Warning Devices

Elite Interactive Solutions, a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven crime prevention, announces the company was recognised this month as runner-up for the 2024 Police Dispatch Quality Award (PDQ). The prestigious honour, which is organised by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC), was presented during a ceremony at the recent Electronic Security Expo (ESX) held in Louisville. Since 2005, the PDQ program promoted security companies and law enforcement agencies working together as partners, sharing information and communicating frequently to protect public safety and serve their communities. It identifies providers that exemplify cooperative best practices to reduce unnecessary dispatches that drain precious resources and give officers the most complete information when responding to security incidents.  Reporting zero false alarms Elite, which has now twice been named PDQ runner-up and won the award in 2020, is the first provider to have completely eliminated false alarms and false dispatches to law enforcement. “There are many security systems and monitoring providers in the industry that talk about more effectively managing and stopping false alarms, and many do an admirable job, but many also fail to put teeth into that talk or stop at lip service only,” says Elite Founder and CEO, Aria Kozak, who earlier this year was named to the Industry Hall of Fame. Aria Kozak adds, “Elite has developed the most proven and effective mitigation of false alarms and dispatches the industry has ever seen. Our revolutionary remote video guarding service reports zero false alarms to responding law enforcement, which is unheard of.” Forensically designed systems Elite agents address any suspicious activity with a live voice-down in an average time of 7 seconds During the 2023 evaluation period, Elite accomplished zero false alarms while also assisting police in achieving more than 1,000 arrests and detainments. In addition, the company registered nearly 73,000 crime interventions through the swift, expert actions of its command center agents, who are all former military or former law enforcement. With forensically designed systems on customer sites and using a custom calibrated technology stack that filters out most of the “noise,” Elite agents address any suspicious activity with a live voice-down in an average time of 7 seconds.  As for building police relationships, Elite may be the only provider that has an in-house Law Enforcement Advisory Board (LEAB) comprised of active and former LE command staff and executives. They are fully engaged in the daily activities of Elite’s subterranean, UL-Listed command center. Facilitating optimal support The LEAB trains Elite agents, reviews and ensures calls for dispatch follow best protocols, and routinely communicates and meets with agencies around the country to facilitate optimal support and collaboration. A 2023 letter of commendation from Peace Officers Association of Los Angeles County Board President, Anthony Miranda, states: “During the years of our association with Elite, we have witnessed the evolution of procedures and technology where your company went from significantly reducing to now virtually eliminating false alarm calls. The impact on reducing unnecessary police response to alarms, enhancing officer safety when response is merited and the prevention of losses at your protected premises is extraordinary.”

Members of the Electronic Security Association (ESA) recently approved several competency director and officer positions. After voting for recent director positions concluded on May 24th, Chair-elect Kevin Stone recommended two Competency Directors and requested Board approval on June 2nd. These director positions are selected based on their subject matter expertise and must be an owner, officer, or employee of an ESA Member in Good Standing. Each Competency Director shall serve for a two-year term beginning July 1st, 2024. Competency director positions Kirk MacDowell, the 2023 Weinstock Person of the Year Award winner, is the founder and CEO of MacGuard Security Advisors. Bringing insight from his time at industry innovator Alarm.com, top Fortune 100 manufacturers General Electric and United Technologies, a top 50 SDM integrator, and his own electronic security firm, Kirk now offers guidance on how to innovate, transform, and compete in the ever-changing electronic security landscape. Kirk also remains active in many corps serving on multiple industry and private firm boards A sought-after industry speaker, Kirk also remains active in many associations serving on numerous industry and private company boards. He was the Past Board of Director of the Security Industry Association (SIA) and The Monitoring Association (TMA), past Chairman of AIREF (Alarm Industry Research & Education Foundation), past Chairman of the Security Industry Alarm Collation (SIAC) and past president of the Los Angeles County Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (LABFAA). Kirk currently serves as the Chairman of ESA’s Leadership Identification and Nominating Committee (LINC). Kirk was recently inducted into the SSI Industry Hall of Fame. “I am honoured to join ESA’s board of directors as a competency director and proud to serve the industry that has given me so much. Looking forward to working alongside ESA’s elected board and officers.” Michael Barnes, who recently served as a Competency Director from 2022-2024 under Chairman John Loud, founded Barnes Associates in 1986 and directs the firm’s Mergers and Acquisitions activities. He is based in St. Louis, Missouri. Since founding Barnes Associates, Michael has been involved in more than 280 security alarm acquisitions and financings, with an aggregate transaction value in excess of $29 billion. He has lectured at numerous events within the security alarm industry on matters relating to acquisitions, the availability of capital and the operating dynamics and performance of alarm companies. Michael was the 13th person to be inducted into the SSI Industry Hall of Fame, an honor he received in 2004. Barnes Associates co-sponsors the annual Barnes-Buchanan Conference. “Overall, I feel honoured to once again be invited to serve on ESA’s Board. The organization does such great work in supporting and advocating for the industry, and the Board has a large responsibility for setting direction. I feel the weight of that responsibility and hope I can rise to the occasion.” Officer Positions In addition to the approval of the Competency Directors, the Board approved three officer positions to serve from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. Integrator Director Jeremy Bates, of Bates Security, will serve as Vice Chairman. The Vice Chairman reports to the Chairman and the Board of Directors, serves as liaison to at least one of the standing committees of the Association, promotes all the objectives of the Association, and performs such duties as may be assigned to him or her by the Chairman and the Board of Directors. Competency Director Michael Barnes, of Barnes Associates, will continue in his role as Treasurer. The Treasurer has general supervision of the fiscal affairs of the Association. Integrator Director Melissa Brinkman, of Custom Alarm, will serve as Secretary to the Board. The Secretary is responsible for the preparation of accurate minutes of the proceedings at all membership and board meetings.

Milestone Systems, a pioneering provider of video technology, announced that the award-winning research project furthers the AI capabilities of thermal cameras and Milestone’s video technology software to monitor and assess unusual behaviour and enhance safety in harbours around the world. Every year 236,000 people drown around the world. In Denmark, the harbours have witnessed numerous drowning incidents over the years, with 1,647 lives lost between 2001 and 2015. A quarter of these tragedies occurred in the harbours themselves. Identifying a clear need to prevent such accidents, a research team at The University of Aalborg leveraged AI combined with video technology to enhance safety in one of Denmark’s busiest ports, Aalborg Harbour. In doing so, they created the largest outdoor thermal dataset for video analytics, covering a nine-month period. Advanced synthetic dataset AI models were trained to promptly detect and alert rescue teams if a person fell into the harbour The action of people falling into a harbour is a specific activity that cannot be easily, or ethically, replicated in the real world. Volunteers cannot be asked to fall into the water for safety reasons. Using a combination of a test-dummy filled with warm water detectable by thermal cameras and the largest published collection of annotated thermal images, AI models were trained to promptly detect and alert rescue teams if a person fell into the harbour. The research team created an advanced synthetic dataset that could effectively train the AI models in the sudden, involuntary movements involved in falling. The training data was expanded to include wheelchair users, skaters, and bicycle riders, to provide as many scenarios of different people falling as possible for the AI model. Train AI models in scenarios Neelu Madan’s award-winning research proves the power of synthetic data “By knowing the normal behaviour on the waterfront, the model can detect abnormal events such as a person falling off the dock and immediately trigger an alarm. This way, rescue personnel can be called out quickly – even in cases where the accident occurs without witnesses,” explained lead researcher and Ph.D. student, Neelu Madan, The University of Aalborg. As well as saving lives, Neelu Madan’s award-winning research demonstrates the power of synthetic data used to train AI models in scenarios that are difficult or unsafe to replicate in the real world. According to Neelu, the same model has applications in other situations. For example, it could be used by manufacturing companies to improve production processes. Redefining safety standards Combining AI and video technology is making harbours safer and redefining safety ideals “During manufacturing, for instance, it is crucial that automated processes proceed as they should. If not, the final product may end up with undetected errors that can be expensive in many ways, not least financially,” she stated. Combining AI and video technology is making harbours safer and redefining safety standards across the transportation sector - ultimately saving countless lives in years to come as it is adopted on a global scale. The research, which is based on a partnership between The University of Aalborg and Milestone Systems, has demonstrated the possibilities of combining video technology software and AI to benefit the broader society. Development of the thermal dataset “We are incredibly proud of Neelu and excited about the potential application of her work. The development of the thermal dataset by The University of Aalborg and Milestone Systems at Aalborg Harbour represents a groundbreaking step forward in video technology, providing the community with the largest annotated thermal dataset,” said Rahul Yadav, Chief Technology Officer, Milestone Systems.

Wayne Alarm Systems, Inc., a family-owned and operated provider of life safety and security solutions, announced the acquisition of SAS Security Systems, Inc. of Watertown, Massachusetts. This strategic move expands Wayne Alarm's footprint in the greater Boston area, allowing it to deliver its premier security services to a wider range of customers. Leveraging the latest technology Wayne Alarm, founded by Ralph Wayne Sevinor, has a long-standing reputation for exceptional customer care and unwavering commitment. The Wayne Alarm team is passionate about leveraging the latest technology to deliver full and comprehensive, security solutions to the local community that safeguard its clients' lives and property as well as providing exceptional customer support. They actively seek acquisitions that share their values, prioritising good fit, high-quality service, and strong growth potential. SAS Security Systems, Inc. established in 1971 by retired FBI agent Leonard M. Frisoli, perfectly aligns with these criteria, and together they will continue to serve their loyal customers. Excellence in intrusion and fire systems SAS has built a strong reputation for excellence in intrusion and fire systems SAS Security Systems, (also known as SAS Special Agent Systems, Inc.), a UL-listed full-service central station monitoring and installation company, boasts a rich history of providing customised security solutions. Under the leadership of Thomas Frisoli and Mark Warner, SAS has built a strong reputation for excellence in intrusion and fire systems. Wayne Alarm is proud to welcome the talented staff of SAS Security Systems into the Wayne Alarm family and plans to maintain operations in the current SAS Watertown location for the foreseeable future. Following the acquisition, Mark Warner will focus on ensuring seamless customer support for existing SAS clients, while Thomas Frisoli transitions to a consultant role. Wayne Alarm is committed to growing the Watertown branch, further solidifying its presence in the greater Boston area and providing exceptional local service. Expanding the Wayne Alarm Family The acquisition also welcomes the talented staff of SAS Security Systems into the Wayne Alarm family The acquisition also welcomes the talented staff of SAS Security Systems into the Wayne Alarm family. Jeff Kahn, Vice President of Wayne Alarm, and Nathan Raustad played key roles in facilitating the smooth transition alongside the Frisoli family. “We are delighted to align with Wayne Alarm Systems and entrust our customers to their care,” said Frisoli. “This move ensures that the high level of service we've strived for over 50 years will continue.” A Shared Vision for the Future “We are thrilled to welcome SAS Security Systems to the Wayne Alarm family,” added Sevinor. “Their dedication to exceptional customer care and local focus perfectly aligns with our vision for the future. We are excited to leverage their expertise and build upon their legacy." "We plan to maintain operations in the current SAS Watertown location for the foreseeable future. This acquisition allows us to strengthen our presence in the heart of Boston and its surrounding areas, providing the same trusted local service our customers expect." Growth Opportunity for the Industry With this acquisition, Wayne Alarm signals its commitment to growth and expansion within the greater Boston market and will bring more than a dozen valuable jobs to the Lynn area. This move also presents an opportunity for security companies in the region as Wayne Alarm is open for potential acquisitions with quality companies that share their values and growth potential.

Hikvision, a world-pioneering manufacturer and supplier of security products and solutions that deliver the ideal combination of high performance and extreme value, announces a significant upgrade to its HeatPro Bi-Spectrum Thermal cameras with the integration of VCA 3.0. This improvement introduces a range of advanced features designed to enhance performance, detection, and accuracy, further solidifying Hikvision’s commitment to providing innovative security solutions. This advancement will be covered in Hikvision’s June 27 HeatPro webinar. Hikvision’s new VCA 3.0 update All webinar attendees are eligible to win 1 of 10 Hikvision Thermal HeatPro Bi-Spectrum Cameras. Dealer attendees will be eligible for a 50% discount on the HeatPro Bullet (DS-2TD2628-3/QA) and Turret (DS-2TD1228-2/QA) models after the webinar (maximum 2 units). All webinar attendees are eligible to win 1 of 10 Hikvision Thermal HeatPro Bi-Spectrum Cameras "Hikvision’s new VCA 3.0 update for our HeatPro Bi-Spectrum Thermal Cameras sets a new standard in security technology. By integrating intelligent deep learning algorithms and advanced analytics, we deliver unparalleled accuracy and efficiency in threat detection, ensuring our customers have the most reliable protection available," said John Xiao, Vice President of Marketing, Hikvision USA. “The addition of VCA 3.0’s self-learning calibration and distillation model further enhances our cameras' performance, leaving more time for true fire prevention and other critical security measures." Intelligent VCA setup The VCA 3.0 upgrade brings enhanced algorithms that significantly improve processing power and efficiency, allowing for greater accuracy in detecting and analysing potential threats. VCA 3.0 ensures that the cameras can operate effectively in all weather conditions, providing reliable performance regardless of environmental challenges. The intelligent VCA setup has been simplified, making the configuration process more straightforward and user-friendly. This allows users to quickly and easily set up their systems to maximise the benefits of the advanced features. Self-learning calibration feature The distillation model introduced in VCA 3.0 offers advanced filtering capabilities Accurate alarms are now more precise, reducing false positives and ensuring that genuine threats are promptly identified and addressed. The distillation model introduced in VCA 3.0 offers advanced filtering capabilities, ensuring that the most relevant data is highlighted for security personnel.  The self-learning calibration feature allows the system to adapt and improve over time, continuously enhancing its performance. Combined event alarms integrate multiple event triggers, offering a cohesive and comprehensive alert system that ensures no critical event goes unnoticed. Key features of Hikvision’s Bi-Spectrum Cameras  Hikvision’s Bi-Spectrum HeatPro Thermal Bi-Spectrum Cameras debunk common myths for thermal technology, bringing cost-effective innovation to the market with several key features: Discover Hidden Objects: Thermal technology is not limited by smoke, fog, darkness, or strong backlight, illuminating the unseen for maximum protection. Early Detection and Warning: Monitors temperature changes and triggers alarms before a fire occurs for rapid response and asset protection. Accurate Target Focus: Using deep learning algorithms, HeatPro cameras accurately identify humans and vehicles, no matter the environment, for improved alarm efficiency. Cost-Effective Technology: Intelligent thermal perimeter protection, early temperature anomaly detection, and asset protection are all available at a competitive market price. To provide further insights into the HeatPro thermal cameras and the new VCA 3.0 features, Hikvision will be hosting a webinar on June 27. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the latest advancements, see demonstrations of the new features in action, and enter for a chance to win Hikvision thermal cameras.

In the current dynamic environment, the need for robust and responsive security systems is paramount. Assimilating access control and time-attendance solutions with Building Management Systems (BMS) via the BACnet Integration provides a comprehensive approach to ensuring proactive security and efficient building operations. This integration bridges the gap between various systems, creating a cohesive and responsive security network. Here’s a closer look at how this integration enhances security and operational efficiency.  COSEC-BACnet integration working The importance of BACnet integration  Access control and time-attendance solutions are critical components of any security infrastructure. These systems monitor and control who enters or exits a building, track attendance, and ensure that only authorised personnel can access certain areas. However, when these systems are integrated with a BMS via BACnet, their capabilities are significantly enhanced. BACnet, as an industry-standard protocol, allows seamless communication between devices from different manufacturers, facilitating a unified approach to building management.  Integration benefits with access control and time-attendance Real-time monitoring and alerts  For instance, if a door is held open for too long, the access control system can send an immediate alert Integration with BACnet ensures that all events and alarms generated by access control systems are transmitted instantaneously to the BMS. For instance, if a door is held open for too long, the access control system can send an immediate alert to the BMS. This real-time monitoring allows for quick responses to potential security breaches, ensuring that security personnel can act swiftly to address any issues.  Centralised management  With BACnet integration, all security and building management functions can be managed from a single, centralised interface. This centralisation provides a comprehensive view of the building’s security status, making it easier to monitor and control various aspects of building management. It eliminates the need to switch between different systems, thus enhancing operational efficiency.  Improved incident response  Automated alerts and notifications ensure that the appropriate personnel are informed immediately in the event of a security breach or irregularity. For example, if an unauthorised access attempt is detected, the BMS can notify security operators instantly. This rapid dissemination of information enables a quick and coordinated response, reducing the potential for damage or loss.  Energy efficiency  Access control events, such as entry and exit times, can be leveraged to optimise the building’s energy usage Access control events, such as entry and exit times, can be leveraged to optimise the building’s energy usage. For example, when an area is unoccupied, the BMS can adjust lighting and HVAC systems to conserve energy. This not only enhances the building’s energy efficiency but also contributes to cost savings.  Enhanced data analysis  The integration facilitates comprehensive data collection from various sources, enabling detailed analysis of security and operational trends. This data can be used to identify patterns, predict potential security threats, and implement preventive measures. By analysing access logs and attendance records, organisations can enhance their security protocols and improve overall safety.  Scalability and flexibility  One of the key advantages of using BACnet is its ability to integrate devices from different manufacturers. This flexibility allows organisations to scale their security and building management systems as needed, without being tied to a single vendor. It also ensures that the system can evolve with the organisation’s changing security needs.  Optimising and streamlining operations  Streamlining processes through automation reduces the need for manual intervention Streamlining processes through automation reduces the need for manual intervention. Automated responses to security events, such as locking doors or adjusting environmental controls, minimise the workload on security personnel. This enhances the overall efficiency of building management.  COSEC and BACnet Integration  Matrix COSEC is a state-of-the-art access control and time-attendance solution that brings together multiple modules such as access control, attendance, visitor management, cafeteria management, and more under one umbrella. With its latest update, it has been designed to integrate seamlessly with Building Management Systems via the BACnet protocol.  Effective communication This integration allows COSEC devices such as panels and door controllers to communicate effectively with the BMS, ensuring that events such as alarms and access logs are transmitted promptly to the central system.  Communication enhances the building’s security and operational efficiency, enabling a proactive approach For example, when a door-held open alarm is generated at a manufacturing premise, COSEC sends this event to the BMS over BACnet. The BMS can then take appropriate actions, such as adjusting air-conditioning parameters or notifying the relevant operators. This seamless communication enhances the building’s security and operational efficiency, enabling a proactive approach to managing security and building operations.  Security and operational efficiency In conclusion, integrating access control and time-attendance solutions with BMS via BACnet significantly enhances the security and operational efficiency of buildings. It provides real-time monitoring, centralised management, and automated incident responses, ensuring that security measures are always proactive and effective.

Educational institutions worldwide increasingly rely on robust wireless networks to enhance academic pursuits, safety measures, and operational efficiency. The campus environment, a complex network of interconnected buildings, and the humans navigating them require innovative technologies to meet these diverse needs. The solution lies in a new wireless protocol that provides an ideal fit for the long-range, low-power connectivity requirements of educational campuses: Wi-Fi-certified HaLow. Wi-Fi HaLow: Wi-Fi HaLow, a new Wi-Fi certification released by the Wi-Fi Alliance in November 2021 and incorporating the IEEE 802.11ah standard, is optimized for the unique requirements of Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Wi-Fi HaLow provides a reliable and robust wireless solution that overcomes the trade-offs Its combination of long-range connectivity, low power consumption, advanced Wi-Fi CERTIFIED WPA3 security features, and the ability to connect more than 8,000 devices from a single access point makes the protocol a game changer for campus environments. Wi-Fi HaLow provides a reliable and robust wireless solution that overcomes the trade-offs between range and speed that limit the effectiveness of conventional Wi-Fi in the 2.4, 5, and 6 GHz frequency bands for campus applications. Robust, secure connections for access control Operating at sub-GHz frequencies, the Wi-Fi HaLow protocol's unparalleled ability to penetrate physical barriers and its advanced security features make it an ideal wireless technology for supporting access control systems throughout campuses. Credential systems for students, badge scanners, cameras, and dormitory door locks can work efficiently and securely in hard-to-reach locations, providing an interconnected and safe environment for the campus community. Enhancing safety through improved connectivity Body-worn cameras used by public safety officers can remain connected to the wireless local-area network The low-power and long-range attributes of Wi-Fi HaLow can play a significant role in strengthening campus safety systems. Body-worn cameras used by public safety officers can remain connected to the wireless local-area network (WLAN) or mobile router in their patrol vehicles even at a long distance, reducing the need to consume cellular data. Wi-Fi HaLow enables the development of robust wireless networks that can reliably support campus-wide, two-way video intercoms, potentially enhancing response times and safety measures. Streamlining outdoor equipment automation Outdoor equipment automation, such as irrigation systems, smart lighting, and robotic lawnmowers, can leverage Wi-Fi HaLow's power efficiency, and long-range and expansive coverage.  Automation of these systems with such efficient wireless connectivity can lead to significant energy savings, improved productivity, and reduced operational costs. Delivering superior speed and range 8 MHz capable device using 64 QAM modulation can transmit at speeds of up to 32 megabits per second A Wi-Fi HaLow network shatters the traditional tradeoff of wireless communications between speed and range. A single-stream, 8 MHz capable device using 64 QAM modulation can transmit at speeds of up to 32 megabits per second at sub-GHz frequencies, enabling live streaming on large screens, connecting multiple real-time AI edge cameras, as well as thousands of low-power IoT devices, all connected without compromising on range. Wi-Fi HaLow signals can extend beyond 1 kilometre, up to 10 times farther than traditional forms of Wi-Fi in the 2.4, 5, and 6 GHz frequency bands, and are capable of connecting far-flung devices and systems across campus environments. Setting a new standard for campus connectivity By addressing the connectivity needs of modern campuses, Wi-Fi HaLow paves the way for future campus applications. As we navigate the digital era, Wi-Fi HaLow presents a compelling solution that significantly enhances connectivity, safety, and efficiency. This leap in wireless capabilities isn’t merely incremental; it represents a transformative stride toward a smarter, more connected future. Wide-reaching wireless network Educational institutions can leverage Wi-Fi HaLow to create safer, more efficient, and interconnected campus environments. By providing a robust, reliable, and wide-reaching wireless network, Wi-Fi HaLow enables campuses everywhere to fulfill their diverse connectivity needs without compromise.

As we head into a new year, it’s fair to say that it isn’t easy out there for the security integrator community. That’s understandable given the big ruptures felt in the market for physical security in 2023. Typically, Commercial Real Estate (CRE) landlords are the biggest and most influential buyers of physical security hardware and software, but this is starting to wane as heightened borrowing costs and biting inflation cause real estate valuations to plunge. Building security upgrades A lot of CRE landlords are in a fight for survival which unfortunately doesn't leave much room for budget spend on building security upgrades. This state of affairs is a problem for security integrators with extensive connections in the CRE space. Where do they pivot their services to keep their business growing in 2024? From the conversations I’ve been having with integrators and customers alike over the past few months – the answer is that the growth potential lies in the enterprise space. The trajectory of enterprise IT and physical security Aren’t enterprises carrying out cost-cutting efficiency drives and downsizing office space to reflect hybrid working It might initially feel unnatural to see the enterprise segment as a potential driver of demand for physical security services and products. Aren’t enterprises carrying out cost-cutting efficiency drives and downsizing office space to reflect hybrid working habits? These things are true but also present an opportunity for the right physical security proposition. Standardisation of enterprise IT Take efficiency drives as an example. A key element of such efforts is an acceleration towards the standardisation of enterprise IT platforms, hardware, and solutions, using the cloud. What was once a focus on moving on-prem systems and workloads to the cloud has shifted to efforts to keep cloud OpEx costs down by centralising as much as possible. Practically, this means utilising APIs to plug disparate IT applications and services into central platforms that boast a “single pane of glass” view. APIs APIs drive consumption, open new business models, and foster cross-industry partnerships APIs aren’t anything new to enterprises. They drive consumption, open new business models, and foster cross-industry partnerships. However, the use of APIs in the physical security sphere has been surprisingly slow to take off. There are multiple elements to this but a key reason is that some security software products on the market aren’t cloud-based. Adding cloud-based solutions to network Others are cloud-based, however, and these are the solutions that security integrators need in their portfolio to serve the influential enterprise market segment and its approach to IT networks. Selling the value of these solutions requires integrators to take it a step further by speaking the language of the enterprise IT buyer and understanding their goals. The power of cloud-based access control in the enterprise Hybrid working and the occupancy rate fluctuations it brings require closer monitoring of access events The continued relevance of physical security for enterprises can’t be understated. After all, hybrid working and the occupancy rate fluctuations it brings require closer monitoring of access events – not less. Despite the discourse around office downsizing, the reality for most enterprises is that the office can’t be done away with completely and there’s always going to be growth experienced by successful companies that require an upgrade in physical square footage. Physical security  Access control systems that are cloud-based will be preferred by the enterprise to fulfill the essential function of physical security. That’s because they align with the push towards centralisation in the cloud that enterprises are carrying out business-wide. Access control has the potential to result in lots of disparate dashboards and apps. Think video management, license plate recognition, building management software, elevator monitoring, hot desking solutions, guest booking software, room booking functions, and more. Uniting all of these functions in one platform suits enterprise security teams well. Access control solutions Linking employee databases to an IAM solution, or creating seamless experiences by tying access credentials But this only scratches the surface. Access control solutions that can be integrated with hugely popular corporate software applications like Okta, Azure Active Directory, and Google Workspace quickly catch the eyes of enterprise IT security teams by pulling in the same direction as the broader tech stack. Whether it’s applying AI analytics to anomaly detection, linking employee databases to an Identity Access Management (IAM) solution, or creating seamless experiences by tying access credentials to things like meeting room bookings, it’s through APIs that cloud-based access control can thrive in an enterprise setting. Security integrators It’s worth also noting that as enterprises grow, access control gets harder. Managing the access requirements of thousands of employees across a global real estate footprint requires the scale that cloud computing is best placed to bring. Security integrators who can join the dots to make that link are well positioned to pivot toward the enterprise. Broadening horizons Concepts like smart access and applying AI to access data to automate the monitoring of occupancy rates This pivot is understandably a daunting prospect but the potential for natural synergy shouldn’t be overlooked. Concepts like smart access and applying AI to access data to automate the monitoring of occupancy rates and security anomalies won’t be completely alien to cloud-first enterprises. That’s an opportunity for integrators to upsell more sophisticated security set-ups in a way that they may have found more difficult with CRE clients and prospects. Tailored propositions It would be remiss to avoid mentioning that ‘enterprise’ is a very loose term that encompasses businesses across multiple industry verticals. To better pivot, security integrators need to offer tailored propositions specific to set verticals that cover all bases as opposed to offer, for example, piecemeal alarm or video product solutions. Enterprise industry verticals Security integrators should be weary of all-encompassing narratives in 2024. Whether or not the global economic picture darkens, there are always going to be pockets of growth within certain enterprise industry verticals. Plus, anecdotally, the indicators point to enterprises being the driver of demand for cloud-based access control as we head into the new year. Integrators who can dial into that shift have a lot to gain and nothing to lose.

If you were to ask people outside our industry what door and access security entails, chances are their answers would reflect their common encounters with locks, security guards, cameras, and maybe metal detectors, badges, or automatic doors. But if they were curious enough, they’d probably be astounded to learn how extensive, intricate, and interesting the business can be and, of course, how vital it is to life safety, physical security, and cybersecurity.   Integrated, interoperable solutions They’d also discover that it’s not just about levers, deadbolts, and other products. Instead, it’s a system of many systems, integrated, interoperable security solutions that cover everything from access control, video surveillance, fire alarms, and communications to server rooms, IT networks, energy efficiency, and more.    Partnerships to keep up with changing needs A manufacturer’s support of their customers is how prepared they are to respond with high-quality advice Integral to the future success of the openings solutions industry is how well manufacturers and security experts keep up with the changing threat landscape and their customers’ evolving needs. Part of a manufacturer’s support of their customers is how prepared they are to respond with high-quality advice, service, and innovations that address the questions and concerns that arise.   That’s why more developers, designers, and end-users alike are leaning on partnerships with visionary manufacturing companies and systems integrators who proactively keep their ear to the ground and an eye on the future.  Caution: curves ahead  As we look toward that future here in North America, there will always be forces of change to contend with and the accompanying impact on people’s safety, security, health, and livelihoods that our industry will need to address. The forces range from the incessantly unfolding threat scenarios in our country and the world’s geo-political dynamics to climate change and a host of other shifting factors, including the ways we want to work post-pandemic.  Bypassing tailored approach Commoditisation poses risks to customised systems integration, good design, the environment Like many industries, ours has seen a change in the level of commoditisation in recent years. While this may give some customers access to cheaper door products in the short term, it usually means bypassing a tailored and more effective approach to security solutions that better meet risk assessment needs for the long haul. It can also get in the way of fulfilling a customer’s forward-thinking requirements for sustainable and aesthetic building materials.   In other words, commoditisation, with its tendency toward “sameness” and dependency on less sustainable, corner-cutting materials and processes, poses risks to customised systems integration, good design, the environment, and potentially security itself.   Change for the better  Fortunately, change has its upside, especially as it applies to innovation, the counterforce to commoditisation. It’s the primary reason why progressive architects, integrators, and security professionals in North America keep gravitating to manufacturers with the instincts and resources to make bold investments in people, new ideas, and processes that produce advanced, planet-friendly solutions.   From our view of the door security industry, sustainability will be a central component of innovation from here on out, where the development of new solutions and products is guided by practices and values that reduce their environmental footprint and increase their positive impact.   Sustainably-made solutions Transparency in the form of documentation and third-party certifications to back up sustainability claims Along with being a top-down priority for certain manufacturers, sustainably made solutions and products are in higher demand than ever from the design, building, security, and end-user communities. They want to know about the carbon footprint and health impact of product ingredients, their recyclability, and how responsibly things are being made, packaged, and delivered. And they expect transparency in the form of documentation and third-party certifications to back up sustainability claims.   Resilience Along with sustainability, a greater focus on resilience has emerged. Climate change is being looked at as a key contributor to the increase in wildfires and the intensity of windstorms and flooding. There will continue to be an expanding need moving forward for FEMA-rated storm shelters, fire- and water-resistive doors, and even blast-resistant openings for certain locations.  On the near horizon  Facial recognition has long been in use in government and other high-security applications The door security industry is also seeing a fusion of technologies, including newer touchless/contactless opening solutions that incorporate improved biometric access credentials like facial recognition.   Facial recognition has long been in use in government and other high-security applications, and we’re starting to see more adoption and willingness to use advanced biometrics devices for door access. Video sensing data and analytics Fortunately, there are new strides regarding the transparency of the algorithms relating to facial recognition. Reassurances about the prevention of bias will help further that adoption.   Voice and video will also soon become more prevalent for building and security management by using video sensing data and analytics to inform door security solutions. These developments often stem from the convergence of application engineering and systems integration.  Application engineering  It also advances the de-commoditisation of security and access control solutions Openings solutions innovators and manufacturers receive vital feedback and insight from both channel partners and customers about the characteristics of a vertical market and/or region. Not only does this partnership require trust and close working relationships, but it yields near and longer-term advantages to all participants. It also advances the de-commoditisation of security and access control solutions.  Serving underserved communities  Smaller businesses need to manage the security and safety of their personnel and assets just as larger operations do. The challenge has been how to offer the right fit of robust door security solutions that also fit these organisations’ budgets.   Historically, they’ve been caught between having to choose an enterprise system that would provide the security they need but comes with a high price tag or settling for mechanical locking doors and a fire alarm system that will at least satisfy a certificate of occupancy requirement.  Smart lock system Many small business owners want technology that’s simple to install, even DIY in some cases Many small business owners would like to add a smart lock system to enhance their company’s security which also gives them the flexibility to issue mobile credentials and manage employee and visitor access remotely. Ultimately, they’re looking for a higher level of functionality than what’s available at the low end but something with far less infrastructure and at a lower cost than what’s inherent with higher-end solutions. They also want technology that’s simple to install, even DIY in some cases.   Scalable electronic access control Supporting these underserved customers requires developing scaled solutions to match the fewer doors, employees, and amount of space that smaller businesses need. This unique approach to electronic access control is new, but it’s already proving to be successful in helping organisations better manage their time, resources, and security.  Training  The need for expanded solutions awareness, product knowledge, and installation training is also growing The need for expanded solutions awareness, product knowledge, and installation training is also growing. Retirements and other changes within the locksmithing, systems integration, and facilities management sectors continue to affect how our industry needs to recruit, develop, and retain talent. So do technological advancements in electronic access control and door security hardware overall.  Change, innovation, and learning A manufacturer or organisation that can offer comprehensive training led by seasoned professionals will go a long way toward expediting the onboarding of new hires and providing continuing education for experienced professionals at all levels and from all disciplines connected to safety and security.  Ultimately, door security experts and companies who embrace change, innovation, and learning will gain the extra edge customers are always looking for to add value to their investments in security.  

Security professionals are recognising the intelligence value of leveraging publicly and commercially available information. This information can now be accessed more effectively from typically hard-to-reach regions. Also, the technological capabilities have matured in our age of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. Intelligence has historically been based on classified data. However, today’s unclassified data, including open-source intelligence (OSINT), is increasingly being used to provide context and queuing for other types of intelligence. Advanced identity intelligence Babel Street is a technology company providing advanced identity intelligence and risk operations using an AI-enabled data-to-knowledge platform to unlock insights from a flood of data. The company provides advanced data analytics and intelligence for the world’s most trusted government and commercial organisations. Experts have predicted that by 2025 over 463 exabytes of data will be generated each day globally The sheer volume of data is growing exponentially. Experts have predicted that by 2025 over 463 exabytes of data will be generated each day globally. Not only are we seeing exponential growth in the volume of data, but there is also disparity in the veracity and the variety of data. This is being compounded by the ‘app economy’ in which data is created in a new format for every app added around the globe. Human language technology “The problem is that the data ‘junk’ and the ‘crown jewels’ are in the same bucket, and government and commercial entities need better and faster ways to extract intelligence from these torrents of data,” says Farid Moussa, VP, Strategy & Public Sector, Babel Street. Prior to joining Babel Street, Farid retired from the National Security Agency (NSA). He has guided video, image, speech, and text analytics (VISTA) and developed an appreciation for human language technology. An elusive source of data is the Dark Web, where every user, by design, is attempting to obfuscate their identity, and bad actors are hiding much better. “This presents a cat and mouse game – the cat must be smarter than the mouse, but the mouse is continually getting smarter,” says Moussa. Intelligence tools for data analysis SIGINT and HUMINT – while both vital – are also the most expensive forms of intelligence There are several intelligence tools for analysing data. One of them is signals intelligence (SIGINT), which refers to electronic transmissions collected by ships, planes, ground sites, or satellites. Another is human intelligence (HUMINT), which is collected in a human-to-human fashion. Open-source intelligence (OSINT) is obtained by searching on topics or entities of interest that are publicly available on the Internet at large. Today, these various categories are often done in ‘silos of excellence.’  However, the best practice is using all forms together in a holistic fashion. SIGINT and HUMINT – while both vital – are also the most expensive forms of intelligence, while OSINT, which is growing in importance, is most cost-effective. All are vital forms of intelligence; OSINT is complementary and crucial to holistic intelligence practices. Holistic intelligence practices When it comes to physical security of people and places, OSINT has become a critical source of actionable information. Security directors leverage Publicly Available Information (PAI) to safeguard against threats to individuals, property, travel routes, and event sites. By monitoring PAI, security teams can detect and respond to potential dangers, including during and after events where thorough preparation is vital. Online information can contain warning signs of impending threats. It informs security professionals in uncovering digital traces, confirming intentions, and addressing risks across language barriers, ensuring proactive risk management for the protection of people and property. Role of Natural Language Processing (NLP) The Internet and social media were mostly English language by default, but that has changed exponentially Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a crucial capability that has evolved to recognise the richness and variety of words and names in multiple languages and scripts, and their use across cultures. Using machine learning and linguistics algorithms, the technology simultaneously considers numerous types of name variations. At one time, the Internet and social media were mostly English language by default, but that has changed exponentially.  Babel Street’s world-class entity matching technology measures over 100 features to calculate the similarity of entities across multiple languages. Despite advances in data management and the cloud, there are still multiple challenges and complexities with integration of these data elements. Challenges include spelling variances/phonetics, language translation issues, criminal evasion, human error upon input, typos, etc. Accessing data from a scattered landscape While there have been advancements in cloud technologies, agencies utilising open-source data are typically working within a highly scattered data landscape and must use a wide array of tools to get at the relevant pieces. This fragmentation makes it difficult to run analytics and apply AI and machine learning at scale in order to derive actionable insights.  Unstructured and relationship data are visualised through advanced link analysis As with many disciplines, artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the game when it comes to intelligence. NLP and AI algorithms are employed to enhance datasets for greater quality, usability, and completeness. Unstructured and relationship data are visualised through advanced link analysis, geographic heat maps, influential entity carousels, topic clouds, and patterns by time and day. Geographic heat maps The advanced algorithms accurately score and prioritise critical entities within the relationship network while providing the citations from which an AI/ML-based decision was made. “With the democratisation of AI, the world is becoming flat,” says Moussa. “Just like the most prosperous countries, even the poorest countries have the most advanced capabilities to do damage. Third-world economies often present a scenario where the financial gain of nefarious schemes and low-to-no regulation combine to incentivise bad actors.” The Challenges of Name Matching Identity has been an ongoing challenge for intelligence analysis due to the vast complexity of linguistics, spelling and cultural variances, human error, as well as human evasion. Technology and data science approaches are maturing, however machine translation can still struggle with meaning. The best-of-breed natural language processing capabilities run against the data while it still is in its native language. This minimises the occurrence of analytic errors caused by inaccurate machine translations. This minimises the occurrence of analytic errors caused by inaccurate machine translations It’s tempting to think that name matching is like doing a keyword search. The complexity of language makes it more challenging. New names are constantly created, with multiple spellings and no set of rules to encompass how names are formed. They are variable across languages, scripts, cultures, and ethnicities. Culturally specific nicknames and aliases add to the complexity. Replacing human involvement The investigation of the Boston Marathon Bombing in 2013 spotlighted an example of the significance of intelligence analysis. Even though the FBI had issued a detain alert for Tamerlan Tsarnaev back in 2011, Tsarnaev managed to travel to Russia in January 2012; and in July 2012, he returned to Boston. He was not detained on either occasion because there were too many names on the lists, and Tsarnaev’s last name had been spelled differently from the way it was on travel documents, thus enabling him to get through security. With the Internet, social media, and the dark web, there’s been an exponential increase in public communications in various languages, adding significantly to the amount of analysis required to keep societies safe. Name matching, using AI, analyses multiple contextual data points across languages to arrive at matches. Name matching, using AI, analyzes multiple contextual data points across languages to arrive at matches A common misconception is that this technology will replace human intelligence. “It’s more accurate to recognise its role as a force-multiplier, allowing humans to focus on the on the harder problems and/or vetting the results of AI,” says Moussa. “The technology can efficiently analyse massive volumes of data and distill it into actionable information in a timely manner. It augments human capabilities, enabling analysis at speed and scale beyond human capacity, without replacing human involvement.” Commercial Technology to the rescue “When it comes to threat and identity intelligence, we face a risk-confidence gap, underscored by the challenge of integrating traditional tactics with the modern digital landscape,” adds Moussa. “We cannot ‘hire’ our way out of this problem. Instead, it is imperative that we adopt technology to scale our efforts and free humans to solve the harder problems that machines cannot solve yet.” The public sector loves to build things, but there are time-to-value and return-on-investment considerations to the ‘build or buy’ decision. When commercial technology can be leveraged by government, it frees resources up to work on problems that the commercial world hasn’t yet figured out, says Moussa. “The public and private sectors need to come together – one team, one nation, working together with mutual trust and collaboration,” he says.

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. 

GSX 2023 has its share of new product announcements, although many of the new products are enhancements to technologies shown at last spring’s ISC West show in Las Vegas. Booth traffic on the first day seemed busy at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, although one exhibitor complained that it takes some time for the traffic to make its way to the farthest areas of the show floor. Apparent throughout the GSX show is an expanding idea of what constitutes security. Increasingly, ‘security’ technologies offer benefits throughout other parts of a company or institution. Security is also being broadened to encompass ‘safety,’ including emergency response and wider issues of keeping a company safe. Managing multiple systems People look at the systems they have, and they are looking for more information" Manufacturers at GSX are talking about more than new products. Rather, they are offering new approaches to turn products into ‘solutions’ for customers. Among the benefits of new systems is the availability of more data.  “People look at the systems they have, and they are looking for more information and data and insights from their systems,” says Kyle Hurt, Genetec’s Area Vice-President of Sales for the US and Canada. “In the past, if I’m managing multiple systems and spending time and resources, I am making sure systems are operational. Today, it’s more like: How do I make my enterprise more efficient? I spend less time on making sure systems are working together but more time on how we can use the information.” Manufacturers at GSX are talking about more than new products Security control room Genetec is enhancing its Security Center 5.11 version with a newly redesigned web client that provides new capabilities related to system audio, including the ability to trigger a public address from a mobile device in an emergency, two-way audio to and from the security operations centre, and the ability to record an incident. The new web client offers new levels of “Security on the go,” says Hurt. A mobile device becomes an extension of the security control room. “Customers want to have more remote capabilities and have their security personnel out and about, not tied to a desk,” says Hurt. The new web client works to unify the four pillars of the Security Centre— video, access control, license plate recognition, and now audio.  Single source manufacturer Audio can now be used to broadcast a message, respond to an incident, and notify people" “Audio has taken time to develop legs in our ecosystem,” says Hurt. “We have been developing partnerships and use cases beyond an intercom at the door. Audio can now be used to broadcast a message, respond to an incident, and notify people en mass of what’s going on.” Manufacturers are also fine-tuning how they work to meet customers’ needs. “Customers want one point of contact, a single source manufacturer, and a solution that reflects the manufacturer is listening to the voice of the customer,” says Jerry Burhans, Managing Director of ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions - Critical Infrastructure, which seeks to be a global partner to critical infrastructure industries. The Critical Infrastructure business works across the various product groups of the notoriously siloed company to bring together solutions aimed at meeting each customer’s need. Manufacturers are also fine-tuning how they work to meet customers’ needs Best-in-class technology “We try to have best-in-class technology and collaborate within ourselves to make sure we have what customers need,” says Burhans. Critical infrastructure industries such as water, power and energy, oil and gas are developing standards to help support preparedness of the nation’s infrastructure, and ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions is helping operators secure access and provide audit trails on locking hardware and keys within their security perimeters. Managing customer assets Johnson Controls’ new OpenBlue Service for the security device market seeks to proactively manage customer assets (equipment) as a service. The company’s software platform of connected solutions monitors and manages security devices across vendors and provides remote support services including skilled engineers who can work to ensure that a company’s assets, including cameras and access control readers, operate dependably. Working remotely, OpenBlue analyzes the performance of each system component  Johnson Controls estimates that, unfortunately, up to 25% of a company’s security assets may not be working as intended, whether they lack the latest firmware update or are not connected. Working remotely, OpenBlue analyses the performance of each system component and responds to ensure equipment operates as intended. “We believe we can close that gap with our solutions,” says Greg Parker, Vice President, Innovation & Portfolio Management for Johnson Controls.  Physical security equipment A big advantage of OpenBlue for security customers is the ability to manage cybersecurity and threats at the edge, which may not currently be addressed by the IT department. The OpenBlue offering includes an embedded ‘air wall,’ which is a zero-trust architecture for physical security equipment. OpenBlue also helps customers manage the ever-changing lifecycles of various assets. Another concept prompting discussion at GSX 2023 is the gap between what a customer expects from a product and what the product can realistically deliver. With endless promotion in the last several years centring on concepts such as artificial intelligence (AI), is it any wonder that customers may sometimes have unrealistic expectations about what a technology can accomplish? The good news at GSX is that, as progress marches on, newer technologies are getting closer and closer to delivering on customers’ most ambitious expectations. The forward momentum of technology development is evident throughout the GSX 2023 show floor, reflecting the promise of even greater product capabilities in months and years to come.

Omnilert, a pioneer in active shooter solutions, announced that it has integrated Omnilert Gun Detect with the Hanwha Vision Wisenet WAVE video management software (VMS) to provide a complete solution for gun violence and active shooters that can help save lives in the event a gunman comes onto a customers' facilities. Wisenet WAVE VMS is a software platform for IP video surveillance applications that detects, streams, records, and analyses live video from connected IP cameras and networked video sources. By integrating with Omnilert Gun Detect, the Wisenet WAVE platform now has the ability to rapidly respond to detected weapons in a fraction of a second, and once verified, activate a complete and robust response that could include locking doors, notifying police, sending alerts and providing situational intelligence throughout the entire event. Integration of Omnilert Gun Detect The Gun Detect events can trigger operations within WAVE such as sending notifications The Omnilert Gun Detect integration enables selectable bookmarking and/or event triggering in response to a gun detection within Wisenet WAVE VMS. The Gun Detect events can trigger operations within WAVE such as sending notifications and displaying on the Alarm layout. "The integration of Omnilert Gun Detect with Wisenet Wave VMS will bolster the security we can provide our joint customers to protect against the growing threat of active shooters and gun violence, which is at an all-time high in the U.S.," said Nick Gustavsson, CTO and Co-Founder at Omnilert. "This means that video feeds already being managed in the WAVE platform can now be monitored 24/7 for weapons, allowing for a proactive response before shots are fired." Integration into Wisenet WAVE Omnilert Gun Detect's end-to-end workflow of detection and activation allows for automatic initiation "Omnilert's gun detection platform provides especially strong gun detection analytics as well as one of the most flexible and powerful alerting systems on the market," said Mark Heintzman, Technical Partnership Manager at Hanwha. Omnilert Gun Detect's end-to-end workflow of detection, activation, and notification allows for an automated initiation of an organisation's active shooter response, with 24/7 monitoring and local first responder escalation, integrated notification, and integration into Wisenet WAVE. Omnilert's active shooter solution The integration enables selectable bookmarking and/or event triggering in response to gun detection within Wisenet WAVE. The Gun Detect events can trigger multiple operations within WAVE such as sending notifications and displaying on the Alarm layout.  Additionally, Omnilert will automatically configure the camera setup, including IP address, camera name and location, which will help speed the deployment of Omnilert's active shooter solution.

The University of California San Diego (UCSD) Police Department is a full-fledged law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling, investigating, and preventing crime within its jurisdiction. Spanning over 1,200 acres and comprising 900 buildings, UCSD’s campus presents unique challenges for law enforcement. The department’s Communications Division serves as the nerve centre, coordinating responses to emergencies, managing communications, and ensuring coordination among officers. Garrett Williams, a seasoned Sergeant at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) Police Department, oversees the Communications Division. With over two decades of experience, Williams understands the critical role technology can play in public safety. The challenge Before partnering with RGB Spectrum, UCSD faced significant obstacles in its dispatch operations Before partnering with RGB Spectrum, UCSD faced significant obstacles in its dispatch operations. Dispatchers juggled multiple computers, including a CAD, radio, and phone computer, each requiring separate keyboards and mice. “I didn’t look to RGB to solve all my problems. However, I understood all that could be accomplished once the team showed us how the technology operated and what was possible,” Garrett Williams, Sergeant, University of California San Diego Police Department. “Three separate mice and operators constantly moving side to side to look from one to the other and then having to move their hands back and forth between control devices - anytime they have to do that, it’s slowing their workflow down; we figured there had to be a better solution,” shared Williams. “And up to 25% of our operators were suffering from repetitive movement and neck Injuries, resulting in downtime and light duty restrictions.” Why UCSD chose XtendPoint KVM-over-IP UCSD wanted a seamless KVM solution that integrated multiple systems over IP under a unified interface. It explored various options before discovering RGB Spectrum’s XtendPoint™ solution, which provides local and remote access to source computers, consolidates separate monitors into multi-view displays, and unifies control for more streamlined operation and enhanced efficiency. With RGB’s XtendPoint KVM system, UCSD grew access to the fire alarm system at each operator’s station UCSD’s key selling point was its ergonomic benefits. It offered a solution to the ergonomic challenges plaguing dispatchers by minimising the need for multiple keyboards and mice. So did replacing monitor clutter. With the XtendPoint solution, single-signal monitors are consolidated on each console using multiview displays that can handle up to four computer signals each or up to eight signals displayed on just two pieces of glass. A notable feature of this solution is the ability to offer each operator customised display viewing, even in a multi-shift operation. A KVM-over-IP backbone offers additional benefits. Before, only one dispatcher station could see the fire alarm system. With RGB’s XtendPoint KVM system, UCSD expanded access to the fire alarm system at each operator’s station. Now, no matter where dispatchers are seated, they have access to all needed systems. How UCSD uses RGB’s solution The RGB Spectrum solution marked a significant turning point for UCSD’s dispatch operations. Dispatchers experienced a dramatic improvement in efficiency, ergonomics, and situational awareness. Gone are the days of dispatchers juggling multiple control devices. With a unified interface, dispatchers can control all systems from a single keyboard and mouse. A streamlined workflow accelerated response times and reduced errors. Video integration proved invaluable. Dispatchers can now access live video feeds and additional mission-critical systems directly within one system interface, providing them with real-time visual information as required. With a unified interface, dispatchers can control all systems from a single keyboard and mouse Additionally, support for video integration with a video wall provided opportunities for enhanced collaboration and situational awareness. Commented Williams, “The flexibility of the RGB system also allowed UCSD dispatchers to leverage video wall capabilities. They can easily share critical information and task lists with colleagues. A more collaborative environment has facilitated communication and coordination among dispatchers, ensuring that tasks are efficiently managed and prioritised during high-stress situations. We can use the RGB system to throw things up on the wall so other dispatchers can see what’s happening and interact as needed.” “In addition," said Williams, “the resilience of the RGB XtendPoint system is invaluable in maintaining operational continuity. For example, in the event of a problem at a station, technicians can work on the issue while the dispatcher moves to a backup computer or station, allowing dispatchers to continue critical work without interruption. This proactive approach to system maintainability and resilience saves time and resources and ensures that dispatch operations remain fully functional at all times.” The result The impact of XtendPoint KVM-over-IP on UCSD’s dispatch operations has been profound. UCSD witnessed significant improvements in efficiency, ergonomics, and situational awareness. Efficiency soared as dispatchers seamlessly controlled multiple systems from a single interface. Ergonomic issues were mitigated, and dispatcher morale improved, enabling dispatchers to respond more effectively to emergencies. Future plans with RGB Spectrum Williams is enthusiastic about the wraparound monitors RGB has announced Looking ahead, UCSD sees opportunities to leverage RGB Spectrum’s technology further to enhance operations. RGB system’s versatility also enables UCSD to adapt to evolving threats and emergencies. In the event of, say, a building evacuation or siege, for example, UCSD could almost immediately establish a satellite facility. Williams is enthusiastic about the wraparound monitors RGB has announced. “We are looking at RGB’s new, yet to come to market, 43-inch curved monitors that will be the finishing touch for even better ergonomics and a customised workspace.” Another potential interest is a “flyaway” kit, a transportable command-and-control system with integral radio access. This mobile system would enable UCSD to monitor special events, such as festivals, where real-time situational awareness is crucial for ensuring the safety of attendees and staff. Williams notes, “We can have a mobile command post set up near a festival or special event, take one of our dispatch systems and put it there without having to move a lot of equipment or figuring out how to get it on the network.” Implementing RGB Spectrum’s solutions UCSD also aims to extend the reach of its dispatch operations by providing in-the-field personnel with access to real-time information. By equipping mobile units with RGB’s AV-over-IP systems via smartphones, police officers could receive critical updates and better collaborate with dispatchers to respond to incidents. “If you think of the unthinkable, like a school shooting, it would be ideal to share live coverage of what’s happening, detailed building schematics, and info on weapons the assailant might be using. Who doesn’t want to know what’s potentially happening behind closed doors before walking in? It’s situational awareness on a whole new level,” commented Williams. The partnership between the UCSD Police Department and RGB Spectrum has proven successful. By implementing RGB Spectrum’s solutions, UCSD transformed its dispatch operations to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, ergonomics, and situational awareness. And it is just a start.

In the heart of Aalborg is a lovely and well-kept private home. Here lives a family of five who in 2016 would rent out their basement to utilise the home’s square metres. WHY – To access the basement, the tenants must go through the back door. The family and the tenants thus share the same entrance at the back of the house. Therefore, the family was looking for a solution on how they could give the tenants access to the basement without them also having access to the family’s private residence. WHAT – It was important for the family to keep the architectural style of the house. However, it was not entirely straightforward to find an access control solution where the solution only sat on one side of the door, says Michael Goth-Rindal. Together with CONLAN’s CEO, Ejner Hansen, the family found a solution where they could both preserve the old door and at the same time avoid pulling wires for electricity. Tenants keyless access The keyboard can go through many cycles before the battery needs to be replaced The CT1000 keypad is installed on the back door of the house, giving both family and tenants keyless access to the house. In addition, the C1000LP keypad is installed on the front door of the private home, where the solution is only visible from the side of the staircase. From the inside of the house, they can not see that the door is powered by a keypad. The keypad on the front door of the private residence is battery-powered, meaning the old door could remain, without the pull of wires. As the keypad is a low-power device, the keyboard can go through many cycles before the battery needs to be replaced. The family changes the battery themselves, and the keyboard tells when it’s time. Keypad’s daycode function This allows them to create a code for, e.g., the cleaning, which only works the one-day Benefits - With this solution, the family can access their home, completely without the need for keys. “We are really happy with our solution. It works and is a flexible system that we can easily handle ourselves,” says Michael Goth-Rindal. In addition, the family also uses the keypad’s daycode function. This allows them to create a code for, e.g., the cleaning, which only works the one day. With this, the family has full control over who has access to the house and when. Low power consumption CT1000 reader on the back door – A standalone reader with code. Possibility of up to 28 user codes. The keypad can also be connected to the alarm, so that the alarm is switched off at the same time as the door is unlocked. C1000LP reader on the entrance door for the private home – Reader with code and low power consumption for access control. Several options for access with codes, including one-time, day and period codes that are active from one to 28 days. In addition, the keypad can be powered by both battery or wired power.

Riga Sports Arena is a municipal facility maintained by the city of Riga, Latvia. Covering a total area of 21,821 square metres, the arena accommodates 2,500 spectator seats. It houses several training halls, including a large athletics arena, a training and warm-up hall, a weightlifting hall, and a sports field. Challenge Enhance security by replacing inefficient guards with technical equipment Riga sports arena faced a significant security challenge, relying on two guards who worked only night shifts. Depending on just one person was insufficient to ensure the safety of the complex, given its substantial size. The guards struggled to effectively cover all areas, leaving the arena vulnerable to security risks. Moreover, the financial burden of employing guards strained the city’s budget. There was a need to enhance security while eliminating the human factor and optimising associated costs.  Moreover, the financial burden of employing guards strained the city’s budget The client required a professional security system that could be implemented without extensive construction work or the need to lay a substantial number of cables throughout the building. They sought an effective and easily installable system that would enhance security without compromising the integrity of the facility. Solution Cost-effective wireless solution reinforcing security for a large municipal facility Considering the building’s size and recent reconstruction work, the installation of a traditional wired security solution was deemed impractical. This option would have required several months to complete and additional renovation work after installation. Moreover, the presence of many oversized windows, each requiring protection with detectors, made cable-based solutions even more impractical. GRIFS AG proposed an Ajax wireless solution that can be quickly installed without damaging the walls, allowing for complete control and management of the system through a mobile app. To streamline control without the need for multiple hubs, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller was selected In total, 115 devices were installed throughout the building to ensure comprehensive security coverage. To streamline control without the need for multiple hubs, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller was selected. This hub can control up to 200 devices, managing 25 security groups with a total of 200 users. This feature aligns with the client’s requirements, given the installation of many devices and the need to manage security modes for separate premises, all in the Ajax app. For example, it allows keeping employees’ offices in armed mode while conducting training sessions in the main hall. GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller Given that the sports complex spans three floors and considering the need for the hub signal to pass through two reinforced concrete floors, the decision was made to enhance its communication range. To ensure stable communication between all 115 detectors and the hub, the ReX 2 Jeweller radio signal range extender was installed. This guarantees a reliable connection between all system components, ensuring seamless communication even in areas with challenging signal transmission conditions. For comprehensive security, GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller opening detectors to oversee For comprehensive security coverage, GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller opening detectors to oversee all doors. Additionally, MotionProtect Curtain Jeweller, with a narrow viewing angle and a maximum detection range of up to 15 metres, protects the large windows in corridors and sports halls. The challenge with large windows was that glass break detectors may be positioned far away from the hit spot, making it difficult to detect glass breakage. However, MotionProtect Curtain Jeweller, equipped with PIR sensors, instantly reacts to movement within its detection zone along the whole length of a window. Notably, the detector catches movement only if a person enters its field of view, allowing for protection even when a cleaner is working nearby, or a staff member is walking around. In addition, MotionProtect Jeweller detectors were installed throughout all entrance groups, major corridors, and stairwells to promptly notify the owner and the security company in case of any detected motion. Multiple HomeSiren Jeweller devices To facilitate arming and disarming of the security system for numerous employees in the sports complex, a wireless touch KeyPad Jeweller was installed. By entering a code, the device can activate the full security mode and automatically blocks itself if an incorrect code is entered multiple times. KeyPad Jeweller supports up to 99 codes, each corresponding to a separate user, making it suitable for enterprises with many employees. HomeSiren Jeweller devices were installed indoors throughout the skill to provide loud signs For rapid security response, the wireless alarm Button Jeweller was installed, enabling quick notification of the security company in case of intrusion. Furthermore, multiple HomeSiren Jeweller devices were installed indoors throughout the building to provide audible warnings in case of danger or deter potential intruders. These sirens emit loud sounds up to 105 dB to prominently signal a breach, effectively preventing unauthorised individuals and enhancing overall security. The arena management plans to automate evacuation doors using the Relay Jeweller system soon, enhancing safety and security by allowing remote door opening during emergencies. Why Ajax Cost-saving security solution. Customers can experience significant savings by opting for Ajax. The costs of the Ajax system installation were approximately equal to the expenses for security guards’ salaries per year. However, starting from the second year, the Municipality of Riga can achieve significant savings by paying only a low monthly fee for monitoring. Easily scalable future-proof system. With Ajax, the security system is easily scalable, allowing for future expansion and the implementation of additional functionality as needed. For instance, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller, already installed, supports the addition of up to 200 detectors, including MotionCam Jeweller detectors for photo verification of alarms, without requiring any system reorganisation. This enables seamless integration for enhanced security measures, ensuring the system can adapt and grow with changing security requirements and evolving customer needs. Effortless wireless installation. Ajax offers a wireless solution, eliminating the need to lay cables in walls or undergo extensive repairs. This allows for quick and efficient installation without the limitations of wired infrastructure. After implementing the Ajax security system at the sports arena, the center’s management noted its convenience and decided to install Ajax in their homes.

Wetlands, the "kidneys of the Earth", are considered one of the three major ecosystems on Earth, along with forests and oceans. Hosting a diverse range of terrestrial and aquatic plant and animal species, wetlands serve as crucial habitats for numerous bird species. Red-crowned cranes Beautiful Wetlands vs Critically Endangered Cranes The Red-crowned Crane is considered as the "God of Wetlands" and is highly sensitive to environmental changes. It is one of 14 bird species in China classified as critically endangered, with only around 2,000 wild Red-crowned Cranes remaining worldwide. Monitoring these rare bird species not only aids in their effective protection but also reflects changes in the wetland ecosystem to some extent. Red-crowned Cranes migrate between the regions of East China and Northeast China In China, during spring and autumn seasons, Red-crowned Cranes migrate between the regions of East China and Northeast China, requiring wetland management personnel to make all necessary preparations in advance every year. Recording and tracking data (e.g. time of arrival/departure, and total number) play a significant role in monitoring both the Red-crowned Cranes and the wetland ecosystem. Hence, monitoring rare bird species is essential not only for their conservation but also for understanding the changes in wetland ecological environments. Red-crowned crane captured by Dahua camera Vigilant cranes, eager for improved, smarter observation However, Red-crowned Cranes have extremely strong vigilance. Even while foraging or resting, there are often adult birds designated to be on alert, making warning calls and taking flight if any danger is detected. Therefore, it becomes challenging for monitoring personnel to observe them up close, as they need to maintain a distance of several hundred metres using binoculars to avoid disturbing the cranes. Such limitations in observation pose difficulties in monitoring the population distribution and activities of Red-crowned Cranes. To achieve efficient and intelligent monitoring while minimising human interference, many wetlands have enlisted the assistance of an intelligent "avian expert". Dahua: the guardian of cranes with smart technologies In recent years, avian intelligent recognition systems have been increasingly applied in wetland monitoring. Dahua Technology actively explores the integration of technology and wetland conservation to support the monitoring and protection of bird species across multiple wetlands. Rare bird species like the Red-crowned Crane can be automatically identified and counted By employing high-point video footage combined with avian intelligent recognition algorithms, rare bird species like the Red-crowned Crane can be automatically identified and counted. This allows monitoring personnel to discover and observe various bird species clearly and promptly without disturbing them. Additionally, techniques such as background removal and contour deformation processing help reduce the interference caused by lighting conditions and backgrounds, ensuring that the footage presents the identifying characteristics, location, and time for each bird. With this approach, comprehensive and accurate data recording and result analysis can be achieved without disturbing the Red-crowned Cranes up close. A brighter future for biodiversity using intelligent analysis In addition to population counting, vocalisations play a crucial role in bird research. By utilising voiceprint recognition, it becomes possible to track and study the population distribution of rare bird species. Many regions have established and improved databases of avian vocalisations, creating a foundation for biodiversity monitoring and analysis. These databases, combined with visual identification, are being cataloged in order to facilitate more comprehensive research and analysis, optimise timely conservation measures, and enhance dynamic and diverse science communication and education. Dahua Technology continues to empower biodiversity conservation through technology. The Dahua AI platform enables continuous algorithm training that helps reduce the development cycle of recognition algorithms for specific species. At present, Dahua has developed over 800 bird recognition algorithms, with more than 500 focused on waterfowl and migratory birds primarily inhabiting wetland environments. This extensive collection of algorithms greatly supports and contributes to biodiversity conservation efforts around the globe.

As a longtime maintenance provider for Trafalgar Theatres at their Orchard Theatre site in Dartford, Blake Fire & Security and Cygnus’ distributor Illumino Ignis (Kent) Ltd (IIKL) were approached for a solution to a unique problem: Satisfying the stringent fire safety requirements of their new temporary venue to hold 1,091 audience members, while the main Orchard Theatre was closed due to RAAC Works. SmartNet-Pro fire detection With a very short turnaround of a week, Blake Fire & Security and IIKL instantly knew that the Cygnus EN 54 certified, fully wireless SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm system would be a perfect fit for the venue. It provides an aesthetically pleasing solution and quick installation, with full EN 54 and BS5839 Part 1 compliance, while also allowing the right cause and effects for the theatre operation. SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features give a minimum of two communication paths to each wireless device Designed to deliver a reliable and safe solution, the SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features patented Cygnus technology and is run by battery-powered radio devices as part of a robust, self-forming, and self-healing mesh network, giving a minimum of two communication paths to each wireless device for maximum reliability. “We have worked with Cygnus and the SmartNet-Pro system previously and knew it would be ideal for this unique project,” comments Rory Foster, Fire Safety Systems Manager at Blake Fire & Security. 100% wireless “SmartNet-Pro is 100% wireless as well as being robust and reliable, it was exactly what we needed for the complexities of this project. We also knew we could rely on the Cygnus team to help deliver the project in a timely and efficient way.”   Given the nature of the venue, the fire alarm system needed to have some advanced features to give the theatre control of the system. Factors to consider The Blake Fire & Security and IIKL team were required to consider these factors when creating the system: Smoke Machines being used during the performances. A function of the SmartNet-Pro panel allowed us to program a function on the button on the control panel to isolate the smoke elements of the detectors in the auditorium during performances (Show Mode) while keeping the Heat elements of the detectors functioning as normal. Heating pipes with hot air being blown throughout the site. By utilising the Cygnus SmartNet-Pro Combi Smoke/Heat A1R detectors, we were able to only have the smoke detection parts active for devices in the stream of the hot air, to avoid A1R false alarms. The costly effect of a false alarm and evacuating the venue during a performance. By having a 30-second initial delay, and a 2.5-minute investigation delay, we satisfied both the Fire Service and the Theatre by allowing the theatre staff to assess the cause of the alarm before evacuating the venue, without leaving too long without the fire alarm activating if no one responded. The combustible nature of the building is mostly dressed in linen throughout. Additional smoke detectors were installed on the edges of the linen-draped ceilings at the request of the local fire authority, with high-sensitivity smoke and heat detection to raise the alarm extremely quickly if the linen was likely to become compromised by fire. Specification and design The whole process was taken care of without any design surprises at the end of the project After a free site survey and design service, Blake Fire & Security and IIKL provided the specification and design to the theatre who then got the design signed off by the local council and local fire authority. Working closely with the theatre and local council, amendments and additions were made to the design, so the whole process was taken care of without any design surprises at the end of the project. Testing and demonstrations The SmartNet-Pro system of 65 devices was installed in a day, with another day allowed for testing and demonstrations; using rods and Unistrut fixings to fix detectors into positions where wired detectors would not feasibly be able to be installed. The fire alarm panel was installed by the stage door so that the stage door staff could hear when an activation has occurred, and then decide on whether to initiate the investigation delay. Zone Plan and As-Fitted Drawing The system was demonstrated to the crew, so they knew what the alarm sounded like, and how to react As with all Blake Fire & Security and IIKL installations, a framed Zone Plan and As Fitted Drawing were fitted by the Control Panel, to give the Theatre Staff and Fire Brigade instant knowledge of the building, and where the Fire Alarm activation has occurred. All members of the Stage Door crew were trained by Blake Fire & Security and IIKL in the operation of the system including all the advanced functions like the delays and “Show Mode”. The system was demonstrated to the crew, so they knew what the alarm sounded like, and how to react when the panel buzzer activates. High-level detection Rods with the detectors mounted onto them were clamped onto the trusses for the lighting, giving high-level detection in the auditorium where it was not possible to fix the black linen ceiling. These detectors were then programmed on the SmartNet-Pro system to be Heat Only when the system is in “Show Mode” to prevent unwanted alarms from special effect smoke used during performances. Manual Call Points Combi detectors were mounted just below the linen ceiling using rods clamped to the metal structure Ensuring all exits including stage exits were covered by Manual Call Points which would instantly evacuate the building without delay was imperative to allow occupants and staff in the venue to feel safe in the knowledge that if a person identifies a real fire, the fire alarm can be raised instantly at any exit from the building. The ceilings in the Front of the House have heating tubes running through them, so combi detectors were mounted to the side of this, just below the linen ceiling using rods clamped to the metal structure above the linen. Smoke detection Extra smoke detection was installed along the low-level edges of the linen ceilings, on L Brackets, so that a fire could be detected quickly before the linen ceilings caught alight. These detectors were supplementary to the main detection along the apex of the ceilings. Given the nature of the ceilings, conventional wiring methods would not have been possible without a very unsightly installation, so the wireless nature of the Cygnus SmartNet-Pro system was an obvious choice. Ongoing maintenance Blake Fire & Security and IIKL issued the O&M Manual with all certificates and drawings required for Building Control Following the completion of the installation, commissioning, and testing Blake Fire & Security and IIKL issued the O&M Manual with all certificates and drawings required for Building Control to sign off the system and deem the venue safe to open to the public. Blake Fire & Security and IIKL will provide ongoing maintenance of the system to ensure that the system is kept up-to-date and compliant. EN 54 certified, and BS 5839 compliant fire detection SmartNet-Pro is the world’s first 100% wireless, EN 54 certified, and BS 5839 compliant fire detection and alarm system while the new SmartNet-100 is ideal for small to medium-sized projects, where the scalability of SmartNet-Pro is not required. Cygnus was thrilled to support the project by providing a complete SmartNet-Pro system to guarantee the fire safety requirements were met.

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?" 

As physical security technologies become more complex, it is incumbent on the dealer/integrator to have the skills and expertise needed to ensure that a system operates smoothly. The value of integrators increasingly rests on the skill sets they bring to bear when installing a system. If the skills are missing, there is a problem. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What missing skills among security integrators can cause problems for customers? 

Historically, the emphasis of security systems has been on reactivity, whether it’s providing video evidence of an incident or data to support a resulting investigation. Reactivity is core to impactful security, but increasingly, systems are also seeking to be more proactive. A proactive system seeks to prevent events from happening in the first place, thus mitigating the harm to an organisation, and making the need for a reactive response moot. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can security systems be proactive? Please provide a couple of examples.