Industrial surveillance

The revolutionary approach to mobile access taken by ABLOY CUMULUS has been recognised by ISJ’s 2024 Leaders in Security Awards. ABLOY CUMULUS was named the 2024 winner in the Innovation Initiative category, which recognises a solution that may be “put together with ethical and sustainable considerations in mind, has a direct impact on operational outcomes, is flexible for users, or facilitates collaboration”. ABLOY CUMULUS ABLOY CUMULUS is a new keyless access solution, part of the Digital Access Solutions portfolio at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. With CUMULUS, user mobile phones eliminate key management hassles, enabling authorisations to be issued and amended quickly and conveniently on a user’s smartphone. Their personalised, encrypted mobile credential unlocks any authorised ABLOY CUMULUS device, wherever it is located.   Keyless access solutions CUMULUS Controller brings mobile unlocking via Bluetooth to any electric or electronic lock from any brand The ABLOY CUMULUS product range covers keyless access solutions. Native ABLOY CUMULUS devices are certified for outdoor use in even the harshest climates. The range includes a battery-powered padlock; a key deposit for accessing mechanical keys e.g. maintenance purposes; and a robust new swing handle that brings mobile access to outdoor cabinets. In addition, the revolutionary CUMULUS Controller brings mobile unlocking via Bluetooth to any electric or electronic lock from any brand, with compatible wiring.  Situational awareness This new solution helps businesses minimise costs and the security threats associated with lost keys or with the distribution and misuse of unauthorised credentials. Every locking device provides extensive audit trails to improve a business’ situational awareness. The system is used with a convenient mobile application and can administered using any integrated software tool, such as ASSA ABLOY Access.  Access management anywhere  Because the solution requires no continuous network coverage, it operates in even the remote locations Because the solution requires no continuous network coverage – for either the locking device or the mobile phone – it operates in even the most demanding or remote locations. This gives new organisations the wide-ranging security and convenience benefits of a mobile access solution. For many such customers, until now, only key-based digital access or mechanical solutions have been suitable.  Customisable solution Like ASSA ABLOY’s other convenient mobile solutions, ABLOY CUMULUS makes access more fluid. Relying on the user’s smartphone for unlocking removes any need for physical key management. ABLOY CUMULUS is completely customisable: with modern APIs and SDKs for smartphone app development, the solution can become part of each customer’s needs in a way specific to their organisation. CUMULUS may also be managed with ASSA ABLOY Access.  Innovation through easier integration  “ABLOY CUMULUS was built API-first which means it is easy to integrate with various access management systems, booking or workflow management software, and much more,” explains Hanna Sillanpää, Head of ABLOY Digital Solutions Product Unit at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. “This innovative approach is completely different from the typical method of developing access and security solutions. Our API-first approach, combined with SDKs and the portfolio of locking devices, enables CUMULUS to become part of our customers’ important business processes.”  ISJ Leaders in Security Awards The annual ISJ Leaders in Security Awards celebrate select pioneers and solution excellence across the industry The annual ISJ Leaders in Security Awards celebrate select pioneers and solution excellence across the industry. They are judged by a panel of senior experts from around the world. “We are thrilled to learn that a prestigious jury considered ABLOY CUMULUS, in their words, ‘a unique solution with a refined methodology that has been provided to proactively address not just immediate vulnerabilities and issues, but future challenges’." Digitising access "With ABLOY CUMULUS, access changes from a security function to a powerful, reliable business enabler,” she adds. “If you can imagine it, ABLOY CUMULUS can help you do it, digitalising your access to make it ready for what’s ahead.”

The first-ever European Union rules to curb methane emissions from the energy sector have become legislation. The new EU Methane Emissions Reduction 2019/942 Ruling means gas, oil, and coal industries in Europe must measure, monitor, report, and verify their methane emissions and take action to reduce them. Why introduce this ruling? According to the EU’s Green House Gas (GHG) Inventory Report, more than 50% of all direct methane emissions from Europe’s energy sector result from unintentional release into the atmosphere. EU authorities believe this legislation and its focus on LDAR (leak detection and repair) will have a substantial impact on emissions mitigation and contribute towards climate goals. Who does it affect? The new announcement sets out several stipulations, such as the requirement for methane leak detection capabilities in: Upstream oil exploration and production, including all well types. Fossil gas gathering, processing, transmission, distribution, and underground storage, including liquefied natural gas terminals. Underground and surface coal mines, including those that are closed or abandoned. How to comply with the legislation For valve stations, the frequency is nine months (Type 1 LDAR) and 18 months (Type 2) Several timelines are now in place for different types of leak tests as part of a comprehensive LDAR programme. Except for transmission and distribution networks, the ruling expects compressor stations, underground storage facilities, LNG terminals, and regulating and metering stations to undertake a Type 1 LDAR survey every four months and a Type 2 survey every eight months. For valve stations, the frequency is nine months (Type 1 LDAR) and 18 months (Type 2). Type 1 and 2 LDAR survey In transmission and distribution networks, compressor stations and regulating and metering stations must complete a Type 1 LDAR survey (>16 bar pressure) every four months and a Type 2 survey (>16 bar pressure) every eight months. For valve stations, the frequency is nine months (Type 1 LDAR) and 18 months (Type 2). In addition, regulating and metering stations must perform a Type 2 LDAR (≤16 bar pressure) every nine months, while valve stations must do the same every 21 months. How can FLIR help? Type 1 LDAR surveys seek out larger leaks that have the greatest influence on the environment and generally require more frequent inspection. To help the oil, gas, and coal industries undertake Type 1 LDAR surveys and comply with the new legislation, OGI (optical gas imaging) cameras from Teledyne FLIR provide the optimal way for owners, operators, and service providers to detect fugitive gas emissions and quantitively measure the size of leaks. FLIR OGI cameras FLIR OGI cameras have been independently tested and deemed compliant with the new EU Regulation 2019/942 FLIR OGI cameras have been independently tested and deemed compliant with the new EU Regulation 2019/942, Article 14 sensitivity standard for OGI equipment. The UK’s National Physical Laboratory (NPL) performed the tests, confirming that the FLIR G and GF-series OGI cameras for methane, hydrocarbon, and VOC detection are capable of imaging and quantifying (QOGI - quantitative optical gas imaging) a Type 1 leak defined as a minimum detection limit and minimum leak threshold of 17 g/hr.  FLIR ADGiLE™ automated solution Also available is the new FLIR ADGiLE™ automated solution to detect and locate methane leaks with continuous monitoring and advanced analytics. The system primarily focuses on midstream and high-concentration upstream methane applications. OGI has a clear and fundamental role in the future of methane mitigation across Europe. Teledyne FLIR has been working with the EU for many years to help the industry leverage the latest technology in methane emissions detection and quantification.

Bosch Rexroth, the automation branch of the Bosch group, has over 32,000 employees worldwide and specialises in advanced drive and control technologies. At their Customer and Innovation Centre in Ulm, Germany, they develop innovative solutions for the future of automation, such as the Smart Flex Effector, a compensation module aiming to revolutionise the industry. Smart flex effector Smart flex effector–automate the impossible David Lehmann, System Architect at Bosch Rexroth, explains what a compensation module is and what makes the Smart Flex Effector unique: “When you think about a robot in the factory, you usually think of a six-axis robot assembling parts or building a car, or something like that. The robots have some kind of tool at the tip, like a gripper. The compensation module is the part that goes between the robot arm and the gripper. The Smart Flex Effector stands out due to its ability to provide compliance (flexibility in response to forces) in six degrees of freedom (movement in three-dimensional space)." "We can measure the deflection (change in position) of the tool with high precision with an integrated sensor system. This allows us to perform complex tasks, such as precise assembly operations, that usually only humans can do. Our slogan, ‘Automate the impossible’, sums it up nicely. Our goal with this product is to enable robots to perform new tasks that they are traditionally not good at, thereby increasing efficiency and productivity.” Connectivity challenges Smart Flex Effector needs to exchange position measurement data with the robot controllers To enable the robots to perform these new tasks, the Smart Flex Effector needs to exchange position measurement data with the robot controllers, including information about the deflection of the tool and control signals for the module's locked and unlocked states. However, connecting the Smart Flex Effector to robot controllers was challenging, as David explains. “Our product was available, but we had difficulties installing it at our customer’s sites. When we talked to our customers, the feedback was often the same: 'You have this serial interface, but I don't want to spend two weeks or more trying to connect it with my robot controller. I do not have the time or the resources to do that.'” Simplifying connectivity with Anybus protocol converters To solve these connectivity challenges, Bosch Rexroth turned to HMS Networks who provided the Anybus Communicator Common Ethernet, a ready-made protocol converter capable of connecting serial devices to EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP or PROFINET controllers. A key benefit of the Anybus Communicator Common Ethernet was that the same unit can connect to all the major Ethernet protocols, as David describes “This Anybus protocol converter was the ideal solution for us because we can reconfigure it with a firmware update and with just one unit, we are able to provide the connection to the different protocols.” Anybus Communicator’s intuitive user interface Anybus Communicator could be installed via a web browser was a further plus point The Anybus Communicator’s intuitive user interface also won some new fans. “The interface is really nice. Before selling it to our customers, we tested it for ourselves in our lab where application engineers completed feasibility studies, for example. They all said that it was easy and straightforward to complete the required configurations via the web interface, which was important to us as we have customers that are not experts in automation and robotics.” The fact that the Anybus Communicator could be installed via a web browser was a further plus point. “Both we at Bosch and our customers prefer not to install third-party configuration software. It adds security risks and complexity – just getting the required admin rights often delays installations.” Smart Flex Effector + Anybus Communicator = The complete solution The Smart Flex Effector and Anybus Communicator have worked so well together that Bosch Rexroth includes the Anybus Communicator as part of a complete solution. “We decided to create an order number for the Anybus converter, so that customers could buy it directly from us. So, we sell both devices together as a complete solution.” Expanded market With the addition of the Anybus Communicator, Bosch Rexroth can easily connect to all the major Industrial Ethernet protocols, and as a result, has significantly expanded its market. "Now we really can address more or less the whole market”, David concludes. “We can cover everything; we haven't found a robot with a Fieldbus connection that is not supported by this Anybus converter yet."

Amidst the challenges of a prevailing economic downturn, the retail sector finds itself grappling with an unparalleled rise in incidents of shoplifting, theft, and burglaries. The disconcerting scenes witnessed on London’s Oxford Street in August 2023,​ where crowds gathered, looting as many stores as possible, sent shockwaves across the nation’s retailers. This alarming surge in retail crime has put retailers on high alert, as they contend with a rising tide of security concerns.  Shoplifting concerns Recent data from the Union of Shop Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW), has raised alarming concerns: shoplifting rates have surged by an unprecedented 24%.​ In the first half of 2023 alone, there were approximately 8 million reported shoplifting incidents. With the ongoing burden of the cost of living crisis and the approaching festive season, it is expected that these figures will keep surging.  Implementing robust security measures Theft and prevention strategies cost retailers approximately £2 billion in 2021/2022 While more help from the Government to support retail workers and the businesses shoplifters target is certainly needed, the implementation of robust security measures will significantly contribute to deterring these crimes from occurring in the first place. British retailers spend millions on tools to deter and catch shoplifters inside stores, from CCTV and security guards to electronic tagging and alarms. The Grocer reported that theft and prevention strategies cost retailers approximately £2 billion in 2021/2022. Despite these initial costs, other threats are at play beyond the shop floor. Break-ins by criminal gangs For many large town centre stores and supermarkets, and units in retail parks, the rear doors and delivery areas are commonly targeted by criminal gangs. It’s not uncommon for thefts to occur from pallets or cages that have been unloaded from lorries and sit waiting to be moved into the building. After-hours break-ins are a risk for all store owners too, particularly over the festive season when a lot of high-value stock has been delivered to shops and supermarkets. Addressing anti-social behaviour  The additional fencing was deemed an essential measure to safeguard the community Anti-social behaviour also poses a challenge for retailers. In 2022, an Aldi based in Derby​ invested in security fencing to protect staff and deter loitering groups. The additional fencing was deemed an essential measure to safeguard the community, as dangerous items were frequently found outside the store, including weapons and hypodermic needles.  So how do physical security solutions such as fencing and gates help better protect retail establishments such as supermarkets and edge-of-town retail park shops? Fencing and gates: a critical component of retail security  1. Risk assessment and target hardening  A thorough risk assessment will identify potential weak spots that require protection. ‘Target hardening’ involves implementing physical security measures that become more robust as they approach the target. This helps deter intruders while ensuring ease of access for customers and staff.  2. Effective perimeter security  Opt for difficult-to-climb security fencing that provides a robust obstacle against thieves, vandals, and intruders Selecting fencing solutions according to the potential threats, site characteristics, and topography is crucial. It is important to specify fencing that strikes a balance and maintains a welcoming appearance while safeguarding external areas of the store or warehouse from potential harm and unauthorised access. Solid fencing which provides concealment can help to conceal expensive goods and remove them as a target for opportunistic theft.  Opt for difficult-to-climb security fencing that provides a robust obstacle against thieves, vandals, and intruders. I recommend selecting a sufficiently tall and robust fence such as an acoustic barrier. Its noise-reducing properties are often beneficial for these types of sites too.  3. Controlling vehicular speeds and access  To enhance security, consider controlling vehicular speeds and access. One effective approach is the installation of bollards at the ends of traditional high streets. This practice is already commonplace as a means of safeguarding against hostile vehicle attacks, but it can also play a pivotal role in preventing quick getaways of vehicles involved in potential heists. Additionally, employing road blockers and sliding gates at the rear entrances of delivery areas would serve to fortify security further. These measures can help in delaying vehicles, allowing for necessary checks to be conducted.  4. Balancing security with aesthetics  The presence of high-security fencing can also make a site more of a target for vandals and burglars Another challenge is avoiding creating an imposing presence, especially important for areas situated near residential communities. The presence of high-security fencing can also make a site more of a target for vandals and burglars. To minimise this risk consider specifying timber fencing and traffic barriers to secure car parks, providing both security and a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers.  Taking an integrated approach Combine secure perimeter fencing with effective lighting in places with shaded areas and at doors, gates, and shop windows, alongside Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS), and strategically placed CCTV. These measures will hinder unauthorised entry and escape, increasing the likelihood of detection and apprehension.  Prioritising employee wellbeing  Installing robust security fencing, complemented by CCTV, good lighting, and guarding, creates a safe environment Installing robust security fencing, complemented by CCTV, good lighting, and guarding, creates a safe environment for employees. This not only safeguards their well-being but also provides peace of mind that they are protected effectively in the case of a burglary or crime.  When selecting security products for retail sites, it is advisable to opt for items that have undergone rigorous testing and carry relevant certifications for their security level. Each component should meet industry-specific standards for its intended purpose and originate from manufacturers accredited under ISO 9001:2015. This ensures a high standard of quality and reliability in safeguarding the premises.  High-quality security fencing As the cost-of-living crisis continues, crime rates increase, and the festive season approaches, the time to act and implement on-site security is now. By investing in comprehensive security measures, retailers can protect their assets, employees, and customers, ensuring a safer and more secure shopping environment for all. High-quality security fencing is also a sound investment, that requires little or no maintenance once installed. The best fencing solutions are extremely weather-resistant, and won’t suffer from rust or corrosion. With all sectors preparing to ride the rapids of recession in the coming year, improving on-site security while selecting cost-effective measures, is one surefire way to protect your people, your property, and your profits from harm. 

GSX 2023 marks a poignant moment for the security industry as an increasingly complex risk landscape converges with the acceleration of technology innovation. Emerging from this environment are three key trends that will dominate the conference and the future of the security industry: (i) the adoption of AI, (ii) the use of predictive analytics, and (iii) a hybrid global and local risk management approach. As Chief Security Officer of Crisis24, a GardaWorld company, I regularly advise clients on how these trends are evolving and impacting their security and risk management approach. Here’s how we can expect to see them discussed at the show next month:​ Trend 1: Artificial intelligence is the new industry standard.  AI is this year's buzzword. While AI is not new to the industry, this year it has become a standard to operate with AI being adopted or expanded more ubiquitously. Legacy AI-enhanced security offerings that have been years in the making are becoming more advanced and are being integrated into expert analyst teams to leverage the best of both man and machine.  Limitations AI augments the data processing ability; however, human-led intelligence is still necessary AI can generate unparalleled levels of data and insights, but it also has its limitations. AI does not have the emotional intelligence that can influence decision-making. For instance, our Crisis24 analyst teams know that every one of the intelligence alerts they provide to leadership may save a life or protect a business. AI augments the data processing ability; however, human-led intelligence is still necessary to effectively elevate knowledge of those threats through an organisation to incite action.  Trend 2: Predictive analytics powered by AI will transform security operations.  Predictive analytics enabled by AI will allow for more precise planning and execution of true emergency management. Those living or operating in conflict zones must be ready to spring into action and predictive analytics can help better evaluate risks, threat levels, and the probability of certain events.   When I served in Iraq in 2003, our greatest challenge was operating in an unpredictable environment and navigating the many unknown threats. With these large-scale threats, it was difficult to account for the vast array of variables involved and ensure that all parties were protected. Broad and instant visibility Predictive analytics provides broad and instant visibility into numerous potential outcomes, impacts, and mitigation strategies for a wide variety of threats.  When dealing with risks that are constantly evolving and quickly accelerating, the insights from predictive analytics can have a direct impact on risk management, mitigation strategies, and preparedness levels. Predictive analytics can anticipate the ripple effect that threats can have on organisations, their people, and their assets and enable security teams to plan.​ Trend 3: Risk mitigation is increasingly both global and hyper-local.  A company’s workforce is often scattered across the country or the world, working from home or on the go Remote work and a flood of 24/7 data sources have driven demand for timely, accurate, and hyper-local intelligence.  Where before an organisation may have had a handful of facilities around the world where its employees gathered, now a company’s workforce is often scattered across the country or the world, working from home or on the go.  Preventive mitigation steps To keep their people and assets safe, business pioneers need to know what’s happening in all corners of the globe, while also easily accessing details on what is happening at the street corner level.  How a business takes care of its people, including anticipating risks and taking preventive mitigation steps as well as responding quickly in the face of threats, can directly affect its reputation. Every company is in the business of safety and security when it comes to looking after its people on a global, national, and increasingly hyper-local scale. 

Daniel May of Consort reviews the integration of access control systems in healthcare settings, outlining the benefits and key considerations decision-makers must make throughout product specifications.  From patient safety and traversal to the protection of sensitive data and pharmaceuticals, healthcare environments are faced with several operational challenges. And where security remains at the forefront of decision-making, modern access control systems may often hold the answers. Physical security systems Hospitals in particular have developed into multi-faceted spaces that house hundreds to thousands of patients, staff and visitors at any one time. In England for example, research has found in the three months leading to June 2023, an average of 44,626 people visited major hospital A&E departments each day, with over 16 million attendances typically recorded over the course of a year-not to mention an additional nine million logged at other minor units. For any building, this level of sustained footfall can request severe security difficulties For any building, this level of sustained footfall can invite severe security tests. With that, the need to deploy effective physical security systems in healthcare is clear. And so, as access control continues to become more readily adopted and new products enter the market, decision-makers are reminded to consider the requirements of their building, ensuring they select the solutions most suited to their settings and budget. Security controlled Patient safety will always remain the top priority in healthcare settings, and where matters of health and social care come into question, a diverse set of professional regulatory bodies are tasked with setting and maintaining high standards. When it comes to healthcare premises specifically, patient security and perimeter security often come hand in hand and are amongst the most pressing of challenges that decision-makers must face. To help address operational planning and potential design concerns in the NHS, the Health Building Note (HBN), provides general design guidance for healthcare buildings under HBN 00-01-citing the use of access control measures as a way of maintaining security and protecting the safety of patients, staff and visitors. Use of access control Hospital buildings control varied levels of access for a number of security purposes Hospital buildings, for example, must control varied levels of access for a number of operational and security purposes. Routine scenarios exist where vulnerable patients are under monitoring and thus refrained from exiting the premises for their own safety, while at the same time, permitted staff must be able to reach their patients and medicines when required. For this, the use of access control is key. Equally, access credentials can also help management teams keep track of those who may be entering or exiting rooms with equipment and pharmaceutical supplies, deterring any unwanted visitors and opportunists in the process. Incorporation of access control systems On a similar note, regulations have set a minimum standard for how personal data should be stored and managed in healthcare environments, giving decision-makers an added responsibility to regulate staff-controlled areas with patient medical records. While instances of personal data breaches are rare, healthcare facilities and professionals are at legal risk should confidential data be found misused or missing. As such, the incorporation of access control systems has become essential in keeping data storage areas secure, with intuitive online systems capable of permitting access to staff with the correct credentials while simultaneously tracking who has requested clearance at digital entry points. HBN guidance Healthcare experts are better fitted to control the sheer volume of people entering and exiting To function effectively, healthcare facilities must always be perceived as safe places by the people who reside within them, and as HBN guidance implies, a unified physical security system can help address key safety and security concerns while enhancing patient and staff experience. Opportunely, access control systems are more accessible and adaptable than ever and combine several technologies such as mechanical locks and automatic doors with electronic access credentials in the form of smartphone apps, badge readers and biometric scanners.  By integrating these systems into the building’s existing infrastructure, healthcare professionals are better equipped to control the sheer volume of people entering and exiting the premises without impairing the general flow of movement and coordination around the facility. Better by design Despite the clear benefits offered to healthcare facilities, there are a number of considerations to be mindful of when choosing an access control solution. Poorly implemented systems can have an adverse effect on security and functionality - quickly costing healthcare organisations time and budget to rectify and replace the inadequate products that don’t meet the building’s requirements. For that reason, decision-makers and design teams are reminded that there is no single solution that fits all healthcare buildings. As such, it’s crucial for decision-makers to understand the systems that are being put in place throughout each of the touchpoints in their facility. Clear collaboration is required during periods of specification, where together, teams can ensure the selected product works on all angles, from meeting fire safety and sustainability standards to aesthetics and scalability. Modern access control products Scalability is a key area that decision-makers must review when selecting access control systemsFrequently overlooked, scalability is a key area that decision-makers must review when selecting access control systems. Such is their diverse nature; healthcare facilities can often change and develop as years go by, and by selecting a system that facilitates growth, such as a cloud-based solution-security and efficiency is long-established. While modern access control products are known for seamless integration, there are some systems that may restrict the ability to use different vendors throughout the remainder of the building’s infrastructure. This, in effect, causes a monopolisation of products throughout the estate, which can have an adverse effect on growth by increasing costs and reducing the levels of service associated with the security system already in place. Improve security and safety A scalable and reliable access control system will continue to improve security and safety by adapting to a building’s new requirements-and all while having minimal impact on its operational network.  And so, while technology will no doubt continue to influence and transform the access control market, healthcare facilities and their professionals must continue to remain educated on their own systems, ensuring they have the best options in place to keep their patients, staff and visitors safe and secure for years to come.

Companies at GSX 2023 emphasised new ways that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud can address long-standing issues in the security market. Among the exhibitors at the event in Dallas were companies seeking creative ways to apply technology, lower costs, and make the world a safer place. Reflecting on the exhibition, here are some additional takeaways. Expanding AI at the edge  i-PRO is a company reflecting the continued expansion of edge AI capability in the security market. Today, more than half of the company’s lineup supports AI at the edge so the customer has a wide choice of form factors when seeking to leverage the feature set.  AI processing relay, extended warranty i-PRO is increasing their warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases I-PRO also has an “AI processing relay” device that accepts non-AI video streams and applies edge analytics. AI has progressed from a high-end technology to a feature available in a variety of cameras at different price points. i-PRO is also increasing its warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases depending on a customer’s refresh schedule and lifecycle management. Active Guard, MonitorCast The company’s video management system (Video Insight) is continuing to build new features including “Active Guard,” an integrated metadata sorter. Their access control platform, MonitorCast, is a Mercury-based solution that is tightly integrated with Video Insight. Their embedded recorders now have PoE built in.  “We can move at a faster pace to fill out our product line since leaving Panasonic,” says Adam Lowenstein, Director of Product Management. “We can focus our business on adapting to the market.” Emphasis on retail and other verticals  Shoplifting is a timely issue, and retail is a vertical market that got a lot of attention at GSX 2023. “We see a lot of retailers who are primarily interested in protecting employee safety, but also assets,” says Brandon Davito, Verkada’s SVP of Product and Operations. “Shrinkage is a CEO-level priority.”  “Retailers are getting more engaged with security posture, instead of letting perpetrators walk,” Davito adds. Intrusion detection Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm On the alarm side, Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm, and operators can review videos to confirm the alarm. Other capabilities seeking to discourage trespassers include sirens, strobes, and “talkdown” capabilities.  International expansion Verkada continues to expand internationally with 16 offices in all, including Sydney, Tokyo, and London. The core value proposition is to enable customers to manage their onsite infrastructure more simply, including new elements such as PTZ cameras, intercoms, and visitor management. Verkada emphasises ease of use, including a mobile application to allow access to be managed across the user base. Forging partnerships “We are committed to the channel and industry, and we continue to build relationships and expand our reach,” says Davito. Among the industry relationships is a new partnership with Convergint, which was hinted at during the show and announced later the same day. They are also expanding their partnerships with Schlage, Allegion, and ASSA ABLOY.  Working with other verticals They offer new features for K -12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage Verkada has also found success across multiple other verticals, notably healthcare, where they integrate with an electronic medical records system. They offer new features for K-12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage. They are integrating wireless locks to secure interior doors in schools, looking to secure the perimeter, and installing guest management systems. Transitioning the mid-market to the cloud  Salient is squarely focused on the “mid-market,” a large swath of systems somewhere between small businesses and enterprise-level systems. Pure cloud systems are not as attractive to this market, which has a built-out infrastructure of on-premise systems. Adding a camera to an existing system is easier and less expensive than tying it to the cloud. Benefits of cloud It’s a market that may not be ready for the pure cloud, but there are benefits to be realised from adding a cloud element to existing systems. “We are continuing to augment our premise-based solutions with added cloud capabilities and flexibility,” says Sanjay Challa, Salient’s Chief Product Officer.  The feedback Salient hears from their customers is “I want to own my data.” The hybrid cloud approach offers the right mix of control, flexibility, and unit economics. Cloud add-on capabilities We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive" Cloud add-on capabilities include bringing more intelligence about system operation to the user via the cloud. Over time, Salient expects to sell more cloud-centric offerings based on feedback from integrators and customers. “We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive over time,” says Challa.  Vaidio AI technology Salient seeks to be a transition pioneer to help customers realise the path to the cloud. Their approach is “crawl, walk, run,” and helping customers make the transition at each stage. Salient has added AI to its product offering, incorporating Vaidio AI technology from IronYun into a powerful suite and broad array of on-premise analytics, which are gaining traction. The seamless approach makes it easy for customers to embrace AI analytics, although Salient remains broadly committed to open systems. Addressing ‘soft’ features for integrators AMAG is in the process of enhancing its product line with the next generation of access control panels. However, “product” is just part of the new developments at AMAG. In addition to “hard” features (such as products), the company is looking to improve its “soft” features, too; that is, how they work with the integrator channel. Integrator channel Rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, is relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence" “We have the depth of our legacy customer base we can learn from, we just need to close the feedback loop quicker,” says Kyle Gordon, AMAG’s Executive Vice President of Global Sales, Marketing, and commercial Excellence, who acknowledges the value of reinstating face-to-face meetings after COVID. “We are laser-focused on nurturing our integrator channel,” he says.  “Developing new features takes time, but rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, that’s relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence,” says Gordon. More cohesive internal communication is another useful tool, he says.  Disrupting the cloud based on price  Wasabi is working to make cloud applications less expensive by offering a “disruptive” price on cloud storage, $6.99 per terabyte per month (80% less than hyperscalers). Contending “hyperscalers” like AWS are charging too much for cloud storage, Wasabi is using its own intellectual property and server equipment co-located in data centres around the world. Wasabi sells “hot cloud storage,” which refers to the fact that they only have one tier of storage and data is always accessible. In contrast, a company such as AWS might charge an “egress fee” for access to data stored in a “colder” tier.  Cloud storage “We saw that several video surveillance companies had not yet adopted cloud storage, and we saw an opportunity to make it easy to use,” said Drew Schlussel, Wasabi’s Senior Director of Product Marketing. “We just install a little bit of software that allows them to store data in the cloud and bring it back from the cloud.” Performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies such as Genetec and Milestone. Emphasising performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price, their data centres are certified to SOC 2 and ISO 27001 standards.  Faster throughput for weapons detection Xtract One is a young company focusing on weapons detection in a time of accelerated concern about gun issues post-COVID. Founded in Canada and based on technology developed at McMaster University, Xtract One has found a niche in providing weapons detection at stadiums and arenas. These customers already have budgets, and it is easy to shift the money to a newer, faster technology. Madison Square Garden in New York City is among its customers.  Cost savings solution Xtract One can increase throughput to 30 to 50 people per entrance per minute (compared to 5 to 6 people per minute when using metal detectors). The solution doesn’t require anyone to empty their pockets and the system alarms on items beyond guns and knives. Using Xtract One allows customers to reduce the number of screening lanes and security staff, providing additional cost savings, all while getting fans through the screening process in half the time. Purpose-built sensors The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties In addition to stadiums and arenas, Xtract One, formerly Patriot One, is also getting “inbound” interest from schools, hospitals, manufacturers, and other verticals that makeup 50% of their business. “We’re on a rocket ride, mainly because the weapons issues are not going away,” says Peter Evans, CEO and Director at Xtract One. The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties, all correlated by an AI engine.  Providing early warning of violence ZeroEyes is another company focused on weapons detection. Their AI gun detection system works with video images to identify if someone is “brandishing” (carrying) a weapon. In other words, the system does not detect concealed weapons. Identifying someone carrying a weapon provides early warning of a possible violent act. Increased response with AI-enables images Images are identified by AI and sent to a monitoring centre where a human confirms the image before contacting first responders. Knowing the location of a shooter enables staff to lock entry points, move people to safety, and direct first responders. The company was founded to leverage existing camera views to stop mass shootings and gun violence by reducing response times. 

A pioneer in the access control sector since 1971, AMAG Technology is looking to the future and the next generation of products that will expand its services to customers. “In our vision, we have advanced approaches that will not only provide our partners with advanced technologies but also ones that are easier to install with tools to expand their services,” says David Sullivan, who was appointed President of the venerable access control company in September 2022. New challenges at AMAG Sullivan brings a new outlook to the AMAG business, a part of Allied Universal, and a new vision to lead the company into the future. We caught up with David Sullivan to discuss his new challenges at AMAG and the journey ahead as the company looks to the future. Q: How does your background inform your approach to leading AMAG? I believe that it helps me to define a vision for AMAG that will be unique and on the leading edge of our industry David Sullivan: With the exception of only a few short years, my career has been in access control. I have experience with several systems and have had the privilege to manage several successful access control companies. As a result, I bring a great deal of experience into my role at AMAG. I believe that it helps me to define a vision for AMAG that will be unique and on the leading edge of our industry. Q: How would you describe AMAG’s journey over the last several years and how do you see the future? Sullivan: Prior presidents of AMAG always shared their leadership vision and direction with senior leaders located in the United Kingdom. This had an impact on the full direction of the business, sometimes limiting its ultimate success. Before I became a part of AMAG, these senior leaders that were located in the UK retired, placing for the first time the full management responsibilities of the president. This has allowed me to integrate the business into a single team, with single objectives, and a single vision. We expect to begin to reveal this new vision in the coming weeks. We are excited about the future of AMAG and believe we will surprise the industry with our new products and approach in the coming months and years. Q: How important is it that a manufacturer provides both hardware and software solutions? How does AMAG’s approach (in general) differentiate it in the market? We can design the complete solution, providing functionality that others may find more difficult to accomplish Sullivan: Regardless of the manufacturer, we all provide hardware and software. An access control solution is not complete without both. Some of us choose to make our panels, and others do not. Those who are dependent on third-party suppliers are restricted to the developments and direction of that company, and while it might be perceived to be an open technology, it still is proprietary to the hardware manufacturer. AMAG has controlled its manufacturing of panels from day one. The result means that we can design the complete solution, providing functionality that others may find more difficult to accomplish. Q: How does the breadth of AMAG’s product suite provide advantages to customers and/or integrators? Sullivan: AMAG’s product portfolio is unique and provides the end user with an end-to-end identity management solution from one company. Our Control Room PSIM, Symmetry CONNECT Identity Management Solution, Symmetry Access Control, and Symmetry GUEST solutions all integrate to provide the user with a broad set of features and capabilities from a single provider. There is no finger-pointing when we come to support your system. We hold full responsibility for making it work and can quickly provide a resolution to any application difficulties the user may be experiencing. Q: How does AMAG address the divide between on-prem and cloud systems? How do you help customers make the transition and/or plan for the future? We are in the early stages of developing our next generation of access control in which we intend to provide on-prem Sullivan: In our current product portfolio, we have three products that are cloud-based. Our mobile credential platform (Symmetry Mobile), our visitor management solution (Symmetry GUEST), and our physical identity and access management solution (Symmetry CONNECT) are all offerings that operate in the cloud. We are in the early stages of developing our next generation of access control in which we intend to provide on-prem, web client, and cloud-based offerings. One of the primary objectives is to ensure that the large installed base of systems that are out there today will be able to migrate not only to our next generation but as well to the cloud if the client so desires. Q: What is AMAG’s approach to mobile credentialing? Sullivan: As an access control provider, adding Symmetry Mobile credentialing to our portfolio just made sense. We want our customers to have a forward-thinking solution with the opportunity to save money not only on the physical badges but the cost of printing and distributing badges. Mobile credentials can be easily issued and revoked remotely, reducing administrative overhead, and eliminating the need for physical inventory management. Organisations can centrally configure what devices are used and the read range for each type of device and operating system, thus providing flexibility. Symmetry Mobile offers a customised questionnaire that controls access and reduces liabilities. Q: What has surprised you the most in your first year or so leading AMAG? Not many companies are blessed with such a broad portfolio that is supported by a resource-rich company Sullivan: I wouldn’t say I was surprised by this as much as happy to see, but I would say that the quality of our people was a pleasant surprise. As well, the AMAG product offering is broad and has some unique elements. When coupled with the depth of the resources that we have in AMAG, I know that we are second to none. Not many companies are blessed with such a broad portfolio that is supported by a resource-rich company that has so many talented people. Q: Please describe your dealer channel, and how you are seeking to expand it. Sullivan: The AMAG products are sophisticated and typically are installed for higher-end applications. With this sophistication comes a need to be well able to install such a solution. We have a strong group of certified and loyal partners who help us to deliver these enterprise solutions. We desire to provide our existing partners with updated and competitive systems to offer to their end users. Q: What is the security industry’s (and/or AMAG’s) biggest challenge in the next five years? We need to find ways to provide both our channel partners and the customers with solutions that are easily integrated Sullivan: I believe that the advancements that we are seeing in technology provide our industry with the opportunity to truly change how security is provided to our collective customers. As we advance these solutions, we will need to do so responsibly and in a way that helps the channel’s abilities. We need to find ways to train our partners to both install and support these more complex solutions. At the same time, we need to find ways to provide both our channel partners and the customers with solutions that are easily integrated, moving away from proprietary closed systems to open and cohesive solutions. This will ensure that the users get the best, and most complete solutions. Q: What does the industry as a whole misunderstand about AMAG -- time to set the record straight! Sullivan: Well, I am not ready to openly share where we are heading. We are in the process of putting together some advanced approaches to how we will do business with our partners. We are focused on providing tools that will enhance their services to their customers, and with products that are leading edge. I can only state that all should keep their eyes on AMAG, because over the next few years, we are going to surprise some people, and more importantly make our loyal partners quite powerful.

Acre is a company built on mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Since its founding in 2012, Acre acquired several familiar access control companies, from Vanderbilt to RS2 Technologies, Open Options to Feenics, and several others. Acre itself was acquired in 2021 by UK-based private equity firm Triton, thus launching a new chapter in the company's history. Don Joos was named the new CEO in 2022 and set about transforming Acre from a collection of acquired companies into a coherent whole (representing various brands). A year later, we recently caught up with Don Joos to discuss the "new Acre" and what's ahead. Q: How does your background inform your approach to leading Acre Security? In physical security, there is a shift to more of a software-centric versus hardware approach Joos: This is my fourth company as CEO. What I’ve found along the way is that no matter the size or type of business, there’s a common theme, the business is going through some form of evolution or transformation because the industry they're in is going through an evolution. And today, in physical security, there is a shift to more of a software-centric versus hardware approach, and there’s a shift occurring that’s pulling us to the cloud. I think a key thing here is that while the industry is evolving, we must keep a careful eye on the evolution of the customer because the customer is the one who will dictate the pace of change, and I think that is what a lot of people sometimes lose sight of. Q: It seems Acre is on the path from being a “collection of small companies” to “a collection of brands within a single company.” Joos: I think most people think of Acre as a federation of companies. Acre Security was seen more as a holding company. For me, I think the biggest misconception is just that: “This is just a federation of companies” versus “This is a business.” Acre Security is a business that has a range of portfolios to address key verticals and pivotal business problems for customers. Because of what’s happening now and the market dynamics that are occurring, it ties back to “Who is Acre Security?” We have a clear answer as to where we want to be from cloud access control versus on-premise access control. We have clear answers regarding market segments, visitor management, and intrusion. When you think about it, those are the core areas of our business. Q: What has surprised you the most in your first year or so at Acre? Joos: I think the thing that surprised me the most was how similar the problems are because I was coming into a new industry. It’s surprising how strong a correlation [security has] to other industry transformations that I’ve been a part of. Q: What are the points of differentiation among the various Acre Security brands? Joos: I think if you go back to the history of the company, it was designed to compete. That is, that's how it was set up under the logic of, “If we have three bids in a deal, it increases the odds that we're going to win one of them.” As we evolve, to have sustained scalable growth, it is not just about going shallow and casting a wide net. It’s about creating a concentrated focus. Some of the technology is just inherently older technology. And so for me, it’s about creating migration paths for the customers to move to more modern technology, such as the cloud. I love our installed base. When you think about the cost of acquisition to get a new cloud customer, it costs a lot less when you have an installed base that you can migrate to the more modern solution versus having to spend the money and the sales energy to hunt for that next opportunity. Q: Where has Acre positioned itself in the marketplace? We can take care of your current needs, but we also have a clear migration path to take care of your future needs Joos: If you're ready to go to the cloud, we have an answer for you. If you're not ready to go to the cloud, but you're ready to take more cloud-based applications to continue to evolve, we have an answer for you. If you're not quite ready yet and you're still looking for a market-leading premises solution, we have an answer for you, and we have a migration path when you're ready down the road. So, you have a safe bet with Acre because we can take care of your current needs, but we also have a clear migration path to take care of your future needs. Q: How are you building up your team? Joos: In 2023, we’re getting a lot of core building blocks in place and making investments in people who have experience in this space or aligned industries. It is a balance. I think we need a group that understands the industry and a group that's going to come into it and challenge why we do things the way we do. I think that makes us unique: we have fresh eyes looking at things from a different perspective. With that, you’re naturally going to end up with a better answer to problems because people are comfortable challenging the status quo. Q: How are you seeking to expand your dealer channel and/or transition it from the various dealers “inherited” in previous acquisitions? Joos: The channel invests in Acre Security. Our success is their success, and so what we're proposing to them is a range of solutions that supports their longevity and their financial success. But we also continue to build out our portfolio through organic technology innovation or M&A.  We're continuing to make investments in our channel strategy and how our partners interact with us We're continuing to expand their addressable market if they want to make investments with us. We're continuing to make investments in our channel strategy and how our partners interact with us. The design of our upcoming technology right now is built with the channel in mind. We want to ensure that we are not creating any channel conflict or any perceived channel conflict. I think that's usually the worst kind: when it's perceived but not real. You need to be very upfront and clear with communications. Q: What is the biggest challenge in the industry right now? Joos: Companies and customers are looking to embed security into their workflows. What I mean is these are not just standalone solutions anymore. They’re integrating with enterprise resource planning (ERP) and human resource (HR) software systems. In property management, they want it integrated into the fitness center, they want it integrated into the cafeteria areas and the dry cleaners, and so forth. So, this is about an ecosystem, and there are times when we are going to be the core, and there is going to be a lot of technology that is adjacent to us. There are times when we are the adjacency to someone else's core in a smart city or a smart building. This gets to why having an open application programming interface (API) is going to be an important part of the technology evolution. It cannot be a closed environment anymore; that is part of the past. Q: What’s next for Acre? We're constantly evolving our cloud access control as well as our on-premise access control Joos: There is a lot of work going on with integrating the business into a single Acre Security company. This is an investment year for us, we are adding people to our team. We are making a lot of investments from a systems and technology perspective. We have a lot of work right now going into integrating the business from an IT infrastructure perspective and all the tools that we use from an employee perspective. We are making a lot of investment as it relates to the commercial side. You're going to see some next-gen technology coming out from an intrusion perspective. We're constantly evolving our cloud access control as well as our on-premise access control. We're also bringing software applications, too. Q: What is Acre’s “message” going forward? Joos: One of the takeaways for me is this is not the Acre of the past. We are making some bold changes. New things are happening here; you better pay attention because clearly, something is different. I think that's one. I think the second is that as they spend time within us, they're going to realize the wide range of solutions and use cases that we can address, whether you're in access control or cloud, whether you're in intrusion, whether you are in visitor management, or whether you're looking at some network connectivity solutions. The third thing that I think people are going to see is a whole lot of energy as they talk to our people and the passion that you see from the team. If I wrap those three points up in one kind of statement there, I think my goal is that people walk away saying “Something is going on at Acre Security. We better pay attention.”

A major European oil and gas company that acquires, explores, produces and supplies chemical and petroleum products had a cybersecurity challenge. Company leadership wanted a better way to quantify and respond to the industry’s increasing levels of cybersecurity risk. Pioneers were looking for a new way to better understand and improve their company’s OT cybersecurity. As part of this effort, pioneers wanted to compare the company’s current levels of protection against a series of hypothetical attacks to identify gaps. With operations in several locations and a supply chain network of over 1,000 gas stations, auditing and improving the company’s cybersecurity would be no small task. Set of analysis and recommendations The Honeywell csHAZOP solution is designed to deliver a comprehensive set of analysis To help overcome these challenges, the company called in Honeywell and, specifically, its csHAZOP services team to perform a detailed design evaluation based on OT cybersecurity risk. The Honeywell csHAZOP solution is designed to deliver a comprehensive set of analysis and recommendations–it goes beyond the standard cybersecurity vulnerability assessment or IEC 62443 compliance audit by adding deeper analysis that is designed to: Investigate a significant amount of what can go wrong, including approximately 500+ attack scenarios – evaluating these for multiple threat actors and different consequences, Address – via risk assessments – both the likely risk reduction through the regular IT type of countermeasures (AV, firewall, hardening, etc.) and the consequence severity reduction through the implementation of safeguards (e.g., hardwiring critical control signals), Estimate residual risk for each hazard, allowing identification and quantification, making mitigation actionable, Focus on process automation cybersecurity risk (csHAZOP stage 1) or production process cybersecurity risk (by adding csHAZOP stage 2 vs. cybersecurity production risk) to add a higher level of cybersecurity analysis from an OT perspective unique in the industry. Send in the csHAZOP experts Honeywell cyber experts also uncovered some high-risk design deficiencies The Honeywell OT cybersecurity experts worked with the Honeywell proprietary csHAZOP method to uncover several concrete recommendations for immediate remediation and technical design recommendations in the company’s ICS, to be considered in upcoming ICS migrations. Honeywell cyber experts also uncovered some high-risk design deficiencies. The Honeywell csHAZOP framework was used to identify levels of residual risk to determine which security hazard was more critical to address versus others. Honeywell provided targeted guidance on several aspects of the study, using experience from real-world cyber attacks in the industry. Honeywell’s csHAZOP service is one of the few cybersecurity assessments available on the market that is designed to apply counterfactual risk analysis. Honeywell’s csHAZOP report This evaluation now links OT cybersecurity to loss prevention and process safety Given a system’s protective measures, this method helps a company evaluate which cyber attacks (based on countermeasures, security protections and type of threat actor) may succeed. This evaluation directly links OT cybersecurity to loss prevention and process safety. Honeywell’s csHAZOP report for this oil and gas refinery was considered successful by the customer because of its well-defined procedure, the tools Honeywell has specifically designed for OT systems and the team’s experience and efforts in OT cybersecurity. Results of the csHAZOP assessment “The results of the csHAZOP assessment from Honeywell went beyond our expectations. We have received a detailed and analytical cybersecurity hazard and operability report concerning both identified risks and realistic recommendations for remediation." "Additionally, the report is a valuable tool for future upgrades of our systems as well as new projects and the development of an incident response plan. We intend to repeat this assessment periodically, as it is a valuable tool in our continuous efforts to improve security for our systems from the ever-evolving cybersecurity threats,” Major refinery in Europe.

Air Power East, a family-run business with over 30 years of experience as a premier distributor of Atlas Copco, specialises in providing high-quality compressed air systems to various industries across East Anglia. Under the leadership of Jason Sewell, the company has established a strong reputation for delivering reliable and efficient solutions. However, they faced a significant challenge in ensuring their systems were completely leak-free, a concern shared by their clients, including an agricultural manufacturer managed by Paul Musgrove. Jason highlighted the issue, stating, "Customers have been asking us to make sure that we can prove something that's completely leak-free." Challenge Musgrove was seeking an effective way to manage and maintain their compressed air systems Concurrently, Paul Musgrove was seeking an effective way to manage and maintain their compressed air systems, with a specific focus on reducing energy waste and operational costs, emphasising the need to "save money where we can, especially with energy prices as they are." This dual challenge called for an innovative approach to maintain Air Power East's commitment to quality and efficiency while addressing the specific needs of their clients. Solution To address the intertwined challenges, Jason reached out to Baseline-RTS, an independent supplier of training and predictive maintenance equipment. They introduced Air Power East to the FLIR Si124 camera, an advanced acoustic imaging tool, capable of accurately detecting air leaks. Jason explains, "We sat down and did a bit of market research on a few different models and then came to the top. So, we contacted FLIR to come along and show us the Si124, and we've loved it ever since." One-handed tool designed to quickly locate pressurised leaks in compressed air systems or detect discharge The Si124 is a lightweight, one-handed tool designed to quickly locate pressurised leaks in compressed air systems or detect partial discharge from high-voltage electrical systems. It is equipped with 124 microphones to produce a precise acoustic image that visually displays ultrasonic information. This image is transposed in real time on top of a digital camera picture, allowing users to accurately pinpoint the source of sound. The Si124 camera can detect issues up to 10 times faster than traditional methods, even in loud industrial environments. Additionally, it is compatible with FLIR Thermal Studio suite for offline editing, analysis, and advanced report creation, and it can help facilities save money on utility bills and delay the expense of installing new compressors. Results The use of the Si124 camera brought about transformative results. Jason explained the camera's effectiveness: "We've managed to walk around with the customer, showing them exactly what we're finding on our screen. And if we do find any small leaks, we can rectify them and then we can prove to the customer that their system is leak-free." This approach not only heightened the efficiency of the compressed air systems but also solidified customer trust in Air Power East's services. Camera enabled the detection of leaks amounting to approximately 100 cubic feet per minute Quantitative results underscore the Si124's impact. The camera enabled the detection of leaks amounting to approximately 100 cubic feet per minute (CFM), which is roughly 50 litres per second. This translates to about 18.5 kilowatts of compressor power, pioneering to substantial energy and cost savings, particularly in light of rising energy prices. Conclusion Air Power East's adoption of the FLIR Si124 camera to address the complex challenges in compressed air systems illustrates the power of innovative technology in industrial settings. The successful detection and rectification of air leaks not only enhanced operational efficiency but also led to considerable energy and cost savings for the agricultural manufacturer. This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of advanced tools in solving intricate industrial problems and highlights the importance of technology-driven solutions in optimising industrial processes.

As one of the main tourist destinations in the Caribbean, The Bahamas welcomes nearly seven million visitors every year. Unfortunately, the City of Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, has seen increased crime in certain parts of the city over the last several years from pickpockets and vehicular crimes to armed robberies and kidnappings.   Policing, safety, and security Based in Nassau, the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) employs over 3,000 officers and provides policing, safety, and security services to residents and visitors. However, the RBPF was challenged to keep up with the rising tide of criminal activity. The government fully supported the RBPF’s initiative to expand the country's surveillance system as a strategic tool in the fight against crime.  Track and monitor, situational awareness The RBPF added system infrastructure and hundreds of new IP-video cameras to increase police presence" “There are known criminal hotspots across the city that people of interest frequent," said Ethan Munnings, CTIO at Proficient Business Services, Bahamas, and the lead engineer for the City of Nassau video surveillance project. “To curb incidents in those areas and to better track and monitor suspects, gain situational awareness, and to be able to help locate or identify people after leaving the scene, the RBPF added system infrastructure and hundreds of new IP-video cameras to increase police presence. One of those areas, for example, is the surroundings of the house of the Prime Minister.”  Milestone video management system In 2011, the city set up its initial Milestone video management system, overseeing around 250 cameras. Later, in 2019, Nassau officials collaborated with Proficient Business Services to integrate almost 500 additional cameras and edge devices into the system. A restructuring of the network infrastructure was required to consolidate all data feeds to the city's Real-Time Crime centre. The new crime centre, located at the police headquarters, opened in February 2021, acting as the Royal Bahamas Police Force's technological epicentre.  Innovative technology Integration  In early 2020, the Ministry of National Security of the Bahamas began expanding its existing Milestone XProtect video management system. Milestone's open platform data-driven video technology system is compatible with various hardware and software vendors. The upgrade led to redesigning of the network infrastructure and the addition of over 500 high-quality network cameras from Axis Communications. Facial recognition and video analytics ShotSpotter, the gunshot detection system was also integrated into the greatly expanded system The project involved several Milestone technology partners, including system servers from Rasilient Systems, and video analytics applications such as Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) and facial recognition from BriefCam. ShotSpotter, the gunshot detection system from SoundThinking, was also integrated into the greatly expanded system.  Artificial intelligence and deep learning Within the Milestone VMS, the cameras and servers integrate with BriefCam’s video analytics, providing facial recognition and person/object tracking. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and deep learning, integrated BriefCam technologies transform video data into valuable insights for rapid video review, search, and real-time alerting. Two types of LPR The system also offers two types of Licence Plate Recognition. The first is via the Milestone LPR add-on, and the second is through direct integration with BriefCam.  A team of 14 operators relies on Auvik for device monitoring and SolarWinds to manage the core network. The fiber network, with a 10G backbone, is based on Cisco technologies.  Traffic safety revolutionised  Video technology was pivotal in this endeavor, with fatal accidents in New Providence dropping to 33 in 2019 Beyond enhancing security, Nassau's updated city video system has proved instrumental in monitoring traffic accidents and holding drivers responsible for their behaviour. Eyewitness News from Nassau reported 69 deaths related to traffic in 2018. After witnessing an almost 30 percent surge in fatalities from 2017 to 2018, authorities committed to reducing traffic-related deaths and accidents. Video technology was pivotal in this endeavour, with fatal accidents in New Providence dropping to 33 in 2019.  Traffic surveillance “The cameras we have strategically installed on traffic lights around the city use LPR integrated with Milestone Systems, which have helped control hit-and-run accidents,” said Munnings. “There have been cases of pedestrians being hit by vehicles that didn’t stop; now the police can track those vehicles and bring those drivers to justice. The new surveillance system has also helped prevent human abductions.”  Technology and innovation For more than 12 years, the City of Nassau has been relying on and expanding the capabilities of its video surveillance system. With the help of technologies and deep integration within an open platform VMS ecosystem, the city's authorities and police have effectively addressed evolving challenges to ensure safety for both residents and tourists.   “Technology and innovation have taken off at the speed of light and this will only accelerate. Embracing the innovations that improve police work is no longer optional," said Zhivago Dames, Assistant Commis.

There is safety in numbers, or so the expression goes. Generally speaking, several employees working together tend to be safer than a single employee working alone. Even so, some environments require that workers complete their jobs alone, thus presenting a unique combination of security vulnerabilities. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines a lone worker as “an employee working alone, such as in a confined space or isolated location.” We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can security technologies help to protect "lone workers?" 

In the United States, they are called licence plate recognition (LPR) systems. In Europe, the more common term is automated licence number-plate recognition (ANPR). In either case, the systems provide capabilities that can benefit a range of applications from schools to municipalities to parking lots. Newer technologies can even identify vehicle colour, type, make and model. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What's new with licence plate recognition (LPR) and/or automated number-plate recognition (ANPR) systems?

Headlines of violence in our schools are a reminder of the need to keep educational institutions safe. In fact, if there is a positive aspect to the constant bombardment of headlines, it is that it keeps our attention perpetually focused on how to improve school security. But what is the role of physical security systems? As the new school year begins, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Are schools safer because of physical security systems? Why or why not?