What are Partitions in Commercial Alarm Systems?

In commercial alarm systems, partitions are used to separate areas of a building that have different levels of security or access restrictions. While each partition is protected by the same alarm system, the partitions divide the space into independent zones for greater security and safety.

But what exactly are the benefits of security partitions, and how are they used in various commercial settings?

Here’s what you need to know.

Solving a common security challenge

A basic alarm system configuration includes a control panel and sensors, such as door/window contacts and motion detectors. If a door is opened while the system is armed, it triggers the alarm unless someone disarms the system with a security code or other authorization method, such as a smartphone. The alarm signal can also be transmitted to an alarm monitoring center, where personnel can dispatch police or other responders.

But what if the business has secondary areas that should not be accessible to all employees?

For example, maybe the company has an office connected to a warehouse, but for security reasons, very few employees should have access to both areas.

Employees may already have their own access codes to enter the building. But how do you prevent individuals from entering other restricted areas without the need for complicated key management? Even with keys, how do you prevent access during off-work hours, when no one should be entering the building at all?

This is where security partitions provide a simple and effective solution.

How security partitions work

Partitions allow businesses to separate out important areas of a building. Each area has its own security requirements, ensuring that only authorized employees can enter the space.

In the example of the office/warehouse above, the building could be divided into two or more partitioned areas. Each area would have its own security control panel or access device. Office employees would have access to the office. Warehouse employees would have access to the warehouse. For employees who need access to both areas, they would have unique codes for each area (or use other devices for authorization, such as key fobs, key cards or an app on their mobile phone).

The more partitions, the greater the security

Not every business needs multiple partitions. But for commercial settings where safety and security are top priorities, partitions are essential.

Why do they matter?

In the computing world, there’s a well-known security principle known as the “Rule of Least Privilege.” The idea is that each user’s access should be limited to only the files, folders and systems they need for their day-to-day job. This drastically reduces the risk of an unmitigated security breach.

The same rule can be applied to physical security in commercial environments.

Partitions can be used to secure numerous types of sensitive (or dangerous) areas, including industrial areas, IT/server rooms, chemical storage rooms, critical file storage, utility areas and so on.

Request a no-obligation security consultation

There are several different ways to add a partitioned security system to your building. At PROTECTION PLUS, we offer a variety of access control solutions and business security systems that enable you to secure virtually any area of your business. Contact us today for a no-obligation security consultation, and our experts will help you identify the right solution for your needs.