Optimizing Security in the Food Industry

Sethness Roquette, a leader in the food industry known for producing caramel color, has consistently prioritized rigorous security measures to protect its operations. Established in 1880 in Clinton, IA, the company has leveraged its partnership with Per Mar Security Services to integrate scalable and flexible access control systems, ensuring the safety of products and personnel.

 

Downsides of the Traditional Key & Lock System

Before updating to company-wide access control systems, Sethness Roquette faced significant challenges with traditional physical keys and codes. Managing multiple keys was not only cumbersome and costly but also lacked efficient tracking, with no system in place to record who held keys to various areas. According to a Sethness engineer, “Our process was manual and inefficient. We had to maintain entry logs and share mechanical punch codes with contractors, which complicated job performance.” This old method proved to be inadequate for modern security needs.

 

Enhanced Access Control Implementation

The new system uses mobile credentials and/or key cards (and pin mechanisms), allowing precise control over facility access. This modern approach has replaced inefficient manual processes, facilitating easy updates and customization of access permissions, thus enhancing operational security and efficiency. 

Highlights of Per Mar’s commercial security access control systems include: 

• Real-time monitoring and alerts
• Facial recognition
• Mobile credentials
• Control Readers
• Visitor management
  • Cloud-based flexibility
  • Mobile app (unlock doors, manage user permissions, and monitor your premises from your smartphone)
• Smart locks
• Integration with video surveillance and other security systems
• Complementary to physical security

 

Strategic Benefits and Impact

Implementing these access control solutions has significantly improved the management of entry points and sensitive areas within the facility. Programming and deactivating access cards in real time ensures that only authorized personnel can enter critical spaces, substantially reducing the risk of unauthorized access and potential security breaches. Moreover, the system’s flexibility supports the creation of custom access schedules and automatic smart lock settings, further securing the facility after hours.

“The access control system installed by Per Mar has revolutionized how we handle facility security, allowing us to focus on our core operations without compromising safety. Adjusting permissions and deactivating access is now straightforward and hassle-free,” noted an engineering team member at Sethness. 

The crucial role of commercial access control systems in safeguarding the food manufacturing industry is undeniable. By addressing both internal and external security threats, these systems ensure the integrity of products and the safety of personnel, reinforcing Sethness Roquette’s commitment to maintaining the highest security standards. How can you see access control systems and key cards making a difference at your facility? Give us a call for a free walk-through!