In the realm of data center construction, traditional access control systems have long been the standard for managing site security and workforce entry. However, as projects become more complex and demands for efficiency and safety increase, a more comprehensive approach is gaining traction: worksite intelligence platforms. These platforms offer a holistic view of the construction environment, surpassing the capabilities of conventional access control.
 

The Limitations of Traditional Access Control

Traditional access control systems primarily focus on regulating who enters and exits the construction site. While they play a crucial role in maintaining site security, their scope is often limited to:

• Basic Entry Management: Controlling access points to ensure only authorized personnel enter the site.

• Time Logging: Recording the times workers clock in and out, which can be prone to manual errors or intentional misreporting.
   

These systems may lack real-time data integration, comprehensive workforce analytics, and advanced safety monitoring, which are essential for today's complex data center projects.

‍The Advantages of Worksite Intelligence Platforms

Worksite intelligence platforms, such as those offered by Eyrus, provide a more expansive and integrated approach to site management. They encompass traditional access control features and extend far beyond, offering:

• Automated Worker Onboarding: Streamlining the registration and orientation process, ensuring that all workers are properly credentialed before accessing the site.

• Real-Time Time and Attendance Tracking: Automatically capturing accurate data on workforce presence, reducing manual entry errors and providing reliable labor records.

• Advanced Access Control: Implementing sophisticated access restrictions not only at site entry points but also within specific zones, enhancing security and compliance.

• Video Surveillance Integration: Combining access data with live video feeds to monitor site activities comprehensively, deterring unauthorized actions and providing valuable insights.

• Environmental Monitoring: Keeping track of site conditions such as water levels and CO2 concentrations to preemptively address potential hazards.

• Instant Mass Communication: Enabling rapid dissemination of critical information to all site personnel, crucial during emergencies or important updates.
   

By leveraging these features, worksite intelligence platforms offer a unified solution that enhances productivity, safety, and security on construction sites.
 

‍2 Case Studies where traditional access control didn’t cut it

 
‍Structure Tone Southwest Saves Hours Every Week with Automated Time and Attendance and Mass-Texting to All Workers

A notable example of the efficacy of worksite intelligence platforms is demonstrated by Structure Tone Southwest's implementation during a data center build. The team at Structure Tone Southwest has a habit of proactively driving productivity, safety, and efficiency on their jobsites to new levels. Structure Tone Southwest is currently 10 months into building a 230,000 sqft data center, and they have taken the opportunity to implement Eyrus to streamline workforce registration, automate time and attendance, and enable enhanced safety-prevention and response measures.

Read it here

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We also learn a lot of lessons from other complicated construction verticals - such as airports:

Allegheny County Saves Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars with Seamless Workforce Security Solution at Pittsburgh International Airport Terminal Project

“Eyrus helped us plan and implement a best-in-class access control and workforce management solution that met all of our requirements and saved us a lot of money over the course of our project. I’m impressed with the Eyrus team’s responsiveness, and we are excitedly exploring other Eyrus solutions that will benefit our project.”

Jason Timmerman | VP of Workplace Safety | Allegheny County Airport Authority

Read it here

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Conclusion
 

While traditional access control systems have served their purpose in data center construction, the evolving landscape of the industry necessitates more comprehensive solutions. Worksite intelligence platforms offer a multifaceted approach, integrating advanced technologies to provide real-time data, enhance safety protocols, and improve overall project management. Embracing these platforms can lead to more efficient, secure, and successful construction outcomes.

And, you can read more about Eyrus Access Control in The Ultimate Guide to Construction Site Access Control