Intruder Lights

CIAS Security, a global manufacturer of physical perimeter security systems based in Italy, announced the company's extended expansion into North America and Latin America to provide a full-time on-the-ground presence in priority geographic and vertical markets. Full-time presence in USA “While we have been exporting our systems into the United States for the past 14 years, we felt the need for a full-time presence in these very important markets,” said Raffaele De Astis, Executive Managing Director, of CIAS Security, adding “It will allow us to more effectively penetrate the Americas by expanding our reach and connecting daily with strategic partners and customers here.” With US Headquarters and a warehousing facility in Miami, Florida, USA, the expansion plan will include an additional location in Montreal, Canada, with full-time staff on the ground. High-security outdoor intrusion sensors The company is also expanding its network of integrators, installers, and distributors in North America CIAS specialises in the manufacture of high-security outdoor intrusion sensors (microwave barriers and fence detection systems) which are installed in prisons, utilities, nuclear power plants, and industrial sites in the U.S.A. The company is also expanding its network of integrators, installers, and distributors in North America and will more aggressively pursue the vertical markets of energy, corrections, and transportation, with a particular focus on airport sites. Perimeter and outdoor security systems “This expansion into the Americas will strengthen CIAS 's position as an industry pioneer in perimeter and outdoor security systems worldwide,” said Mr. De Astis, adding “It will further increase our market share in the USA, Canada, and the Americas.” He added that technical support to integrators (and end users) is a priority in this strategic move. The expanded entry into North America will take place over the next few months. High quality of service “Our existing customers will continue to receive the same high quality of service that they have come to expect," said Mr. De Astis, adding “We look forward to growing our customer base and serving this market with even greater efficiency and responsiveness.” CIAS will be attending GSX/ASIS in Dallas, Texas, in September and encourages people to visit them at Booth 1518.

Dallmeier, a manufacturer of video security technology, is hosting a webinar on 21 September, 2023, at 4:30 PM CEST considering recent events at airports. The manufacturer will show technical solutions and best practice examples to help airports protect against intrusion and other threats. Airport security strategies Recent events have prompted many airport operators to review their security strategies. Protection against perimeter and airfield threats and the search for appropriate camera and alarm systems are currently on the minds of many airport security managers. Content of the webinar Karlheinz Biersack, Director of Business Development Airport at Dallmeier, will show in the webinar on 21 September how security systems and in particular video technology can support airport operators to: Maintain flight operations through early detection of intruders. Get visual control of all operations over large areas and long distances. Comply with current aviation security and critical infrastructure regulations for physical security and resilience.

Barrier1 Systems, the industry pioneer in perimeter-hardening physical security barriers, is showcasing its portfolio of top-rated vehicle security gates and barriers at the inaugural Fence Show and Security Expo in booth #1127, August 23-25, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.  The company's team of security barrier experts are attending the premier conference to engage traditional fence resellers on the multitude of new and emerging business opportunities for perimeter-hardening, vehicle barrier systems. Emerging business opportunities “The inaugural Fence Show presents us with an exciting opportunity to connect with a new group of industry professionals dedicated solely to perimeter security at this first-of-its-kind event,” said Brendan MacDaniel, VP of Sales, Barrier1, adding “We look forward to discussing the vast number of business opportunities across numerous verticals for Barrier 1’s portfolio of vehicle security gates and barrier solutions.” The EntraQuick I/II series protects premises against the unauthorised access of vehicles and pedestrians EntraQuick® II - In contrast to simple barrier systems, the EntraQuick I/II series protects premises against the unauthorised access of vehicles and pedestrians. The wings of the gate fold optionally inwards or outwards when opened, making them a practical, compact alternative to sliding doors or gates as they do not require any rear space or run back area. The light barriers on the inside and outside as well as safety contact strips ensure maximum safety.  High security folding gate EntraQuick® PU 30 - The EntraQuick® PU 30 high security folding gate offers all the advantages of the EntraQuick® II gate and more. The steel folding gate and its containment system offers maximum protection against impact loads from vehicles up to the size of a pick-up truck, travelling at speeds of up to 48 km/h, which means that the EntraQuick® PU 30 can be used as a high security gate. This makes the EntraQuick® PU 30 a high-security gate ideal for high-security areas. Tracked Gate M50 - Access roadways to critical infrastructure requires particularly high protection. The Tracked Gate M50 is the toughest passage blocker available for high-security premises. The internationally crash tested Tracked Gate M50 sliding gate with high impact load combines all the advantages of a sliding gate with those of a wedge barrier. Perimeter protection and impact resistance are provided in equal measure.

Intego Warranty, Inc., dba Alarm Protect™, is pleased to welcome Lanier Rep Group (LRG) as its newest and exclusive manufacturer’s rep firm offering the Alarm Protect™ Security Equipment Protection Plans to the industry. LRG will broaden Intego’s presence nationally with the LRG footprint in TX, LA, OK, AR, MS, CO, NM, MO, IA, NE, KS, MN, WI, IL, North, and South Dakota, and through its nationwide rep alliances. Equipment protection plan “Intego Warranty is excited to partner with Lanier Rep Group to endorse and solicit our security equipment protection plan programme,” stated David Anthony, President and Co-Founder of Intego Warranty, Inc. He adds, “We feel LRG will be a key partner with their expertise in the security industry and their professional sales teams in-house and in the field.” Billable components LRG CFO, Kenneth Hilton says, “As a former alarm dealer myself, we see huge value in the ability to extend product protection for end users and for installers to build additional revenue from. With plan options of weekly/monthly/yearly and from $500 to $20,000 coverage for all billable components plus easy enrolment, this fits all applications.”

The update of the Regula 4306 is centered around light sources that are indispensable for thorough document examination, including relief and various security features, especially those invisible to the naked eye. The redesigned device boasts of a new light source for the analysis of anti-Stokes luminescence, as well as the possibility to regulate the angle of oblique light, which is vital for certain tasks. Anti-Stokes luminescence Anti-Stokes luminescence is a special effect of anti-Stokes inks used in various identity documents and banknotes as a security feature. Such inks glow when exposed to infrared light of high intensity. Adding a special light source into the Regula 4306 to enable the verification of anti-Stokes luminescence enhances the capabilities of the device and makes this compact video spectral comparator even more powerful. Moreover, the new light source for anti-Stokes verification operates in live mode, which means experts are able to find the appropriate security elements, especially the tiniest ones, much faster, since they tend to elude detection in static mode. Redesign of the Regula 4306 As for the revamped oblique light in the Regula 4306, it’s now manually regulated As for the revamped oblique light in the Regula 4306, it’s now manually regulated. This type of light helps forensic experts and document examinators visualise the relief of a document and its security features. When an expert can regulate the angle of oblique light, the examination process becomes more precise and efficient.  This featured light source helps in the investigation of bribery cases. For instance, a bribery sum may be handwritten in a notepad, and the page with that inscription may be torn out later. If an expert happens to examine this notepad in oblique light, they will see the relief left from the inscription on other pages in the notepad. The internal redesign of the Regula 4306 has affected its exterior. First, it’s got a dedicated knob on the side panels to regulate the angle of oblique light. Second, the light sources of the device look different, since they got a new capability added for anti-Stokes luminescence. Regula 4306 - one of the most iconic devices Alex Lewanowicz, Director of Hardware Engineering at Regula, said “Regula 4306 has long been one of our most iconic devices, widely used in forensic laboratories, at border control points and customs, in banks and financial institutions, and in many other organisations." He adds, "Being equipped with a high-resolution camera, a range of light sources and filters, and providing broad opportunities for document examination, including hyperspectral imaging and 3D visualisation, this device still has a compact size and appealing price. We keep updating and redesigning it since we know it’s in high demand. Throughout the design process, we are driven by our customers' needs, and this update is no exception."

Quanergy Solutions, Inc., a provider of 3D LiDAR security solutions, was selected by an international delivery services company to address ongoing challenges relating to loss of parcels, false alarms and intrusion at distribution facilities. The company had experienced a loss of parcels at their distribution facilities caused by warehouse employees throwing packages over the perimeter fence. The Quanergy 3D LiDAR security solution deployed automatically detected such instances, as well as intruders on the facilities’ surrounding open areas and effectively mitigated theft from both inside and outside of the company’s facilities. Hyper-accurate detection To meet the delivery services company’s need for a highly effective and cost-efficient loss prevention solution, Quanergy recommended a layered approach, providing a range of mechanical LiDAR sensors and perception software to provide real-time object detection, classification and tracking. A MQ-8 3D LiDAR sensor further enables hyper-accurate detection and the continuous tracking of people  Quanergy’s M1-Edge PoE 2D LiDAR sensor effectively creates a curtain across the distribution centers’ fence lines to detect objects as small as a pen being thrown over the fence. A MQ-8 3D LiDAR sensor further enables hyper-accurate detection and the continuous tracking of people in the facilities’ surrounding acreage. The insights gathered from these solutions are seamlessly integrated with the delivery services company’s existing video management system (VMS). Mission-critical applications Following the deployment of Quanergy 3D LiDAR security solutions, the company reported a significant reduction in package loss and theft. Moreover, Quanergy reduced the number of false alarms generated when compared to the delivery services company’s legacy perimeter intrusion detection (PID) system. This allows the company to combat alarm fatigue and enables a more efficient allocation of client resources. Quanergy LiDAR security solutions are currently deployed at hundreds of critical infrastructure sites around the world, addressing a wide spectrum of mission-critical applications including perimeter intrusion detection, server rack and cabinet security, mobile security towers, mantrap/vestibule access controls, rooftop security, and more.

Many businesses will already have some form of security in place, but what is often overlooked is the need to assess whether the protection is suitable enough for the nature of their business, or efficient enough for the premises they are utilising. As the country continues to face unprecedented times, it is crucial than ever to protect your business, particularly outside working hours or if at present the majority of your workforce is working remotely for the foreseeable future. So, what can you do to ensure that you’re protected? Intruder prevention For many intruders, bypassing the security of a building will just be target practice and an opportunistic attempt to see what they can find, often without any real plan or knowledge of the building’s precautionary measures. With this in mind, it can be worth pre-empting any unwanted entries with a more sophisticated process: fogging. A fogging system is a fast-acting deterrent for intruders. When activated, a thermally generated white smoke-like substance instantly delivers a dense, impenetrable As the country continues to face unprecedented times, it is crucial than ever to protect your business, particularly outside working hoursfog that covers the surface area where valuable equipment and other contents are kept, obscuring them from sight, and protecting them from the possibility of theft or damage until authorities arrive on the scene. Fogging system provider, Bandit UK works with ADT Fire & Security to enhance security measures, providing additional safeguarding for business properties. Putting this in place can mean that considerable cost, time and effort can be saved in the event of an attempted break-in, whilst disruption to business is reduced to a minimum. For small business owners, the financial burden of enhancing your security may seem unfeasible at the moment. In order to make a more informed decision, here are some other useful steps you can adopt, whether you are open or temporarily closed for business. Secure your equipment  Simple routine checks such as regular property and equipment audits can help keep track of equipment and help to allocate responsibility for particular items to individual employees. Tagging computers and recording details of serial numbers will also help track down stolen equipment but is also useful for contacting IT services in the event of theft to ensure confidential information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. Consider securing expensive equipment to floors or walls, this will make it difficult for opportunistic thieves to dash around grabbing expensive computing equipment for example. The right locks There should be a robust locking system in place, with a minimum of two locking points on external doors that meet British Standards. While you’re not physically on the premises, all internal doors, including fire doors, should be closed. Ensure that you have recorded each member of staff that has keys and therefore access to the building; this should be kept to a minimum for monitoring purposes. Perhaps it’s been several years since the locks were changed, and personnel have changed or sets of keys have gone missing. A locksmith can quickly and cost-effectively change your locks if necessary. Window glazing It may be a good idea to consider additional glazing on your windows. Installing laminated glass provides an extra layer so that windows cannot be easily tampered with or broken. Boarding of windows is another option and will completely prohibit outsiders from having a direct view into the building – this could be a cost-effective measure if you are temporarily closed. Review your monitored intruder alarm system So, you already have CCTV installed on your premises. From a maintenance point of view, how long has it been since you tested your system? Although you can review simple things like whether the lens is still picking up clear visuals, it may be best to ask an engineer from your security provider for advice on how to service There should be a robust locking system in place, with a minimum of two locking points on external doorsyour technology. It may be some years since you first installed the system, so it is worth checking if there have been any app developments, as this is a fantastic way to monitor your premises without being there. Also be sure to check you have adequate storage so that you are able to browse through previous footage if needed. Some companies use a cloud-based service; do you know what yours uses? Don’t forget fire hazards Electrical items can also be the biggest culprit of fires. In the first instance, the mains integrity should be checked, gas and electricity lines (for frayed or faulty wires), as well as plumbing. All electrical appliances should be repaired or installed by a certified firm to reduce risk of electrical fires, and it’s advised that a routine PAT test should be implemented every twelve months. It is a legal requirement for UK businesses to carry out a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) - this identifies a host of fire-related pitfalls, such as fire hazards, the people at risk if fire strikes, emergency exit plans and even covers staff training. Ensure you have this document regularly updated (and in an easily accessible place) to ensure that all bases are covered.  Invest in external lighting If your building is in a poorly lit area, it’s a good idea to invest in external lighting. You won’t need planning permission for this but use your best judgment to decide on the area you want to light up, and what gradient you’d like to use. It is best to have a system installed that automatically switches on when visibility is reduced. This also goes beyond just security; entrances and exits, ramps, pavements, and car parks should be well lit for additional safety for staff and visitors. Property maintenance Your business may be operating at a reduced level or potentially even closed in line with the government’s lockdown recommendations. It may still be important to have a senior member of staff visit the site at regular intervals to ensure that everything is in order. There’s never an ideal time to review your security, but it’s important to do it regularly to help pre-empt any potential opportunistic burglars and give yourself complete peace of mind.

Johnson Controls recently unveiled the findings of its 2018 Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI) survey that examined the current and planned investments and key drivers to improve energy efficiency and building systems integration in facilities. Systems integration was identified as one of the top technologies expected to have the biggest impact on the implementation in smart buildings over the next five years, with respondents planning to invest in security, fire and life-safety integrations more so than any other systems integration in the next year. As advanced, connected technologies drive the evolution of smart buildings, security and safety technologies are at the center of more intelligent strategies as they attribute to overall building operations and efficiencies. SourceSecurity.com spoke with Johnson Controls, Building Solutions, North America, VP of Marketing, Hank Monaco, and Senior National Director of Municipal Infrastructure and Smart Cities, Lisa Brown, about the results of the study, smart technology investments and the benefits of a holistic building strategy that integrates security and fire and life-safety systems with core building systems. Q: What is the most striking result from the survey, and what does it mean in the context of a building’s safety and security systems? The results show an increased understanding about the value of integrating safety and security systems with other building systems Hank Monaco: Investment in building system integration increased 23 percent in 2019 compared to 2018, the largest increase of any measure in the survey. When respondents were asked more specifically what systems they we planning to invest in over the next year, fire and life safety integration (61%) and security system integration (58%) were the top two priorities for organisations. The results show an increased understanding about the value of integrating safety and security systems with other building systems to improve overall operations and bolster capabilities beyond the intended function of an individual system. Q: The survey covers integration of fire, life safety and security systems as part of "smart building" systems. How do smarter buildings increase the effectiveness of security and life safety systems? Hank Monaco: A true “smart building” integrates all building systems – security, fire and life-safety, HVAC, lighting etc. – to create a connected, digital infrastructure that enables individual technologies to be more intelligent and perform more advanced functions beyond what they can do on their own. For example, when sensors and video surveillance are integrated with lighting systems, if abnormal activity is detected on the building premise, key stakeholders can be automatically alerted to increase emergency response time. With integrated video surveillance, they also gain the ability to access surveillance footage remotely to assess the situation. When sensors and video surveillance are integrated with lighting systems abnormal activity on the premise can automatically be detected Q: How can integrated security and life safety systems contribute to greater energy efficiency in a smart building environment? Hank Monaco: Security, fire and life-safety systems can help to inform other building systems about how a facility is used, high-trafficked areas and the flow of occupants within a building. Integrated building solutions produce a myriad of data that can be leveraged to increase operational efficiencies. From an energy efficiency standpoint, actionable insights are particularly useful for areas that are not frequently occupied or off-peak hours as you wouldn’t want to heat or cool an entire building for just one person coming in on the weekend. When video surveillance is integrated with HVAC and lighting systems, it can monitor occupancy in a room or hallway. The video analytics can then control the dimming of lights and the temperature depending on occupant levels in a specific vicinity. Similarly, when access control systems are integrated with these same systems, once a card is presented to the reader, it can signal the lights or HVAC system to turn on. In this example, systems integration can ultimately help enable energy savings in the long run. Security and life safety systems contribute to help enable greater energy efficiency and energy savings in the long run Q: What other benefits of integration are there (beyond the core security and life safety functions)? Hank Monaco: Beyond increased security, fire and life-safety functions, the benefits of systems integration include: Increased data and analytics to garner a holistic, streamlined understanding of how systems function and how to improve productivity Ability to track usage to increase efficiency and reduce operational costs Enhanced occupant experience and comfort Increased productivity and workflow to support business objectives Smart-ready, connected environment that can support future technology advancements Q: What lesson or action point should a building owner/operator take from the survey? How can the owner of an existing building leverage the benefits of the smart building environment incrementally and absent a complete overhaul? Lisa Brown: Johnson Controls Energy Efficiency Indicator found that 77% of organisations plan to make investments in energy efficiency and smarter building technology this year. This percentage demonstrates an increased understanding of the benefits of smart buildings and highlights the proactive efforts building owners are taking to adopt advanced technologies. There is an increased understanding that buildings operate more effectively when different building systems are connected As smart buildings continue to evolve, more facilities are beginning to explore opportunities to advance their own spaces. A complete overhaul of legacy systems is not necessary as small investments today can help position a facility to more easily adopt technologies at scale in the future. As a first step, it’s important for building owners to conduct an assessment and establish a strategy that defines a comprehensive set of requirements and prioritises use-cases and implementations. From there, incremental investments and updates can be made over a realistic timeline. Q: What is the ROI of smart buildings? Lisa Brown: As demonstrated by our survey, there is an increased understanding that buildings operate more effectively when different building systems are connected. The advanced analytics and more streamlined data that is gathered through systems integration can provide the building-performance metrics to help better understand the return on investment (ROI) of the building systems. This data is used to better understand the environment and make assessments and improvements overtime to increase efficiencies. Moreover, analytics and data provide valuable insights into where action is needed and what type of return can be expected from key investments.

It had been a particularly slow night. The plant security guard had just made his rounds on this Sunday evening shift. As soon as he passed the weighing scales, he could enter the guard shack and get off his feet. Challenging a curious incident However, on this night, he noticed the waste vendor’s truck sitting half on and half off the scale. He stopped dead in his tracks to see if the truck would back up and completely sit on the scale. It never did. The observant guard walked up to the truck and challenged the driver who seemed surprised. “Hey, you’re not weighing your truck properly.” The driver fumbled for a response before replying, “Sorry, I was on the phone with a friend. I didn’t notice it.” But this security guard had the presence of mind to demand the driver’s phone. The driver was caught off guard and surrendered the phone. The guard then pulled up the most recent incoming/outgoing calls and saw no calls during the last 30 minutes. “I don’t think so.” “You don’t think so what?” The security guard was frank, “You haven’t used this phone in over half an hour.” The truck driver sheepishly acknowledged the fact. It was decided to install CCTV covering the weighing area and scales – no easy feat due to poor lighting Preventing crime as it happens Knowing the driver was lying, the security guard ordered the truck back on the scale for a correct weighing and advised the driver that he would report the incident. The security guard wrote up his report and handed it off to his supervisor who, in turn, contacted the local corporate investigator. This investigator was soon on the phone with his boss at corporate headquarters on the other side of the world. Together with Security, they decided to install CCTV covering the weighing area and scales – no easy feat due to poor lighting. However, once completed, they waited. They would not have to wait long. For the next two months, the waste vendor trucks, filled to the brim with production waste, black-and-white paper and other waste products from the plant, would stop on the scale only for a moment and then drive the front half of the truck off the scale for weighing. It was obvious that the vendor was cheating the company by only paying for half the waste. After two months, it was decided to catch the next cheating driver “en flagrante.” Sure enough, the next truck went half on and half off the scale and was weighed. Security then asked the unsuspecting driver to park his truck and invited him inside the building to talk to a supervisor. The driver signed an incriminating statement about the scheme and his role therein. They sent him on his way asking him to keep it quiet Waiting for the driver in a large office was the local investigator and his close friend, the Head of Security. After a difficult interview, the driver admitted to cheating on the scales over a two-year period—he claimed that some of the scale cheating was done at the direction of the vendor’s management, while some of it he did himself by “ripping off” the vendor—which he acknowledged was dangerous. Working with authorities The driver signed an incriminating statement about the scheme and his role therein. They sent him on his way asking him to keep it quiet—they would see what they could do for him later on. In the meantime, Corporate Investigations had received a due diligence report on the vendor company which contained disturbing news—the company and its managers were associated with a countrywide waste management mafia. The report suggested that the vendor had a reputation for thefts and involvement in numerous lawsuits regarding thefts and embezzlement. Shockingly, no prior due diligence had ever been conducted on the vendor. Fortunately, the plant’s finance and audit team had maintained good records over the past 5 years and were able to re-construct the amount of waste going out the plant door and the amounts being claimed and paid for by the vendor. The discrepancy and loss stood at a multi-million dollar figure. After consulting with the local police authorities and company lawyers, it was decided to pursue a civil case against the vendor. Pursuing legal action The regional lawyer, the Head of Investigations, the Head of Security and the CFO invited the vendor to discuss the problem. Some of the evidence was shown to the vendor’s CEO who became indignant and, in order to save face, promised to fire the truck drivers and to repay any losses for the last two months. Inter-dependent entities - security, investigations, finance/audit and legal - combined their resources and agendas to form a unified front That was not enough for the company and a protracted legal battle ensued which lasted several years and resulted in the vendor’s paying almost the entire amount in instalments. The vendor was dropped from the contract and internal controls strengthened—the only plant employee dealing with the waste issue left the company and was replaced by two individuals. The plant also began paying more attention to the waste process and less to the production side. Several “lessons learned” come to mind. First, the tripwire came in the person of an astute and well-trained security guard who exhibited some of the best characteristics you want to see from men and women in that profession. The Security Department was also adept at installing the CCTV and capturing the fraud live on videotape. But a far greater lesson was learned—of what can happen when inter-dependent entities (security, investigations, finance/audit and legal) within a company combine their resources and agendas to form a unified front. The results speak for themselves.

The coronavirus pandemic had a monumental impact on all aspects of the business world, including the security industry. However, amid the gloom and doom, many security professionals also saw opportunity: New ways the industry’s products could be applied to address the challenges of coping with the virus. This article will review some of those opportunities, based on our reporting throughout the year and including links back to the original articles. During and after the pandemic, security systems are an important asset when it comes to helping to keep occupants and buildings safe as employees return to work. For example, video analytics can provide insight into how spaces have previously been used and can help to predict where and when occupants encounter each other or congregate. Role of thermal cameras These foot-traffic patterns can inform settings for a variety of devices - like ventilation and temperature controls - and even help owners create social distancing plans and monitor personal protective equipment (PPE) compliance. Thermal surveillance, a mainstay of traditional physical security and outdoor perimeter detection, began being deployed early in the pandemic to quickly scan employees, contractors and visitors as part of a first line of defence to detect COVID-19 symptoms. These systems provide flexibility and can offer integrations with multiple VMS platforms and access control devices These systems provide flexibility and can offer integrations with multiple VMS platforms and access control devices. Thermal cameras can be a tool for detecting fever, but any use of the technology for this purpose is full of qualifications and caveats. Importantly, how the camera system is configured makes all the difference in whether temperature readings are accurate, and the downside of inaccurate readings is obvious - and potentially deadly. Temperature detection systems FDA guidelines limit how the cameras are used, not to mention guidance from other regulatory/government bodies such as the CDC. One of our Expert Roundtable panelists compares the market to a “wild west scenario,” and almost all the panelists are clear about how customers should approach the market: Buyer beware. There are many companies jumping into selling temperature detection systems to the state, local governments, hospitals, airports and local businesses, but do they know how to drive one? Anyone can get behind a car and drive it into a wall by accident. The same can happen with a temperature detection system. Customers need to know what questions to ask to ensure they maximise the accuracy of body temperature detection systems. Rise of contactless Spread of the novel coronavirus has jolted awareness of hygiene as it relates to touching surfaces such as keypads. No longer in favor are contact-based modalities including use of personal identification numbers (PINs) and keypads, and the shift has been sudden and long-term. Both customers and manufacturers were taken by surprise by this aspect of the virus’s impact and are therefore scrambling for solutions. Immediate impact of the change includes suspension of time and attendance systems that are touch-based Immediate impact of the change includes suspension of time and attendance systems that are touch-based. Some two-factor authentication systems are being downgraded to RFID-only, abandoning the keypad and/or biometric components that contributed to higher security, but are now unacceptable because they involve touching. "Users do not want to touch anything anymore,” says Alex Zarrabi, President of Touchless Biometrics Systems (TBS). Facial recognition system Another contactless system that benefits from concerns about spread of COVID-19 is facial recognition. New advancement in software, specifically in the areas of algorithms, neural networks and deep learning and/or artificial intelligence (AI), have all dramatically improved both the performance and accuracy of facial recognition systems, further expanding its use for an increasing number of applications. A low-tech solution - the face mask - became a leading preventative measure during the pandemic. But, a high-tech solution is necessary to ensure that everyone is wearing them. Cameras powered by artificial intelligence can now identify whether or not people entering a facility are wearing facemasks and help enforce adherence to mask mandates. This technology is proving to be a cost-effective solution that reduces risks of confrontations over masks policies and gives managers the data they need to document regulatory compliance and reduce liability. Smart video analytics Other technology approaches, including artificial intelligence (AI), were also brought to bear during the pandemic. The German data analytics powerhouse G2K, for example, has developed a Corona Detection and Containment System (CDCS) that is ready for immediate use in record time. Detection takes place in combination with AI-supported data analysis to specifically identify virus hotspots and distribution routes, as well as to identify other potentially infected persons. One specific AI application fuels the reopening of the world and successfully keeps the spread of the virus abated One specific AI application fuels the reopening of the world and successfully keeps the spread of the virus abated. A “collaborative security” application includes a synthesis of smart video analytics, facial recognition, object identification/detection, and thermal cameras that can support the reopening of businesses globally when installed within those facilities frequented by customers. Enforcing social distancing Several applications have been successful to date and will increase in usability in the foreseeable future, creating “smart cities” working together towards a safer, more secure world. The site of one pilot programme is the 250,000-square-foot HID Global facility in Austin. For the pilot programme, 80 HID Location Services readers were installed in a wide area in the facility, including a variety of environments. Initially 30 badges and 30 fobs, all BLE-enabled, were issued to employees. If a badge identifies another nearby beacon (suggesting a social distancing failure), it emits a blinking LED light, which can be seen by the offending co-worker. To ensure social distancing, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon is emitted from an employee’s fob (or from a badge that has the same functionality). The beacon communicates peer-to-peer with a beacon emitted by another employee’s fob or badge to alert if the location of the two employees is less than six feet apart. For contact tracing, the beacons communicate via a nearby “reader” (a BluFi BLE-to-Wi-Fi gateway) to the Bluzone cloud-based software-as-a-service. COVID-19 white papers In addition, we published several White Papers in 2020 that addressed various aspects of the coronavirus pandemic. They included: The top five security lessons learned that apply across all industries navigating COVID-19. Using video analytics to keep staff, visitors and customers safe by enforcing social distancing. How antimicrobial treatment on door handles and levers can reduce disease spread. How companies can put in extra precautions that will continue to grow and adapt with their environment over the long-term. Determining the practicalities and capabilities of today's thermal cameras to accurately detect body temperature.

In addition to providing the Northeast’s largest security trade show, ISC East will include free conference sessions and keynote speeches right on the show floor and several paid workshops. The Nov. 20-21 event at New York’s Javits Center will also include vendor solution sessions from Axis Communications, Hikvision and NAPCO. Wide variety of paid workshops An advantage of the International Security Conference & Exposition in New York is that much of the programming is complimentary to registered attendees, and location of the sessions on the show floor means attendees don’t have to leave the exhibition to take in a session. The paid workshops include technology sessions about cyber terminology for physical security integratorsThe paid workshops include an Active Shooter Workshop and technology sessions about cyber terminology for physical security integrators; and basic installation and configuration of video surveillance solutions. An OSDP (Open Supervised Device Protocol) Boot Camp Short Course will also be offered. As a smaller show, the topics of ISC East conference sessions are broader and of more general interest, rather than organised into focused “tracks” as at ISC West. Attendance at sessions can provide continuing education (CE) credits with organisations that partner with ISC East – one credit for each hour-long session. Attendees can use their Certificate of Attendance from any session to self-report their education hours to relevant industry bodies: ALOA (AEU education credits), ASIS (CPE continuing professional education credits) and NICET (CPD Continuing Professional Development points). An advantage of the International Security Conference & Exposition in New York is that much of the programming is complimentary to registered attendees Keynote sessions at the Main Stage The Main Stage will be the venue for keynote sessions delivered by Deanne Criswell, Commissioner, New York City Emergency Management (on Day 1 – Nov. 20); and Angela Stubblefield, Chief of Staff at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (on Day 2 – Nov. 21). The two SIA Education@ISC East educational theaters on the show floor will be booked up both days with a variety of interesting topics. A new session covers penetration testing for physical security, presented by Michael Glasser of Glasser Security Group. A session on LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors will be presented by Frank Bertini, UAV and Robotics Business Manager, Velodyne LiDAR. Another popular topic is Safe Cities, and FLIR will present a session on moving from secured to smart cities with intelligent, connected systems. New addition is Active Shooter Workshop  The Active Shooter Workshop is a new addition to the ISC East programme. It has been a popular session at ISC West for three years now. At ISC East, presenters of the workshop will be David LaRose, System Director Public Health, Lee Health; and Ben Scaglione, Director of Healthcare and Security Programming, Lowers and Associates. At the end of the workshop, an additional hour of programming will be the “Stop the Bleed/Save a Life” session presented by Jerry Wilkins, Co-Owner of Active Risk Survival. The Main Stage will be the venue for keynote sessions delivered by Deanne Criswell, Commissioner, New York City Emergency Management, and Angela Stubblefield, Chief of Staff at the Federal Aviation Administration Woman in Security event A Women in Security Forum breakfast event will be held on Nov. 21 (Thursday). It’s the second annual event and this year will focus on diversity and inclusiveness in the workplace of the future. Valerie Anderson, President of Boon Edam, will lead a discussion on “Diversity 2.0: Next Steps for Creating an Empowered Workforce”Moderator Valerie Anderson, President of Boon Edam, will lead a discussion on “Diversity 2.0: Next Steps for Creating an Empowered Workforce”. Panelists are Lisa Terry of Allied Universal, Andrew Lanning of Integrated Security Technologies, Elaine Palome of Axis Communications and Dawne Hanks of Milestone. The Women in Security event is likely to attract up to 100 attendees. SIA’s Women in Security is an active organisation, with monthly meetings and a newsletter that recognises prominent women in the security industry. “It’s really a group for both men and women,” says Mary Beth Shaughnessy, Event Director, ISC Events at Reed Exhibitions. “There are many programmes, recruiting efforts, and professional and networking opportunities. They are a robust group of people who are active in making a difference. It’s important to support women in the security industry, which is 95% male, and to develop a new generation of women to be a part of the industry’s future.” The keynote addresses at ISC East will also highlight two high-profile women.

The threat of drones is a growing concern around the perimeter and in the airspace surrounding airports. According to a UK Airprox Board report, the number of times a drone endangered the safety of an aircraft in the UK airspace rose more than a third in 2018 compared to the year before. The highest-profile recent drone incident was at UK’s Gatwick Airport, where a drone sighting last December triggered a three-day shutdown of the UK’s second busiest airport, disrupted the travel plans of 140,000 people and affected 1,000 flights. Unauthorised drone activity And there have been other recent incidents of drone disruptions at airports: At Heathrow Airport in January 2019, flights were temporarily stopped for about an hour ‘as a precautionary measure’ after a drone was reported. The UK Airprox Board recorded 39 dangerously close drone encounters at Heathrow in 2018. In the U.S., flights into Newark Liberty International Airport were disrupted for about 90 minutes in January after a drone sighting. Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, closed its airspace for about 30 minutes in February due to suspected unauthorised drone activity. In March and again in May, air traffic at Frankfurt Airport in Germany was grounded due to drone sightings – for about 30 minutes in the first instance and about an hour in the second. Drone detection systems Security has a role in preventing drone incidents, although pilots often report them Security has a role in preventing drone incidents, although pilots often report them. At Gatwick, the initial reports of a drone over the airfield came from airport security officers. After the incident, the UK government rushed through legislation to enlarge the drone exclusion zones around airports to a maximum of 5 km (up from the previous 1 km). In the U.S., the exclusion zone around airports is a radius of about 5 miles, and even more in sensitive areas such as the National Capital Region around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, where restrictions are 15 to 30 miles. Airports in the U.S. are allowed to deploy drone detection systems but may not use counterdrone technology (such as shooting down the drones), which is reserved for the Justice Department and Homeland Security. Dedicated new technology “News that drone threats to aircraft are increasing should come as no surprise,” says Simon Barnes, Business Development Manager – Airports Europe for Genetec. “Recent reported incidents are just the tip of the iceberg. As drones become increasingly ubiquitous – both from hobbyists and their growing use in professional arenas – we can expect to see many more incidents.” From speaking to airports across the world, Barnes has learned that two of the most pressing challenges they face are how they secure their perimeters (as intruders become increasingly sophisticated) and identifying ‘Friend from Foe’ as operational needs must be maintained. “When it specifically comes to drone detection, the short-term temptation can be to introduce a dedicated new technology to address this specific threat,” he commented. More comprehensive response We need to work with technology, not against it, in order to ensure public safety and security" “However, the last thing a functioning airport needs is an independent system that isn’t unified with all of the other security measures in place. Only when the data from all of these inputs is visualised in one place can an airport begin to make sense of its environment and enable a fast and efficient response to evolving challenges such as the insider threat and malicious drone activities. We fully expect airports to respond to this changing landscape, to help ensure a more comprehensive response.” Philip Avery, Managing Director of Navtech Radar, adds: “In today's current climate of increased national threats, we need to work fast to keep up with modern risks. However, creating new, complicated laws open to misinterpretation or enforcing a complete ban on privately owned drones seem like Luddite solutions that undermine the potential of innovative technology. We need to work with technology, not against it, in order to ensure public safety and security.” Help mitigate risk Navtech Radar sells the AdvanceGuard system for drone detection. Tavcom Training, part of the Linx International Group, has responded to requests from the security industry for expert training in order to be better prepared for and mitigate against the threat of Unmanned Aerial Systems (better known as drones). The company offers a two-day Drone Detection classroom-based course for £375+VAT. Our drone detection course gives security professionals advice from experts" “The responses to the [recent] airport drone attacks were played out in the spotlight, with much public debate regarding the seeming lack of a pre-defined plan of action to prevent or contain such an incident,” explains Sarah Hayward-Turton, Sales and Marketing Director at the Linx International Group. “Our drone detection course gives security professionals advice from experts in drone technology, to help mitigate risk and implement countermeasures to thwart unauthorised drone activity.” The course will be offered again in November 2019 and in February 2020.

The National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) is a Social Health Insurance Scheme established by CAP 395 with the main objective of ensuring the accessibility of healthcare services to all Tanzanians.  The Fund has managed to expand its coverage to include councilors, private companies, religious and educational institutions, private individuals, children under 18 (TOTO Afya) as well as mutual groups, whereby all members have equal access to health services in all accredited health facilities. The Fund is also administering the Bunge Health Insurance Scheme, on behalf of the National Assembly. Business scenario and challenges NHIF is a prestigious public institution that serves people all over dar es salaam and Tanzania. It has multiple sites spread over these regions. Their current surveillance platform had a few limitations in integrating third-party cameras and was not facilitating centralised monitoring for multiple locations. Their current surveillance platform had a few limitations in integrating third-party cameras This posed a problem in managing and monitoring all sites from a single location. For this, they needed a surveillance platform that could easily integrate with multi-brand cameras as well as facilitate multi-location monitoring. Moreover, they needed a system with a monitoring capacity of over 500 cameras with the facility of remote management for real-time security. Solution offered To the above challenges, Matrix Offered SATATYA SAMAS Video Management System. It is a video surveillance management solution specifically designed to meet the diverse and complex needs of large enterprises having multiple sites connected to a central location or a large, single site. The system was able to integrate with 56 AXIS cameras available at its Head Quarters and other 16 cameras available at its district branch offices. All the cameras were managed at a single central server located at the NHIF HQ office. Real-time security VMS enabled monitoring and managing video surveillance remotely by using Matrix Mobile Application Matrix VMS provided real-time security with Intelligent Video Analytics such as Motion Detection, Intrusion Detection, Trip Wire, etc. Additionally, VMS enabled monitoring and managing video surveillance from mobile phones and tablets remotely by using Matrix Mobile Application: SATATYA VISION. These features made monitoring much more reliable and easier for them. Project highlights:  VMS Simultaneous User Licence - 3 Qty Mobile App (SATATYA VISION) Intelligent Video Analytics Solution Diagram Benefits Retention of existing Security Infrastructure. Reduces storage consumption with cost-saving features. Centralised monitoring and management. Real-time security.

Ipsotek, an Atos company and a pioneer in artificial intelligence and scenario-based video analytics, has announced the award of a contract to install its Computer Vision technology at the new Dhoho Kediri International Airport, Indonesia.  In conjunction with its accredited channel partner PT. Sinergi Teknoglobal Perkasa, Ipsotek will deliver its AI-based video analytics, face recognition, and licence plate recognition solutions across the airport, which comprises 372 hectares. The airport is expected to accommodate around 1.5M PAX (Passengers) when open and grow to a maximum capacity of 10M PAX.  Automatic alert generation Ipsotek VISuite AI powered by Atos BullSequana SA20G servers will provide the airport with the means to automatically generate alerts using its Scenario-based and AI computer vision video analytics. Alerts will be integrated into the Genetec Security Center VMS for control room operators to manage according to their Standard Operating Procedures (“SOPs”). Use cases include perimeter and intrusion detection, identifying stationary/abandoned vehicles as well as abandoned objects, face recognition, license plate recognition, fire, and smoke detection, and pinpointing incidences of overcrowding and people loitering / suspicious behaviour, all in real-time.  A scalable video analytics solution With the integration between Ipsotek and Genetec Security Center VMS, the operators will have a seamless environment  Andi Syach, Sales Director at PT. Sinergi Teknoglobal Perkasa, said, “The Ipsotek video analytics solution provides us with a scalable system that will form the foundation for the security, safety, and surveillance requirements of the airport." "With the existing integration between Ipsotek and Genetec Security Center VMS (video management system), the control room operators will have a seamless environment in which to work.”  AI solutions Chris Bishop, Sales Director APAC & Marketing Director at Ipsotek, commented, “This is our second major airport project in Indonesia, and we are delighted to have been selected to supply our advanced video analytics software with forensics, Ipsotek VISuite AI, VISuite FR and VISuite LPR powered by Atos BullSequana SA20G server with the NVIDIA A12 GPU." "This will provide the control room with real-time, automated alerts from across the airfield and the ability to conduct accurate forensics searches for POI (person of interest) or VOI (vehicle of interest) in seconds.” Ipsotek’s AI solutions are deployed in more than 750 projects across 44 countries in safe cities, transportation, CNI, government, commercial, energy, and education via a network of accredited channel partners. 

Whether football at the Bundesliga level, corporate conferences, or cultural events: the Kia Metropol Arena in Nuremberg, Germany, opened in 2021, has impressed visitors with its flexibility, space, and unmatched visibility for over 4,000 spectators across four stands.  Integrated solution  Due to the cost-effective solutions planned and implemented by Bosch, the arena is highly secure, while at the same time, providing crystal-clear sound for all its events. The building makes the most of IoT, connectivity, and digital solutions: In addition to the latest IP technologies for video surveillance, intrusion, and fire protection, the arena also hosts an integrated solution for public address and voice alarm, which completely dispenses with analogue transmission paths. Highly efficient: sound system and voice alarm in one IP-based Praesensa system from Bosch is built-in fail-safe due to its innovative multi-channel amplifier architecture With its excellent sound, quick voice alarming, and crystal-clear speech for emergencies, the easy-to-use sound system and voice alarm solution implemented in the Nuremberg arena meets all requirements for major events and sets a new standard for future projects. The technological heart of the system is the IP-based Praesensa system from Bosch, a flexible solution with a built-in fail-safe due to its innovative multi-channel amplifier architecture. A digital mixing console and radio microphones are connected to the system, and a total of 56 certified full-range loudspeakers from Electro-Voice were installed in the interior of the Kia Metropol Arena. 20,000-watt system The acoustics of sports halls are often considered particularly difficult to get right due to the reverberation caused by the spacious architecture. To address this, Bosch’s sound system experts and acoustic designers ran extensive simulations in a 3D model, in combination with fine tuning on site. The result is that the 20,000-watt system transmits excellent sound, guaranteeing clarity of speech in every single seat; the system covers all buildings and rooms, including VIP lounges, press rooms, catering, changing, and training zones where additional loudspeakers are installed. All announcements can, therefore, be heard everywhere, with the best possible speech intelligibility. The IP-based solution saves effort and costs The fully digital system isn’t only superior in terms of acquisition costs, but also in terms of performance with a high level of cost-effectiveness and operational ease. Announcements can be made live or played automatically from digital memory. Meanwhile, maintenance by Bosch can be carried out quickly and remotely, while adjustments can be made easily by updating the software. At the same time, the solution is highly energy efficient, as the system was designed to keep power consumption as low as possible.

To keep residents and visitors safe, 24 hours a day, gated communities need comprehensive, reliable security solutions. At Copperleaf Golf Estate in Centurion, South Africa, these needs have been met with an advanced security solution from Hikvision, which incorporates AI-powered optical, thermal, and license plate recognition cameras that provide real-time alerts in the event of a perimeter breach or other security incident. The challenge Securing gated golf and residential community Residential gated communities provide significantly improved security compared to 'open' streets. In particular, gated communities can tightly control the vehicle and people’s access, helping protect residents and visitors to a far greater degree than would otherwise be possible. Security challenges  Perimeters need to be checked to prevent security breaches and to support real-time responses to prevent theft But gated communities also face specific security challenges. As well as requiring physical walls or fences to prevent unauthorised people from entering, site perimeters need to be checked constantly to prevent security breaches, and to support real-time responses to prevent theft, vandalism, and other negative outcomes. These were the challenges facing Copperleaf Golf Estate, a gated residential community just 15 minutes outside Centurion in Mnandi, Gauteng, South Africa. The community offers a range of lots and houses in a peaceful setting, as well as South Africa's second 'Signature' golf course designed by the legendary South African professional golfer Ernie Els. Perimeter protection solution To protect residents and visitors, Copperleaf needed a perimeter protection solution to prevent unauthorised vehicles or people from entering the site. To achieve this goal, they worked with Independent Technology Security Systems (ITS Systems), an integrated security and building management solutions expert. "To keep everyone safe, Copperleaf needs to keep a close eye on their perimeter wall and other areas of the site, including the golf course. They also need to maintain vigilance even in adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain and fog, and after dark." Theo Mienie, Managing Director from ITS Systems says, "After conducting a thorough review of the facilities, we concluded that Hikvision's solutions are a good fit for Copperleaf." The solution A comprehensive solution from Hikvision AcuSense Fixed Bullet Network Cameras constantly protect the site's perimeter wall, the Els golf course, residential streets To provide the exceptionally high levels of security residents and golf members expect, ITS Systems has implemented a comprehensive Hikvision security solution for Copperleaf. This incorporates more than 100 AcuSense Fixed Bullet Network Cameras that constantly protect the site's perimeter wall, the Els golf course, residential streets, and security vetting rooms and offices. Security for the 8km perimeter wall is provided by over 50 Hikvision Thermal & Optical Bi-spectrum Network Bullet Cameras with intrusion detection capabilities up to a distance of 700 metres. If the perimeter is breached by a person or vehicle, an alert is sent to the security team automatically, and in real-time. ANPR Cameras, I-Series NVR and iVMS-4200 Hikvision ANPR Cameras have also been installed at the site's three entrance and exit points, providing an overhead view of vehicles coming into and leaving the estate 24 hours a day. These cameras offer license plate recognition technology to ensure that only authorised vehicles are admitted.  The Copperleaf Security team checks feed and alert from the cameras using Hikvision's advanced control room infrastructure. This includes the Hikvision I-Series NVR and iVMS-4200 software and monitors, which display video footage and alerts, allowing the security team to take immediate action in the event of a suspected security breach. The benefits Efficient operation and all-around protection for peace of mind With the bullet network cameras' remote patrol capabilities, the security staff can visually check all sites Copperleaf Gold Estate has achieved alarm efficiency and labour cost reduction with the help of AI-embedded thermal cameras and AcuSense bullet network cameras, which can greatly reduce false alarms and provide accurate, real-time threat detection that distinguishes people and vehicles from other targets. Copperleaf has also minimised expenses on physical patrols. With the bullet network cameras' remote patrol capabilities, the security staff can visually check all sites using high-definition cameras based on patrol schedules, reducing requirements for physical patrols and other interventions. Efficient and effective "We no longer spend our time carrying out physical security checks and responding to and investigating false alarms," says Phineas Thosago, General Manager from Copperleaf Golf Estate. "Instead, we can focus 100% of our effort on real threats, which makes us far more efficient and more effective as a team and helps us maximize security for our residents and visitors." Deep-learning video analytics The thermal cameras feature deep-learning video analytics in all weather and light conditions The site is protected 24/7/365, even in adverse weather conditions. The thermal cameras feature deep-learning video analytics in all weather and light conditions, ensuring that Copperleaf Golf Estate is protected 24x7, 365 days a year. "Copperleaf needed cameras that could withstand all kinds of adverse weather conditions," says ITS Systems' Theo Mienie, "The Hikvision cameras provide the reliable, always-on capabilities they need. Copperleaf Golf Estate has now achieved an extremely high level of security for residents and visitors." AI features Combined with the AI capabilities of Hikvision cameras – the advanced features ensure that security threats can be detected accurately and addressed immediately. "We are taking advantage of AI features that automate alerts and help us work faster and better," says Phineas Thosago. "It just shows how quickly the security industry is evolving that these kinds of features have become accessible for small and medium-sized businesses." Copperleaf Golf Estate’s Phineas Thosago says, "We can now detect and respond in real-time in the event of a security incident, which means total peace of mind for our residents and visitors to the golf course."

Evolution, the integrated fire and security systems business, has been appointed by Goldsmiths, University of London to deliver a comprehensive review and assessment of its security systems, as well as managing its ongoing maintenance requirements. Goldsmiths teaches a wide range of subjects across the arts, humanities, and social sciences, and is home to more than 10,000 students. Situated in Southeast London, the university has a large campus with more than 90 buildings including a state-of-the-art theatre and features a large college green. Goldsmiths, University of London The university has an on-site security team, who monitor CCTV and security systems from the control room, as well as a team of over 40 guards that patrol the campus. Due to a high level of faults and costly service call outs, the security team sought a new security partner that could provide a higher level of service and account management, and help reduce the number of unnecessary and avoidable engineer visits, through improved maintenance. It turned to Evolution to provide the solution. Evolution’s security services Evolution has taken over the maintenance of the university’s access control, CCTV and intruder alarm systems Evolution has taken over the maintenance of the university’s access control, CCTV and intruder alarm systems – with more than 500 doors, 200 cameras and 50 alarm panels across the campus. Evolution’s Systems Engineer, Will Leung, has been employed as Resident Site Engineer from Monday to Friday. As well as providing on-site maintenance services, Will Leung is also working closely with the Goldsmiths team to produce a comprehensive review of all existing systems and to provide cost-effective support ideas and recommendations, including the introduction of new technologies and phasing out legacy assets. Bespoke and detailed training programme In addition, Evolution is providing a bespoke and detailed training programme for the Goldsmiths team, in order to up-skill and ensure that all the staff is proficient with all systems and software, and feel supported in their role. Bruno Simoes, the Senior Security Manager at Goldsmiths, University of London, said “Evolution have been a great addition to our contractor family on campus. As our specialist security systems and maintenance provider, not only have they provided us with technical expertise and best practice advice, but I have also been thoroughly impressed with the highest level of service and support they have provided at all times.” Paul Baxter, the Business Development Manager – Service & Maintenance at Evolution, says Evolution is dedicated to providing its clients with the highest level of service and support. He stated, “We are proud to be working with Goldsmiths across their prestigious campus. We are working closely with Bruno and his team, to provide a comprehensive review of their security and provide enhanced maintenance services that reduce the number of call outs and ultimately, help reduce costs.”

Compania Naţională de Căi Ferate ‘CFR’ - SA, the state railway carrier of Romania, has invested in an integrated security and safety solution from Johnson Controls, to protect passengers travelling on a new railway link, connecting the Otopeni Henri Coandă International Airport to Bucharest Nord main railway station, in Bucharest, Romania. Securing Bucharest’s new rail link The 2.95 km rail link, which was planned to facilitate the large number of fans travelling from the international airport to attend the Bucharest-hosted EURO 2020 football matches and was completed in just 14 months, from the design stage, at a cost of approximately 120 million Euros, is now being increasingly used by business travellers and tourists, who wish to visit the city of Bucharest. The contract to design and execute the entire project was won, as part of a competitiveness tender process, by the Arcada – ISPCF – DB Engineering consortium. Alfred Net, a systems integrator that specialises in designing and implementing turnkey security, telecommunications and network solutions, was subsequently tasked to provide the new railway terminal’s safety and security systems, as well as the passenger communications and information systems. Need for a sophisticated security solution We were very pleased to have the opportunity to use our experience of providing sophisticated solutions" “We were very pleased to have the opportunity to use our experience of providing sophisticated solutions for complex and mission critical applications, in order to contribute to the success of this important project,” said Alex Vladutoiu, the Managing Director & Solutions Architect at Alfred Net. Alex Vladutoiu said, “With the new link terminating within the airport, we immediately realised that any security and safety solution that we recommended to the consortium would need to meet the demanding requirements of airport security, as well as railway- related EU regulations and directives.” Deep integration of security components He adds, “This meant that as well as being robust, ultra-reliable and cyber secure, the various component parts of the solution would need to be deeply integrated with each other, so as to provide control room operators with a high level of situational awareness, which would enable them to react quickly and effectively to any incidents.” Alex Vladutoiu further said, “With this in mind, our previous experience led us to recommend that all the security and safety products should be single sourced from the Johnson Controls’ access control, fire, intrusion and video surveillance brands, which come under its Tyco umbrella. Simply put, we knew these various brands could collectively provide us with everything needed to put together an effective solution for this project.” He adds, “Importantly, we were confident that the various products, which to a large extent are ‘plug & play’, could be easily integrated without the time-consuming process of developing new drivers and interfaces.” Tyco victor security management platform The Alfred Net design team specified the Tyco victor security management platform  The Alfred Net design team specified the Tyco victor security management platform, to be at the heart of the safety and security solution. In addition to helping control room operators manage and monitor the images, captured by Tyco Illustra high-definition IP network cameras, victor’s graphical user interface (GUI) alerts operators in real time, as to any fire or intrusion events, as well as any access control activity. The design of the security and safety solution was based on a rigorous Risk Assessment Report, which took into account the worst case scenarios, in terms of the threat to the safety of passengers, disruption and the protection of assets. Unified security solution “By providing a unified solution, which can manage the combined data captured by the intrusion detection, access control, fire detection and video surveillance systems, victor offers authorised users with all the information they need, to monitor and strictly control the movement of passengers.” The products include: Video Surveillance & AI Analytics: In addition to the Tyco Illustra cameras and VideoEdge video recorders, which have been deployed to monitor the railway terminal proximity, mission critical machinery, platforms and areas open to the public, control room operators are also able to take advantage of video analytics, in order to help them quickly detect any suspicious activity or danger. Tripwire detection, for example, can generate an alert, if a passenger oversteps a platform’s safety line, while people counting analytics can alert security personnel to overcrowding. It can also be used by operations personnel to help them make best use of human resources, by having a greater understanding of which parts of the station are busy, at different times of the day. Access Control: A CEM Systems AC2000 access control software platform, together with eDCM350 OSDP protocol IP door controllers, are supporting smart card readers and encrypted cards, to limit access to sensitive areas throughout the railway station, such as communications, signalling, staff and locker rooms. As a highly scalable solution, AC2000 enabled Alfred Net to implement access control throughout expansive areas of the railway. By utilising RS485 serial communications with strong AES 128 encryption between the eDCM 350 intelligent door controllers, the OSDP readers and the smart cards, the railways is protected against the threat of controller signal cloning, as well as the threat of personnel card cloning. Fire Detection: Zettler Profile Flexible addressable panels, flame detectors and smoke sensors have been installed throughout the station terminal, to ensure mandatory compliance with EU fire regulations. Integration with the station’s PAVA system means that pre-recorded announcements are automatically broadcast, when a fire-related event occurs. Intrusion Detection: A DSC PowerSeries Neo intrusion system is providing protection for areas, which may be left unattended, such as cash handling areas, with integrated panic buttons to ensure there is a rapid reaction to any intrusion alarm. Johnson Controls and Alfred Net partnership Alfred Net worked closely with the Johnson Controls’ pre-sales team, in order to ensure the best products were specified for each location and application, and the comprehensive security and safety solution was installed, alongside the station’s iPIS communications and information software. Alex Vladutoiu said, “This was without doubt the most complex project that the client has been involved with and reflects its determination to invest in the latest technology, to ensure maximum operational efficiency and to protect its passengers and assets.” Video analytics and flame detection This has resulted in diverse solutions, such as video analytics and flame detection" He adds, “This has resulted in diverse solutions, such as video analytics and flame detection, based on video technology interacting with laser detection, RGB LED displays, digital signage, Text-to-Speech and many other state-of-the-art technologies, to deliver a highly effective total solution.” Since December 2020, when the new rail link became operational, the highly complex and integrated security and safety solution from Johnson Controls has been playing a key role, in ensuring the smooth operation of the train station and the running of 72 trains per day, (36 pairs), which arrive and depart every 20 minutes, both from and to the airport. Tyco suite of security products Alex Vladutoiu, Managing Director and Solutions Architect at Alfred Net, concludes “As a solution architect, Tyco is indeed my preferred security provider for integrated projects. As a unified solution, the Tyco suite of products are almost ‘plug and play’ and give you everything you need to build-up an integrated system, without spending additional time or money on developing other interfaces. He concludes, “We were delighted to have designed and implemented the new Otopeni Airport Railway Terminal project in less than one year and we look forward to our continued partnership with Tyco.”

Security systems are vital to any company. Nowadays, however, they can also provide additional benefits to any enterprise beyond protecting people, assets and facilities. Specifically, systems that were previously focused on security can now be leveraged in new ways to benefit the broader enterprise. When this happens, the security department transitions from a ‘cost centre’ to a repository of data that can benefit the whole company, and even contribute to the bottom line. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can ‘security’ systems benefit the larger mission of an enterprise?

2019 was a big year for the Expert Panel Roundtable. The range of topics expanded, and we had more participation from more contributors than ever before. In closing out the year of contemplative discussions, we came across some final observations to share. They can serve both as a postscript for 2019 and a teaser for a whole new year of industry conversations in our Expert Panel Roundtable in 2020.  

The year ahead holds endless promise for the physical security industry, and much of that future will be determined by which technologies the industry embraces. The menu of possibilities is long – from artificial intelligence to the Internet of Things to the cloud and much more – and each technology trend has the potential to transform the market in its own way. We tapped into the collective expertise of our Expert Panel Roundtable to answer this question: What technology trend will have the biggest impact on the security market in 2019?