementing morning huddles or shift meetings to discuss potential threats and security measures can prepare employees to recognize suspicious behaviours and respond effectively.

Moreover, establishing an open line of communication between staff and management encourages employees to report any concerns, making everyone feel more empowered and vigilant.

Use Custom Security Products for Tailored Protection

Every retail store has its own layout, stock, and customer flow patterns, meaning that security needs can vary significantly from one store to another. Incorporating custom security products from Avon Security Products into your security plan is an excellent method for retailers looking to address these unique needs.

From customized surveillance setups to alarm systems designed to fit a specific layout, tailored security solutions can optimize coverage and improve response times. For instance, a store with high-value electronics may need more focused security on specific displays, while a clothing store might benefit from anti-theft tags.

Implement Strong Return and Refund Policies

Retailers should establish clear return and refund policies to minimize losses during the holiday season. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), retailers in the U.S. experienced an estimated revenue loss of $816 billion in 2022 due to consumers returning 16.5% of their merchandise purchases.

A well-structured return policy helps manage holiday purchases effectively and also serves as a deterrent against return fraud. This includes requiring proof of purchase and implementing a return authorization system to track returns accurately.

Training staff on refund procedures and scrutinizing suspicious return requests is vital. Additionally, setting specific time limits and offering store credit for returns can help mitigate losses while ensuring a fair and efficient process for genuine customers.

Enhance Surveillance and Monitoring Systems

During the holiday rush, increasing surveillance coverage is crucial to keep up with the increased activity. Adding extra cameras at entry and exit points, checkout areas, and high-traffic zones can deter potential thieves and give security personnel a better view of the store.

Real-time monitoring can also allow for immediate response if suspicious behaviour is observed. Modern surveillance systems offer advanced features like facial recognition and tracking, which can help identify repeat offenders. Remember, visible surveillance can be as much of a deterrent as the presence of security personnel.

Train Staff on Security Awareness

Retailers can greatly reduce theft and improve overall store safety by educating staff about potential security risks and teaching them how to handle suspicious activity. Employees should be encouraged to be vigilant, especially in high-risk areas, and trained to follow a precise protocol when they spot potential security issues.

During the holidays, when extra or temporary staff may be on hand, consider conducting refresher courses or brief security sessions to ensure everyone is on the same page. Security training for employees can also include protocols on handling high-volume crowds and what to do in an emergency, which is vital during the holiday season.

Optimize Store Layout for Visibility

A well-thought-out store layout improves the shopping experience and may contribute to enhanced security. Arrange displays and shelves to allow clear sightlines across the store, especially near exits and corners where visibility can be limited. This reduces the number of blind spots and will enable employees and security personnel to monitor customer activity easily.

An organized and visible layout also discourages would-be thieves, as they are less likely to attempt shoplifting when they feel exposed. Simple adjustments to the design can go a long way in reducing theft without impacting the aesthetic or functionality of the retail space since store environments can affect shoplifting crime.

There’s a rising demand for live music in Canada, with people increasingly interested in concerts, festivals, and performances across genres. This trend reflects a desire for social interaction, artist connection, and immersive cultural experiences.

This also means a bigger need for security, as these concert venues will likely have privileged areas where only certain people can enter. ID cards for VIP and backstage access are essential tools for managing and securing privileged areas at events and venues. These cards serve multiple purposes, from providing authorized access to ensuring the safety of individuals and the event itself.

By clearly distinguishing between different levels of access, ID cards help streamline the movement of individuals within these restricted areas, preventing unauthorized access and potential security breaches.

Designing Effective Credential Cards

Several factors must be considered when designing credential cards for VIP and backstage access to ensure their effectiveness and security. The design should incorporate elements that are easily recognizable and difficult to counterfeit. This includes using high-quality materials, incorporating holograms or watermarks, and choosing colours and designs that align with the event’s theme while maintaining clarity.

When you choose Avon Security Products for your venue’s security, you will find that we offer a range of advanced security features that can be integrated into credential cards, such as RFID technology and unique serial numbers. These features help track and verify the authenticity of the cards, thus enhancing overall security and efficiency.

Implementing Access Control Systems

Effective access control systems are crucial for managing VIP and backstage areas. These systems use ID cards as part of a larger security framework, often involving electronic card readers and real-time monitoring software.

By integrating ID cards with these systems, event organizers can automate granting or denying access based on the credentials presented. This speeds up the entry process and reduces the risk of human error.

Access control systems can significantly enhance concert security and be valuable for security personnel at the event. These systems ensure that only authorized personnel and guests can enter restricted areas, thereby maintaining the safety and integrity of the event.

Maintaining and Updating Access Records

Regular maintenance and updating of access records are vital for the effective management of privileged areas. This involves keeping track of which ID cards are issued, their status, and any changes in access permissions. A robust system for managing these records is essential, as outdated or incorrect information can lead to security lapses.

Avon Security Products provides solutions that offer real-time updates and integration with other security systems, making managing and monitoring access records easier. This helps ensure that only those with current and valid credentials can access VIP and backstage areas, maintaining a secure environment.

Training Staff for Effective Use of ID Cards

Training staff on the proper use and management of ID cards is integral to maintaining security in VIP and backstage areas. Staff should be well-versed in the various features of the credential cards, including how to verify their authenticity and handle them appropriately. This training should also cover the procedures for issuing, retrieving, and deactivating ID cards.

Event organizers can prevent unauthorized access and ensure that the security measures in place are effective by ensuring that all personnel are knowledgeable about these processes.

Internal theft is a serious concern for businesses of all sizes. Employees who steal can cause significant financial damage and harm the trust and morale within a workplace. Employee theft accounts for 30% of business failures, costing Canadian employers over $120 billion annually.

Implementing effective strategies to prevent internal theft is crucial for maintaining a secure and productive environment. Here are some best practices for preventing internal theft in the workplace. Implement

Implement Comprehensive Security Measures

A robust security system is the foundation of preventing internal theft. Start by investing in the latest products to improve security, such as advanced surveillance cameras and alarm systems. These systems should be strategically placed to cover all vulnerable areas, including cash registers, inventory rooms, and employee access points.

Up-to-date security technology, especially ones supplied by Avon Security Products, cts as a deterrent and ensures that any suspicious activities are promptly detected and addressed. Review and upgrade your security infrastructure regularly to stay ahead of potential threats.

Establish Clear Policies and Procedures

Clear and comprehensive policies and procedures are vital for preventing internal theft. Develop a detailed employee handbook that outlines acceptable behaviour, reporting procedures, and the consequences of theft. Ensure that all employees are aware of these policies and understand their responsibilities.

Review and update your policies regularly to address new risks and incorporate best practices. Having well-defined guidelines in place helps set expectations and provides a framework for addressing theft-related issues.

Utilize Access Control Systems

Access control systems are essential for managing who has access to different areas of your business. Incorporating proximity cards from Avon Security Products into your access control system can help restrict access to sensitive areas to authorized personnel only. These cards work by granting access based on proximity, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry. Ensure that access permissions are reviewed regularly and adjusted based on employee roles and changes in responsibilities. Controlling access points can significantly reduce the chances of internal theft.

Conduct Regular Audits

Regular audits are crucial for identifying discrepancies and potential theft. Implement routine checks of inventory, cash handling procedures, and financial records. To ensure objectivity, audits should be thorough and conducted by individuals who are not directly involved in the areas being audited.

Foster a Culture of Integrity

Creating a culture of integrity is a proactive way to combat internal theft. Encourage open communication and transparency within your organization. Employees should feel comfortable reporting suspicious behaviour without fear of retaliation. Regular training on ethical conduct and the consequences of theft can reinforce the importance of integrity. Promoting a positive work environment where honesty is valued will help deter employees from engaging in dishonest activities.

Monitor Employee Behaviour

Monitoring employee behaviour can provide valuable insights into potential theft. While maintaining privacy and respecting boundaries, look for any unusual behaviour or signs of distress that may indicate underlying issues. Employee behaviour can sometimes be a red flag for internal theft, especially if it deviates from their usual conduct.

This vigilance is essential during high-risk periods, such as the holiday season, when theft over the holiday season may become more prevalent due to increased stress and temptation. Implementing anonymous reporting systems can also help employees report any concerns they may have about their colleagues without fear of being identified.

Invest in Ongoing Security Training

Ongoing security training is essential for keeping employees aware of potential threats and best practices for preventing theft. Schedule training sessions regularly that cover the latest security technologies, procedures, and the importance of reporting suspicious behaviour.

Keep employees informed about the latest products to improve security and how they can contribute to maintaining a secure workplace. Investing in continuous education ensures that your team remains vigilant and prepared to address any security concerns.

A security breach can cause no shortage of major and minor problems for companies, non-profits, governmental offices, and anywhere else. Customers may feel less safe working with them in the future, investing their time and money.

Employees may also feel less secure when they’re on the job. The effects of a breach can be financial, psychological, and more. When it comes to security, it’s much better to be proactive and comprehensive before the problem arises. No matter how comprehensive you are after the fact, by then, it’s too late.

Here are a few tips about how to conduct a comprehensive security audit to improve company security.

1. Assess the Scope

What potential vulnerabilities does an organization have? Avon Security provides concrete solutions for tangible, physical breaches. We offer a range of proximity cards and other technologies to ensure that only authorized people can enter restricted spaces.

In this digital world, hacks and cybersecurity are another major potential vulnerability. Analyze where you stand in terms of physical and cyber weaknesses.

2. Prevent a Breach

Once you’ve identified a potential breach, plugging it is essential. Avon Security’s visitor management protocols ensure that guests in the building only reach the physical spaces they’re authorized to be.

Corporate espionage and blackmail are real threats. Keeping unauthorized people out of restricted spaces is the bedrock of workplace safety.

Our proximity cards and other similar technologies also help ensure that your employees can’t enter restricted areas, either. It’s very easy to quickly update the level of access their proximity card grants.

In other words, if an employee gets promoted, their card can be reprogrammed to open new doors they couldn’t open before. If they get terminated, their card can be reprogrammed to stop working altogether.

3. Monitoring Threats

Another important way to add protection to your workplace involves monitoring equipment, like CCTV cameras, for physical threats or layers of digital protection for cybersecurity risks. If a would-be intruder sees a camera, they may feel deterred from entering a restricted area.

If they do break in, the video recording can help identify the perpetrator and protect the company after the fact. There are a few common security mistakes companies and other organizations make — surveillance cameras can help prevent a break in, or help after the fact.

4. Test it Works

Once you’ve determined potential vulnerabilities and have a few plausible solutions, test to see that your system is secure. For physical breaches, make sure that your proximity cards open doors they’re supposed to and keep you out of ones they’re not meant to.

Cybersecurity involves running tests for the specific threats and vulnerabilities your organization faces. Or hopefully, faced.

Organizations have much to lose from a security breach. There is sensitive, proprietary data that must be kept confidential. Security prevents blackmail and extortion. Your employees need to feel comfortable and at ease in their places of work to put in the best performance. Consider the above tips for a comprehensive security audit and your workplace should be totally secure.

Is there anything better than being on vacation in a great hotel or resort? All your ordinary stresses and responsibilities vanish. The only thing you need to do is relax with family, friends, or whoever you’re travelling with.

The story can change quickly if there’s some kind of break-in. When a guest’s room gets broken into, their elevated feeling of relaxation and celebration will come to a screeching halt. However, hotel guests don’t want to feel safe only because they’re jumping through elaborate hoops, either.

Such feelings only reinforce the idea that they’re surrounded by danger, and that’s not a pleasant consideration. On a basic, practical level, it’s annoying and time-consuming.

Proximity cards are essential security features that let hotels and resorts have it both ways.

Security Made Easy

Guests want access to their hotel rooms to be quick and easy. Proximity cards facilitate just that. All they need to do is give one tap to their door card reader, and they’re in.

There’s no elaborate process with identity verification. From the hotel’s standpoint, they can print new cards if they get replaced, unlike with old-fashioned metal keys. Proximity cards make it easy for everybody.

The Protection Works

Proximity cards aren’t just easy or efficient. They’re also extremely secure. Ours work with standard and HID proximity accessories, and they’re compatible with the country’s most sophisticated readers and computer networks.

Each proximity card is programmed to contain a unique sequences of numbers inside. When the card reader verifies that there’s a match between the card and the numbers stored on its database, the door will open.

Unlike doors protected by physical keys, these types of locks cannot be picked. Hotels and resorts have used proximity cards for years, but todays are more sophisticated, providing even better security than ever. Connect with Avon Security to buy popular security products and see which proximity cards and more are right for you.

Security for Employees, Too

Hotels and resorts need to provide total security for their guests, which also entails ensuring that employees are who they say they are. Hotels and resorts need to ensure that only authorized people can access certain spaces.

Having secure ID cards for hotel employees is a crucial step to guaranteeing that guests are safe. Hotel employees should be safe among each other, and keeping out unauthorized people from restricted spaces helps to protect everybody.

Thieves understand that when people travel, they bring cash, jewellery, or other valuables. Don’t let thieves disguise themselves as employees or get anywhere near your premises.

Hotels and resorts are supposed to provide an enjoyable, care-free experience for all guests. It doesn’t matter whether they’re one or five stars, or how much it costs to stay per night. Security is essential. Get in touch with Avon Security to determine which type of proximity cards and other products are right for your hotel or resort. Your guests and employees will be happy you did.

At their core, robust security systems are about peace of mind. Businesses use security systems to ensure no assets, trade secrets, or company equipment get stolen. Events use them to make sure attendants are safe and authorized for admission. The list goes on.

However, there is one area where “peace of mind” takes on an even more significant meaning: schools. Parents want to know that their kids are safe—whether those kids are daycare attendants, elementary students, high school teens, or fully grown university goers. It is the role and responsibility of schools to protect this most vulnerable, precious class of people.

And one of the best ways to protect them is with a visitor management system. The best visitor management solutions combine reliable hardware like time-sensitive badges and access control readers with cutting-edge software. Crucially, they allow only authorized individuals to be on the premises while recording a detailed log of visitor records.

In this post, Avon Security Products explores the manifold roles of a great visitor management system in keeping our schools safe.

Controlled Access: Reducing Intruder Risks and Elevating Student Safety

Perhaps the most significant role of a visitor management system is gatekeeping. It is a foolproof way to keep unwanted people, including intruders, out of schools.

These systems instantaneously sort authorized individuals from unauthorized individuals by scanning either expiring or non-expiring badges. As such, they head off any potential threats before they have an opportunity to get through the door.

Custodial Responsibility: Authorizing Pick-Ups and Drop-Offs

Expiring badges (that is, badges only authorized for set periods of time) are a fantastic way to manage custodial responsibility.

Naturally, parents do not want unauthorized people picking up their children and taking them away. Yet, every day, parents send custodians to retrieve kids from school—grandparents, older siblings, family friends, etc. To manage who can pick up and drop off kids, a visitor management system with expiring ID cards for schools grants temporary authority to individuals expressly authorized by parents.

Visitor Records: Reference and Investigation Data

Let’s say a kid decides to play hooky (a tale as old as time). Or, more concerningly, let’s say there was an incident at the school. In these unfortunate cases, parents and administrators (and occasionally law enforcement) would want to access in/out logs for reference and investigation.

Sophisticated visitor management systems allow these authorities to track the traffic at the door, thereby establishing timelines that aid in both internal and official investigations.

Attendance Logs in Case of Drills and Emergencies

In/out logs also play a critical role during drills and emergencies. They can inform school administrators who entered vs. who left the building to help them account for every student. This is especially relevant in higher education settings where the students themselves carry badges.

Pre-Approvals for Seamless Safety

Lastly, visitor management systems pre-authorize individuals for a seamless system of granting access. No more lengthy sign-in processes or manual logs stacked away in towering file cabinets. This turnkey approach to visitor management frees up administrators to focus on their core competencies, including managing student safety in other ways.

Curious about implementing a visitor management system in your school? Visit the Avon Security Products main page to buy security products in Canada, or contact us for more information. Together, we can make schools a safe, seamless place to nurture young minds.

The leading motivator for theft and many other violent crimes is money. As such, banks have always had a proverbial target on their backs; as storehouses for large sums of money, they attract an outsized number of intrusion and theft attempts.

As the saying goes, the best offence is a good defence. Improving your bank branch security goes a long way toward deterring crime, as most criminals will not target places with precise and rigorous security measures in place.

Below, your security experts at Avon Security Products discuss five winning strategies for keeping employees, clients, and reserves safe.

Train Employees in Security Protocols

While the right tools and systems can elevate security, ultimately, it is the employees who will determine the overall safety of your bank branch. After all, the employees set, monitor, update and use these security systems.

As such, the first strategy is to formalize training programs, like emergency response and suspicious behaviour recognition; this can be accomplished internally or through third-party certification. Either way, security should be a significant portion of your onboarding process. Next, execute regular drills and updates to training materials to keep safety top-of-mind for employees.

Implement Proximity Cards for Employees

If you own or manage a bank branch, you should strongly consider proximity cards for employees. Essentially, proximity cards are access control systems that use contactless cards/fobs to a) authorize entry into various rooms, vaults, and restricted-access areas and b) track the various comings and goings in these areas for posterity.

Each card is uniquely coded, making it nearly impossible to duplicate, and the systems can be scaled to accommodate multiple employees (across branches, if necessary). Importantly, you can integrate them with other security measures like surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and time and attendance tracking to achieve a holistic overview of your branch’s safety.

Install Advanced Surveillance Systems

Surveillance systems are one of the linchpins of bank security. However, too often, banks allow their surveillance systems to become outdated before replacement, leaving glaring vulnerabilities in your security.

Consider modern technologies like HD cameras and facial recognition for enhanced peace of mind. Ensure that continuous monitoring/recording is built into your security protocols. And brush up on industry best practices for camera placement and coverage (something the parent corporation should provide), including limiting blind corners and strengthening visibility with dusk-to-dawn lighting.

Strengthen Physical Barriers and Access Points

Robust doors, windows, and vaults are a must in any bank branch, as are tamper-proof locks. Update these access points along with a thorough proximity card system to ensure reliably restricted access across sensitive branch areas.

Conduct Regular Security Risk Assessments

Recently, we wrote a think piece on why businesses should conduct security risk assessments regularly. (The full article is available to read at the link.) In it, we highlight the immense importance of routine—routine checks, routine maintenance, routine updating, etc.

These remain evergreen pieces of advice, especially for banks. As you’ve done with protocols in the first section, systematize these assessments according to a consistent schedule so you never fall behind.

To summarize, banks need to be especially vigilant in the fight against crime. To improve branch security, consider elevating your access control systems, surveillance, training, assessments and physical access points.