CCTV and Access Control for Buildings: How to Plan ELV Systems

ELV stands for extra low voltage. It covers the systems that run on low-voltage cabling: CCTV, access control, structured cabling, intercom, fire alarm interface and audio visual. For building owners, the common mistake is to buy a list of cameras instead of designing a system that does a job.

Start with what you need to protect

Identify the risks and the goals: entrances, car parks, cash handling points, plant rooms, stock areas. Decide whether the purpose is deterrence, evidence, access control or all three. The design follows from that.

CCTV planning

•     Camera positions: cover entrances, exits, corridors and key assets, with a clear view of faces or vehicles where that is needed.

•     Lighting: poor lighting ruins good cameras. Check coverage at night.

•     Resolution and lens: choose according to what the image must show, not the highest specification available.

•     Storage and retention: size the recorder to hold the footage for the period you need.

•     Privacy: avoid pointing cameras into private spaces and follow the rules that apply to your premises.

Access control planning

•     Decide who goes where and when, then set permissions to match.

•     Plan how doors behave on power failure and fire alarm, so people can always get out safely.

•     Plan how credentials are issued, changed and removed when people leave.

Cabling, power and network

Good installations depend on tidy, labelled cabling, proper containment and reliable power. Systems that share a network need to be set up securely and separated from general traffic where appropriate.

Remote access and cyber security

Change default passwords, restrict access to those who need it and keep firmware updated. Poorly secured recorders and cameras are a common weakness.

Rules and approvals

Some building types in Dubai must meet security authority requirements for CCTV, including approved installers. Check what applies to your premises and confirm your contractor's approvals before installation.

Maintenance

Cameras need cleaning and checking, recorders need health checks and access control needs testing. Systems left alone for years often fail when they are finally needed. Planned servicing under an AMC avoids this.

Planning or upgrading building security? Request a site assessment. See our ELV systems.