Making sure your premises caters to every demographic can be challenging, and accessibility has become a priority. Visitors, customers, and staff want to be able to navigate public and private spaces independently, with technology that helps promote an inclusive society.
One major innovation helping in this area are hands-free access control systems. Not only excellent for ensuring robust security, they’re also transformative for people with disabilities, allowing greater independence, safety, and inclusivity.
In this blog, we’re going to explore how hands-free access control is helping businesses support individuals with disabilities when they use your facility.
What is hands-free access control?
Hands-free access control allows people to enter secure areas without needing to physically interact with access systems. How does it do this? By using technologies such as RFID, Bluetooth, or motion sensors to automatically recognise authorised individuals and grant them entry.
Unlike traditional systems that require keys, PIN codes, or swipe cards, hands-free is sleek and effortless. If someone is carrying an RFID-enabled keyfob or smartphone, they can simply approach a door and it will unlock automatically. This is great, manual tasks like turning a key or pressing buttons are no longer needed and tasks that can be challenging for those with mobility impairments or limited dexterity are more accessible.
Challenges with traditional access control
Hands-free access control is not all about convenience, it’s necessary for people facing physical challenges with traditional access methods. By removing barriers to entry, these systems are changing the way people interact with the environment.
Traditional access control methods can often create significant barriers for people with disabilities. For start, the systems are designed with the assumption that users can perform specific physical actions. Tasks like swiping a card, entering a PIN, or turning a doorknob can be difficult or even impossible for individuals with conditions such as arthritis, spinal cord injuries, or neurological disorders.
Even systems designed to be “accessible” often fall short. Systems may place card readers or keypads at heights that are difficult to reach for wheelchair users, for example. Challenges like this not only limit accessibility but also undermine a person’s dignity and independence, creating reliance on others for assistance, leading to frustration and a reduced sense of autonomy.
How hands-free access control transforms accessibility
Enhanced independence
Hands-free access control supports individuals by helping them navigate spaces without needing assistance. Anyone using a hands-free system can move freely without the worry and stress about finding or handling keys or cards. This independence is crucial for self-reliance and a sense of dignity, especially when in professional or public environments.
Improved safety and hygiene
By reducing the need for physical contact with surfaces, the byproduct of this is significant hygiene benefits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, where touchless solutions became highly sought after, germ transmission was minimised. This is especially important for vulnerable individuals with compromised immune systems, providing an extra layer of protection.
Increased security
Modern hands-free systems also come with advanced security features and technologies, such as encrypted signals or biometric authentication, making sure that only authorised individuals gain access. They provide a multi-layered benefit with enhanced security, convenience for users, and support for those with disabilities.
Which sites benefit from hands-free access control technology?
Businesses and public spaces are starting to install hands-free access control systems to improve inclusivity. Take hospitals as an example, they’re implementing automatic door systems that allow healthcare staff and patients to move through facilities without touching doors. Then there’s universities and office buildings – both embracing keyless entry systems that use motion sensors or smartphone apps to unlock doors.
Hands-free keyfobs are another hands-free access control solution, allowing users to gain entry without needing to handle a traditional key. These keyfobs are particularly beneficial in residential buildings, where people with disabilities can access their homes independently.
How access control meetings UK accessibility laws
Hands-free access control systems also play a critical role in helping organisations comply with UK accessibility laws. The Equality Act 2010 says that businesses and public institutions must make reasonable adjustments to their facilities to make sure that they are accessible to people with disabilities.
What steps can be taken to meet these legal obligations? Implementing hands-free access control, offering the removal of physical barriers and demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility.
Hands-free access control is an investment that highlights your organisation’s commitment to diversity and equality.
What are the benefits beyond accessibility?
While hands-free access control systems are transformative for people with disabilities, they offer advantages for all users.
- Convenience: hands-free systems eliminate the need to search for keys, swipe cards, or remember PIN codes. Gaining entry is seamless and hassle-free.
- Efficiency: automated entry points reduce bottlenecks and queues, particularly in busy environments like offices or shopping centres.
- Security: simply unlock the door as you approach and have it automatically lock as you go, no more forgetting to double lock your door.
The added benefits of hands-free access control make it a wise investment for businesses looking to improve their facilities.
How EA are helping businesses meet accessibility requirements
Here at EA, we offer user friendly, hands-free access control technology from Paxton. Promoting inclusivity and ease of use, users can even integrate smartphone apps with Bluetooth technology to unlock doors from their mobile devices. And, with door entry panels, you can view visitors before granting them access. It’s all about convenience, security and accessibility for all.
You’ll also enjoy cable-free door handles that are straightforward to install, saving you both time and money. The features available show the potential for hands-free access control to really grow and evolve with users need, creating a future where accessibility is no longer an afterthought but a priority.
Get started with hands-free access control
Hands-free access control is helping to boost accessibility for people with disabilities. As we move towards a more accessible and equitable society, hands-free access control systems are paving the way. And it’s important to remember, these technologies can benefit everyone.
Whether it’s hospitals, schools or offices, investing in hands-free solutions creates environments that are not only functional but also welcoming to all.
Are you ready to make your facilities more accessible and inclusive? Contact our team to discuss which hands-free access control solution is right for your business.
