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Latest British Standards Institution news & announcements

i-PRO's ISO/IEC 42001 AI management success

i-PRO Co., Ltd. (formerly Panasonic Security), a pioneering manufacturer of edge computing cameras for security and public safety, today announced it obtained ISO/IEC 42001 certification for its Artificial Intelligence (AI) management systems from the British Standards Institution (BSI) on May 10, 2025. ISO/IEC 42001 is the first international standard for management systems for the design, development, and operation of ethical, transparent, secure, and accountable AI systems by organisations utilising AI technology. Comprehensive AI management Businesses that obtain certification are required to implement comprehensive AI management The standard was published by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in December 2023.  Businesses that obtain certification are required to implement comprehensive AI management, including management systems, risk assessment, internal controls, ethics policies, human resource training, and information sharing with external parties, encompassing the entire lifecycle of AI systems. Forefront of AI research and development With the regulation of AI being strengthened globally, starting with the EU AI Act, obtaining ISO/IEC 42001 certification is an important indicator for a global business to guarantee its international-standard reliability, transparency, and compliance in relation to AI, while externally demonstrating its stance towards the execution of social responsibility. i-PRO has been at the forefront of AI research and development for many years, delivering innovative camera hardware that utilises cutting-edge AI technology in the security, public safety, and medical fields. Use and application of AI The company has AI management systems in place and is earnestly striving to lead the industry The company has AI management systems in place and is earnestly striving to lead the industry in the ethical and responsible use and application of AI.  i-PRO believes that complying with the global standard ISO/IEC 42001 will lead to the further strengthening of stakeholder trust in the integrity, security, and transparency of the company’s technologies. Responsible AI innovation Masato Nakao, CEO of i-PRO, remarked, “By completing the strict processes required to obtain ISO/IEC 42001, i-PRO demonstrated its commitment to responsible AI innovation. It is our company’s social responsibility to ensure that our technologies are developed and utilised transparently and ethically, in a manner that respects human rights.” This is the first certification in Japan, through a comprehensive independent audit conducted by the BSI (British Standards Institute) Group Japan.

World first code of practice on ethical use and deployment of facial recognition technology released by BSI

The first ever British Standard code of practice focusing on the ethical use and deployment of facial recognition technology (FRT), developed on recommendations by the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), has been released by the British Standards Institute (BSI). Facial recognition technology The code of practice, Facial recognition technology - Ethical use and deployment in video surveillance-based systems – Code of practice (BS 9347:2024) - has been developed by the BSI, in its role as the UK National Standards Body, to allay concerns by helping organisations build public trust with its proliferation prompting concerns about safe and ethical use. The BSIA’s leadership on the issue began in 2020 with the setting up of a special interest group dedicated to the issue, publishing the industry-first ethical and legal guide on facial recognition, which was acknowledged by the UK Government and was the initial template for developing the new standard. Legal and ethical usage Its foundation is based on six overarching AI principles of  ‘trustworthiness’, namely governance and accountability The standard, written for the industry, by the industry, will allow the legal and ethical usage of this technology advancement in improving the safety and security of people, property, and places.   Addressing the ethical challenges faced by those using this artificial intelligence(AI) technology, its foundation is based on six overarching AI principles of  ‘trustworthiness’, namely governance and accountability, human agency and oversight, privacy and data governance, technical robustness and safety, transparency and explainability, diversity, non-discrimination, and fairness. Building trust The origin of the principles of trustworthiness comes from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), EU, and alignment with UK AI Regulatory principles. The standard sets out to build trust with those who develop, use, and are subject to its use. It applies to the whole supply chain, beginning with an assessment to determine the need to use FRT, for its procurement, installation, and appropriate and continued use of the technology. FRT code of practice To avoid confusion, the standard also provides a clear delineation between the types of FRT deployment. Those being its use for identification (who is it?) purposes where a ‘human-in-the-loop’ is necessary, and for Verification (is it you?) purposes where human intervention is not needed.  The standard also provides a clear delineation between the types of FRT deployment Pauline Norstrom, CEO, of Anekanta Consulting and Anekanta AI, also Chair of the BSIA’s AI & Biometrics Special Interest Group, said, “The release of the FRT code of practice is a significant moment in the journey towards the ethical use of this AI biometric technology in the United Kingdom, and as the first of its kind in the world, it shows that British Industry is pioneering the way in this work with a procedural standard written for developers, integrators, deployers and stakeholders of FRT." Ethical AI “It is different from other standards for AI and biometrics, as a non-technical code of practice that operationalises the principles for trustworthy AI (ethical AI) through the entire value chain making it easy for the industry to implement transparently with clear governance and accountability, and arguably with potentially lower impacts, risks, and costs." "Crucially, the standard contains a metaphorical ‘stop button’ to cease use if impacts cannot be mitigated. It also frames FRT as an AI technology which aligns with the definition of AI in international standards and new or pending regulation.” World-first code of practice Dave Wilkinson, Director of Technical Services, BSIA, said, "The BSIA was at the forefront of the creation of this standard, starting the journey over three years ago with the publication of our legal and ethical guide, and we are pleased to see this major world-first code of practice being released." "The use of FRT has not come without its challenges, whether that has been down to the accuracy of the technology, or how and where it is deployed." Aims to instill trustworthiness “Many relevant questions have been asked by privacy groups, industry stakeholders, and other interested parties on the appropriate and proportionate use of such technology." "This code of practice aims to instill trustworthiness in the use of FRT by setting out key principles covering the whole process from assessing the need to use it, to ensuring its continued operation remains fit for purpose and justified.”

VIVOTEK's latest sustainability report successfully verified for the first time under AA1000 standards

VIVOTEK (3454-TW), the pioneering IP surveillance solution provider, is at the forefront of sustainability in the surveillance industry. The company is enhancing stakeholder communication, and fostering Taiwan's societal and corporate sustainability transition. The annual report, titled 'Safe City, marching towards Sustainability,' adheres to TCFD (Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures) recommendations, securing the first-time verification from the British Standards Institution and ensuring sustainability information aligns with the AA1000 Assurance Standard. This marks a significant milestone in the sustainability commitment. Innovate in AI security technology Integrating surveillance expertise with a commitment to the local community, we stay dedicated to sustainability" “The 2022 Sustainability Report fully demonstrates our commitment to sustainability. This marks the sixth year of independently publishing our corporate sustainability report. We continue our efforts in the direction of environment, society, and corporate governance, successfully organising the second year of the 'Safety Map' community engagement event." "Integrating surveillance expertise with a commitment to the local community, we stay dedicated to sustainability concerns. Simultaneously, we will continue to innovate in AI security technology, integrating sustainability strategies and commitments, with the goal of becoming the world's pioneering surveillance brand!" Allen Hsieh, VIVOTEK Spokesperson and Global Marketing Director stated. Three major dimensions The 2022 Sustainability Report fully demonstrates the commitment to sustainability. The latest report focuses on three major dimensions: Environment, Society, and Governance, continuously deepening the sustainability impact. E–Dedicate to Environmental Care VIVOTEK is committed to addressing climate change, actively supporting the RE100 initiative, and concretely contributing to UN SDG13 Climate Action. Not only does our U.S. branch utilise solar energy, but also purchases renewable energy certificates for wind, solar, and hydro sources. By the end of December 2022, bought 1,101,176 kWh of green electricity and 683 renewable energy certificates, reducing carbon emissions by 560.5 tons. Successfully obtaining the ISO 14064-1:2018 statement for organisational greenhouse gas inventory, extend this to overseas branches, promoting intelligent manufacturing, improving production line efficiency, and meeting market demands high-performance products. S–Safety Map: 2022 Corporate Impact These activities showed skilled safety advice and contributed by donating network cameras Valuing work-life balance, VIVOTEK considers employees as partners in sustainable growth, providing travel allowances, salary adjustments, and incentive schemes, fostering a friendly working environment. In 2022, successfully conducted the second-year 'Safety Map' series of corporate sustainability events. Cross-departmental teams engaged communities with over three thousand residents, visited an education and nursing institution for individuals with disabilities aged 18 to 65, and explored campuses known for their wooded landscapes. During these activities, offered professional safety advice and contributed by donating network cameras. This innovative corporate volunteer service redefines safety considerations, integrating the brand's caring spirit, using corporate expertise to enhance safety awareness, exerting social influence, and echoing UN SDGs. G-Boost Corporate Sustainability Evaluation VIVOTEK maintains a robust corporate governance system, strengthening board governance, implementing risk management policies, actively executing cybersecurity management, and further refining the green supply chain. In 2022, received a level two rating in the corporate governance evaluation and a level one rating in the evaluation for small and medium-sized market capitalisation. The company's expertise in research and development propels ongoing advancements, unveiling a range of AI technologies, including cloud-based VSaaS VORTEX, contributing to a safer living environment. VIVOTEK, driven by AI, leads sustainability through global renewable energy adoption and excellent corporate governance. Proactively involved in social engagement, combine the brand's caring spirit to strive for positive sustainability impact.

Insights & Opinions from thought leaders at British Standards Institution

Securing empty premises: Product performance is everything

Since the start of the pandemic, almost a quarter of UK businesses have been forced to temporarily close, pause trading, or work remotely, with very little notice. Now nearing the 12th month of the crisis, the country is currently enduring its third national lockdown, with an unspecified timeframe. Most workers are being urged to remain at home and only venture out for essential travel. This means a huge number of premises across the board, from recreational venues such as theatres, pubs and leisure centres, to office buildings, and storage facilities, will remain empty. It’s likely that security has been scaled back, so many buildings could be vulnerable to attack for the foreseeable future. Just recently we’ve seen empty pubs in London targeted by opportunistic illegal rave organisers. Physical security strategy Even rural areas aren’t exempt from the problem, as burglars have reportedly targeted beauty salons, etc Even rural areas aren’t exempt from the problem, as burglars have reportedly targeted beauty salons, food stores and vehicle hire premises this winter. Vandalism and burglary remain very real threats, therefore it is vital that facilities managers and property owners ensure the physical security of these empty buildings is maintained to the highest standard to protect property and the assets within. Below we outline key considerations when evaluating a physical security strategy for an empty building. Assess the risk We would urge facilities managers and building owners to carry out regular, thorough checks of the building and the perimeter to assess any obvious factors which would elevate the risk of attack. This includes assessing the location. Is the crime rate high? How visible is the property? Are the contents of the property on show? How secure is the access or perimeter boundary? View the premises from a potential intruder’s perspective, and when you can’t be at the site in person, use photographs, notes and drawings to identify potential weaknesses. For example, there may be high security fencing at the front of the premises, but make sure it is not at risk of being compromised at the back. Conducting regular maintenance Retain and maintain quality Inspecting the fence line may seem obvious and straightforward, but it needs to be a deliberate, scheduled event Conducting regular maintenance is even more essential while premises are left empty, as it is much easier for any issues to appear and escalate undetected. We highly recommend regularly inspecting your fencing for disrepair or damage as this can affect the perimeter’s integrity. Alternatively, choosing high quality galvanised and preferably powder coated steel fencing with a 25-year guarantee will offer longer-lasting protection against rust and corrosion. Inspecting the fence line may seem obvious and straightforward, but it needs to be a deliberate, scheduled event. Take time to check the perimeter on both sides. As you inspect the fencing, keep an eye out for any attempted breaches and note if foliage, weather conditions, or topography changes have affected security integrity. Check all fixtures and fittings are in good working order, look for damage and corrosion, and clear all litter and debris away. Huge security risk Quality investments In a time when businesses are already stretched, it can be tempting to opt for quick, inexpensive fixes. However, poorly executed design or cheap, low quality products can lead to costly, long-term remediation or worse, significant loss to the business. Make wise, informed decisions and specify solutions based on your organisation’s security needs first and foremost. While generic steel palisade is a popular option, owing to its intimidating aesthetic, it is easily compromised. Steel palisade fencing has inherent weaknesses that undermine performance. Its wide pales can obstruct surveillance, while the bolted construction is a huge security risk. Simply removing or breaking the lower fixing on one or two pales would allow them to swing aside to give repeated access to the site without leaving an easily visible sign that the perimeter has been breached. It’s a false economy, as the initial lower price is offset by the costs and inconvenience incurred by regular repairs. Performance classification system The standard works via a performance classification system, and even considers the tools that an intruder may use Specifying a higher quality product that’s fit for purpose makes more sense both in the short and long term, and it adds little to the original cost. Fortunately, there are a number of security accreditations that facilities managers and building owners can refer to when specifying security measures at their site, helping them choose effective solutions to combat the risks the property faces. Proven performance Certifications and approvals, such as The Loss Prevention Certification Board’s (LPCB) LPS 1175 and the British Standards Institution’s (BSI) PAS, prove a product has been thoroughly tested to a specific standard. They prove the strength and durability of the item in multiple different situations. It is worth noting also that investing in effective perimeter protection can actually deliver a positive return by reducing the incidence of burglary and vandalism, and their associated costs. The technical evaluation work carried out by LPCB is extremely thorough. The product is subjected to rigorous quality audit processes, to certify the security products tested by BRE deliver verified levels of protection. All LPS 1175 rated products are vigorously tested before receiving an accreditation. The standard works via a performance classification system, and even considers the tools that an intruder may use. Intrusion detection system Our law enforcement teams are stretched to capacity and coping with reduced workforces due to illness By predicting a likely toolset, specifiers can construct multiple defensive layers to maximise how much time a facility has to respond to an attack. Different levels of security are crucial for the ‘5D defence’ concept, whereby a quintet of security assets work together to prevent access to your site, resulting in a strategy that will: Deter, Detect, Deny, Delay and Defend unwanted access from intruders. 360° security There is no single solution when it comes to securing a building. Every situation must be considered on an individual basis, starting with a full risk assessment. We recommend an integrated approach where appropriate. Along with a secure perimeter, this might also include effective lighting in shaded areas and at doors, gates, and vulnerable windows, Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS) and well-placed CCTV. These measures can hinder entry and escape, or increase the chance of discovery and detection. Domestic burglaries While domestic burglaries have become less attractive as many of our homes are now occupied around the clock, commercial properties have become increasingly more vulnerable. Our law enforcement teams are stretched to capacity and coping with reduced workforces due to isolating and illness. Therefore it has never been so important for building owners and facilities managers to assess the properties they’re responsible for to ensure they’re protected effectively in the event of an attack.

Vehicle barrier certification sets new standards for vendors with stringent testing measures

Barriers certified by the US Department of State can be trusted to withstand specified weights and speeds This time of year, in the early spring, there pops up a plethora of trade shows in which security vendors can present their newest marvels to potential customers. Not to be outdone are the barriers manufacturers. Their products will range from a large metal planter to be placed in an area where no traffic is allowed to movable barriers which lower to let a car drive over and re-raise to protect the property. Some are so sophisticated that they can stop a 30-ton truck driven by terrorists at 50 mph. Vehicle barrier testing by U.S. Department of State But how do you know those 65,000 pounds and 50 mph figures are not just marketing numbers? If you are planning to implement such protection, you need to know exactly what weight and speed your new system will meet. And, as you go up and down the trade show aisles, you will see many different claims. That's why you want the figures to be certified and the leading institution doing such work is the U.S Department of State. In order to be certified by the DOS, vehicle barriers must be tested by an independent crash test facility. Certification is based on speed and penetration ratings. Originally, “K” indicated vehicle speed during the crash test; and “L” indicated the maximum allowed penetration of the barrier by the vehicle.  For test purposes, K12 denoted a speed of up to 50 mph and L3 (the highest penetration rating) denoted a penetration of three feet or less. Other ratings included: K8 = 40 mph; K4 = 30 mph; L2 = 3 ft. to 20 ft.; and L1 = 20 ft. to 50 ft. Thus, penetration levels were set at 3 feet (1 m), 20 feet (6 m) and 50 feet (15 m), measured from the point of attack to the final resting place. In 2005, a revision (rev A) issued an update, eliminating all penetration levels except the 3 feet (1 m) standard.  Importantly, it was also recognised that different types of vehicles use different platforms, which would affect results. So, a new test standard required the use of cars, pick-ups, medium sized trucks and trucks that haul heavy goods. They are referred to as the ASTM standards. Use these ASTM Standards for impact condition designations Four types of vehicles are defined: 1. Small Passenger Car:  The car must have been manufactured in the last 10 years and weigh 2430 +/- 50 pounds (1100 +/- 22 kg). 2. Pickup Truck:  The truck must be a ¾-ton model, manufactured within the last 10 years and weigh 5070 +/- 100 pounds (2300 +/-46 kg). 3. Medium Duty Truck:  This vehicle must have a diesel engine with a vehicle mass of 15,000 +/- 300 pounds (6800 +/- 136 kg). 4. Heavy Goods Vehicle:  This must be a tandem axle dump truck or tandem axle with drop axle truck, tested at 65,000 +/- 1300 pounds (29,500 +/- 590 kg). Most importantly, the new designations actually made some sense in that a car designation starts with a “C”, the pick-up is designated as a “P”, the medium duty truck gets an “M” and the heavy goods vehicle is labelled an “H”. The number following the letter is the speed, measured in mph. Thus, a “40” means the vehicle was tested at 38.0 to 46.9 mph. An H30 designation thus defines a heavy goods vehicle travelling at approximately 30 mph. The BSI has their own vehicle barricade testing standard, which specifically addresses European cars which have heavier frameworks and lower centres of gravity As a result, it is quite easy to determine the condition designation: Car: C40, C50 and C60 Pick-up: P40, P50 and P60 Medium duty truck: M30, M40 and M50 Heavy goods: H30, H40 and H50 What is the difference? It’s easiest to show the difference in designations with an example. For instance, the Delta DSC501 is presently DOS-rated as a K54-certified barrier. That means it has been tested to stop a 65,000-pound truck traveling at 50 mph dead in its tracks. That also means it took on 5.4 million foot-pounds. Under the ASTM system, the DSC501 would be designated as an H50.   The British Standard Vs. US-based DOS for vehicle barricades The BSI (British Standards Institute) PAS 68 2007 was the first standard published for vehicle barricade testing in the United Kingdom. PAS 68: 2007 rates products by measuring the velocity and weight of the vehicle against the level of penetration of both the vehicle and any of its load past the vehicle control device. The maximum level of testing would see a 7.5 tonne (15,000 lb) vehicle travelling at 80 kph (50mph) with zero penetration. This test differs from the U.S.-based DOS and ASTM tests by specifying a wider range of attack vehicles. Most significantly, though, it specifies European cars and trucks. European trucks have much heavier frame works and lower centres of gravity, which can significantly affect the test outcome. Marginal barricade designs that have passed U.S. tests have failed PAS 68 2007. Nonetheless, the K12 vehicle mass and speeds are very similar to the DOS and ASTM tests. The post crash measurements of penetration and general test result evaluations are also much the same. Just remember, as you are going up and down the trade show aisles seeing the various claims, it behoves you and the people you intend to protect how and where they got those numbers. Listen for two very important terms - "independent crash test" and "certified." To learn more about certification standards, attendees at the ISC West Exposition in Las Vegas, April 6-8, should stop by the Delta Scientific booth, #21134.