The safety of students, teachers, and educators has become a national priority, and IoT technology provides a way not only for home automation but also for educational campuses to address the unique challenges of school safety while enhancing security measures.

For example, visitors, parents, staff, faculty and relatives of students need to visit campuses for a variety of reasons. Because these diverse groups of people enter the building at different times, it is difficult to record each visitor accurately and why they are on campus. Schools must also be easily accessible to students and teachers and prevent unauthorized access. Let's take a look at some cloud-based IoT technology options that can be deployed on school campuses to keep students and staff safe.

What is cloud-based IoT?

Cloud-based IoT technology is a centralized way to access data, files, storage, software and information. Simply put, the cloud allows connected devices and systems to aggregate data and information in a more accessible format. How does this help make schools safer? When it comes to campus security, cloud-based systems allow schools to access security controls, view system data quickly, and view visitor information efficiently and effectively.

Examples of IoT technologies for school security

The benefits of using cloud-based technologies range from increased efficiency to convenience. For school security, it is essential to research and consider the different types of IoT technologies and decide which products and systems will provide the most benefits. Not all locations need all cloud-based technologies, as all schools and campuses face unique security risks and vulnerabilities.

#1: Wireless Smart Lock

Wireless smart locks used on building doors help control access for visitors and staff. Wireless smart locks can be used in a variety of locations, such as computer or science labs, libraries, faculty offices, or certain classrooms with limited access. The lock can be controlled remotely using cloud-based software. This allows whoever grants access to unlock or lock the door from anywhere.

Those who need daily access to a door equipped with a smart lock can access it using an encrypted key card or key ring, or via a mobile app. Another benefit of using a wireless lock with a school door locking system is that remote security measures can be taken quickly in an emergency or if there is a lock.

#2: Unified access control

Another IoT technology for school security is integrated access control, an optimized system that provides real-time school access data. The cloud access system can easily connect with other school security systems based on open standards.

 By implementing cloud-based access control and integration with video, alarm and identification systems, schools will have a better point of access control to the school, making it easier to manage people entering and leaving the building.

Unified access management enables schools to avoid risk and respond more quickly in the event of an incident. Integrating access control and cloud video security enables more accurate visitor identification and management and allows first responders to review relevant footage in an emergency.

#3: Visitor Management System

The easiest way to know who is entering a building is to use a visitor management system. In this way, schools can streamline the approval process, track visitor information, and keep track of other people entering the building besides students and teachers.

Today's IoT-enabled visitor systems can simplify school security through mobile check-in and connect to access control for simple and secure guest access. Storing this information in the cloud helps in an emergency as management teams can quickly review visitor logs and send information to first responders.

Finding the information you need in an easily accessible digital attendance log is much more efficient and makes your job as a busy school concierge easier.

#4: Dangerous noise detection sensor

Sound detection sensors use acoustic, vibration or optical sensors to recognize sounds associated with threats. When the IoT sound sensor detects a sound, the transmitter is activated to send a message to local authorities and the police.

No school wants emergencies like this, but being prepared and using technology can help you respond to emergencies faster and minimize the impact on your campus. Sound sensors are a great way to alert security and first responders when an incident occurs, and when combined with other security systems such as video cameras and access control, can help school security administrators take the necessary steps to protect students and teachers.

IoT and school safety

Cloud-based IoT security technologies combined with robust emergency plans and strategies can ensure school safety and provide greater peace of mind for parents, students and teachers. Schools can improve their safety and security systems by using technology that is click-enabled on mobile devices or cloud-based platforms.