Healthcare security applications

Two giant video surveillance companies have responded to a United States government ban on use of their products included in the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Both Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company and Dahua Technology Company are mentioned by name in a section buried in the giant military reauthorisation bill. A ban on use of their products will take effect “not later than one year after” the law is enacted. Response from the manufacturers Hikvision’s statement expresses disappointment with the version of the 2019 NDAA passed by both chambers of the U.S. Congress Hikvision’s statement expresses disappointment with the version of the 2019 NDAA passed by both chambers of the U.S. Congress. “This legislation was quickly drafted without sufficient evidence, review, or investigation to warrant the video surveillance technology restrictions outlined in section 889,” says Hikvision. “The process resulted in an ambiguous provision with potentially far-reaching implications for American business and represents a rejection of the U.S. government’s commitment to use a standards-based approach when evaluating security risks in federal procurement.”  Dahua was less direct and did not specifically mention the ban in its statement. “Although local laws and regulations may present challenges, we never lose sight of our goals — to provide top-tier products and services for the North American market,” says the statement from Zhejiang Dahua Technology Ltd. The rest of the statement centres on Dahua’s ongoing commitment to the video surveillance market and addresses possible motivations for the ban (see below). Impact on contractor business Dahua’s statement expressed its ongoing commitment to the video surveillance market Hikvision also cited a recent article published in The Hill that quoted Chris Nickelson, a Missouri-based contractor, who argued that a ban on Hikvision products would actually harm small American businesses like his. According to the article, Nickelson said allegations against Hikvision have hurt his business, and he decried a lack of evidence supporting the allegations. “Somebody still needs to show me that there’s any real meat and potatoes behind any accusations that have been made towards Hikvision,” Nickelson is quoted in The Hill. The rest of Hikvision’s statement: “Hikvision is committed to complying with all applicable laws and regulations and has made efforts to ensure the security of its products go beyond what is mandated by the U.S. government, including certification under the Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140-2 and opening our Source Code Transparency Center (SCTC), which makes the company’s source code available for review by law enforcement authorities and government agencies in the U.S. and Canada.”We understand that in today’s security industry, cybersecurity is the biggest challenge" Company statement on the NDAA Here is more of Dahua’s statement on the National Defense Authorization Act: “Dahua Technology is a global leading IoT video surveillance solution provider operating in 37 countries and dedicated to bringing our customers innovative solutions. Dahua Technology has been publicly traded on Shenzhen stock exchange market since 2008 and is not a government-owned entity. We understand that in today’s security industry, cybersecurity is the biggest challenge. We have provided remedies to correct those issues with our customers. We take cybersecurity very seriously by implementing a seven-module cybersecurity baseline into our product design. Meanwhile, we continue to work with 3rd party partners like DBAPP Security and Synopsys Technology, to rigorously test our products to combat against current cybersecurity vulnerabilities."To personalise our interaction with customers at this event, Hikvision will not have a booth on the GSX show floor" Dahua’s statement continues: “With over 6,000 R&D Dahua professionals, we strive to provide secure products and solutions to our valued customers to secure what they care about. Although local laws and regulations may present challenges, we never lose sight of our goals — to provide top-tier products and services for the North American market. We will continue to invest in resources and employees to ensure our customers and partners retain the highest quality of services to support future growth in this market. "We will continue to invest in resources and employees to ensure our customers and partners retain the highest quality of services to support future growth in this market.” Hikvision comments on GSX presence Hikvision has also issued a statement about its downsized presence at the upcoming GSX trade show (formerly ASIS) in Las Vegas. A Hikvision spokesperson confirmed that the decision to abandon Hikvision’s large booth presence was made earlier this summer and was not a result of the ban. Here is Hikvision’s statement about GSX: “As in previous years, Hikvision will be well represented at the GSX show in September in Las Vegas. To personalise our interaction with customers at this event, Hikvision will not have a booth on the GSX show floor. Instead, a contingency of Hikvision professionals will attend the conference and host partner meetings and product demonstrations in meeting facilities throughout the trade show. "As a total solution provider, Hikvision looks forward to meeting with end users, A&E consultants, integrators and other partners to discuss how Hikvision's full suite of products can help address the challenges facing security directors and the broader C-Suite.”

Axis complements AXIS Q35 Series with two multi-megapixel, outdoor-ready fixed domes. Developed for solid performance in challenging light conditions and rough environments, the new models are perfect for surveillance in a wide range of areas such as critical infrastructure, city surveillance, airports, railway stations, harbours, healthcare, pharmaceutical and food industries. Based on top-quality ½” sensors and Axis’ latest image processing, AXIS Q3518-LVE delivers 4K, and the stainless-steel AXIS Q3517-SLVE delivers 5 MP, in 30 fps with outstanding image quality in challenging light conditions. This includes support for Axis OptimizedIR illumination, forensic WDR and Lightfinder technology. The new models also support Axis’ award-winning Zipstream technology, which preserves important details in full image quality, while reducing the storage and bandwidth needs by an average of 50% or more. Withstands harshest conditions Shock detection feature means they can send an alarm when exposed The advanced AXIS Q35 cameras have been designed to withstand the harshest conditions, with stable operation in extreme temperatures from -50 °C to +60 °C. AXIS Q3517-SLVE features a marine-grade stainless steel casing that is highly resistant to the corrosive effects of salt, detergents and other chemicals. AXIS Q35-LVE/-SLVE cameras are IK10+ rated and have been tested to ensure they can withstand 50 joules of impact. The shock detection feature means they can send an alarm when exposed. The cameras’ electronic image stabilization (EIS) means they provide steady video even during intense vibrations. Additional camera features Pre-installed AXIS Motion Guard, AXIS Fence Guard and AXIS Loitering Guard analytics for proactive surveillance The use of dynamic overlays to add extra information, such as weather update, to the video feed External sensors can be connected to input ports to trigger alarms or actions, and if the connection to a sensor is cut, the camera can send an alarm Relays and other external devices can be connected to outputs to, among others, activate lights, lock/unlock doors If there is a power outage, redundant DC power and Power over Ethernet help ensure a reliable power supply to the cameras Installation is made easy with flexible cable management, optional connection to any conduit and helpful tools such as leveling assistant, auto rotation, remote zoom and focus Pre-installed analytics provide excellent support for proactive surveillance Petra Bennermark, Global Product Manager at Axis Communications, comments, "The new additions to our top-of-the-line AXIS Q35 Series will help our customers ensure safety even at the most challenging conditions, whether it comes to light, weather or a rough environment. The cameras’ outstanding image quality give the operators the best possible chance of identifying people, objects and vehicles, and the pre-installed analytics provide excellent support for proactive surveillance."

The physical environment of a healthcare facility is the foundation of all that occurs in it. Implementing effective safety and security solutions creates an environment that enhances the building for those working and staying in such facilities. With the ever-changing landscape that is the healthcare provision, it’s important to opt for solutions that provide the cornerstones for success and progression, rather than act as sources of limitation. Healthcare facilities present a considerably complex security challenge. Optimising a facility’s physical environment – that is, everything from door hardware to locks and access control – has a direct link to improved patient health and safety, staff safety, security and performance, in turn, increasing operational efficiencies and financial outcomes. The scope of solutions available to the UK market means that healthcare facilities can opt for solutions that fit their specific needs and requirements Factors affecting the selection of security solutions   There are multiple influencing factors to choosing the right solutions, such as reducing noise, maximising free passage for optimum people movement, minimising cross-contamination, administering adequate preparation for emergency situations and allowing safe and efficient egress when necessary. Years ago, older healthcare buildings with outdated or damaged hardware were limited by choice, and the upgrades that were available weren’t always an appropriately fitted replacement. Notwithstanding this, any budgeting pressures these facilities faced led to a reluctance to upgrade old traditional systems. Today, however, the scope of solutions available to the UK market means that healthcare facilities, such as hospital buildings, can opt for solutions that fit their specific needs and requirements, aligning with their values and targets along the way. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 enforced the responsibility that facility managers and business owners have in remaining fire safety compliant Fire safety compliance A recent report by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has revealed that almost a third of private hospitals in England are failing on patient safety. Professor Ted Baker, chief inspector of hospitals at the CQC, said that a part of this was because of a lack of formal governance protocols. This includes “a lack of safety checks and poor monitoring of risks,” where safety has neglected to be viewed as a corporate responsibility. In reality, the safety of patients – and staff, for that matter – expands further than just day-to-day internal procedures. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 enforced the responsibility that facility managers and business owners have in remaining fire safety compliant. Fire doors, in particular, need to be given meticulous attention to ensure compliance. The slightest damage could render a fire door inadequate, putting lives at risk in the event of a fire. Regular checks, such as fire door operation and up-to-date risk assessments, are crucial to maximising patient and staff satisfaction, maintaining legislation compliance and, ultimately, keeping everyone on the premises safe. When hospital staff need to carry medical supplies, push gurneys or carts, or move quickly, doors and door hardware must allow smooth access into and from a room Efficient door access and egress In situations that require high levels of egress, such as during busier periods and in emergency situations like an evacuation, it is essential hospitals are equipped with doors and door hardware which accommodate these needs. Methodical solutions such as cross-corridor openings support this range of requirements, aiding egress whilst also resisting damage, operating quietly and aiding wheelchair access. When hospital staff need to carry medical supplies, push gurneys or carts, or move quickly, doors and door hardware must allow smooth access into and from a room whilst also providing privacy and safety for a patient. On top of this, doors should be fitted with easy-open features. For example, support staff should have their hands free to aid the young, the elderly and those with disabilities who need assistance. Electromagnetic and cam-action door closers are ideal for high-use internal areas that require doors to be held open, swing-free or have lighter operational forces, making them the perfect solution for hospitals and care homes. With the help of networked access control with real-time management and monitoring, all sensitive areas can be made secure for both patients and staff Access control for sensitive areas As healthcare staff levels are showing a slight decrease in recent reports, it’s important for door hardware to assist the challenges staff may face rather than limit day-to-day running. Certain areas within healthcare facilities are high security such as pharmacies, patient records and medical supplies, which require a higher level of security and restricted access. These sensitive areas in the facility require records of when and by whom the area was accessed. They also need to stop unauthorised access to these areas. With the help of networked access control with real-time management and monitoring, all sensitive areas can be made secure for both patients and staff. Door hardware with anti-bacterial protection Bacteria-resistance is a beneficial operational feature in preventing the spread of germs that contribute to hospital-acquired infections. Around 80 percent of infections are transmitted through our environment, from the air we breathe to the surfaces we touch. Being one of the most common harbourers of bacterium, door handles, grabrails and other contact surfaces can exacerbate cross-contamination, presenting a focal-point that facilitates the transmission of germs throughout a building. For that extra layer of cleanliness, door hardware with in-built anti-bacterial protection – such as exit devices and lever furniture – helps to battle against the spreading of germs. Not only is a clean and safe environment a basic standard set by the CQC, it can also improve patient and staff satisfaction, leading to a well-organised and efficient-running healthcare facility overall.

CriticalArc has made a series of key sales and technical appointments as it expands to meet growing demand for the SafeZone personal protection and emergency response system. Head of marketing and public relations Gerard Laurain joins the company as Global Marketing Director, taking responsibility for marketing, public relations and business development initiatives worldwide. With over 20 years’ B2B marketing experience Gerard has previously led product marketing and communications for early stage tech companies that disrupted traditional business models and grew from pre-IPO to publicly traded. It is now being used across multi-site and dispersed facilities in a wide range of vertical markets including higher education and healthcare He takes charge of marketing at a time when SafeZone is being adopted by major organisations worldwide. Deployed as a critical command and control tool, it is fundamentally transforming the way users manage security, safety and emergency operations. It is now being used across multi-site and dispersed facilities in a wide range of vertical markets including higher education and healthcare. Other key appointments Also joining the senior management team, Dominic Barnsley is the new Director of Product Development, based in Sydney, Australia. With more than 20 years’ experience in corporate technology, Dominic is heading up software development, product delivery and management of the CriticalArc technical teams. In the UK, Daniel Malone has been appointed as Technical Operations Manager (EMEA); Carl Martin joins the EMEA team as Sales Manager (Public Sector) and Christopher Whitting takes on the role of Sales Manager (Enterprise). Between them they have a wealth of experience in security and B2B technology sectors. Christopher has almost 20 years’ experience working with leading security tech brands, Carl has an extensive military and private security background and Daniel is a specialist in systems design and software, with a successful track record of over ten years. SafeZone has also been deployed at one of the UK’s largest corporate enterprises as well as across FCC Group’s international facilities Worldwide implementation of SafeZone “We are delighted to welcome Dominic, Gerard, Daniel, Carl and Christopher to the team at a time when demand for SafeZone is growing significantly,” said Glenn Farrant, CriticalArc, Chief Executive Officer. “By making strategic investments in our people, we’re confident we will continue to deliver the highest level of customer service as we expand into new markets.” Initially focused on the higher education market, SafeZone has been implemented in dozens of universities and higher education institutes across Australasia, Europe and North America. SafeZone has also been deployed at one of the UK’s largest corporate enterprises as well as across FCC Group’s international facilities that provide environmental services, water management and infrastructure works. Other applications include rollouts across gated communities and corporate enterprises in the Middle East and healthcare institutes in North America.

Boon Edam Inc., a global leader in security entrances and architectural revolving doors, announced the launch of a new security mantrap portal solution, the Circlelock Combi. This unique, ‘half portal’ solution helps security executives prevent unauthorised entry into high security areas currently using fire-rated swinging doors. The Combi will be on display in Boon Edam’s booth (#8037) at the upcoming ISC West exhibition in Las Vegas, NV from April 11-13. Boon Edam designed the Circlelock Combi as a convenient retrofit option to address the risk that exists with any type of swinging door - once a swinging door is opened by an authorised user, any number of people may also gain access to a secure area, which is known as ‘tailgating’ or ‘piggybacking’. The Circlelock Combi attaches to an existing fire-rated door, converting it immediately into a mantrap solution that prevents piggybacking 24/7 Preventing intrusion and maintaining integrity Many facilities use fire-rated swing doors to protect data and assets from destruction by fire, but this type of door cannot prevent tailgating or piggybacking. The Circlelock Combi attaches to an existing fire-rated door, converting it immediately into a mantrap solution that prevents piggybacking 24/7 and eliminates the need for manned supervision, all while maintaining the fire-rated benefits of the swing door. The Combi also saves considerable space compared to traditionally-built mantrap vestibules that use standard walls and two swinging doors. The Circlelock Combi is a cylindrical solution that has a single sliding door on one end and an opening on the other end that is mounted to an existing wall and swing door. The Combi uses Boon Edam’s StereoVision2™ detection technology in the ceiling to scan the compartment and ensure a user is alone prior to unlocking the swing door. Security managers can choose to prevent piggybacking for both inbound and outbound traffic. At ISC West, Boon Edam will have the Circlelock Combi available for demonstrations with a two-factor authentication scenario Enabling multi-factor authentication The Circlelock Combi enables deployment of multi-factor authentication to ensure the identity of a confirmed, lone user. Users can present their first credential to enter the portal and then a second biometric credential (such as an iris scanner, facial or hand recognition), to unlock the second door. Virtually any verification technology can be mounted inside the Combi on an optional, floor-to-ceiling post. The Circlelock Combi can process five to six people per minute and is ideal for interior, sensitive locations such as data centres, government buildings, airports, legal or patient record areas, executive suites, and more. At ISC West, Boon Edam will have the Circlelock Combi available for demonstrations with a two-factor authentication scenario using an AMAG Symmetry card reader to enter the portal, followed by facial scanning technology from StoneLock Pro® to open the swing door. Attendees are encouraged to stop by to see live demonstrations.

Vicon Industries, a designer and manufacturer of video surveillance and access control software, hardware and components, will showcase at ISC West 2018, Booth 10077, many additions and enhancements to its suite of end-to-end video surveillance offerings. Through a partnership with the global provider of video analytics solutions, Agent Vi, Vicon will preview new video analytics capabilities within its Valerus VMS platform for real-time monitoring and video search. In addition, visitors will be among the first to see the company’s expanded line of H.265 cameras and newly released versions of its Valerus VMS software and VAX Access Control software and hardware. These enhanced and expanded offerings span every category of Vicon product and reflect the company’s renewed commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that have been engineered to simplify the entire user experience. Vicon product offerings Video Analytics: Vicon now offers a range of video analytics tools that can immediately detect and extract events and valuable data from surveillance footage. H.265 Cameras: Vicon’s extensive line of ONVIF indoor and outdoor cameras, for every application, now includes even more H.265 models that can reduce demands for storage and bandwidth by 50%. Valerus 18: The latest update to Vicon’s popular VMS software provides enhancements to its user interface, new data backup and security options and support for H.265 cameras. Valerus/ViconNet Gateway: A new module for use with Valerus 18 provides a migration path for users of Vicon’s legacy ViconNet platform to benefit from all of Valerus’ features. VAX Access Control: Updated software provides an enhanced monitoring interface and more flexibility in customizing automated functions. Expanded hardware includes Panel Room Style Master Controllers. “In addition to showcasing our many new products and product enhancements at ISC West, Vicon will be highlighting the many successful, high-profile installations that are employing our new generation of end-to-end Valerus VMS and VAX Access Control solutions that deliver unprecedented ease-of-use and performance flexibility. Visitors will learn how our unique, thin-client, true-open-standards approach to physical security is supporting customers in a wide range of verticals, including city-wide surveillance, government institutions, real estate developments, schools and healthcare,” said Bret McGowan, Senior V.P. of Sales and Marketing.

Complicated key management systems can detrimentally affect nursing care. Staff using older, mechanical key systems find it difficult to keep track of who has the keys. Searching for that person to gain access to controlled drugs can waste much of a nurse’s valuable time. Pharmacy managers at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham (QE Birmingham), identified a better solution for secure, quick and convenient staff access to controlled medicines: the PROTEC2 CLIQ® electromechanical locking system from ASSA ABLOY group brand ABLOY. Encrypted electronic locking and identification PROTEC2 CLIQ® is a key-based access control system based on high-security mechanical disc cylinders combined with highly encrypted electronic locking and identification. ASSA ABLOY worked with medical equipment manufacturer Bristol Maid to supply QE Birmingham with 1,400 keys and 1,600 cylinders to improve medicine security at the hospital – further broadening the company’s experience in safeguarding access to healthcare environments across Europe. With CLIQ®, power to the cylinder is supplied by a standard battery inside every programmable CLIQ® key, so no wires are required, making it an ideal retrofit solution for doors, cabinets and mobile drug trolleys. Each employee can now carry a single, physically identical, programmable CLIQ® key that opens any CLIQ® cylinder for which the system has authorised its access. No CLIQ® cylinder can be opened without the key first being authorised by the software. Remote key management QE Birmingham’s new PROTEC2 CLIQ® system also allows for remote key management. Comprehensive audit trails for locks and padlocks are available on demand, so chief pharmacists and nurse managers can instantly generate a report detailing who has accessed particular cabinets or drug trolleys at any time. It is easy to remove access permissions from lost or stolen keys using the admin software, or to amend the access permissions of any CLIQ® key. All these features are enabled by CLIQ® technology, and combine to substantially increase the security of controlled drugs — and to save nurses’ time. “Efficiency is also increased,” explains Aaron Ballard Ridley, healthcare sales specialist at ABLOY UK. “As each nurse has access to their own key with personalised access rights, they don’t have to waste time looking for who has the key to a particular cupboard.” “The message from all nursing staff is that patients are getting medicines much easier and in a more timely fashion,” says Inderjit Singh, Chief Pharmacist at QE Birmingham. “For us, the key return on investment is the quality of service we’re providing.”

People feel at home where they feel good and are familiar with the surroundings. The retirement village in the centre of Windisch in a park-like environment, is an ideal place to be for people in their third and fourth stages of life. The facility provides different types of living, support and care, plenty of variety and numerous opportunities to take part in group activities. EVVA inner code system Elderly residents with different residential options including care and support call Sanavita Alterszentrum Lindenpark their home. A pleasant and appealing atmosphere within and around the development is paramount – it goes without saying that security is also in the focus. In terms of locking systems owners opted for a combination of mechanical and electronic locking system: EVVA ICS and Xesar. Xesar: guaranteed healthcare Particularly healthcare facilities are highly sensitive areas that not everyone should have access to. A highly secure, yet flexible locking system is required to ensure access restrictions and simultaneously grant medical staff fast access to individual areas. You can flexibly grant and revoke access authorisations. As a result, exclusively authorised users are granted access. Consequently, the existing locking system at Alterszentrum Lindenpark was replaced by Xesar. Safeguarding medical cabinets The electronic solution now also secures medical cabinets including drawers containing toxic substances as well as refrigerated medical cabinets at the corresponding ward facilities. The Xesar wall reader as the updater unit at the main entrance guarantees fast security within the existing virtual network. Xesar wall readers in combination with electronic motorised cylinders (EMZY) have been installed in all outside doors. The project was managed by EVVA Rotkreuz and local EVVA Partner UTO Sicherheitstechnik AG took care of system installation. Securing residents’ properties “Securing the building towards the outside and securing residents’ properties was the primary aim”, Remo Breuss explains, EVVA’s head of sales in Switzerland. “Exclusively authorised persons must have access to medical areas. Xesar can record a precise protocol showing who has access to what and when. The ICS mechanical locking system has also been integrated. "The vast number of different user groups was a particular challenge. The project also required plenty of expertise to comply with the requirements for an escape route concept as per statutory stipulations. The combination of electronic and mechanical locking system was the ideal solution for Alterszentrum Lindenpark.” EVVA technology in the facility 502 ICS cylinders 415 Xesar combi keys 21 e-half cylinders 56 e-escutcheons 162 e-handles 14 wall readers 1 updater unit

The City International Hospital (CIH) is a new multi-specialty hospital located within the Binh Tan district in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Located in the International Hi-Tech Healthcare Park, CIH features the latest medical technology and imaging equipment. With a large volume of visitors anticipated at the hospital every day, the need for a best-in-breed surveillance solution was a high priority from the onset of the project. To fulfill this requirement, hospital administrators turned to Citek Corporation, a technology integrator located in Ho Chi Minh City. IP surveillance with Arecont megapixel cameras The need to secure CIH by maintaining the highest levels of situational awareness was a primary design objective for the new video surveillance system. To achieve this goal, Hoa Lam’s management team worked together with Citek’s technical personnel to design and install a superior video surveillance system. The decision to deploy an IP surveillance solution featuring Arecont Vision megapixel cameras was based on superior functionality and image quality, ease of use, and the ability to manage the system centrally or remotely. “We always rely on the quality of Arecont Vision® cameras”, says Mr. Thomas Tran, CEO of Citek Corporation. “Our experience with Arecont Vision® has made them our first choice for every large project because of their exceptional performance and image quality.” Situational awareness both day and night Citek became an Arecont Vision® installer in Vietnam in 2009, and installation of the video surveillance system was a smooth process by the experienced integrator. The video surveillance system at CIH is monitored on a local network, which includes a main server and two client systems. There are approximately two hundred Arecont Vision cameras installed at the CIH facility to date There are approximately two hundred Arecont Vision® cameras installed at the facility to date, including approximately one hundred SurroundVideo® 360° AV8365DN 8 megapixel (MP) panoramics and 35 SurroundVideo® 180° AV8185DN 8 MP panoramic cameras. These high-performing cameras deliver exceptional situational awareness in both day and night lighting conditions. Additionally, there are approximately 60 Arecont Vision® MegaVideo® AV2115DN compact day/night megapixel cameras installed at key locations which are operational 24/7. “The quality of Arecont Vision® cameras more than satisfies our requirements for image quality,” said Mr. Lai Voon Hon, General Director of Hoa Lam-Shangri-La. “The system is working very well for us and Arecont Vision® is extremely responsive to our needs.” Substantial savings, superior coverage The CIH management team carefully evaluated their long-term return on investment (ROI) comparing IP and analogue surveillance system solutions. Since a smaller number of Arecont Vision® megapixel cameras provide superior area coverage to conventional cameras, substantial savings are derived. This includes reducing the number of cameras, cables, poles, and housings plus the requirement for less ongoing maintenance and fewer VMS licences. Additional savings are derived from the reduction in manpower needed to watch video feeds and guard the facility. Beyond the financial benefits, CIH management recognises the intangible ROI achieved from maintaining high security, which makes the facility a safer place for patients, staff and visitors. “The International Hi-Tech Healthcare Park will be the first integrated healthcare development in Vietnam to provide a comprehensive healthcare environment employing high-tech medical equipment and a professional medical staff. Our new video surveillance system is an important element of that environment,” said Mr. Lai Voon Hon.

Healthcare facilities such as hospitals and general practitioner surgeries are locations that pose significant challenges for security managers with lots of activities needing to take place quickly, such as lifesaving treatments, while ensuring the protection of patients, staff and property.  MOBOTIX intelligent video MOBOTIX intelligent video systems, using decentralised architecture, have proven a particularly good fit to solve many of these issues. Alongside traditional video surveillance, MOBOTIX uses smart sensors able to  detect a wide range of things such as person leaving a room or a bed during the night; how often lights are turned on; as well as the heat and room temperature control. Information from biomedical sensors and devices can also be captured and displayed in real time to notify care providers.  Seamless integration For example, an integrated TELUS broadband service or other infernal facility infrastructures can send alarm notifications via SMS, voice & video messages or simply triggering a beeper. The open application programming interface (API) and software development kits allows MOBOTIX devices to be seamlessly integrated into a range of audio, video and SIP devices plus healthcare industry specific Lab Information System (LIS) and Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems: A truly healthy option.

Located in the city of Pinelands, South Africa's Western Province Blood Transfusion Service (WPBTS) is a non-profit, independent organisation operating throughout the Western Cape. However, in reality, this is the largest blood bank in the nation and shoulders a medical responsibility commiserate with this status. Annually in charge of over 165,000 units of blood, the WPBTS operates in accordance with both the World Health Organisation's international standards and local South African national law to assist patients with their medical needs. Monitoring medical areas In late 2011, the WPBTS contacted South African security installer Verivision to develop a hybrid solution that would: Ensure that sensitive medical areas are continually monitored Logistically monitor the packaging and dispatching of blood stock Monitor the movement of individuals throughout the facility Interestingly, from its very inception, this solution was meant to transcend the traditional goals of a normative security. This is to say, instead of only stopping 'bad guys', this WPBTS solution is intended to add value and bring logistical benefits to the medical facility. This is not to say that security was de-prioritised; but rather that it is meant to highlight the multi-functional IP role that Verivision aspires towards. iVMS Smart Search A big part of this value-add was the logistical tracking of blood packets. In this case, it was a Hikvision software feature that helped facilitate this aspect of the solution. Specifically, it was Hikvision iVMS-4200 Software's Smart Search feature for both the facility's existing analogue and IP cameras. Essentially, this feature provides motion detection, in a specified area, for security functions. In the case of the WPBTS, cameras are trained on a certain area containing valuable blood stock; if activity occurs, Hikvision's DS-8132HFSI-SH Standalone DVR is programmed to start recording a particular camera's video feed. Furthermore, if a bookkeeping incongruence is later detected, Smart Search allows the Material Manager (the individual largely responsible for the day-to-day and managerial duties associated with this IP CCTV system) to quickly search for the associated video based upon related date & time parameters. Keith Lewis, owner of Verivision, noted, "In many respects, this Smart Search feature is the key to the entire solution. Of course, it is only one of many aspects; however much of the hardware and technical work that went into designing the overall system was based upon the idea of efficiency. Smart Search very much epitomises this efficiency and has improved overall security while concurrently reducing shrinkage [loss] by a large margin. We are even able to better ensure laboratory standards are more efficiently met with WPBTS blood resources." Keeping with the DS-8132HFSI-SH, Mr. Lewis explained that in the WPBTS, the CCTV system has a unique internal design. Essentially, the CCTV system is maintained by the Central IT Department. In turn, the aforementioned Material Manager has an office in close proximity to this Central IT Department, and is connected by fibre-optical cable. Through these means, the Material Manager has the facility's lone client PC used to access any live or recorded video that is deemed to be of importance. "We are even able to better ensure laboratory standards are more efficiently met with WPBTS blood resources" The WPBTS requires video storage of anywhere between 50 - 90 days. With the medical importance of this facility, Mr. Lewis stated, "I only want the best possible resolution for both live and recorded views. This is why I chose the DS-8132HFSI-SH - it gives me 4CIF resolution real-time recording and an HDMI/VGA output at 1920×1080P resolution ... the best resolution possible for any of the analogue cameras in this medical facility." Current and future IP possibilities Hikvision's DS-9632NI-ST Embedded NVR was selected to allow the facility's IP cameras to function. As can be expected, Mr. Lewis expected nothing less from this NVR model. With up-to 5MP recording resolution and identical HDMI / VGA output as the previous DVR, he was not disappointed. Additionally, this NVR provides the ability to add 32 IP cameras to the overall solution, providing both an element of foresight and fiscal practicality for whatever the future may bring. IP eyes Placed in critical areas, such as the blood dispatch / transport area, and biometrically-secured access control stations, Hikvision's DS-2CD2012-I 1.3MP IR Mini Bullet Camera relies upon its excellent high-resolution capability to provide quality images. Almost antithetical to this 1.3MP technology is an equally important aspect: the DS-2CD2012-I's small, low-profile design. Mr. Lewis elaborated, "Since this model is primarily in main passageways, we wanted a camera that did not ... stick out. Instead, the goal was for a durable, unobtrusive camera that does a great job ... and with its IR ability, it had no problem doing this job in the middle of night, when the facility is locked-down and lights are off." Adding the proverbial cherry-on-top is the Hikvision DS-2CD7153-E 2MP Mini Dome Camera. Placed in the Transport Control Room, a logistical nerve centre of the medical building, the DS-2CD7153-E is responsible for keeping a visual record of exactly who is entering the building and exactly why they are doing so. In this transport control room, Hikvision's 2MP resolution mini dome is able to easily view the attendant's activities; giving a clear view of the logbooks and of people in the area. Providing a superb wide-angle view, this IP mini dome camera is both a security and value-added logistical benefit.

"In the busy environment of our ITU ward we have nurses working in shifts and visitors walking in and out. Consequently, the policy of the NHS trust is that we need to securely store our drugs. Before, we used key based cupboards to do so. Each of our 65 nurses owned a key to operate them, sometimes up to 100 times a day. As a result of the intensive use, the locks wore out regularly. Sometimes the nurses couldn’t lock the cupboards properly anymore and bent or broke their keys as a result. Patient safety always comes first, and we had to be confident that the cupboards were secure at all times. We also had to comply with the national NHS policy to securely store the drugs. That’s where Nedap came in." Recommendation for Nedap "When we asked our partner Carillion, facilitator of the NHS trust fund buildings, about a solution to comply with the NHS security policy, they recommended Nedap. They worked with Nedap before in other NHS site projects, for example NHS Crawley & Horsham hospital. Carillion had heard about the locker management functionality of Nedap’s security management platform AEOS. They told us that this solution could help us solve our key management problem in a cost effective way. Not only for us, but also for Carillion themselves," says Tara Laybourne, Manager of the ITU ward, Darent Valley Hospital. No more key management "Because the mechanical keys and locks wore out all the time, Carillion had to come over very often to replace them. Also, every time you copy a key, the key gets worse. Eventually it didn’t fit the lock anymore. It was an ongoing problem. That’s why we chose AEOS Locker Management,’ says Tara. ‘The main reason is that the locks can be operated with badges instead of keys. All of our nurses now have one single badge which operates every drug cupboard on the ITU ward.’ Also from a maintenance point of view the electronic locker management solution is very cost effective; locks and keys don’t have to be replaced anymore and as the locks are wired, there’s no need to replace batteries. Tara says: ‘Generally, the solution serves a good purpose and is worth the money." Track and trace access "Apart from the fact that we can now secure the access to the cupboards, we can also track and trace who’s accessed the cupboards at what time. That’s also one of the reasons why we’ve chosen for AEOS Locker Management. According to NHS policy, we have to keep our drugs securely stored. They regularly perform audit trails to check if we comply to the policy. In case of an audit trail, we can easily prove that only authorised persons had access to the cupboards," says Tara. AEOS Locker Management provides access control on micro level. Via an easy to use web application, accessible via every web browser, users can easily define who should have access to which lockable compartment at what time. When asked about the user friendliness of the system, Tara says: "We’re happy about the system, but still finding our way around it though. Sometimes, when we issue a new badge to a new colleague, we accidentally issue a visitor badge instead of an employee badge. Consequently, the new colleague can’t open the cupboards. Then we know that we did something wrong. With a few mouse clicks we can fix our mistake; the system is easy to manage. To keep the process of managing the cupboards secure and clear, only myself and someone else are authorised to manage the system and assign badges. In case both of us are out, the others have an algorithm to check user history if necessary." "In the past keys were sometimes lost or misplaced. Since the installation of AEOS Locker Management, they never lost a badge, so that’s a great benefit too" User experiences When asked about the cooperation with Nedap and its certified Business Partner, Tara says: "The cooperation was good. Nedap was available to come over in the case of an event. For example, one time, the cupboard wouldn’t close. It turned out that the hinges where dislocated. Because the nurses lean on it all the time, we had to renew them. So, it wasn’t really due to the system. In the past keys were sometimes lost or misplaced. Since the installation of AEOS Locker Management, they never lost a badge, so that’s a great benefit too." Future proof Darent Valley hospital is now ready for the future. In case more drug cupboards should be equipped with Nedap’s electronic locks, they can be integrated into the existing AEOS Locker Management system with a few mouse clicks. Because the hospital opted for the solid AEOS security management platform, they can also choose to add on functionalities like access control, intrusion or video management later on. For now, they only use the locker management functionality of the platform and they only pay for the locker management feature they use. Darent Valley hospital Darent Valley is a modern hospital in Kent offering professional care, exceptional quality and providing patients with the latest technology for their treatment in safe, comfortable and clean surroundings. The hospital’s team of around 2000 professional and friendly staff provides care for patients across a full range of day-patient, inpatient and out-patient care. It works closely with the local community to improve the standards of its services and welcome all patients both locally or further afield. As Darent Valley benefits from the solid AEOS platform, they can choose to add on functionalities like access control, intrusion or CCTV later on. For now, they only pay for the feature they use.