Building Access Control
Balancing building access control with providing convenient access is a major security challenge for any institution. In an effort to meet these challenges, DPS and other supportive departments have made significant investments in the installation of access control systems throughout many of the university buildings. The use of access control in campus buildings is expected to increase over the next few years to include all university buildings.
Access control provides a range of security based on the type of system and its application. There are two types of access control systems used at the university: a networked card reader system and stand-alone Omni Locks™, that require personal identification numbers (PIN).
The card reader system uses existing University Photo ID cards in place of traditional brass keys, to allow campus community members inside locked buildings during evening and weekend hours. Card readers are typically used on exterior doors and allow entry by swiping a Photo ID through the reader and entering a PIN to unlock the door.
Authorized users of Omni Locks™ require only a PIN for entry. These locks are typically used for labs and interior doors that remain locked at all times. Guidelines:
- Access to University facilities may be issued to departments, University faculty, staff, graduate assistants, students, and non-University persons with written authorization from the appropriate dean, director, or department head.
- Access levels are issued only with a key-card/access request with an authorized signature.
- An authorized individual seeking access must bring his or her UO Photo ID card to the Department of Public Safety to be encoded and to select a PIN. Once proper authorization is completed, the card holder information is entered into the access control database and activated.
Use
Swipe ID card through the card reader located next to controlled doors. Hold the card so that the magnetic strip is next to the key pad. Swipe down through the reader. On older style readers, a flashing green light indicates a PIN is required. A steady green light indicates the door is unlocked. On newer readers, as pictured above, an amber light flashes to indicate PIN is required. A steady green light near the door icon indicates the door is unlocked. On some newer buildings the use of 'prox' cards is in effect. Instead of swiping these cards you simply hold them within range of the reader and through a secure transmission the door will unlock.
Conditions
Any person or department issued University card access accepts the responsibility for promptly notifying his or her own supervisor as well as the Department of Public Safety in the event the access card is lost or stolen.
Authorized non-University persons such as contractors, window washers, elevator maintenance personnel, etc. who require short-term card access to University facilities shall obtain access cards from the Department of Public Safety or the Office of the Director of the Physical Plant after paying a deposit or a monetary consideration in the contract for services. Access cards for short-term access shall be issued for a specified time period and must be returned to the issuing office as specified.
Problems
The most common problems with card access are data entry errors and an occasional hardware malfunction. If you find your card does not work, please bring it to the Department of Public Safety to ensure that it has been encoded correctly and the magnetic stripe on the back of the card has not been "de-magnetized" or damaged. The card holder record will also be checked for accuracy.
Please report a card reader or door hardware problem immediately. Be prepared to provide details of the problem and location of the card reader.
Contact the Department of Public Safety Regarding Access Control:
Dispatch Non-Emergency, 541-346-2919
Systems Coordinator, 541-346-3045