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 Years ago, older healthcare buildings with outdated or damaged hardware were limited by choice, and the upgrades that were available weren’t always an appropriately fitted replacement.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.

With the impact of a rapidly developing online shopping industry through PC and mobile devices, retail stores are facing great challenges. In a fiercely competitive market, enlarging the customer base and maintaining their loyalty become increasingly important and at the same time – very difficult. Improving customer satisfaction, maximising per-customer transactions, ensuring a safe environment, and reducing unnecessary loss have become a major focus of retail owners and chain store companies. Dahua Technology, a global provider of intelligent video surveillance products and solutions, launched the Dahua Retail Security Solution. Dahua Retail Security improves customer satisfaction, secures the shopping environment, and optimises business results – which keep OPEX low, enhance store operating efficiency, and increase profits. The solution is customised for you. Dahua Ultra Smart series cameras provide up to a 140dB Wide Dynamic Range for obtaining a crystal clear image even in high contrast, sunny environments Features of the Retail Security solution People Counting & Height Detection The 3D Camera provides people counting and height detection functionalities. It calculates foot traffic at the store entrance, and supports the export of daily / monthly / yearly reports, providing highly valuable data as a reference for future business decisions. POS (Point of Sales) Integration The video feed and corresponding POS information can be shown simultaneously, both in the real-time and in playback mode. Text search is supported to retrieve specific order and associated video recording data. Super WDR Dahua Ultra Smart series cameras provide up to a 140dB Wide Dynamic Range for obtaining a crystal clear image even in high contrast, sunny environments. Clearly monitor store entrances under various conditions, day or night. Heat Map Fisheye cameras provide Heat Map functionality for areas throughout the store, helping businesses analyse and adjust to customer traffic. A fisheye camera also can capture images around the store floor. Fisheye cameras provide Heat Map functionality for areas throughout the store, helping businesses analyse and adjust to customer traffic Dewarping Modes Dewarping modes allow fisheye cameras to capture a full view of the stores. One fisheye camera has a field of view equivalent to 8 standard cameras. Corridor Mode Corridor mode is suitable for narrow shopping aisles, enabling minimal camera usage to monitor the same area. Solution can be used in following areas: Entrance Port People counting & Height Detection helps retail stores acquire customer flow data, enabling them to manage and operate according to data like an e-commerce storefront. Store Floor As a major area centre of the shopping experience and customer traffic, the shelf area tends to have differentiated visitor flow and requires great efforts in enacting security measures. Monitoring coverage contributes to reducing theft of customer property and retail goods, providing a reassuring shopping environment. Meanwhile, visitor flow data helps shopkeepers understand visitor flow distribution so they can prolong the time of customer stay and visitor flow coverage by rearranging goods and shelves. Checkout Counter Customer disputes and salesperson fraud occur frequently at the checkout counter. High-definition video, audio, and POS overlay can improve identifying the cause of problems. Starlight cameras make sure your store room is under careful surveillance 24-hours a day, performing well under any lighting conditions Store Room Starlight cameras make sure your store room is under careful surveillance 24-hours a day, performing well under any lighting conditions and greatly reducing the probability of being robbed. Day and night, starlight cameras provide complete coverage of the store room, preventing theft. Office DSS business analysis application scenarios are mainly used to help retailers manage the store more efficiently with valuable data. It utilises data processing to reduce time & labour cost, and relies on a visualisation of various data to get an intuitive understanding of previous and current status of the store as well as its future trend. Access video remotely through mobile Remote Access At the same time, with remote access to the management client in Dahua DSS (Dahua Security Software), managers can view the latest store information and access video through mobile devices even when they are on business trips. The Dahua Retail Security Solution provides more details without blind spots, ensuring the safety of your employees, customers, and property. It also helps provide valuable statistics to aid your future business decisions. It is cost-effective, customisable, and cross-functional, and is an ideal solution for retail shop owners and chain store companies. With a mission of ‘Safer Society, Smarter Living’, Dahua will continue to focus on ‘Innovation, Quality, and Service’ to serve partners and customers around the world.

Heart of America Group doesn’t just operate hotels and restaurants -- it engineers, designs, builds, and operates them, all with the intent that the company will be owning them for many years and bringing value to customers and to the communities in which they reside. The Moline, Illinois-based company has grown considerably since it opened its first restaurant in 1978, The Machine Shed, a 100-seat restaurant in Davenport, Iowa, that was dedicated to the American farmer. Forty years later, the company, led by CEO Mike Whalen, owns and operates 35 hotels and restaurants in seven states, including Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn & Suites locations, as well as brands including Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, The Republic on Grand, Hotel Renovo, Wildwood Lodge, Thunder Bay Grille and The J Bar. Whalen seeks to not only provide a secure entry way for customers, but also an entrance that displays excellence in design, elegance, and quality Elegant and secure entry way “We are unique in that we have a life-cycle mentality, rather than a simple initial cost mentality, when it comes to our properties,” Whalen says. “We have a design department and five architects on staff, in addition to our own construction division. We place high value on the customer’s perception of us and their comfort while they are on our properties.” That mentality particularly applies to the entrances of its hotels and restaurants, where Whalen seeks to not only provide a secure entry way for customers, but also an entrance that displays excellence in design, elegance, and quality - elevating the customer’s overall perception of the property. “The old cliché that you get only one chance to make a first impression is painstakingly true of a hotel,” Whalen explains. Whalen and his team are choosing to use Boon Edam’s TQA automatic revolving doors for hotel properties and BoonAssist TQ manual revolving doors for restaurants TQA automatic and TQ manual revolving doors Whalen and his team explored the possibility of implementing revolving doors after their national chain partners imposed licensing agreements that required automatic doors for entrances. “I was sitting in our brand new, beautiful lobby that had an automatic sliding door, and every time someone walked into the hotel, cold air rushed in,” Whalen explains. Moving forward, Whalen and his team are choosing to use Boon Edam’s TQA automatic revolving doors for hotel properties and BoonAssist TQ manual revolving doors for restaurants. Both types of revolving doors fit the company’s design profile while minimising unwanted weather intrusion. “When our customers see a Boon Edam revolving door on our property, we think they view us as a higher class structure,” Whalen explains. “And from an energy management standpoint, the doors keep the cold air out, especially in the winter.” The BoonAssist TQ manual door is unique in the industry because it combines three features: power assist, speed control and positioning Integrating access control system with doors Both the TQA automatic and the BoonAssist TQ manual revolving doors from Boon Edam are metal-framed doors with glass sidewalls and door wings. The TQA is a completely ‘hands free’ automatic door that starts rotating when it senses that a user is approaching. The BoonAssist TQ manual door is unique in the industry because it combines three features: power assist, speed control and positioning: all three features combine to relieve users of extra effort, keep users safe, and make entry more intuitive. Its modern design employs electricity and can therefore be fitted with additional security options that can be customised to an application, such as adding an access control system to allow managers entry after closing hours. Whalen has been pleased with the level of customer service that he’s received from the Boon Edam team. “They have been very responsive to any issues. There was nothing that we were unhappy with in regard to the basic engineering or the quality of the finishes of the product. They operate great, and the perception [of them] is great.”

Cherokee Nation Entertainment (CNE) is the gaming and hospitality arm of the Cherokee Nation, operating multiple casinos and hotels across northeast Oklahoma, USA, including the prestigious Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. Concerned that their security team was spending an overly large number of person-hours reviewing video recordings searching for a single person of interest, CNE sought to reduce the time it took to review security footage, so their security team could remain focused on proactive tasks, and optimise their day-to-day efficiency. CNE also wanted to obtain and assess accurate data on occupancy and visitor trends for business intelligence purposes. Furthermore, CNE wanted to be alerted to security-related events in real-time, in order to handle security issues as they developed.  savVi’s video surveillance solution                                   CNE selected savVi, Agent Vi’s on premise video analytics solution, due to the wide range of video analytics capabilities that savVi offers. Over 1,000 savVi licenses were purchased, allowing cameras at CNE’s ten Oklahoma-based casinos to be enabled with different combinations of real-time event detection, video search and business intelligence capabilities. CNE utilises the video search capability most widely – to enable rapid search through the surveillance video to pinpoint events of interest – and therefore video search capabilities are enabled on the majority of cameras at the sites. Business intelligence capabilities are mostly deployed around the various gaming machines, and at entrance and exit points, to show traffic patterns and real-time people counts. Real-time event detection capabilities are used largely for the high-security areas to ensure that CNE’s security team is informed regarding situations, as they unfold. savVi is deployed through integration with a range of Axis network cameras, primarily the AXIS P3225 and Q3505 fixed cameras, the AXIS P5635, Q6044 and Q6045 PTZ cameras, and for outdoor vehicle search, the AXIS Q3708 fixed camera with three sensors. CNE uses Milestone XProtect Corporate Video Management System (VMS), which is fully and seamlessly integrated with savVi, a Milestone Certified Solution. savVi’s video search capabilities allow for verification of personal injury claims by customers who may be trying to defraud the casino savVi’s real-time event detection savVi’s video search capabilities are of considerable importance to CNE. There is a prevailing need for the casinos to be able to swiftly locate specific events within masses of footage (“incident remediation” as it is known within the entertainment industry). Among other things, this allows for verification of personal injury claims by customers who may be trying to defraud the casino. Previously, the security team’s time was heavily occupied by observing hours of footage in search of a specific person or incident. savVi now enables CNE to run the search automatically, allowing far more effective use of the operators’ time, and reduced search time from as much as 16 hours for a single search, down to a matter of minutes.  savVi’s real-time event detection capabilities are primarily used by CNE to ensure a safer and more secure environment within the casino parking facilities. By immediately alerting to any suspicious event, such as people loitering or cars moving in an unauthorised direction, the security team can monitor events and act accordingly as they unfold. savVi’s heat mapping capabilities savVi also allows CNE to gather and analyse essential business intelligence data on occupancy and visitor trends. savVi delivers accurate headcounts, meaning that the security team is constantly aware of how many people are on-site and using the casino facilities. This provides essential knowledge in the case of an emergency where a facility might need to be evacuated, and also helps prevent over-crowding. By utilising savVi’s heat mapping capabilities, CNE has knowledge of which areas of the casino are more heavily populated, and at what times. CNE can then leverage the data collected in a number of ways, including negotiating leasing deals for externally-owned casino equipment and knowing which internal locations require heavier investment of machines and personnel. This puts CNE well ahead of its competitors, as it is one of, if not the, first gaming company to employ Business Intelligence through video analytics. SavVi’s deployment in CNE’s casinos is an endorsement of the great benefit that savVi’s video analytics capabilities" savVi’s video analytics capabilities “It was savVi’s swift and effective video search that caught CNE’s attention when searching for an enhanced security solution, in particular due to the automated query ability,” said Joshua Anderson, Director of Surveillance and Technology, Cherokee Nation Entertainment. “We have been extremely impressed with savVi’s capabilities and the quality of its performance, and fully expect savVi to increase efficiencies and provide true ROI which will have a major impact on the bottom line.”  “Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission’s approval of savVi’s deployment in CNE’s casinos is an endorsement of the great benefit that savVi’s video analytics capabilities offer to gaming concerns,” commented AJ Frazer, VP Business Development, Agent Vi. “Having selected to deploy the full range of savVi video analytics functionalities, savVi offers CNE valuable insights into the activities and customer experience at their multiple sites, benefitting both CNE and their customers.”

A compressive video surveillance solution consisting of 96 cameras from Dahua Technology UK is being installed at the striking Fort Dunlop commercial and retail site, overlooking the M6 motorway in Birmingham. Built for Dunlop Rubber, Fort Dunlop became the tyre-maker’s flagship production facility and at one time was the world’s largest factory, employing 3,200 workers. After production stopped in the 1980s, the building lay derelict before being redeveloped into 360,000 square feet of office and retail space, also now with an adjoining hotel. Cameras include the 12MP panoramic internal IPC-EBW81230 fisheye camera and the external panoramic IPC-PDBW8802 dome cameraPanoramic fisheye and dome cameras Much of the site’s previous video surveillance system was installed during the refurbishment in 2006, but with advances in modern technology, it was felt that the current system was no longer meeting basic requirements. An external consultant assessed the site and put forward plans for an upgrade. Bromsgrove-based Champion Security Installations won the bid for the upgrade project. Installed over two phases, the design consists of a total of 96 static and PTZ cameras from Full HD to 4K resolutions. Cameras include the 12MP panoramic internal IPC-EBW81230 fisheye camera, which uses H.265/H.264 triple-stream encoding, and the external panoramic IPC-PDBW8802 dome camera, with four 2-Megapixel progressive scan CMOS sensors and day/night functionality. Images are managed and recorder by a 128-channel, ultra 4K NVR616 network video recorder. The aim was to meet all of the different security, health and safety criteria, as well as ensure ease of use for the operators" Ensuring safety of staff and building “Having undertaken a full review of the security systems at Fort Dunlop, it became clear that a replacement CCTV system was required to ensure protection of the staff, visitors and building,” said a spokesperson from Savills. “Three different options were presented by contractors, but it quickly became clear that the Dahua system presented by Champion Security met our brief. The system installed has changed the way we monitor and protect our asset, and its ease of use has been a revelation to our site staff.” A spokesperson from Champion Security Installations added, “We have worked with the management of Fort Dunlop for a number of years now, so we designed the new IP CCTV system in consultation with them. The aim was to meet all of the different security, health and safety criteria, as well as ensure ease of use for the operators. Having installed Dahua equipment at a number of sites, we invited them to assist with the design of the Fort Dunlop system using a number of their new products. Working in conjunction with Dahua and Oprema Ltd, the project was delivered on time and within budget.”

Hospitality businesses work to provide a safe and pleasant customer experience for their guests. Hotels offer a “home away from home” for millions of guests every day around the world. These are businesses of many sizes and types, providing services ranging from luxury accommodations to simple lodging for business travelers to family vacation experiences. Hospitality businesses also include restaurants, bars, movie theaters and other venues. Security needs are varied and require technologies that span a wide spectrum. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of the hospitality market?

The Mall of Switzerland, located in Ebikon in Lucerne Canton, has a total floor space of 65,000 square meters. It is the second largest shopping centre of Switzerland. Visitors to this ultramodern building complex can take advantage of about 90 stores, 18 restaurants, a multiplex cinema with 12 auditoriums, a large indoor playground and multiple exercise facilities. The Mall of Switzerland is expected to receive up to five million visitors a year. This poses considerable challenges for building security, for which it is relying on Bosch’s experience and expertise. “These days, trends and customer needs change faster than ever before. Buildings have to be able to adapt easily – although this of course also poses new challenges, for instance with regard to security,” explains Jan Wengeler, who manages the mall. “But with Bosch as our partner, we know that we can handle whatever comes up.” Enhanced guest safety For the Mall of Switzerland, Bosch’s building experts implemented a tailored security solution for controlling access to restricted areas. At its core is the MATRIX access control system, which features a combination of electronic cylinders and door fittings plus readers, terminals, controllers and software. A management system with a customised user interface visualises the states of more than 100 doors to let staff very quickly and easily monitor and control them. This significantly enhances the safety and security of guests and personnel, also in complex situations with large crowds. The operators are now facing the future with confidence, since additional parts of the Mall of Switzerland can be quickly and flexibly integrated in the overall system as required.

Nearly 1000 teams of architects from around the world competed to design an important new building – a “Tall Emblem Structure” that would promote “the new face of Dubai”. The selected winner was the iconic Dubai Frame, and when its doors opened to the public in January 2018, those doors were automatic revolving doors from Boon Edam. Boon Edam automatic revolving doors Situated in Zabeel Park in Dubai, The Dubai Frame is expected to be a major tourist destination attracting two million people a year. It is an impressive structure, with two 150-meter vertical towers connected by a 105-meter horizontal structure at the top to form an enormous frame. It is positioned in such a way that representative landmarks of modern Dubai can be seen on one side, while from the other side, visitors see older parts of the city. The design of The Dubai Frame was selected as the winner of the ThyssenKrupp Elevator Architecture Award in 2009. The architects were clear in their vision to use the negative space of the frame to celebrate and highlight the development of the past, current, and future Dubai – a metropolis that has evolved from its origins as a fishing village to a modern city full of emblematic structures. Selecting the public entrances for the ground floor was an extremely important part of the project The Dubai Frame According to the website for DONIS, the architectural team who designed The Dubai Frame had this to say, “Opposed to the complexity in architecture, The Dubai Frame is a simple structure, yet with an incomparable presence in the city; it achieves the most with the least and will become the new landmark of Dubai. DONIS has designed other iconic structures including the Dubai Porsche Design Towers and the Dubai Renaissance Tower.” Selecting the public entrances for the ground floor was an extremely important part of the project. The entrances must visually support the impressive nature of the structure; they must be durable enough for the high volume of visitor traffic expected, and they must provide sufficient security, safety, accessibility, and other factors that are vital to the project.  TQA revolving doors When the building opened, the selected entrances were automatic, three-wing TQA revolving doors from Boon Edam. Revolving doors have been a specialty of the company since the earliest years of operation and have continually evolved through many years of experience and product development. The Dubai Frame entrances were an ideal application for our TQ automatic revolving doors" “The Dubai Frame entrances were an ideal application for our TQ automatic revolving doors,” explains Mike Commarmond, Managing Director of Boon Edam Middle East. “Their finish was customised to match the architect’s design and aesthetic requirements; it was a perfect fit for the need, and we were able to provide overwhelming evidence of their long-term durability and service based on our long experience with these products.” Security night locking capability The TQ series of revolving doors is available in both manual and automatic operation and is versatile enough to cover a wide range of application needs. The doors can be provided in a variety of colors and finishes, from powder coated or anodised metals all the way to stainless steel and even polished to a mirror finish to match or complement the installation. In addition to a collapsible door set for emergency exit, the TQ series offers a variety of night locking options, including a new security night locking capability that works in conjunction with an access control system to allow authorised users to enter during evening or weekend hours. Revolving doors allow for simultaneous two-way traffic, and even support the efficiency of building environmental control systems, making them a great choice for many building entrance types.

A comprehensive video surveillance solution consisting of 96 cameras from Dahua Technology UK is being installed at the striking Fort Dunlop commercial and retail site, overlooking the M6 motorway in Birmingham. Dahua-Champion Security’s video solution Built for Dunlop Rubber, Fort Dunlop became the tyre-maker’s flagship production facility and at one time was the world’s largest factory, employing 3,200 workers. After production stopped in the 1980s, the building lay derelict before being redeveloped into 360,000 square feet of office and retail space, also now with an adjoining hotel. Much of the site’s previous video surveillance system was installed during the refurbishment in 2006, but with advances in modern technology, it was felt that the current system was no longer meeting basic requirements. An external consultant assessed the site and put forward plans for an upgrade. Bromsgrove-based Champion Security Installations won the bid for the upgrade project. Installed over two phases, the design consists of a total of 96 static and PTZ cameras from full HD to 4K resolutions 4K NVR, PTZ and dome cameras Installed over two phases, the design consists of a total of 96 static and PTZ cameras from full HD to 4K resolutions. Cameras include the 12MP panoramic internal IPC-EBW81230 fisheye camera, which uses H.265/H.264 triple-stream encoding, and the external panoramic IPC-PDBW8802 dome camera, with four 2-Megapixel progressive scan CMOS sensors and day/night functionality. Images are managed and recorded by a 128-channel, Ultra 4K NVR 616 network video recorder. “Having undertaken a full review of the security systems at Fort Dunlop, it became clear that a replacement CCTV system was required to ensure protection of the staff, visitors and building,” said a spokesperson from Savills. “Three different options were presented by contractors, but it quickly became clear that the Dahua system presented by Champion Security met our brief. The system installed has changed the way we monitor and protect our asset, and its ease of use has been a revelation to our site staff.” We have worked with the management of Fort Dunlop for a number of years now, so we designed the new IP CCTV system in consultation with them" IP CCTV security system A spokesperson from Champion Security Installations added, “We have worked with the management of Fort Dunlop for a number of years now, so we designed the new IP CCTV system in consultation with them. The aim was to meet all of the different security, health and safety criteria, as well as ensure ease of use for the operators. Having installed Dahua equipment at a number of sites, we invited them to assist with the design of the Fort Dunlop system using a number of their new products. Working in conjunction with Dahua and Oprema Ltd, the project was delivered on time and within budget.”

One of the UK’s largest video surveillance projects in recent years involving the deployment of 845 Wisenet cameras manufactured by Hanwha Techwin, is nearing completion. The video surveillance system, which is designed to play an important role in helping ensure the safe and reliable delivery of public transport across the West Midlands, is being used to monitor activity at over 50 railway stations, 11 bus stations, 3 Midland Metro park and ride sites, as well as the main Number 11 bus route around the City of Birmingham. Live and recorded images from all cameras are being monitored at an advanced control room, located in central Birmingham Wisenet HD IP camera integration The project which is targeted for completion in July 2018 has so far seen approximately 845 Wisenet cameras installed by Total Integrated Solutions Ltd. (TIS) on behalf of Transport for West Midlands which was set up by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to co-ordinate investment needed to improve the region’s transport infrastructure. The remaining work includes the deployment of the latest generation of Wisenet high definition IP cameras at a number of car parks, together with significant camera upgrades in Walsall and Solihull, two of four Local Authority public space CCTV systems are already monitored by WMCA. Live and recorded images from all the cameras are being monitored at a £1.2M state-of-the-art control room located in central Birmingham. “Our approach to this very large, complex project was not simply one of agreeing to meet exacting KPI’s from a performance perspective,” said Eamonn Murphy, Coleshill based TIS’s key account manager. “We felt the route to success would be to adopt a more partnership type approach, where we were not only the provider of technical solutions but were also involved at a strategic level in identifying with Transport for West Midlands a pathway of system upgrade, improved efficiency, cost reduction, innovation and utilising latest technology such as video analytics to the best advantage.” TIS is assured seamless integration between Wisenet cameras and Veracity Coldstore ‘direct to storage’ solution Wisenet cameras & Veracity Coldstore solutions Transport for West Midlands evaluated cameras available from 9 different manufacturers. The subsequent decision to source all the cameras from Hanwha Techwin, (previously known as Samsung Techwin), was partly due to the price/performance ratio of its cameras, but there were two other important factors which were taken into consideration. Firstly, Hanwha Techwin has a close working relationship with its technology partner, Veracity. This meant TIS could be assured that there would be seamless integration between Wisenet cameras and the Veracity Coldstore ‘direct to storage’ solution. This negates the need for Network Video Recorders (NVRs) and thereby substantially reduces capital costs, as well as minimising setup and maintenance requirements. Open Platform cameras The Veracity Coldstore recording solution is unique in the linear way that data is written to the hard drives. Only 2 hard drives are spinning at any one time, meaning a significant reduction in power consumption, lower heat generation and greater longevity of the hard drives, reducing the overall cost of ownership. When drive failures do occur, the faulty drive can be swapped with a new drive allowing uninterrupted use. The second important factor was the capability of the Wisenet open platform cameras to accommodate a variety of edge-based analytics such as ANPR and heat mapping, should Transport for West Midlands wish to deploy these at some point in the future. Trials of the Wisenet People Counting application are currently being carried out. This utilises the analytics software developed by Facit Data Systems, another Hanwha Techwin technology partner. Wisenet SNP-6320H cameras are configured for the transmission of 25 images per second (ips) at 1080p resolution Intelligent Day/Night cameras A large percentage of the cameras installed are Wisenet SNP-6320H 2 Megapixel Full HD network PTZ dome cameras. In addition to being a true Day/Night camera which is able to capture high quality images in low light, the SNP-6320H’s powerful 32 x zoom capability enables operators to observe the close-up detail of any activity. Trials were conducted where the cameras were capped at 2 Mbps and configured for the transmission of 25 images per second (ips) at 1080p resolution. The performance at this low bandwidth level was impressive and further contributed to the selection of the Wisenet SNP-6320H, which are also equipped with intelligent auto-tracking capability to ensure a greater level of detail can be captured when no operator is present. Other Wisenet cameras deployed as part of the project include the SNV-6084R vandal-resistant IR dome and the SNB-6004 fixed camera, both of which are able to capture Full HD 2 Megapixel images. Video Surveillance Technology “Working on rail, Metro and bus station sites spread across the wider West Midlands area is a complex and challenging operation and the TIS team deserve recognition for its expertise and diligence,” said Mark Babington, Safety & Security Manager for Transport for West Midlands. Suppliers such as Hanwha Techwin and Veracity have also worked extremely well in partnership with us to ensure we could achieve maximum benefit from this substantial investment" “TIS’s engineers were qualified to the highest degree to support the latest video surveillance technology, as well as being experienced to cope with older legacy systems. Both were needed within the unique environment of a busy integrated transportation network which brings its own exceptional requirements of compliance with bespoke health and safety legislation.” “Suppliers such as Hanwha Techwin and Veracity have also worked extremely well in partnership with us to ensure we could achieve maximum benefit from this substantial investment in the West Midlands transport infrastructure.” Commenting on the success of the project, Bob (H.Y.) Hwang Ph.D., Managing Director, Hanwha Techwin Europe, said: “We greatly value the opportunity to have been involved in this project. It is a excellent example of the benefit of all stakeholders interacting with each other in partnership at an early stage of a project to ensure the most suitable products are specified and subsequently installed to the client’s satisfaction.”

Army Welfare Housing Organization (AWHO) embarked on a historic journey to construct houses for serving/retired Army personnel and their widows in selected stations throughout the country. Today, AWHO’s presence is visible across the length and breadth of India. During the last 38 years, the organization has constructed approx. 29,000 dwelling units in 93 projects at various stations and is in the process of constructing more than 6,000 dwelling units at 14 stations, while 6,076 dwelling units are under planning at eight stations. One of the AWHO townships located at Indore faced difficulties in monitoring visitors and keeping watch over the movement of maids and drivers in the multistoried building. Protection of the residents and their valuables from intruders was one of the concerns for them. AWHO also wanted a combined solution of elevator-based access control to restrict user/floor wise access in the buildings. Matrix's Elevator-based access control solution allows access and entry in the elevator only to authorized residentsElevator-based access control solution In order to overcome the challenges, Matrix offered its Elevator-based access control solution which allows access and entry in the elevator using biometric or RFID card credential, only to authorized residents. As soon as user shows his/her enrolled credentials to the reader installed inside the elevator, floor buttons which are accessible will be enabled. Thus, monitoring and controlling user access was made easy with Matrix Elevator-based access control.  The Results: Easy living with fully automated Elevator-based access control solution Controlled and monitored access of users for enhanced security of the residents The Products: 14 COSEC PATH DCFE - Fingerprint and in-built card-based door controller with PoE and IP65 14 COSEC ARC IO800 - 8 Door input and output controller to control inputs and outputs of third party devices to perform multiple applications 2 COSEC PANEL LITE - Control Panel to support multiple door controllers for advance features

To provide a practical solution to the monitoring of transportation infrastructure, where maximum situational awareness is paramount, Bosch Building Technologies have combined the innovation behind their video security cameras with the video management expertise of Intelligent Security Systems (ISS). ISS is a developer of video management and video intelligence solutions. Their video management platform, SecurOS, focuses on securing large mission-critical applications such as industrial and manufacturing sites, transportation systems, banks, sports arenas, retail locations, and campuses & office complexes. Transportation security provides surveillance challenges in varying degrees of situation and scale, so effective license plate recognition is crucial SecurOS AUTO License Plate Recognition ISS differentiating video intelligence and image analytics solutions, whether it is Face Capture & Recognition (SecurOS FACE), License Plate Recognition (SecurOS AUTO License Plate Recognition), or Container Character Recognition (SecurOS CARGO) provide effective monitoring solutions to the transportation sector. Transportation security provides surveillance challenges in varying degrees of situation and scale, so effective license plate recognition is crucial. From tunnels and bridges where a situation can change in seconds, to regulating traffic flow into a city and capturing a profile of each vehicle, Bosch and ISS can provide answers to the questions that matter. Has a particular vehicle been permitted access to a specific area? Has that vehicle been stolen? What’s the insurance or toll subscription status? Has that vehicle been authorised to operate as a taxi? The capabilities even stretch to large-scale entry and exit points such as ports, borders and airport car parks. The ISS certified Bosch cameras responsible for capturing this data are incredibly robust and built to produce usable images 24/7 in the harshest conditions Cameras with built-in LPR mode Monitoring which vehiclesd are entering an area, and checking their legitimacy to be there, has never been more critical. Having the capability to capture license plates of every vehicle moving in the designated area give users complete awareness of traffic flows and usage patterns, allowing them to configure and manage their monitoring preferences efficiently and permit secure data exchanges with other operational management systems and services for efficient infrastructure alignment. If driving conditions were perfect all-year round, the job of an operations manager, for example, would be quite straightforward. But the reality is quite the opposite. That is why the ISS certified Bosch cameras responsible for capturing this data are incredibly robust and built to produce usable images 24/7 in the harshest conditions, including after dark by employing a supplementary infrared light. The selected cameras have a special License Plate Recognition (LPR) mode which is developed in collaboration with ISS to deliver accurate information even when faced with the challenges of glaring headlights and fast-moving vehicles. Utilising advanced algorithms results in a level of accuracy that can distinguish letters from numbers which is a crucial advantage, particularly in emergency situations Accurate information in all weather conditions High standards are applied to the quality of the images captured. By incorporating the SecurOS AUTO License Plate Recognition (LPR/ANPR) solution Bosch and ISS can provide several unique benefits for users, including the ability to accurately capture license plate information at 210 km/h (130 mph) in all kinds of weather conditions, including light fog, rain, and snow. Furthermore, utilising advanced algorithms results in a level of accuracy that can distinguish letters from numbers (so an “8” is not mistaken for a “B”, for example) which is a crucial advantage, particularly in emergency situations. The partnership with ISS supports Bosch’s belief that the logical next-step for security is to enable customers to repurpose the vast amounts of video data that they now can capture. Interpreting video data directly at source helps to improve levels of security substantially and can also offer clear business advantages. 

IDF Aluminium installs doors and internal screenwork at the new headquarters of iconic sportswear brand Fred Perry in Clerkenwell, London. The work includes use of transom door closers, pole handles and door handles from Alpro as part of the renovation of nineteenth-century warehouse buildings into a complex of offices, showrooms, exhibition space and a rooftop deck over 24,000 square feet. The project extends across seven floors and the client gave all contractors a brief that the site should benefit from robust security but preserve a welcoming atmosphere and an aesthetic that respected the fabric of the original Victorian warehouses. Overhead transom closers Alpro’s overhead transom closers provide a means of hydraulically controlling the opening and closing of aluminium doors and can have light, medium or heavy spring strengths to suit type of usage, with a 90-degree hold-open option. Transom closers are well suited for use at industrial heritage buildings such as the Fred Perry premises since the alternative options of spring hinges and floor springs often present problems with adjustment flexibility. The IDF installation also includes Alpro’s Functional 98 Series pull door handles on internal doors. These are manufactured from 316-grade stainless steel and can be straight or offset. The handles are supplied with bolt-thru or back-to-back fixings as standard and powder or nylon-coated finishes to the user’s precise colour requirements. In this case a powder finish was chosen to match the framework. IDF Aluminium ensures a quality service by designing and fabricating all its doors and shop fronts in-house with no use of sub-contractors Quality service The Fred Perry base is located on the corner of Mount Pleasant Street and Warner Street opposite the former Mount Pleasant sorting office. The many considerations for architects BuckleyGrayYeoman included preserving an iconic façade and working round plaques commemorating damage suffered by the building during World-War-II bombing. The interior fit-out including m & e systems was by Overbury and the base build contractor was Willmott Dixon. The new space was prepared to a demanding four-month deadline. IDF Aluminium specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of aluminium doors. The door solutions are designed for use in commercial and public-sector environments where usage may be high but maintenance costs must be minimised. The company has 30 years’ experience in the shop front and commercial door market. IDF Aluminium ensures a quality service by designing and fabricating all its doors and shop fronts in-house with no use of sub-contractors. The client portfolio covers transport, local government, healthcare and education from schools through to universities. This is IDF’s second heritage architecture project using Alpro equipment and follows works at Henry Wood House, a former BBC property in Marylebone.

DUOX, the Fermax 2 Wire digital system using stylish VEO video monitors was the system of choice for DUK Construction LTD responsible for the installation of electrical and security systems in this prestigious new development in South London consisting of 88 apartments and 5 communal entrances together with 13 bike and bin storage areas.  DUOX access control system The Fermax system combines the modern innovative 2 wire DUOX access control system with high specification 316 MARINE grade stainless steel door entry panels, laser cut at the Fermax manufacturing facility in Valencia, Spain and specifically designed to meet the needs of the project by integrating a stylish proximity access control reader at each entry point. Networked CCTV also provided by Fermax UK completed the site security and door entry system The system provides ease of access for residents, visitors and trades people as well as offering a host of features for residents using the new DUOX VEO monitor installed in each apartment. As well as its elegant design the VEO monitor complete with handset provides the added PHOTOCALLER feature which enables residents to capture and store images of visitors who have called their apartment from the entrance panel while they were away. Networked CCTV also provided by Fermax UK completed the site security and door entry system. Fermax 2 wire DUOX system System design and onsite technical support by the Fermax engineering and commercial team ensured that the project was completed on time and to specification. DUK Construction project manager commented “The Fermax 2 wire DUOX system was very easy to install and we were given excellent support from Fermax UK in the face of very tight schedules and a number of technical challenges. We are delighted with the system solution provided by Fermax.” If you want to know more about DUOX advantages, download our e-book. Discover the power of digital in 2 wires!

HID Global, global trusted identity solutions provider has announced that it has been appointed the ‘official ticket maker’ for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the largest and most important sports event in the world.  HID Global will deliver more than 3 million secure RFID tickets for the 64 matches of the 2018 World Cup, which will be held in 11 host cities of the Russian Federation from 14 June to 15 July 2018. The 2018 FIFA World Cup ticket is a smart ticket containing a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) inlay and manufactured with special security papers  The 2018 FIFA World Cup ticket is a smart ticket containing a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) inlay and manufactured with special security papers and integrates several security features designed to prevent counterfeiting and forgery. Data that is stored in a ticket’s RFID chip is encrypted and digitally signed.  Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tickets “HID Global is providing FIFA with a formidable defence against ticket fraud and simplifying the process of a fan’s picking a ticket and using it to tap and go into the stadium,” said Stefan Widing, President and CEO of HID Global. “We’re confident that this RFID solution, along with the other advanced ticket security features, will give FIFA and attendees an extra level of security and a better overall FIFA World Cup experience.”  Illicit ticket sales are a major concern for FIFA World Cup events, where tickets are always in very high demand. In a recent press release, FIFA reminded prospective tournament attendees that “FIFA regards the illicit sale and distribution of tickets as a serious issue and in cooperation with local authorities, including consumer protection agencies in numerous countries, strives to identify and curb unauthorised ticket sales.” FIFA cautions soccer fans that tickets obtained from any other source than the official FIFA.com/tickets website will be automatically cancelled once identified, barring the holder access to the stadium or to any refund or other compensation. RFID differs from traditional barcoded tickets, which can more easily be counterfeited RFID technology helps curb ticket fraud RFID differs from traditional barcoded tickets, which can more easily be counterfeited. RFID transmits the unique identity of a ticket and ticket holder via radio waves. Unlike barcode readers, RFID scanners do not need a line of sight with the RFID chips. This means attendees can simply tap their tickets to a reader to validate them and gain access to an event, speeding up admissions dramatically in high-volume events such as World Cup matches. As part of the project, HID Global has also provided pre-personalisation, fulfillment, consignment and delivery services for the secure tickets, in addition to the development of middleware and a key management system dedicated to the event cycle, including the libraries for the access control device key management. HID’s ticketing solution represents a new way to provide secure tickets at an event and play “goalkeeper” against fraud.