Paxton Access IP Dome Cameras  (3)

James Twigg is the Managing Director of Total Integrated Solutions (TIS), an independent life safety, security and communication systems integrator, specialising in design & consultancy, technology and regulatory compliance. Total Integrated Solutions work primarily with retirement villages, helping to ensure the safety of residents in numerous retirement villages across the country. In this opinion piece, James shares how smart technology is helping security teams and care staff alike in ensuring the safety and security of their spaces, amid the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Impact of smart technology Smart technology is having an impact on pretty much every aspect of our lives Smart technology is having an impact on pretty much every aspect of our lives. From how we travel, to how we work, to how we run our homes. It’s not unusual to have Alexa waking us up and ordering our groceries or Nest to be regulating the temperature and energy in our homes. And while there’s a popular misconception that people in their later years are allergic to technology, retirement villages and care homes are experiencing significant innovation too. And the result is not only improved quality of life for residents, but also improved safety and security systems for management teams. Switching to converged IP systems I’ve been working in the life safety and security industry for over fifteen years. When I first joined TIS, much of the sector was still very analogue, in terms of the technology being installed and maintained. Slowly but surely, we’ve been consulting and advising customers on how to design, install and maintain converged IP systems that all talk to each other and work in tandem. I'm excited to say retirement villages are some of the top spaces leading the way, in terms of technological advancement. Improving the quality of life for residents A move into a retirement village can be daunting and one of the key concerns that we hear about is the loss of independence. No one wants to feel like they are being monitored or to have someone constantly hovering over them. One of the ways we’ve used smart technology to maintain residents' independence is through devices, such as health monitors and motion sensors. For example, instead of having a member of staff check-in on residents every morning, to ensure they are well, sensors and analytics can automatically detect changes in routine and alert staff to possible problems. Similarly, wearable tech, such as smart watches give residents a chance to let staff know they are okay, without having to tell them face-to-face. As our retirement village customers have told us, a simple ‘I’m okay’ command can be the difference between someone feeling independent versus someone feeling monitored. Simplifying and improving security systems Smart technology gives care staff and security oversight of the needs of residents For the teams responsible for the safety of the people, places and spaces within retirement villages, smart technology is helping to improve and simplify their jobs. Smart technology gives care staff and security oversight of the needs of residents, and ensures rapid response if notified by an emergency alert, ensuring they know the exact location of the resident in need. And without the need to go and physically check-in on every resident, staff and management can ensure staff time is being used effectively. Resources can be distributed where they are needed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those residents who need extra consideration. 24/7 surveillance When planning the safety and security for retirement villages, and other residential spaces, it’s no use having traditional systems that only work effectively for 12 hours a day or need to update during the evening. Surveillance needs to be 24/7 and smart technology allows that without the physical intrusion into people’s spaces and daily lives. Smart technology ensures that systems speak to each other and are easily and effectively managed on one integrated system. This includes video surveillance, which has also become much more effective as a result of advanced video analytics, which automatically warn staff of suspicious behaviour. Securing spaces amid COVID-19 This year has, of course, brought new challenges for safety. COVID-19 hit the retirement and residential care sectors hard, first with the initial wave of infections in mid-2020 and then, with the subsequent loneliness caused by the necessary separation of families. As essential workers, we worked closely with our customers to make sure they had everything they needed As essential workers, we worked closely with our customers to make sure they had everything they needed during this time, equipping residents with tablet devices to ensure they could stay connected with their families and friends. It allowed residents to keep in touch without risking transferring the virus. Thermal cameras and mask detection And now that we’re emerging out of COVID-19 restrictions and most residents can see their families again, we’re installing systems like thermal cameras and mask detection, so as to ensure that security will be alerted to anyone in the space experiencing a high temperature or not wearing proper PPE. Such steps give staff and families alike, the peace-of-mind that operational teams will be alerted at the earliest possible moment, should a COVID-19 risk appear. Thinking ahead to the next fifteen years, I’m excited at the prospect of further technological advancements in this space. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how complex your security system is or how you compete in the industry. It’s about helping teams to protect the people, spaces and places that matter. I see smart technology playing a huge role in that for years to come.

As the COVID-19 pandemic wanes and sporting venues open-up to full capacity, a new disturbing trend has hit the headlines - poor fan behaviour. Five NBA teams have issued indefinite bans on fans, who crossed the line of unacceptable behaviour, during the NBA playoffs. Major League Baseball stadiums have a recurring problem with divisive political banners being strewn over walls, as part of an organised campaign, requiring fan ejections. There was a brawl between Clippers and Suns fans after Game 1 of their playoff series. And, the U.S. vs. Mexico Nations League soccer game over the Fourth of July weekend had to be halted, due to fans throwing objects at players and screaming offensive chants. Cracking down on poor fan behaviour Security directors are consistently reporting a disturbing uptick in poor fan attitude and behaviour With players across all major sports leagues commanding more power than ever before, they are demanding that sports venues crack down on poor fan behaviour, particularly when they are the targets of that behaviour. Whether it’s an extension of the social-media divisiveness that’s gripped society, or people unleashing pent up negative energy, following 15 months of social isolation, during the COVID-19 global pandemic, security directors are consistently reporting a disturbing uptick in poor fan attitude and behaviour. They’re also reporting a chronic security guard shortage, like many businesses that rely on relatively low-cost labour, finding candidates to fill open positions has been incredibly difficult. Low police morale To add the third component to this perfect storm, many police departments are struggling with morale issues and officers are less likely to put themselves into positions, where they could wind up in a viral video. According to the Police Executive Research Forum, police officer retirements in the U.S. were up 45% in the April 2020 - April 2021 period, when compared to the previous year. Resignations were up 18%. In this environment, officers may be less likely to undertake fan intervention unless it’s absolutely necessary. This can seem like the worst of times for venue security directors, as they need more staff to handle increasingly unruly patrons, but that staff simply isn’t available. And, because the security guard staffing industry is a commoditised business, companies compete almost solely on price, which requires that they keep salaries as low as possible, which perpetuates the lack of interest in people participating in the profession. Digital Transformation There is only one way out of this conundrum and that is to make security personnel more efficient and effective. Other industries have solved similar staffing and cost challenges through digital transformation. For example, only a small percentage of the total population of restaurants in the U.S. used to offer home delivery, due to cost and staffing challenges of hiring dedicated delivery personnel. Advent of digital efficiency tools But with the advent of digital efficiency tools, now virtually all restaurants can offer delivery But with the advent of digital efficiency tools, such as UberEATS and DoorDash, now virtually all restaurants can offer delivery. Likewise, field-service personnel are digitally connected, so when new jobs arise, they can be notified and routed to the location. Compare this to the old paper-based days, when they wouldn’t know about any new jobs until they picked up their work schedule at the office, the next day and you can see how digital transformation makes each worker significantly more efficient. Security guards and manned guarding The security guard business has never undergone this kind of digital transformation. The state-of-the-art ‘technology’ has never changed - human eyes and ears. Yes, there are video cameras all over stadiums and other venues, but behind the scenes is a guard staring at a bunch of monitors, hoping to identify incidents that need attention. Meanwhile, there are other guards stationed around the stadium, spending most of their time watching people who are doing nothing wrong. Think about all the wasted time involved with these activities – not to mention the relentless boredom and ‘alert fatigue’ from false-positive incident reporting and you understand the fundamental inefficiencies of this labour-based approach to security. Now think about a world where there’s ubiquitous video surveillance and guards are automatically and pre-emptively notified and briefed, when situations arise. The fundamental nature of the security guards profession changes. Instead of being low paid ‘watchers’, they instead become digitally-empowered preventers. AI-based screening and monitoring technology This world is happening today, through Artificial Intelligence-based screening and monitoring technology. AI-powered weapons-detection gateways inform guards, when a patron entering the venue is carrying a gun, knife or other forbidden item. Instead of patting down every patron with metal in their pockets, which has been the standard practice since walk-through metal detectors were mandated by sports leagues following 9/11, guards can now target only those who are carrying these specific items. Video surveillance and AI-based analytics integration Combining surveillance video with AI-based advanced analytics can automatically identify fan disturbances Combining surveillance video with AI-based advanced analytics can automatically identify fan disturbances or other operational issues, and notify guards in real time, eliminating the need to have large numbers of guards monitoring video feeds and patrons. The business benefits of digitally transformed guards are compelling. A National Hockey League security director says he used to have 300 guards manning 100 walk-through metal detectors. By moving to AI solutions, he can significantly reduce the number of scanning portals and guards, and most importantly redeploy and gain further operational efficiencies with his overall operational strategy. Changing staffing strategy This changes the staffing strategy significantly and elevates the roles of guards. Suddenly, a US$ 20-per-hour ‘job’ becomes a US$ 40-per-hour profession, with guards transformed into digital knowledge workers delivering better outcomes with digitally enabled staffs. Beyond that, these digitally transformed guards can spend a much higher percentage of their time focused on tasks that impact the fan experience – whether it’s keeping weapons out of the building, pro-actively dealing with unruly fans before a broader disruption occurs, or managing business operations that positively impact fan patron experience. Digitally transforming security guards Perhaps most important, digitally transforming security guards elevates the profession to a more strategic level, which means better pay for the guards, better service for clients of guard services, and an overall better experience for fans. That’s a perfect storm of goodness for everyone.

Steven Kenny, Axis Communications, looks at the benefits of physical access control systems within smart environments, and how knowledge gaps and dated methods can inhibit adoption. Physical security is becoming more dynamic and more interconnected, as it evolves. Today’s modern access control solutions are about so much more than simply opening doors, with digitalisation bringing multiple business benefits, which would simply not be possible using traditional models. Digital transformation While the digital transformation of processes and systems was already well underway, across many industries and sectors, it is the transformation of physical security from a standalone, isolated circuit, to a network-enabled, intelligent security solution that brings many benefits to the smart environment. Yet, with more organisations now looking to bring their physical security provision up to date, there are many considerations that must be addressed to maximise the potential of access control and video surveillance. Not least of which is that connecting physical security devices to a network presents risk, so it is increasingly important for IT teams to play a role in helping to facilitate the secure integration of physical and network technologies, as these two worlds increasingly converge. Improved access control in smart environments These urban constructs are capable of reducing waste, driving efficiencies and optimising resources The smart city offers significant benefits, reflected in the US$ 189 billion that is anticipated to be spent on smart city initiatives globally by 2023. These urban constructs are capable of reducing waste, driving efficiencies, optimising resources and increasing citizen engagement. Technology, which is increasingly being incorporated to protect access points within the smart environment, can take many forms. These range from simple card readers to two factor authentication systems, using video surveillance as a secondary means of identification, right through to complex networks of thermal cameras, audio speakers and sensors. Frictionless access control During the COVID-19 pandemic, frictionless access control has provided an effective ‘hands free’ means of accessing premises, using methods such as QR code readers and facial recognition as credentials to prove identity. Frictionless access control brings health and safety into the equation, as well as the security of entrances and exits, minimising the risk of infection, by removing the need to touch shared surfaces. Such systems can be customised and scaled to meet precise requirements. Yet, an increasing integration with open technologies and platforms requires collaboration between the worlds of physical security and IT, in order to be successful. Barriers to adoption Traditional suppliers and installers of physical security systems have built up a strong business model around their expertise, service and knowledge. Network connectivity and the IoT (Internet of Things) present a constantly shifting landscape, requiring the traditional physical security vendor to learn the language of IT, of open platforms, IP connectivity and software integration, in order to adapt to market changes and remain relevant. Many are now beginning to realise that connected network-enabled solutions are here to stay Those who cannot adapt, and are simply not ready for this changing market, risk being left behind, as the physical security landscape continues to shift and demand continues to increase. With end users and buyers looking for smarter, more integrated and business-focused solutions from their suppliers, it is clear that only those who are prepared will succeed in this space. Time will not stand still, and many are now beginning to realise that connected network-enabled solutions are here to stay, particularly within smart constructs which rely on such technology by their very nature. The importance of cyber hygiene Connecting any device to a network has a degree of risk, and it is, therefore, imperative that any provider not only understands modern connected technologies, but also the steps necessary to protect corporate networks. Cameras, access control systems and IP audio devices, which have been left unprotected, can potentially become backdoors into a network and used as access points by hackers. These vulnerabilities can be further compromised by the proliferation of connected devices within the Internet of Things (IoT). While the connection of devices to a network brings many advantages, there is greater potential for these devices to be used against the very business or industry they have been employed to protect when vulnerabilities are exploited. Cyber security considerations Cyber security considerations should, therefore, be a key factor in the development and deployment of new security systems. Access control technologies should be manufactured according to recognised cyber security principles, incident reporting and best practices. It is important to acknowledge that the cyber integrity of a system is only as strong as its weakest link and that any potential source of cyber exposure will ultimately impact negatively on a device’s ability to provide the necessary high levels of physical security. The future of access control There is a natural dispensation towards purchasing low-cost solutions There is a natural dispensation towards purchasing low-cost solutions that are perceived as offering the same value as their more expensive equivalents. While some have taken the decision to implement such solutions, in an attempt to unlock the required benefits, while saving their bottom line, the limited lifespan of these technologies puts a heavier cost and reputational burden onto organisations by their association. The future of access control, and of physical security as a whole, will, therefore, be dependent on the willingness of suppliers to implement new designs and new ways of thinking, based around high-quality products, and to influence the installers and others in their supply chains to embrace this new world. Cyber security key to keeping businesses safe In addition, cyber security considerations are absolutely vital for keeping businesses safe. The integration of cyber secure technologies from trusted providers will provide peace of mind around the safety or corporate networks, and integrity of the deployed technologies. As we move forward, access control systems will become data collection points and door controllers will become intelligent I/O devices. QR codes for visitor management and biometric face recognition for frictionless access control will increasingly be managed at the edge, as analytics in a camera or sensor. The future of access control presents an exciting and challenging time for those ready to accept it, to secure it and to help shape it, offering a true opportunity to innovate for a smarter, safer world.

Paxton announces the introduction of new Net2 Pro training. Easily accessible via the website, this virtual course enables installers to get the most from Net2 with free Net2 Pro training. Net2 access control Net2 access control is easy to install and designed to make the management of any building very simple. As a system, it offers a variety of IP video intercom, battery-powered door handles, and wireless or wired door controller hardware to suit any site requirement, and ensuring buildings run smoothly and remain secure. Designed specifically for installers who have completed Net2 Essential training, the Net2 Pro sessions are running throughout the year to help installers grow their business and provide additional benefits to their customers. Training highlights Paxton Net2 Pro training covers: Control unit installation and configuration using Net2 Pro software Integrating Net2 with third-party products such as CCTV and intruder alarms Unlocking the power and flexibility of Triggers & Actions Configuring area control and occupancy management Managing other applications within Net2 and additional hardware options Provides an understanding of Net2 Pro The session has been designed to give installers knowledge of the powerful features of Net2 Pro" Global Training Manager, Steve Woodbridge, said, “At Paxton, we have always been passionate about training and education. We meet thousands of installers in free training classes each year from all over the world. Launching Net2 Pro online training for our U.S. customers is so important, developing an understanding of the system capabilities.” “The session has been designed to give installers knowledge of the powerful features of Net2 Pro and how to configure them to benefit their customers.” Free of charge training Sessions will be delivered virtually, allowing installers to complete the course from their home, office, or wherever suits them best. The fully interactive, instructor-led, live training sessions will help installers to take a deeper dive into Net2 and prepare for upcoming installations. As always, the company is offering the training free of charge.

Paxton Inc. is pleased to announce that they have updated their Paxton10 camera offering, adding a CORE Series of cameras, alongside the existing PRO Series. The Paxton10 system combines access control, video management, free Bluetooth smart credentials, feature-rich software and now, the CORE and PRO Series of cameras. Edge processing  The new CORE Series cameras feature edge processing for ultimate scalability, built-in edge storage, and plug-and-play installation. The addition of the CORE Series gives installers new hardware, more options and better value than ever before. Paxton has also reduced the price of their PRO Series cameras, providing a tailored video management solution at a cost-effective price. CORE Series of mini-dome and mini-bullet cameras The CORE Series of cameras includes mini-dome and mini-bullet options, both featuring 64 GB of built-in storage The CORE Series of cameras includes mini-dome and mini-bullet options, both featuring 64 GB of built-in storage and 4 MP resolution, at an incredibly competitive price. A turret option will also join the CORE Series soon. The CORE Series features the same high-build quality as the PRO Series, containing the required features to meet market expectations and make the Paxton10 system a suitable option for a wider variety of installations. Paxton10 system Jeremy Allison, Paxton’s Senior Product Manager explains, “The introduction of the new CORE Series cameras is the next step in the evolution of our innovative new system, Paxton10. Following the U.S. launch in February, we have taken the feedback from our valued dealers to refine and improve our camera offering to suit the needs of the market.” Jeremy Allison adds, “The real standout feature of our cameras is the edge processing capability, both the CORE and PRO Series cameras, include built-in storage to allow video footage to be processed and stored at the edge. This eliminates the need for expensive NVR'S and reduces installation time.” With this latest product launch, Paxton are pleased to offer a broader range of cameras, while retaining the simplicity that Paxton is known for, with a cost-effective CORE Series and feature-rich PRO option.

ISC West, in collaboration with premier sponsor Security Industry Association (SIA), has recently unveiled a robust lineup of event details for the upcoming ISC West 2021 event. Taking place July 19-21 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Las Vegas, ISC West proceeds into May with positive momentum and an optimistic outlook, as developments regarding vaccine distribution, Las Vegas re-openings, and trade event approvals have continued to move in an encouraging direction. Public safety professionals With attendee registration open, including the versatile opportunities available for security and public safety professionals to participate with this year, based on current insights and input, ISC West anticipates a strong step forward in returning to Las Vegas in the range of 50-60% of 2019 visitor levels. Not counting exhibit staff and speakers, this would estimate to around 10,000 core security & public safety professionals, while still providing a diverse and comprehensive range of solutions and exhibitors on the expo floor. After a long pause due to COVID, and in line with security professionals playing a key role as essential workers and leaders to get the economy back on track, reuniting the ISC community back together in-person at ISC West will be a stimulating event for moving the market forward. Major market transition Many new innovations have been emerging during this time of major market transition Prominent integrator, dealer, installer and practitioner organisations are signing on to attend, including security professionals from American Integrated Security Group, ASAP Security, BlackRock, City of Los Angeles, Department of Homeland Security, IBM, Lockheed Martin, MGM Resorts International, Molson Coors Beverage Company, National Football League (NFL), Nextgen Integrated Solutions, Siemens, Travellers Insurance, Utah Transit Authority and more, all of whom will be welcomed by an estimated 400+ exhibiting brands–roughly 35% of which are exhibiting for the first time at an ISC West event. Many new innovations have been emerging during this time of major market transition and disruption, which will be showcased on the expo floor and via the SIA New Product Showcase at ISC West. The 2021 Exhibitor List also not only features a wide-array of product solutions new to the market, but serves as a diverse access point to technologies from both premier manufacturers and hidden gems in the field—noting an influx of small-to-medium sized businesses participating for 2021. Major security events For example, a key sampling of exhibitors confirmed for this year’s event include: 3xLogic, ADT Commercial, Alarm.com, Allegion, Alula, Alvarado (a dormakaba Group company), Axis Communications, Axon, Alcatraz AI, Anno.Ai, Digital Monitoring Products, Genetec, Napco Security Technologies, Paxton Access, Skydio, and Seagate Technology. The entire ISC West team is excited to welcome back the industry in-person" “The entire ISC West team is excited to welcome back the industry in-person to Las Vegas this year. It’s been a very long 15 months, but as one of the first major security events to take place since 2019, we’re ready to safely get back to business,” states Mary Beth Shaughnessy, ISC Event Director. Implementing new guidelines “Our customers' health and safety is of utmost importance to us, and we’ll be taking proactive steps and implementing new guidelines and policies to help support a safe experience for our customers to network face-to-face with industry peers. We look forward to working with Mission 500, the SIA Women in Security Forum, SIA RISE, and other industry partners to converge the industry together. As this year’s event motto states ‘Safety. Security. Health. It re-starts here with ISC West.’–-we truly believe in this statement and cannot wait to accelerate market recovery together in Las Vegas!” Simultaneously, the SIA Education@ISC West Program recently revealed full conference details, highlighting 65+ sessions and over 115 confirmed speakers, in addition to this year’s Keynote Series Sessions featuring Dave Komendat, Vice President and Chief Security Officer, Enterprise Operations, Finance and Sustainability, Enterprise Services at The Boeing Company, and James Gagliano, Retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent, Law Enforcement Analyst, Adjunct Assistant Professor and Doctoral Candidate at St. John’s University. Keynote series sessions The schedule has also added a COVID-19 Response & Public Safety and Health track The dynamic SIA Education@ISC West Program and ISC West keynote series sessions are each designed to bring all new content on the most current business trends, technologies and latest industry developments. While popular sessions including the Active Shooter/Stop the Bleed Workshop and the dedicated Tec@ISC track (presented by PSA Security Network) will be returning for 2021, the schedule has also added a COVID-19 Response & Public Safety and Health track, featuring four sessions dedicated to the health and safety response in a post-pandemic, new normal world. Post-pandemic health “SIA is excited to reconnect in-person with so many members and partners at this year’s ISC West,” said Don Erickson, SIA’s CEO. “Our learning and development team is working with an exceptional cadre of speakers this year to deliver a very relevant SIA Education@ISC program, addressing important topics like the cybersecurity of IoT solutions, business resilience and post-pandemic health and safety changes.” “We’re also pleased to deliver a strong complement of educational sessions for chief security officers and other practitioners and we look forward to announcing our SIA Women in Security Forum keynote speaker very soon.” Registration for the media is now open for ISC West 2021 and offers a variety of opportunities for one to cover this year’s event.