BPT Access Control Readers

The jury is in: traditional security is out — and it’s being replaced with service-based solutions. The bottom line is: if you’re not embracing it, you’ll soon be left behind. XaaS — the collective term referring to the delivery of anything as a service — includes all services made possible through the use of the cloud. Security-as-a-Service (SaaS), which encompasses any type of system from access control to video surveillance, has paved the way for users to gain significant functionality and scalability not previously experienced with more traditional methods. Complicated IT functions SaaS allows manufacturers to provide numerous benefits to their customers As such, there is a marked transition for manufacturers from simply designing and building products to providing a service rooted in a partner- and customer-centric focus. This change hasn’t come easily. Some are still holding out and waiting for the “fad” to pass. However, the potential advantages for all parties involved far outweigh the perceived negative points. First and foremost, SaaS allows manufacturers to provide numerous benefits to their customers. An “as-a-service” model shifts the burden of data maintenance and infrastructure spending to an integrator/dealer partner or service provider. This relieves the end user of the expertise necessary to implement complicated IT functions to keep networked and on-premise solutions up-to-date. Traditional security systems Additionally, end users demand solid customer service. For some end users, traditional security systems are so similar in features and functionality that the key differentiator is the ability of the integrator or manufacturer to provide exceptional customer service and training. This is made possible through the service-based model, where customers appreciate a strong relationship with their integrator or manufacturer that provides them with additional knowledge and assistance when necessary. The cloud has proven to be  highly functional, flexible, and convenient for organisations Everyone also wants convenience. In the consumer market, we invest in things like meals that are pre-measured, prepped, and ready to be cooked, or companies that auto-ship dog food to our door each month. This ease-of-use translates over to the B2B market, where time is money and systems that save valuable resources are highly regarded. The role of the cloud The cloud has proven to be a highly functional, flexible, and convenient method for organisations to leverage as part of their strategies to protect and modernise their facilities. And the service-based nature lends itself well; forward-thinking integrators and dealers can diversify their product arsenal while still capitalising on a recurring monthly revenue model (RMR). But then why has there been so much resistance to this change? Over the last 10 to 15 years, the cloud has gotten a bad rap for a myriad of reasons, including usability, management, and unreliability. However, that view of the cloud is changing for the positive as the technology becomes more advanced and innovators learn more about what it means to design a product or service with security at its core. "As-a-service” platform For example, one of the biggest misconceptions that plagues the cloud is the idea that it is not secure. However, the security of public cloud service providers is integral to their success because their business depends on it. Developing an ongoing and trustworthy relationship with customers can only be made possible through the assurance that their services are safe and the customer’s data is protected. As such, they’ve embraced the service-based model that is, at its core, the future of the business world as we know it. There isn’t a person, manufacturer, or integrator partner out there today who isn’t somehow touched or influenced by an “as-a-service” platform. And it’s about time the service-based model that leverages the public cloud reaches the masses.

The statistics are staggering. The death tolls are rising. And those who now fear environments that were once thought to be safe zones like school campuses, factories, commercial businesses and government facilities, find themselves having to add the routine of active-shooter drills into their traditional fire drill protocols. The latest active shooter statistics released by the FBI earlier this year in their annual active-shooter report designated 27 events as active shooter incidents in 2018. The report reveals that 16 of the 27 incidents occurred in areas of commerce, seven incidents occurred in business environments, and five incidents occurred in education environments. Deadly active-shooter events Six of the 12 deadliest shootings in the country have taken place in the past five years Six of the 12 deadliest shootings in the country have taken place in the past five years, including Sutherland Springs church, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, the San Bernardino regional center, the Walmart in El Paso and the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, which have all occurred since 2015. Although these incidents occurred in facilities with designated entry points common to churches, schools and businesses, the two most deadly active-shooter events since 2015 were the Route 91 Harvest music festival shooting in Las Vegas that left 58 dead and the Pulse nightclub killings in Orlando where 49 perished. As Christopher Combs, special agent in charge of the FBI field office in San Antonio, Texas, said during a news conference following the August 31 mass shooting in Odessa, Texas that claimed seven lives: “We are now at almost every two weeks seeing an active shooter in this country." Active shooter incidents Between December 2000 and December 2018, the FBI’s distribution of active shooter incidents by location looks like this: Businesses Open to Pedestrian Traffic (74) Businesses Closed to Pedestrian Traffic (43) K-12 Schools (39) Institutions of Higher Learning (16) Non-Military Government Properties (28) Military Properties—Restricted (5) Healthcare Facilities (11) Houses of Worship (10) Private Properties (12) Malls (6) What the majority of these venues have in common is they all have a front entrance or chokepoint for anyone entering the facilities, which is why any active-shooter plan must include a strategy to secure that entry point. Situational awareness in perimeter and door security Preventing people with the wrong intentions from entering the space is the goal" According to Paul Franco, an A&E with more than 28 years of experience as a consultant and systems integrator focusing on schools, healthcare and large public and private facilities, that while active shooter incidents continue to rise, the residual effect has been an increase in situational awareness in perimeter and door security. “Certainly, protecting people and assets is the number one goal of all our clients. There are multiple considerations in facilities like K-12 and Healthcare. Preventing people with the wrong intentions from entering the space is the goal. But a critical consideration to emphasise to your client is getting that person out of your facility and not creating a more dangerous situation by locking the person in your facility,” says Franco. High-security turnstiles “Schools today are creating a space for vetting visitors prior to allowing access into the main facility. Using technology properly like high-security turnstiles offer great benefits in existing schools where space constraints and renovation costs can be impractical.” What steps should they be taken when recommending the proper door security to ensure the building is safe As a consultant/integrator, when discussions are had with a client that has a facility in a public space like a corporate building, government centre or industrial facility, what steps should they be taken when recommending the proper door security to ensure the building is safe and can protect its people and assets? For Frank Pisciotta, President and CEO of Business Protection Specialists, Inc. in Raleigh, North Carolina, a fundamental element of his security strategy is making appropriate recommendations that are broad-based and proactive. Properly identifying the adversaries “As a consultant, my recommendations must include properly identifying the adversaries who may show up at a client’s door, the likelihood of that event occurring, the consequences of that event occurring, determining if there are tripwires that can be set so an organisation can move their line of defence away from the door, educating employees to report potential threats and creating real-time actionable plans to respond to threats. A more reactionary posture might include such thing as target hardening such as ballistic resistant materials at entry access points to a facility,” Pisciotta says. Veteran consultant David Aggleton of Aggleton & Associates of Mission Viejo, California recommends that clients compartmentalise their higher security areas for limited access by adding multiple credential controls (card + keypad + biometric), along with ‘positive’ access systems that inhibit tailgating/piggybacking such as secure turnstiles, revolving door and mantrap if your entrances and security needs meet the required space and access throughput rates. Integrated solution of electronic access control Defining a single point of entry in some public facilities is becoming the new standard of care according to many A&Es and security consultants, especially in a school environment. This approach allows a concerted effort when it comes to staffing, visitor monitoring and an integrated technology solution. The bottom line remains: most buildings are vulnerable to a security breach A proactive stance to securing a door entryway will use an integrated solution of electronic access control, turnstiles, revolving doors and mantraps that can substantially improve a facility’s security profile. The bottom line remains: most buildings are vulnerable to a security breach, so it’s not a matter of if there will be a next active shooter tragedy, it’s only a matter of where. Enhancing access control assurance “There is no easy answer to this question,” says Pisciotta referring to how a secured entrance can deter an active shooter. “There have been at least two high-profile incidents of adversaries shooting their way into a facility through access control barriers. So, if the threat so dictates, a ballistic resistant might be required.” He concludes: “There is obviously no question that turnstiles, revolving doors and man traps enhance access control assurance. Electronic access control is easy to integrate with these devices and providing that credentials are secure, approval processes are in place, change management is properly managed and the appropriate auditing measures in place, access control objectives can be met.”

There’s a lot of hype around the term ‘digital transformation.’ For some, it’s the integration of digital technology into everyday tasks. For others, it’s the incorporation of innovative processes aimed at making business optimisation easier. In most cases, digital transformation will fundamentally change how an organisation operates and delivers value to its customers. And within the security realm, the age of digital transformation is most certainly upon us. Technology is already a part of our day-to-day lives, with smart devices in our homes and the ability to perform tasks at our fingertips now a reality. No longer are the cloud, Internet of Things (IoT) and smart cities foreign and distant concepts full of intrigue and promise. Enhancing business operations We’re increasingly seeing devices become smarter and better able to communicate with each other These elements are increasingly incorporated into security solutions with each passing day, allowing enterprises the chance to experience countless benefits when it comes to enhancing both safety and business operations. The term ‘connected world’ is a derivative of the digital transformation, signifying the increasing reliance that we have on connectivity, smart devices and data-driven decision-making. As we become more familiar with the advantages, flaws, expectations and best practices surrounding the connected world, we can predict what issues may arise and where the market is heading. We’re increasingly seeing devices become smarter and better able to communicate with each other through the IoT to achieve both simple goals and arduous tasks. Within our homes, we’re able to control a myriad of devices with commands (‘Hey Google...’ or ‘Alexa...’), as well as recall data directly from our mobile devices, such as receiving alerts when someone rings our doorbell, there’s movement in our front yard or when a door has been unlocked. Analytics-driven solutions The focus is now shifting to the business impacts of connectivity between physical devices and infrastructures, and digital computing and analytics-driven solutions. Within physical security, connected devices can encompass a variety of sensors gathering massive amounts of data in a given timeframe: video surveillance cameras, access control readers, fire and intrusion alarms, perimeter detection and more.As the data from each of these sensors is collected and analysed through a central platform, the idea of a connected world comes to fruition, bringing situational awareness to a new level and fostering a sense of proactivity to identifying emerging threats. The connected world, however, is not without its challenges, which means that certain considerations must be made in an effort to protect data, enhance structured networking and apply protective protocols to developing technology. Physical security systems We can expect to see the conversations regarding data privacy and security increase as well As the use of connected devices and big data continue to grow, we can expect to see the conversations regarding data privacy and security increase as well. Connectivity between devices can open up the risk of cyber vulnerabilities, but designing safeguards as technology advances will lessen these risks. The key goal is to ensure that the data organisations are using for enhancement and improvements is comprehensively protected from unauthorised access. Manufacturers and integrators must be mindful of their products' capabilities and make it easy for end users to adhere to data sharing and privacy regulations. These regulations, which greatly affect physical security systems and the way they're managed, are being implemented worldwide, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). In the United States, California, Vermont and South Carolina have followed suit, and it can be expected that more countries and U.S. states develop similar guidelines in the future. Technology is already a part of our day-to-day lives, with smart devices in our homes and the ability to perform tasks at our fingertips now a reality Automatic security updates Mitigating the concerns of the ‘connected world’ extends beyond just data privacy. IoT technology is accelerating at such a pace that it can potentially create detrimental problems for which many organisations may be ill-prepared - or may not even be able to comprehend. The opportunities presented by an influx of data and the IoT, and applying these technologies to markets such as smart cities, can solve security and operational problems, but this requires staying proactive when it comes to threats and practicing the proper protection protocols. As manufacturers develop devices that will be connected on the network, integrating standard, built-in protections becomes paramount. This can take the form of continuous vulnerability testing and regular, automatic security updates. Protocols are now being developed that are designed to ensure everything is encrypted, all communications are monitored and multiple types of attacks are considered for defensive purposes to provide the best security possible. IoT-connected devices Hackers wishing to do harm will stop at nothing to break into IoT-connected devices Built-in protection mechanisms send these kinds of systems into protection mode once they are attacked by an outside source. Another way for manufacturers to deliver solutions that are protected from outside threats is through constant and consistent testing of the devices long after they are introduced to the market. Hackers wishing to do harm will stop at nothing to break into IoT-connected devices, taking every avenue to discover vulnerabilities. But a manufacturer that spends valuable resources to continue testing and retesting products will be able to identify any issues and correct them through regular software updates and fixes. ‘IoT’ has become a common term in our vocabularies and since it’s more widely understood at this point and time, it's exciting to think about the possibilities of this revolutionary concept. Providing critical insights The number of active IoT devices is expected to grow to 22 billion by 2025 — a number that is almost incomprehensible. The rise of 5G networks, artificial intelligence (AI) and self-driving cars can be seen on the horizon of the IoT. As more of these devices are developed and security protocols are developed at a similar pace, connected devices stand to benefit a variety of industries, such as smart cities. Smart cities rely on data communicated via the IoT to enhance processes and create streamlined approaches Smart cities rely on data communicated via the IoT to enhance processes and create streamlined approaches to ensuring a city is well-run and safe. For example, think of cameras situated at a busy intersection. Cameras at these locations have a variety of uses, such as investigative purposes in the event of an accident or for issuing red-light tickets to motorists. But there are so many other possible purposes for this connected device, including providing critical insights about intersection usage and traffic congestion. These insights can then be used to adjust stoplights during busy travel times or give cities valuable data that can drive infrastructure improvements. Physical security market The impact of connected devices on cities doesn’t stop at traffic improvement. The possibilities are endless; by leveraging rich, real-time information, cities can improve efficiencies across services such as transportation, water management and healthcare. However, stringent protections are needed to harden security around the networks transmitting this kind of information in an effort to mitigate the dangers of hacking and allow this technology to continuously be improved. Whether you believe we’re in the midst of a digital transformation or have already completed it, one thing is certain: businesses must begin thinking in these connectivity-driven terms sooner rather than later so they aren’t left behind. Leveraging smart, connected devices can catapult organisations into a new level of situational awareness, but adopting protections and remaining vigilant continues to be a stalwart of technological innovation within the physical security market and into the connected world.

Interphone, the security systems and building technology integrator, completes an advanced project for Ardmore Construction at the high-profile Sutton Point development, a vibrant new community at the heart of the London Borough of Sutton. The company was appointed to design and install the integrated security systems, which includes fibre infrastructure, BPT door entry, PAC access control, IP-networked CCTV and an IRS communal aerial system with SKY Q. The installation has been recognised by the UK Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs) with Interphone nominated as a 2019 finalist in the Outstanding Security Installer category. Fibre backbone network The Interphone project team took the decision to move to fibre infrastructure to improve performance “Through the effort and commitment of our team the project was successfully completed on-time, within budget, and to the highest possible standards notwithstanding design changes in the building along the way, which required modification to our own design and approach to aspects of the installation,” explained Albert Dwek, Sales Manager at Interphone Limited. In particular, the Interphone project team took the decision to move to fibre infrastructure to improve performance and ensure it could deliver a high-specification security system. As a result, the company created a fibre backbone network, which allows CCTV images to be viewed in true 1080p/4k without compromising any other components of the system. Responsive working relationships Interphone worked closely with services engineers QuinnRoss Consultants Limited throughout the project. Michael Keenleyside, Electrical Engineer at Quinn Ross commented: “We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver the best possible service and solution for each of our clients, so it is essential to have highly responsive working relationships in place with key technology partners.” “Interphone was flexible and adaptive throughout the design and installation phases of the development, which ensure that any changes to system requirements were handled quickly and efficiently. Their team’s knowledge, understanding and commitment was essential to the success of the project.” The sophisticated CCTV solution incorporates a site-wide, IP-networked camera system and full-perimeter PTZ (Pan Tilt and zoom) camera system from HIKvision. Greater compression The full-perimeter system runs in real-time over three towers, three remote stations and two virtual concierge points with interlock ability The full-perimeter system runs in real-time over three towers, three remote stations and two virtual concierge points with interlock ability. The external PTZ camera images, recorded onsite, are also shared with the local police. This means the management company can keep the site secure for its residents, while allowing the police to protect the area in and around the development against crime. The PAC access control system enables all management tasks related to the tenants and staff to be administered from the central computer as and when required, ensuring the highest level of security around the site and added peace of mind. Meanwhile, BPT’s XIP door entry system offers significantly greater compression, providing the clearest and highest quality AV currently available, even with the significant background noise. Building communications The added PCS concierge facility also has improved switchboard software performance, delivering full control of building communications at two desks, so the system will never be engaged and never miss a visitor call. The primary focus when designing this project was the delivery of a system that could expand to meet changing requirements" “The primary focus when designing this project was the delivery of a system that could expand to meet changing requirements. As a result, we have implemented a system that not only uses the most up-to-date technology, but by its design, has been future proofed with the ability to grow. Therefore, the developer can meet all its internal requirements and ensure high levels of security for residents, visitors and members of the public,” commented Dwek. Technical capabilities David Dobouny, Operations Director at Interphone Limited added: “We are committed to the highest levels of service delivery. This project was selected to demonstrate our technical capabilities covering access control and CCTV systems for our NSI accreditation. We achieved a grade A rating, with zero faults and no negative comments regarding on-and off-site documentation, design and installation. This is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved, especially considering the size of the project.” Sutton Point is a large-scale mixed-use scheme located close to the town centre. The high-profile development included the full demolition of an existing tower, and the design and construction of 332 one-and two-bedroom apartments, prime three-bedroom penthouses, 21,000 square feet of retail space, 18,000 square feet of office space and an 80-bedroom hotel.

The enhanced Physical Perimeter Security Zone at IFSEC International 2016 will occupy over 1,000 square metres of dedicated floor space IFSEC International, Europe’s largest security exhibition, will enhance its dedicated Physical Perimeter Security Zone in 2016 with many leading suppliers within the sector already confirmed to participate. Taking place from 21-23 June 2016 at London’s ExCeL, IFSEC International continues to announce further exciting details and new additions to the 2016 flagship event. Physical security suppliers exhibit latest products With more than 27,000 visitors annually attending IFSEC International and in 2015 5,200 of those directly expressed an interest in physical perimeter security, for 2016 organisers have confirmed that the Physical Perimeter Security Zone will host global leaders supplying a range of products. The UK’s premier supplier of automatic gates, parking barriers, retractable turnstiles and tubular motors, CAME UK along with sister company BPT, the UK’s number one provider of bespoke and vandal resistant audio video door entry systems, have been confirmed as a flagship exhibitor within the Physical Perimeter Security Zone. Taking a 60 square metre stand and exhibiting as CAME BPT they will showcase their latest products to launch within this sector in 2016. James Bostock, Managing Director for CAME BPT UK, said: “Commitment to excellent customer relationships and dedication to product quality are the cornerstones of our success. Our participation in this year’s IFSEC International provides an ideal opportunity to demonstrate both to a wider audience. As the UK’s leading multi-discipline manufacturer in the automation and access control sector, we look forward to showcasing why our products and people continue to set the standard, and why more and more security industry professionals are choosing to work with us.” Growth of perimeter security market Peter Poole, Sales Director for IFSEC International says: “We are delighted to see CAME BPT back at IFSEC International and taking a flagship position within the Physical Perimeter Security Zone. We are continually adding to this zone and plan to announce more major new additions in the coming weeks.  Having listened to feedback from the industry we wanted to ensure that our physical perimeter security offering met the needs of this vital market segment that showcases the very latest products, services and innovations.” According to a recent study by Marketsandmarkets the perimeter security market is expected to reach 13.18Bn by 2020. The rising numbers of perimeter intrusion incidents are the underlying reason behind this solid growth, prompting organisations to shell out more to mitigate losses in the eventuality of an intrusion. Additionally, with increased security threats from terrorism the importance of protecting property and assets is paramount to all security strategies. Security exhibitors at IFSEC International 2016 According to a recent study by Marketsandmarkets the perimeter security market is expected to reach 13.18Bn by 2020 Another leading exhibitor to confirm their spot within the zone is Marshalls PLC, the UK’s leading hard landscaping manufacturer, specialising in intelligent street furniture. Marshalls will exhibit the latest products from its Protective Street Furniture ranges including PAS68 crash tested seating, planters, lighting along with post & rail systems. The enhanced Physical Perimeter Security Zone at IFSEC International 2016 will occupy over 1,000 square metres of dedicated floor space. In addition, the zone will now offer much more space to specialist manufacturers to fully display and demonstrate their products. All aspects of the sector will be covered including barriers, acoustic barriers, boom barriers, height restrictors, high security street furniture, blast protection, perimeter detection, blast walls, perimeter structures, bollards, protective bunkers, fencing, roadblockers, gate automation and turnstiles. Currently joining CAME BPT and Marshalls PLC within the zone are over 30 other companies including; Birmingham Barbed Tape, Blok n Mesh, DEA System, Engtex, GIlgen Doors, GM Techtronics, Kijlstra Precast, LPCB, Nitesite, Robust UK, Townscape Products, to name a few. IFSEC International will run from 21-23 June in 2016 and will once again be presented as part of UBM EMEA’s Protection & Management Series, the UK’s largest event dedicated to protecting and managing property, people and information. The series incorporates major events including IFSEC International along with FIREX International, Facilities Show, Safety & Health Expo and Service Management Expo. The series of events annually attract more than 40,000 attendees over three days to ExCeL London, in 2016 the series will run from 21 -23 June.

All-over-IP Expo brings together recognised global ICT and security brands to educate local sales partners and end-customers Meeting the right people and getting hands on with the newest technology are central to the All-over-IP Expo experience. With new exhibitors joining the show in Moscow in 2015, local sales partners and end-customers have even a better opportunity. Latest innovations to be showcased In 2015, the latest innovations in video surveillance, data storage, networks, identity management, access control, enterprise communications, IP intercom, building automation, and physical security showcased at All-over-IP Expo are enriched by 2N, Commend International GmbH, Seagate, BPT/CAME GROUP, ALL Connect Systems, ACESEE, Lex Computech, LTV, Iron Logic, SpaceCam, STRAZH, VARIFO, ASTERO, etc. Global ICT and security brands Celebrating its 8th year, All-over-IP Expo brings together recognised global ICT and security brands to educate local sales partners and end-customers on the technology that will enable them to succeed: 3CX, Abloy, Axis Communications, Avigilon, AxxonSoft, BAS-IP, Basler, Bosch Security, Dahua, Dallmeier, Fujinon, GeoVision, HID Global, Hikvision, Milestone Systems, MOBOTIX, Net GmbH, NUUO, Panasonic, QNAP, SALTO Systems, SIEMENS, SONY, Suprema, Synology, Tamron, Urmet, UTC Fire & Security, VIDEOTEC, VIVOTEK, Western Digital, etc. All-over-IP Expo 2015 is a networking platform for global IT, surveillance and security vendors, key local customers and sales partners where they share knowledge and exchange ideas that are financially rewarding for business. All-over-IP Expo brings together major brands to ensure the best marketplace for the latest technology and innovation, and to lead customers to the Next Big Thing.