Can a keyless world unlock better campus security?
Bruce Donald, UK & Ireland Manager for SimonsVoss, discusses the evolving needs of campus access and security.
As educational environments become increasingly complex, securing campus facilities and ensuring student safety is now a top priority for building and facility managers in schools, colleges, and universities worldwide.
These institutions face a range of security challenges, and digital locking systems are emerging as a powerful solution, offering enhanced control, real-time monitoring, and seamless integration with emergency protocols.
Meeting Today’s Security Needs in Education
Traditional campus environments were often characterised by open spaces, free access, and minimal barriers.
However, that is no longer a reality for education building and facility managers. Recent years have seen a shift, driven by a combination of factors, ranging from higher enrollment numbers and diverse building layouts to evolving security threats.
Educational facilities have become larger and more complex too, often serving as multifunctional spaces that host not only academic activities but also extracurricular and community events.
This complexity introduces challenges in controlling who enters and exits various parts of the campus.
The Complete University Guide estimates that a third of UK university students become a victim of crime – mainly theft and burglary – and roughly 20% of student robberies occur in the first six weeks of the academic year.
This, coupled with the fact the UK has seen a rise in the number of first-year students choosing purpose-built accommodation, rather than house-share arrangements, mean there is a pressing need for advanced security measures that protect both the students residing in these multi-occupancy accommodation buildings, as well as the property itself.
What Are Digital Locking Systems?
Digital locking systems are sophisticated, wireless access control solutions that allow administrators to manage access across different areas of a campus with ease. Unlike traditional keys, digital locks are programmed to provide access based on credentials like key cards, transponders, or mobile phones, granting or restricting entry as needed.
These systems also offer invaluable insights through real-time monitoring and reporting. Campus security teams can see who accessed specific areas and when, allowing swift action in response to suspicious activity. For universities, this capability makes it possible to respond quickly to security threats and better manage access during events, for contractors, and for visitors - all without compromising the safety of students and staff.
Russell Waller, Head of Buildings and Services at Cambridge University’s Trinity Hall has seen the benefits of electronic key management systems within his own buildings. He said, “Keyless access solutions have dramatically reduced the time previously spent travelling to a central point to collect the correct keys. Additionally, it means that multiple personnel can independently access the same building and that lost keys are no longer a legacy security issue.”
Enhancing Health and Safety with Digital Locking Systems
Health and safety are critical priorities for any educational facility, and digital locking systems are increasingly central to these strategies.
Educational institutions need robust, compliant solutions that help them meet UK fire safety regulations, especially regarding door hardware. Digital locking systems, when paired with certified third-party door hardware, can support schools and universities in achieving compliance.
According to UK standards, door hardware used on fire doors should be CE marked; however, this alone does not guarantee suitability for fire door applications. To meet safety requirements, door closers on fire doors should be chosen with consideration for user accessibility and adherence to regulatory standards.
Schools and universities must accommodate individuals of all ages and physical abilities, making it essential that fire door closers meet the required standards to ensure safe exits during emergencies. Digital locking systems allow controlled access while securing exit routes, enabling safe building evacuation without compromising security. This dual functionality ensures that buildings remain protected from unauthorised access while providing secure, compliant escape routes in the event of an emergency.
Digital locks also help secure high-risk areas, such as laboratories or maintenance rooms, that require restricted access due to hazardous materials or specialised equipment.
Bruce Donald, UK and Ireland Manager for SimonsVoss, said, “In universities with extensive research facilities or vocational training, the ability to control who enters these zones is crucial for accident prevention. Digital access logs also provide accountability, allowing administrators to track who accessed specific areas and when, supporting compliance with safety standards and helping reduce health risks.”
Addressing Mental Health and Student Well-Being Through Security
An often-overlooked aspect of campus security is its role in supporting mental health. For many students, especially those facing anxiety or adjusting to new environments, feeling secure on campus can have a significant impact on their well-being.
Knowing that access to accommodations or study areas is monitored and controlled can bring peace of mind to students and contribute to a more positive, supportive atmosphere on campus.
For students in shared housing or campus accommodations, digital locking systems offer additional privacy and security, particularly in high-stress times, such as exam periods. Students can focus on their studies and feel safe in their personal spaces, fostering a healthier campus environment.
Conclusion: A Long-Term Investment in Campus Safety
As educational institutions face growing demands for security and safety, digital locking systems provide a scalable, proactive solution to meet these needs. With capabilities that extend beyond basic security to include comprehensive emergency response, real-time monitoring, and controlled access to sensitive areas, digital locks help build a safer campus environment.
For educational institutions, investing in digital security infrastructure is an investment in both student safety and institutional resilience. By adopting digital locking systems, schools, colleges, and universities can focus on creating an environment where students not only feel safe but are empowered to thrive academically, socially, and personally.