Access Control Commissioning or Install Checklist

Door Locks and Hardware

Physical Operation, For every controlled opening:

Check all lock / hardware fasteners or mounts are secure and without play, slack, or gaps exceeding tolerances on installation instructions.
Ensure operation of lock is free of binding, grinding, or interference for door or frame features or other components.
Close and open door, or operate several cycles, the opening to ensure that no binding or warping is affecting operation.
If Exit Devices are used, confirm appropriate 'Push to Exit' signage is displayed.
If Door Closers or Operators are used, confirm electronic access devices do not interfere with operation.
Confirm secure installation and function of Door Position Switches/ Contacts/ DPS.
Weatherproof and lightly apply grease per specification to mechanical hardware like hinges.
Ensure any cabling or system wiring is hidden, tucked behind raceway or frames, and is not being pinched or cut.
Confirm that accessibility clearances are satisfied and any additional access control devices comply with codes.
If standalone, battery powered locks are used, confirm remaining battery life is strong and document commission date of batteries for future reference.

Door Controller Install Checks

Confirm that all terminated wiring at controller is secured and terminated without short for each device.
If kept in a metal enclosure, ensure panel tamper contacts and panel locks are used. Gather panel keys for central, secure management.
If controllers are located at the door, confirm they are installed on the secure/locked side of the opening and located behind a tamper-resistant or semi-obscured location
For wireless locks, confirm that all hubs or repeaters are clearly labeled as companions to the separate system readers or controllers.

Free Egress and Fire Alarm Loop Check

Confirm that upon fire alarm activation, all door maglocks release and are not powered.
Confirm that upon fire alarm activation, all emergency exit doors and openings can be freely opened and are not locked for any reason.
Confirm that during normal operating conditions, all 'Request To Exit' devices are located in code compliant arrangements and function properly
Check that any delayed egress openings have specifically been approved by the AHJ, and delays do not exceed 15 seconds, unless specifically excepted by AHJ.
Confirm that all Pushbutton style RTE switches are properly labeled and displayed per local code requirements, and directly interrupt power to locks and not controller, unless specifically excepted by AHJ.

Credential Reader Checks

Confirm that reader device is securely anchored without gaps to the wall, frame, post, or bollard. Seal or install trim guards where needed.
Confirm 'normal operation' status lights are displayed per intended behavior. (On/Off/Red/Green/Blue, etc.)
Confirm audible beep or siren registers when credential is read.
Check that reader tamper device is connected and configured.
If contactless type reader, present test card to confirm read range meets spec.
If biometric type reader, confirm unit positioning will not be interfered with by environmental features (i.e. sun movement, HVAC downdrafts, etc.,)
Confirm that accessibility clearances are satisfied and any additional access control devices comply with codes.

Credential Enrollment

Confirm that the only credentials to be immediately carried/used by cardholders are activated, and no preemptive or batched activation of unissued/ stored credentials is done.
Check that each user issued a credential is accurately classified and identified in the access control software. Include Picture ID images if possible.
If credentials are being renewed or exchanged, confirm physical possession, disposal, and deactivation of old credential in system.
If biometric credentials are enrolled, confirm multiple digits or templates are enrolled.
If multi-factor credentials are issued, confirm that all factors are recorded, active, and valid in the system.

Access Management Software Configuration

Configure Unlock, Extended unlock, Door Hold Open, and Relock event periods, as appropriate.
Configure user access schedules (e.g., 24/7, 8am-5pm, off-hours, holidays, etc.)
Configure user access levels (e.g., Managers, Workers, Visitors, Temporaries, etc.)
Confirm Polling Interval, or settings update push duration as prompt and as close to real-time to be accurate as recorded in system.
Configure any Maps or floorplans used to display and manage system control points.
Confirm successful integration and configuration of features like 'Video Verification', or integration with video surveillance, intrusion, fire alarm, and intercom systems.
Configure alarm or event notifications (email, text, etc.)
Download and retain copies of all door/controller configurations
Confirm any imported databases are clean and without problems if populating access management system.
For 'Anti-Passback' rules, ensure that users will not unwittingly or inadvertently cause alarms if they use atypical or uncontrolled openings.

Network/Security Settings

Document Controller and other ethernet-based devices MAC address
Assign and document Controller and other ethernet-based device IP address
Update firmware to latest version (or manufacturer recommended/tested if different)
Change Controller admin password from default
Create multiple users if required (by specification or manufacturer recommendation)
Set NTP server and verify time and date
Disable unused services/close unused ports (FTP, telnet, SSH, etc.)

Hardware/Security

Document MAC address(es) (often more than one if using multiple network cards), or if hosted/cloud access is used, document hostnames of all remote servers.
Assign and document IP address(es) of every networked device, endpoint, or server.
Apply latest OS updates (unless not recommended by manufacturer)
Create secure admin password
Create additional users as specified
Test UPS operation and runtime (if supplied)

General Server Settings

Confirm any requisite services or policies are free to operate and will restore automatically after reboot events.
Change admin password from default
Create operator/user logins
If LDAP or Active Directory is used, confirm valid implementation and provisioning of service.
Confirm and document any external database connections or dependencies by the access software.

Document MAC address(es) of each workstation
Assign and document IP address(es)
Apply latest OS updates (unless not recommended by manufacturer)
Create secure admin password
Create additional users as specified
If dongles or hardware keys are required for client access, document location of key on workstation (e.g., Port Location, Key Serial Number)

Label all cables, patch panels, wall outlets, etc., as specified
Ensure cables are secured to supports (J-hooks, ceiling truss, etc.)
Conceal cables where possible/required
Leave properly coiled and dressed service loops at controller location and head end as required
Test all terminations and document results as specified
Document cable test results as specified (if certification is required)