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Axis helps SecureIt and Llanmoor Homes reduce construction site theft

Network cameras from Axis Communications, the global leader in network video, have been deployed by construction security specialist SecureIt to secure six sites managed by leading regional homebuilder, Llanmoor Homes.

Three AXIS 211A network cameras and an AXIS 211M were commissioned, installed and are now monitored by SecureIt, a company specialising in construction site security.

SecureIt worked with Llanmoor Homes to trial a network surveillance system involving Axis network cameras at their construction site in Caerphilly.  Llanmoor had reported problems with a previous infrared-based detection system which was combined with manned guarding.  The infrared detectors were frequently triggered in error, which in turn alerted off-site manned guards.  Without any cameras, the guards did not have any prior indication of what they were going to face at the scene.

At Caerphilly, SecureIt installed three AXIS 211A and one AXIS 211M Network Camera, all encased in vandal-proof housings.  These cameras were placed at a height of eight metres on poles, with the site permanently lit.  Motion detection from the Axis cameras coupled with infrared secondary sensors created a double ‘knock' ensuring minimal false alarms.

The cameras are connected to a system processor box provided by network video specialist 247Webvision.  The system processor box is ‘plug and play' making it simple to install, with the unit incorporating storage and processing, eliminating the need for a PC at the camera site.  The box connects to a standard broadband connection and also uses 3G mobile as a back up.  A PC or laptop can be used from anywhere to view the live images as well as the recorded events.  Alternatively, users can connect with the wireless network at the site to gain access to high quality images saved locally.

The 247Webvision system also provides email and SMS alerts as well as notification if an incident or connection problem has been encountered at the site, plus automatic on-site and off-site image recording and live images via internet-enabled telephones.  Site managers and security guards now have around the clock access to video images from the site, as well as incident alerts.

After two months at the Caerphilly site, two incidents of theft were captured by the Axis network cameras.  The trial convinced Llanmoor Homes to use SecureIt and install IP-Surveillance at five other building sites.  SecureIt also have received interest from national house building companies.

Phil Popham, director, SecureIt, commented: "Using Axis network cameras has meant that any authorised member of Llanmoor staff can view images from their building sites, to check for security, health and safety issues, progress at the site, even if a delivery arrives on time.  The ability to instantly know of an incident or problem regardless of location plus automatic incident recording is a very powerful tool for security staff and also a great deterrent for would-be thieves.  At another Llanmoor site there have not been any incidents at all."

Steve Gorski, managing director, Axis Communications (UK), added: "What SecureIt and 247Webvision are doing with Llanmoor is a highly practical example of the power of network video.  The ability for Llanmoor's staff to view clear images on their laptops, PCs and mobiles helps as a management tool to ensure everything is running smoothly on site.  For the security team, it is invaluable, allowing them to focus on real incidents rather than wasting time going out to false alarms."