Page 40 - Security Today, May/June 2019

Multi-tenant Security
prohibitive. Removing and replacing a lost or stolen access card, code or fob is faster and less expensive.
The main tenant entry may be located off an underground garage or parking tower. That makes it logical to install readers or keypads at doors or elevators leading into the building. The same access system can be used at entries to interior tenant suites.
Then there are visitors to accommodate. Many buildings choose to limit them to one specific entry that’s kept locked. An outside building directory with keypad allows visi- tors to contact an individual tenant. The in- stallation of a video intercom station at the entry and another in each suite enables ten- ants to determine who is allowed in after see- ing and communicating with the visitor.
Staying Up-to-Date
Keeping the directory up-to-date becomes critical in larger buildings where tenants move in and out on a regular basis. Look for an intercom that gives management or a security integrator the ability to quickly and remotely update directories using the build- ing network.
Intercoms should only be answered from inside the tenant’s space, ensuring all visitors are properly screened onsite. A closed, wired system eliminates the chances of being hacked and the expense of monthly telephone service to contact offices from the entry.
Entry vestibules inside the main public entry are becoming more popular. These can help control the problem of tailgating—peo- ple rushing into the building along with an approved visitor. A second video intercom inside the locked vestibule gives tenants an- other chance to see everyone who’s entering.
Some building owners prefer a lobby desk staffed by a security officer or receptionist who greets visitors before contacting tenants via an audio intercom for approval to enter.
Video intercoms are also ideal for build- ing entries reserved for deliveries and ser- vice personnel. Again, tenants determine who can enter the building. Some intercoms’ built-in cameras can record images for later identification of visitors.
Adding Layers
Surveillance cameras are an important secu- rity layer for multi-tenant facilities. Combined with the cameras embedded in the video in- tercoms, they provide additional evidence of entrance activity. Cameras also are valuable for monitoring and recording events in lob-
bies, elevator banks and parking garages. Intrusion detection systems are another valuable security layer. Systems can be par- titioned to allow each tenant to arm/disarm systems in their own suites. Sensors should be placed on all common exterior doors and
any reasonably accessible windows. High-quality door locks are vital. Today’s best practices call for electric strike locks with a “fail-safe, fail-secure” standard, mean- ing they remain locked on the outside during
a power failure but still allow tenants to exit. Building owners/managers and tenants benefit from unified systems. For example, an intrusion system alarm can signal the nearest surveillance camera to begin record- ing. Key pads, readers and video intercoms
integrate with locks to open doors.
This type of integration is possible by us- ing systems from manufacturers supporting open standards. Open standards let products be selected on price and performance. There’s no reason to be limited to devices from a sin- gle product line. Open standards also protect a security investment by allowing failed or outdated components to be replaced without
having to rip out an entire system.
Once security protocols are set, it’s im-
portant for building owners and managers to put them into writing. Tenants need to know that when they let someone into the build- ing, they are responsible for that person’s ac- tions. Also, each building needs to maintain a list of approved security products to avoid problems when tenants attempt to add po- tentially incompatible devices to their suites.
In addition, emergencies, such as an ac- tive shooter or a fire, can quickly become di- sastrous in a highly populated multi-tenant building. Designate a contact person from each tenant space to assist during an emer- gency. Have an emergency plan that is re- viewed and updated annually, then conduct drills to ensure all tenants understand what is expected of them in different situations.
A multi-tenant building with various un- related businesses or residents sharing one facility will continue to create security chal- lenges for property managers, integrators and tenants. However, the proper layers of equipment and strong entry procedures can create security equal to that of a single-tenant building.
Dana Pruiett is the marketing manager for Aiphone Corp.
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GOVERNMENT SECURITY MAY/JUNE 2019
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