What is Low-Touch and No-Touch Security and Why Do We Need It?
November 9, 2020COVID Has Changed a Lot, Expect More Changes Including No-Touch Security
The ongoing global pandemic has made the need for clean and safe workplaces soar to new heights as property owners and managers attempt to “slow the spread” of COVID-19. The transfer of bacteria and germs from one surface to another must be stopped to ensure a healthy and covid-free workplace. Social distancing is now the norm complemented by a world of new technologies dedicated to preventing the spread of germs.
Hand sanitization, disinfectant wipes, and face masks are great steps towards combatting COVID-19, but much of the fundamentals of security must be re-thought when speaking to the needs of a post-pandemic world.
When something as simple as an elevator button or a shared pencil has the potential to infect an entire workforce, no-touch work environments is the next step in protecting both people and property.
High-Touch Surfaces and the Spread of COVID-19
Prior to 2020, standard security doors and access control systems were perfect options for any building manager looking to protect their assets. Today, however, doors and traditional security systems carry the potential to transfer COVID-19 to unsuspecting employees or security guards; a sudden change that requires significant attention.
Institutions and corporations, including hospitals, universities, and corporate enterprises, are entering uncertain times that require careful thought and preparation. Many building and security managers should be looking to adjust their door and security systems with a “no-touch option” that can protect classrooms and workforces. This means all access points require the ability to open doors without touching them.
Gone are the days of turning a knob, placing a hand on a door, or tapping a keycard. The technology has been widely available to the public for years, but with the emergence of COVID-19, it has become a much-needed commodity.
Will Low-Touch Solutions in the Workplace Suffice?
Workplaces that had no choice but to remain open when the pandemic hit had to adapt quickly. Many managers identified high touch surfaces within their workplace and implemented a “low-touch” protocol. This meant that employees had to open doors with different body parts, including their elbows or feet.
This “low-touch” approach grew, resulting in a renewed interest in thermal scanning equipment, QR-codes, and AR technology development. But in order for a workplace or institution to adapt to a truly no-touch environment, it will take a significant commitment to change, technology, and further innovation.
What Does a True “No-Touch” Workplace Look Like?
Hands-free switches are becoming an increasingly popular option and are considered an eventual replacement to standard doors equipped with a steel plate. Infrared technology for these types of switches is another option for businesses, along with wireless FOBs integrated into existing access control systems.
Further, another innovation in the industry is keycard readers that trigger the opening of an automatic door, eliminating the need for human touch. The technology continues to develop, and the best options available will need to be customized to an individual business’s needs.
AFIMAC Low-Touch and No-Touch Security Solutions
AFIMAC is capable of offering solutions to access control, automatic doors, and keycard systems to businesses of all kinds, both large and small. We have provided Fortune-500 companies practical solutions to complicated matters related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Let us help you navigate the obstacles of running a business throughout COVID-19. To learn more about our available products and services, visit our website.
