July/August 2019 I 29
In the past, analog hard wired ACS testing often
involved presenting a card at the door to see if it
unlocked. Today, requirements for testing ACS have
become significantly more complex due to multi-
system integrations and code changes.
The extent of commissioning required at each project
will be different depending on the owner’s needs. Some
owners do not anticipate a high threat or foresee a risk of
losing valuable assets and want only minimal functional
testing. They may view commissioning as a necessity
imposed by corporate policy and contract for minimal
services. Owners who have experienced problems with
previous access control integrations into building systems
or assess a vulnerability to potential loss from a threat or
event are more likely to contract for extensive services.
Intelligent building systems with IP edge access control
devices operating on a LAN may have corporate network
specifications that require commissioning.
As part of the building life safety systems, many ACS
are required to release doors upon activation of the fire
detection and alarm system. Where electronic ACS are
integrated with the fire detection and alarm system, two
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards
may be applicable:
• NFPA 3, Standard for Commissioning
of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
• NFPA 4, Standard for Integrated Fire Protection
and Life Safety System Testing
Commissioning of the electronic access control
system at fire doors may already be included in the
commissioning of the fire protection and life safety
systems. While NFPA 4 does not mandate integrated
testing, it provides minimum requirements for integrated
testing where such testing is required by another code,
standard, design document or by an authority having
jurisdiction (AHJ).
The advantages of commissioning ACS include:
• Certainty that physical measures at doors and gates
operate as intended for the building occupants
• Verification that electronic building systems are
integrated to function properly when intended
• Assurance that patches and updates are applied
and cybersecurity measures are functional
• Ability to create operational training, policies
and procedures for staff
• Compliance with codes
It is the responsibility of the owner to understand
the functionality of the access control system and
develop a sequence of operations with the designer,
installer and integrator. Given the liabilities associated
with electronic safety and security (ESS) systems, the
owner may contract for commissioning an evaluation
of the systems’ hardware and software to ensure
that the access control system meets the owner
and building operator’s requirements.
Many steps may require examination during design,
installation and testing of an access control system
depending upon the quantity of systems integrated.
The following activities may be included in full
commissioning of ESS systems:
1. Designation of an individual to lead commissioning
process activities
2. Clear documentation of owner’s project requirements
for each passage (door) in the project,
delineating the basis of design for systems
controlling access to those passages, and updating
documents during design and construction
3. Development of security strategies
and incorporation of security system testing
and commissioning requirements into
the construction documents
4. Development and utilization
of a commissioning plan
5. Review of contractor submittals
6. Verification that the installation and performance
of ACS meet the owner’s project requirements
and basis of design. Functional performance
testing should include confirmation that local
police and fire department requirements are
met. Testing should ensure that notifications
are received by the proper staff and alarm
annunciations are sent
7. Completion of a commissioning report