What should I know about Badge Reels
Badge reels are a widely used way of displaying identity cards, badges, RFID cards and proximity cards in a variety of settings. From increased convenience to better levels of accessibility, enhanced environmental security and company branding, you can expect to enjoy a whole host of benefits once you integrate this small yet impactful safety accessory into your identification system. No matter your trade, team, size or scope, badge reels are a brilliant addition to your security operations. Below, discover everything you need to know about badge reels before you invest in your security system accessories
What Are Badge Reels?
A badge reel is a compact security accessory that attaches to a person’s clothing to display their identification card. The card or card holder is attached to a retractable cord, which allows the wearer to pull out their ID and tap, display, or swipe it for secured access systems. Many environments, including airports, hospitals, professional office environments, gyms, and health clubs, enjoy the benefits of badge reels.
You’ve likely seen badge reels attached to belts, pockets or even security lanyards. They’re popular because they are small, streamlined and fully customisable, making them an absolute staple in a wide array of settings. They allow for the effortless display of identity or access cards, while also giving the wearer the convenience and flexibility to use their plastic card without having to physically remove it from their person. So, whether it is simply for displaying identity or accessing a security-controlled area, a badge reel is the go-to choice for modern professional and high-security environments. In one simple accessory, you’re getting a heavy dose of practicality, safety and style.
You will find badge reels in many shapes, sizes and styles. Some are simple, serving their function without fuss, while others are highly decorated with branding, logos or other designs that embody the spirit of their company’s setting. Small but essential, the badge reel will help you to run your operation smoothly and efficiently with an easy and convenient way to carry identity cards.
Different Types of Badge Reels
There are a few options for badge reels on the market, the most popular being the standard badge reel. They are primarily used to hold and display ID cards, with a retractable cord that the wearer can instantly pull out to show their card. Next, heavy-duty badge reels. These are designed for higher-impact environments like mines, factories or construction sites, and are therefore typically crafted from more durable materials that can last through harsher conditions for longer periods and are finished with a stronger retractable cord. You may also encounter customer badge reels that are finished with branding, colours, logos and details for an amplified visual experience that extends a brand’s marketing capacity on a local scale. Lastly, there are lanyard badge reels which are a great choice combining all the carrying convenience of a lanyard and a badge reel all in one easy-to-use accessory.
Badge Reel Mechanisms
Once you choose the right badge reel for your wants and needs, it is good to have a sound understanding of how the identity card accessory works. Badge reels work using a simple but effective spring-loaded mechanism, meaning that when you pull the attached card, the tension in the spring increases. When the card is let go, the tension decreases and the spring retracts back into the reel pulling the cord with it. There are three major aspects of a reel, the housing, the cord and the spring mechanism.
Housing: This is the outer shell or plastic casing of the badge reel which protects the inner components. It is most commonly made from plastic, but can also be metal. There is an attached clip at the back allowing for the carrier to wear their reel.
Retractable Cord: The cord stretches when it is pulled, and retracts when it is let go. This can be crafted from a selection of materials, including nylon or steel. It will usually extend from 60-90cm and some more heavy-duty models can feature even longer cords.
Spring Mechanism: The spring winds up when the cord is pulled and unwinds when it is released, signaling for the cord to retract. It is a durable, high-stretch system that can withstand countless pulls.
Badge Reels Uses and Benefits
There are many practical uses of badge reels, and countless benefits, particularly in professional settings. They are functional, efficient, cost-effective and enhance your company branding on a smaller scale.
Badge reels are fundamental for daily operations in high-pressure environments such as healthcare, corporate, and educational settings. They allow carriers to quickly show their identity or access cards without digging through bags or pockets. The reel is neatly displayed on clothing for a secure and accessible solution.
Badge reels are also popular during high-level events such as festivals, trade shows or conferences. They are a simple means of allowing attendees to use their hands and engage with their environments whilst having their access pass or identification card on display.
Beyond the practicalities, badge reels also assist with promoting professional branding on a smaller scale. They naturally promote a professional image with visible IDs, instilling a sense of safety, security and trust in a business setting. Additionally, they can be custom branding with your colours, logo or design codes for an added marketing boost. Most significantly, badge reels positively contribute to higher levels of workplace safety. With the effortless display of identity cards and access cards and quick, seamless access, they significantly enhance security standards in professional environments.
If you would like to discuss how you can integrate badge reels into your security and identity system at your business, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Identity People.
