COVID-19

Johnson Controls, a provider of smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, announces results of independent surveys of 800+ building decision makers showing a clear shift to increased investment in healthy building trends and technologies. “At the centre of a vision for a healthy world must be healthy buildings, and that means delivering on the most critical elements to serve People, Places and Planet,” said George Oliver, CEO of Johnson Controls. Game-changing solutions “Our OpenBlue technologies reinvent the building landscape, creating dynamic smart facilities that help businesses meet their sustainability commitments, while delivering healthy places, enriched experiences and cost savings. Johnson Controls leads the industry in translating new building technology capabilities into game-changing solutions that deliver on our focus of People, Places and Planet.” As a pioneer in the category with 135 years of experience, Johnson Controls is ideally positioned with technologies and solutions that accelerate the reinvention of healthy buildings. The surveys confirmed the need is greater than ever, with 90 percent of responding firms having dedicated resources to healthy buildings initiatives. Reducing energy use Johnson Controls OpenBlue technologies deliver a unique, game-changing capability to solve for healthy places" “Building owners are struggling to balance urgent and conflicting priorities between employee health and wellness with critically needed cost savings, increased revenue and sustainability targets,” said Michael Ellis, executive vice president and chief customer & digital officer at Johnson Controls. “Johnson Controls is best positioned to help businesses meet those sustainability commitments while delivering on our customers’ return on investment,” Ellis said. The 2020 pandemic showed that few customers were able to reduce building operating costs despite lower occupancy, highlighting the need for technologies to deliver flexibility. “Energy use should be dramatically lower when occupancy is low, but surprisingly less than one in ten building operators were able to reduce energy use more than 20 percent,” Ellis said. “At a time when companies are aggressively pursuing energy and cost savings, customers need and want solutions that help them do better, while increasing the health profile of those buildings. Johnson Controls OpenBlue technologies deliver a unique, game-changing capability to solve for healthy places, while simultaneously serving sustainability goals.” Specific investment priorities The survey of facilities operators showed a range of specific investment priorities to meet goals for Healthy People, Healthy Places and a Healthy Planet: Healthy People - Businesses are increasingly committed to employee health and wellness as a driver of high performing teams. The studies show an increase in investments by organizations toward wellness, clean air and peace of mind. 80 percent of respondents stated that protecting the health and safety of building occupants during the COVID pandemic and afterward is very or extremely important. New factors are being included in this mix such as temperature control, disinfection, ventilation and air filtration which all require well maintained systems and equipment, enhanced through intelligent sensors and control software. The realities of the COVID pandemic have increased the potential benefit of these technologies and for contactless access and contact tracing. These capabilities can help increase overall building security through enhanced tracking of building guest and occupant access, flow and location, while maintaining trust. Johnson Controls delivers solutions for all of these needs and in support of broader wellness for people in shared spaces. Flexible facility monitoring Finding cost savings and making fast and informed decisions is a critical part of facility operations Healthy Places - Finding cost savings and making fast and informed decisions, supported by data, is a critical part of facility operations. In the Johnson Controls independent studies, 80 percent of facility executives stated that increasing flexibility to quickly respond to emergencies is a top driver for investment in technologies such as flexible facility monitoring and healthy air strategies. The spaces in which people work, shop, entertain and live become more inviting, more efficient and less expensive to operate over time. Space optimization, capital planning and increasing the uptime and lifetime of assets all support operational performance and lead to cost savings & increased revenue opportunities for building operators. Johnson Controls OpenBlue, a complete suite of connected solutions and services, leverages digital integration to optimize the performance of buildings and assets. Smart building technology Healthy Planet - Improvements in energy efficiency, renewable energy and smart building technology are becoming more critical each year. In the studies, 76 percent of facility executives stated that energy cost savings are a top driver for investment. These investments also influence corporate sustainability rankings, an important metric for attracting and retaining investors, employees and customers. Buildings are responsible for about 40 percent of the planet’s total energy consumption Buildings are responsible for about 40 percent of the planet’s total energy consumption and 36 percent of greenhouse gas emissions from energy use. But only 1 percent of buildings undergo energy efficient renovation every year. Effective action is crucial in aligning to increased regulation, decreasing energy consumption and increasing sustainability. For the health of the planet, the studies revealed that 57 percent of organizations plan to achieve net zero carbon or positive energy status in at least one facility in the next ten years. Energy-savings performance Through ongoing efforts to create more healthy buildings, Johnson Controls has implemented more than 3,000 energy-savings performance contracting projects in North America alone. The result has been reductions of more than 29 million metric tons of carbon emissions from customer facilities and savings of $6B in energy and operating costs driven by a comprehensive suite of product and technology solutions. In fiscal year 2019 almost half of Johnson Controls revenue came from products and services that reduce energy use and improve sustainability. Johnson Controls helps building owners and occupants make efficient, productive decisions in support of healthy people, healthy places and a healthy planet.

The Insights from the Field series features insight from FLIR experts who recommend, deploy, and use thermal imaging technology every day. FLIR discusses the diverse applications of thermal technology in security, safety, and equipment protection for critical infrastructure. Epidemics and pandemics can leave large enterprises that employ and receive thousands of people vulnerable to widespread infection and business interruptions. Without the right entry protocols in place, an employee who has symptoms of an infectious disease, such as a fever, could enter a facility and put the entire workforce at risk of exposure. Skin temperature screening Elevated Skin Temperature Screening Major businesses are ramping up their workforce safety best practices by deploying FLIR thermal cameras for elevated skin temperature measurement. Registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these non-contact thermal cameras measure skin surface temperature at the inner canthus (or corner of a person's eye). FLIR thermal cameras that are engineered for elevated skin temperature screening can achieve accuracies of ±0.3°C FLIR thermal cameras that are engineered for elevated skin temperature screening can achieve accuracies of ±0.3°C (0.5°F) over a temperature measurement range of 15°C to 45°C (59°F to 113°F). This aligns with the U.S. FDA Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug Administration Staff as well as with ISO/TR 13154 specification. FLIR provides an array of cameras for elevated skin temperature screening in multiple form factors—including handheld, tripod mounted, or fixed-mounted—optimised for a variety of application needs. Measuring body temperature Infrared thermography can detect elevated skin temperatures, which may indicate the presence of a fever. When followed by a screening with a medical device designed specifically for measuring body temperature, such as a thermometer, the use of an infrared camera as an adjunctive diagnostic tool may help contain or limit the spread of viral diseases such as bird flu, swine flu, or COVID-19. In the wake of COVID-19, businesses across the critical infrastructure market rapidly adopted thermal cameras for elevated skin temperature screening. In the utilities sector, the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response notes how energy utilities are updating their entry protocols in response to COVID-19. Practices now include wellness questionnaires to check for symptoms as well as temperature checks conducted through tools such as thermal cameras. Screening all patients GM deployed 377 FLIR thermal cameras across 72 sites to help limit the spread of COVID-19 General Motors (GM) is one of the manufacturers of motor vehicles, has over 85,000 employees in the United States, and has some plants that employ 1,000 people in a given shift. In May 2020, GM deployed 377 FLIR thermal cameras across 72 sites to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Healthcare facilities are also installing FLIR solutions; for example, the VA Medical Center in Manchester, New Hampshire deployed FLIR thermal cameras to screen all patients and staff for elevated skin temperature prior to them entering the building. In the transportation sector, Emirates airlines deployed FLIR thermal cameras at departure gates for all U.S. gateways beginning in March 2020. Guests travelling on U.S. bound flights out of the Dubai International Airport are screened for elevated skin temperature. Radiometric thermal cameras As more critical infrastructure organisations deploy thermal cameras for elevated skin temperature screening, they will likely prompt greater long-term adoption and integration of radiometric thermal cameras into the overall security and safety solution. Here’s why. While temperature screening of employees and guests often falls under the purview of Environmental Health and Safety or Occupational Health and Safety teams, not every business has a dedicated EHS or OHS staff. As a result, many organisations are tasking their security teams to vet and implement screening solutions. Security officers as well as security equipment, such as surveillance cameras and metal detectors, are already in place at key entry points in a facility. As a result, many security officers must play a dual role as the frontline personnel required to use handheld or tripod mounted thermal cameras to conduct elevated skin temperature screening. Video surveillance solutions It’s important to use a high-resolution thermal camera for elevated skin temperature screening Adding a thermal camera for elevated skin temperature screening is a logical addition to existing video surveillance solutions. As critical infrastructure businesses shift their attention toward the long-term implementation of thermal cameras for elevated skin temperature screening, there are multiple deployment practices to consider. Here are the a few recommendations from FLIR’s team of experts. Choose a Certified Camera – To ensure optimal reliability and deployment success, choose a thermal camera specifically designed for elevated skin temperature screening with a 510(k) filing (K033967) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. When looking to integrate this thermal camera into an existing video management system, make sure the camera is ONVIF-compliant. Other screening standards should be considered including ISO/TR 13154:2017 and IEC 80601-2-59:2017. Select a Camera with High Resolution – It’s important to use a high-resolution thermal camera for elevated skin temperature screening so one can capture the right pixels to yield accurate readings. Delivering consistent measurements Ensure Proper Distance for Screening – Distance matters. Make sure the camera is placed at the manufacturer’s recommended distance away from the individual so the camera can focus. Ensure the camera is stabilised so that the camera will deliver consistent measurements. Place a neutral backdrop a few feet behind the location where the person will be screened, and only screen one person at a time to identify temperature anomalies. It is more susceptible to environmental interferences and more likely to generate measurement errors Measure the Right Spot – While the forehead is easier to quickly screen, it is more susceptible to environmental interferences and more likely to generate measurement errors. Research has shown that the corner of the eye—the region medially adjacent to the inner canthus—provides a more accurate estimate of core body temperature than other areas of skin. Specific skin temperature This is because skin at the canthi is thin (decreasing insulating effects), is less exposed to environmental factors, and is directly over major arteries which increase blood flow and heat transfer. Set an Alarm Threshold – For FLIR cameras with a Screen-EST™ mode, set an alarm upon detection of a specific skin temperature compared against a sample average of temperature value. Because skin temperature can vary multiple degrees throughout the day based on the environment and other factors, FLIR Screen-EST mode gathers temperatures from several individuals to determine an average that can be updated throughout the screening operation. This is a defining feature and capability for the FLIR cameras for elevated skin temperature screening.

Boon Edam Inc., a globally renowned company in security entrances and architectural revolving doors, has announced a new continuing education course approved by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) entitled, ‘Closing the Gap in Physical Security: Addressing the Entry’. Architects can view this one-hour presentation in exchange for one Health, Safety and Welfare Continuing Education Unit (HSW CEU) towards their AIA accreditation. The course focuses on the role of security entrances in building design and a physical security strategy, including integration with other security technologies, safety and code requirements, and the impact of pandemics on the entry. Importance of controlling access to buildings The course begins by explaining the importance of controlling access to buildings The course begins by explaining the importance of controlling access to buildings through designs that address securing the entry. Architects learn the risks and associated liabilities that impact an organisation when they fail to put effective measures in place to mitigate unauthorised access at their buildings. The presentation also touches on the results of a recent Boon Edam survey that revealed how security professionals perceive the risk, impact and cost of tailgating at buildings. Tailgating occurs when an unauthorised person follows an authorised person into a facility via a swing door and is arguably the biggest physical vulnerability that an organisation will face today. Security entrances key in physical security strategy The AIA course continues by classifying security entrances according to their ability to mitigate tailgating, their safety features and how they comply with local codes. There are also discussions around the people and processes necessary to support each type of security entrance and the importance of securing a building in layers for the best overall outcome. Attendees will also see videos that demonstrate the working principles of turnstiles, security revolving doors and mantrap portals as they rebuff tailgating attempts while integrated with third-party access control and biometric devices. Future of security entry post COVID-19 The course concludes with details surrounding the future of security in building design in a post-pandemic world. Architects will learn tactics that include creating separate entry and exit points across a building based on the types of users and utilising technologies that support touchless entry and temperature screening.

Hanwha Techwin, a global supplier of IP and analogue  video surveillance solutions, has announced the expansion of its line of public health surveillance technologies with the new Wisenet TNM-3620TDY body temperature detection camera. The multi-purpose device uniquely combines Artificial Intelligence (AI) with a dual-sensor design to securely monitor facility entrances and accurately identify potential health risks. Wisenet TNM-3620TDY camera The Wisenet TNM-3620TDY body temperature detection camera offers two detection modes to discreetly scan people entering a facility. When used in estimated body temperature (EBT) mode, the camera’s 2-megapixel visible light sensor captures and sends AI-based face detection data to its QVGA-class thermal sensor, which simultaneously measures the body temperature of each subject. Temperature monitoring is accurate to within +-0.3⁰ C when used with a blackbody calibration device and the camera will trigger audio/visual alarms and notifications when elevated temperatures are detected. An onscreen display indicates a subject’s temperature measurement, and a colour-coded indicator is shown over their face. High-resolution surveillance video The Wisenet TNM-3620TDY camera can also be used as a traditional radiometric device The Wisenet TNM-3620TDY camera can also be used as a traditional radiometric device, with the visible sensor providing high-resolution surveillance video to assist in identifying people and activities. In this mode, onboard video and audio analytics are available to detect area intrusion, line crossing, loitering, and temperature detection. A spot temperature measurement feature also enables operators, via a web viewer, to obtain targeted temperature measurements by isolating specific areas within an image. Keeping customers and employees safe The TNM-3620TDY joins Hanwha Techwin’s full suite of solutions for helping businesses adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic, comply with new public health guidelines and keep customers and employees safe. “Business owners and managers of public spaces need flexible options for remaining open and operating efficiently,” said Ray Cooke, Vice President, Products, Solutions, and Integration, Hanwha Techwin America. Integrated with Wisenet 7 System on Chip (SoC) Ray adds, “With this new camera and all our solutions for occupancy level monitoring, face mask detection and social distancing measurement, Hanwha Techwin gives them a choice of health and safety technologies they can tailor to their operations.” The new TNM-3620TDY is based on Hanwha Techwin’s Wisenet 7 System on Chip (SoC), the core technology driving its enhanced image quality and advanced cyber security protection capabilities. The camera has a Micro SD/SDHC/SDXC slot that allows up to 256 GB of video data to be stored at the edge. This method of recording is useful in the event of a network disruption, enabling video evidence that potentially might have been lost to be easily and quickly retrieved when a connection is restored. Seamless connection to VMS, NVR and video decoder The TNM-3620TDY camera can also complement a facility’s existing COVID-19 safety protocols The camera can connect to a VMS, NVR or video decoder, or be used as a standalone device to comply with healthcare privacy concerns. The camera’s face detection area can be customised, for example to target the eye region, to prevent false positives from a warm forehead. The TNM-3620TDY camera can also complement a facility’s existing COVID-19 safety protocols, as people with detected elevated temperatures can be discreetly asked to enter a separate screening area for secondary screening with an FDA-approved clinical thermometer temperature reading. IEC 60601 certification The TNM-3620TDY is compliant with a series of technical standards for the safety and essential performance of medical electrical equipment published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). In addition, Hanwha Techwin has completed the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) facility registration process, with device registration for FDA 510(k) clearance in progress. The TNM-3620TDY supports H.265, H.264 and MJPEG compression formats, as well as WiseStream II, Hanwha Techwin’s compression technology which dynamically controls encoding, balancing quality and compression, according to movement in an image. Users can improve network bandwidth efficiency by up to 75% when combining WiseStream technology with H.265 compression.

BlueVoyant, a cybersecurity services company, announces a strategic partnership with UK-based third-party risk management consultancy, DVV Solutions, to deliver BlueVoyant’s Cyber Risk Management (CRx) services to DVV Solutions’ global customer base. This will be delivered primarily through BlueVoyant’s Vendor Risk Management (CR3) solution, which provides risk identification, analysis and threat remediation. Through DVV Solutions, BlueVoyant will generate, triage, prioritise and communicate security updates to DVV customers, providing actionable intelligence as part of its Vendor Risk Management service. Supply chain vulnerabilities This allows BlueVoyant to actively reduce DVV Solutions’ clients' exposure to the real threats their businesses face, instead of solely identifying the threats without context. Frequently, organisations do not have the in-house skills or resources to address these supply chain vulnerabilities, with assessment and identification being very labor intensive. DVV Solutions can help its customers to maximise their investment in third-party risk management programs Now, as a BlueVoyant partner, DVV Solutions can help its customers to maximise their investment in third-party risk management programs, utilising BlueVoyant’s CR3 managed services offering. This provides customers with access to unmatched visibility and expertise, to meet the desired vendor risk management requirements, while improving their own cyber risk postures, and those within their vendor ecosystems. Security monitoring services Robert Hannigan, Chairman at BlueVoyant International, comments: “The knock-on effect of COVID-19 has led to squeezed financial margins and a reduction in the resources available to tackle third-party risk in the supply chain; just as the pandemic widens the attack surface. Our CR3 solution will provide the desired level of risk analysis and remediation for DVV Solutions’ customers and their vendor ecosystems, enabling them to effectively quantify, manage, and remediate third-party security risks.” Sean O’Brien, Managing Director of DVV Solutions, adds: “Partnering with BlueVoyant is a natural extension of our third-party risk management and security monitoring services. As businesses and their vendor ecosystems have changed throughout an unprecedented 2020, we have seen a sharp uptick in the requirement for managed services, as supply chains become increasingly complex. Organisations therefore require a managed service-based third-party risk management solution to cut through the noise, helping them to prioritise the most pertinent supply chain risks.” Risk management program “By utilising our collective team of risk experts in this managed service model, customers will quickly improve the return-on-investment from their third-party risk management program. This will also enable them to re-allocate resources towards what’s important: eliminating control gaps, raising security standards and reducing overall risk,” added O’Brien. BlueVoyant will also deliver its Cyber Risk Management for Investors (CRi) solution BlueVoyant’s CR3 service complement DVV Solutions’ dedicated third-party risk management services portfolio. This portfolio includes on-site/virtual audits, risk assessments, questionnaires, security ratings, continuous monitoring, cyber risk maturity consultancy and regulatory compliance services. BlueVoyant will also deliver its Cyber Risk Management for Investors (CRi) solution, as part of DVV Solutions’ mergers and acquisitions (M&A) consultancy. This service effectively identifies cybersecurity risk throughout the investment process, such as pre- and post-investment and acquisition. Mitigating cyber risks This provides the desired expertise to assess, quantify, and mitigate cyber risks associated with a potential transaction or an investment portfolio. This level of due diligence is becoming an increasingly important pillar of the Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) frameworks that many organisations are adhering to. Robert Hannigan concludes: “Organisations are now realising the responsibilities they have in actively identifying and managing cyber risks throughout their vendor ecosystems, and how this directly impacts operational resiliency and financial stability. Our CR3 services enables an increasing number of customers and prospects across the UK and Europe to address these issues, building upon DVV Solutions’ existing managed services portfolio.”

Johnson Controls, a provider of smart and sustainable buildings, and the architect of OpenBlue connected solutions, and Alcatraz AI have collaborated to provide a comprehensive suite of AI-powered security solutions and services to meet the growing need for frictionless entry and advanced building security. Leveraging its own data-powered access control technology combined with Alcatraz AI’s advanced facial authentication platform, the Alcatraz Rock, Johnson Controls offers comprehensive solutions to protect occupants and assets from building intruders and enable healthier hands-free entry. This partnership is just one facet of Johnson Controls commitment to bringing buildings to life through intelligent, dynamic, and data-powered solutions. Deep neural networks Alcatraz AI enhances Johnson Controls offerings to customers, creating a richer ecosystem of products and services and a timely response to the COVID-19 pandemic. When integrated with Johnson Controls access control technology, the Alcatraz Rock and its analytics provide building managers with advanced protection for their facilities’ security operations. AI technology instantly identifies and alerts security personnel to entry abnormalities The Alcatraz Rock software employs real-time facial mapping and deep neural networks to automatically enrol an individual based on any current access control methods, allowing for instant one-factor recognition authentication. This integration completely replaces standard badging practices with frictionless, hands-free access, allowing businesses and organisations to safely reopen by minimising person-to-person contact at major entry points, and can even provide AI-powered mask detection. In addition, AI technology instantly identifies and alerts security personnel to entry abnormalities. Facial authentication technology “The ability to respectfully monitor who is accessing your building is crucial,” said John Hudson, vice president and general manager of security at Johnson Controls. “Facial recognition technology allows us to offer our customers an extra level of protection and provide the peace of mind of knowing exactly who is entering and exiting their facilities. Johnson Controls is more committed than ever to providing our customers with the tools and integrations needed to make buildings smarter, safer, and more connected.” “Frictionless entry is critical to public health right now, and this partnership allows us to take it to the next level by combining our leading facial authentication technology with Johnson Controls security solutions,” said Vince Gaydarzhiev, CEO and founder of Alcatraz AI. “From advanced tailgating detection to automatic employee check-in, the Alcatraz Rock makes hands-free entry possible while simultaneously making your building a safer place to live and work.”

The global pandemic has created a working environment filled with uncertainty and, at times, fear, as COVID-19 cases surge yet again and businesses continue to navigate a complex web of infectious disease mitigation protocols and managing the distribution of a potential vaccine. Organisations are operating in an environment where a critical event, posing significant risk to its employees and daily operations, could occur at any moment. Even with a vaccine showing light at the end of a very dark tunnel, the pandemic unfortunately may be far from over, and the communication of accurate public health information to a widely distributed, often remote workforce is vital to keeping employees safe and businesses running. Organisations that plan ahead, invest in an emergency management system and share key updates quickly, reliably and securely, can keep employees safe while ensuring business continuity when it matters most. Taking time to plan and prepare Throughout the pandemic, U.S. offices have gone through alternating stages of reopening and re-closing Throughout the pandemic, U.S. offices have gone through alternating stages of reopening and re-closing. However, whether businesses are operating at a limited or full capacity, medical experts are expecting continuous waves of COVID-19 cases, as community transmission continues to hit record highs. The only way for businesses to keep their employees and customers safe, protect their operations, and retain trust with their key stakeholders during these tumultuous times is to be proactive in nature. Organisations need to put a business resiliency plan in place now that outlines key actions to take if (or when) an issue relating to local spread of the novel coronavirus arises. By having a plan in place and practicing it regularly, organisations can minimise risks and maximise employee safety surrounding critical events, such as suspected or confirmed exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace. Context of emergency management Ensuring the safety of employees (and others within the company’s facilities) needs to be the number one priority for organisations; and in any crisis scenario, a prepared and practiced plan maximises a company’s chances of success. In PwC's 2019 Global Crisis Survey, business leaders across a range of industries shared their experiences, expectations, and top strengths and weaknesses in the context of emergency management. By a wide margin (54% vs. 30%), organisations that had a crisis response plan in place fared better post-crisis than those who didn’t. When it comes to ensuring the wellbeing of staff, businesses need to think through a comprehensive, iterative infectious disease mitigation and operational continuity strategy and practice it as often as possible. Investing in proper technology A vital step in adequate critical event management planning is investing in the proper technology infrastructure For today’s modern organisation, a vital step in adequate critical event management planning is investing in the proper technology infrastructure to streamline the communication of vital information. Organisations should explore risk intelligence, critical communication and incident management software to keep their people safe, informed, and connected during critical events - and, thankfully, decision-makers are starting to take note. The Business Continuity Institute 2020 Emergency Communications Report found that 67% of organisations at least use emergency notification and/or crisis management tools. Reliable risk intelligence system Building upon that trend, a reliable risk intelligence system can anticipate and analyse the potential impact of incidents, such as increases in local cases of COVID-19, send vital updates to a distributed workforce of any size on multiple devices regarding infectious disease mitigation protocols and public health directives, and then help incident response teams virtually collaborate while maintaining compliance standards. Automating as much of this process as possible through technology allows human decision makers to efficiently and effectively focus their time, effort and expertise on what matters most in a crisis situation - implementing sound operational continuity strategies and, more importantly, ensuring employees’ safety and well-being are prioritised and appropriately considered when stress rises. Communicating vital updates This is the cultural component of incident management based on emotional intelligence, empathy, effective employee engagement, and authentic listening that makes or breaks an organisation’s response to challenging situations. Employees must be aware at a moment’s notice to stay away from or exit contaminated areas If employees are exposed in the workplace to a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19, employers must be prepared to quickly update staff on vital next steps, as outlined by the CDC and other public health authorities, and arm key functions - such as security operations, HR, facility management, legal and compliance - with the information they need to mitigate potential spread of the virus, including:   Closing/cleaning the office: Employees must be aware at a moment’s notice to stay away from or exit contaminated areas. From there, it is critical that businesses communicate clearly with cleaning staff to follow procedure, use the right disinfecting products and sanitise high-touch surfaces. Alerting key groups that may have been exposed: Employers have a duty to rapidly notify workers of potential exposure to COVID-19. Having the proper communication infrastructure in place can streamline contact-tracing as well as the subsequent testing process, and save vital time. Ensuring work-from-home continuity or diverting workflows to alternative physical environments: Every work environment looks different today. Whether an organisation is managing a distributed workforce, full-capacity essential workers or something in between, there needs be a communication system in place to ensure business continuity. Outlining next steps for reopening: After a potential exposure, employees require the proper reassurance that they will be returning to a safe working environment in an organised, thoughtful manner, which is aligned to public health best practices. Whether it is coordinating a limited capacity return to the office or outlining new infectious disease mitigation protocols - such as steps for receiving a vaccine in the coming months - employees must continue to be updated quickly, comprehensively, and often. Incident management technology There is no doubt that organisations will continue to face a myriad of challenges as they navigate business operations during the pandemic into 2021, as the general public awaits the broad deployment of a vaccine. Public and private sector leaders still have months ahead of them before daily operations even begin to resemble “business as usual.” To best prepare for the next chapter of the global pandemic, organisations should outline a plan tailored to infectious disease mitigation protocols; explore augmenting their crisis management policies with risk intelligence, crisis management and incident management technology; and focus employee communications on containing and rapidly resolving events associated with COVID-19 exposure. Keeping employees safe, informed, and connected during critical events are mandatory considerations for leaders as they analyse existential threats to their business in 2021 and beyond.

Several major players vigorously employ biometric recognition technologies around the globe. Governments use biometrics to control immigration, security, and create national databases of biometric profiles. Being one of the most striking examples, the Indian Aadhaar includes face photos, iris, and fingerprints of about 1.2 billion people. Financial institutions, on their part, make use of biometrics to protect transactions by confirming a client's identity, as well as develop and provide services without clients visiting the office. Besides, biometric technology ensures security and optimises passenger traffic at transport facilities and collects data about customers, and investigates theft and other incidents in retail stores. Widespread use of biometrics Business, which suddenly boosted the development of biometrics, is an active user of biometric technology Business, which suddenly boosted the development of biometrics, is another active user of biometric technology. Industries choose biometric systems, as these systems are impossible to trick in terms of security, access control, and data protection. Being in demand in business, these three tasks are also relevant for the industry. However, the use of biometrics at industrial sites is discussed unfairly seldom. Therefore, it is the face identification that is the most convenient there, as workers often use gloves, or their hands may be contaminated, and the palm pattern is distorted by heavy labour. All these features make it difficult to recognise people by fingerprints or veins and significantly reduce identification reliability. Therefore, industries seek facial recognition solutions. Thus, let us demonstrate the application of face recognition technology at different enterprises, regardless of the area. Facial recognition use in incident management Facial biometric products are known to automate and improve the efficiency of security services by enriching any VMS system. These systems provide an opportunity of instantly informing the operator about recognised or unrecognised people, and their list membership, as well as save all the detected images for further security incident investigation. Furthermore, some sophisticated facial biometric systems even provide an opportunity to build a map of the movements of specific people around a site. Besides, it is relevant not only for conducting investigations but also in countering the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Identifying and tracking COVID-19 positive cases Therefore, if an employee or visitor with a positive COVID-19 test enters a facility, the system will help to track his/her movement and identify his/her specific location. It will also help to take the necessary measures for spot sanitary processing. Thus, the introduction of biometric facial recognition at the industrial enterprise can improve and speed up the incidents’ response and investigations without spending hours watching the video archive. Access control system to secure physical assets The right access control system can help industries secure physical and informational assets The right access control system can help industries secure physical and informational assets, cut personnel costs, and keep employees safe. Facial recognition systems may enrich access control systems of any company by providing more security. As biometric characteristics, by which the system assesses the compliance of a person with the available profiles in the database, cannot be faked or passed. The human factor is also reduced to zero, due to the fact that while identity documents can be changed, the inspector can make a mistake or treat his/her task carelessly, be in collusion with an intruder, the biometric system simply compares a person in front of the camera with the biometric profiles database. Biometric facial identification software For example, RecFaces product Id-Gate, a specialised software product for reliable access control to the site, checks the access rights by using biometric facial identification alone or in conjunction with traditional IDs (electronic passes, access keys, etc.), which means that there is almost a zero probability of passing to the site by someone else's ID. The access control system’s functionality allows one to strictly account the number and time of all the facility’s visitors and also track their movement. When unauthorised access is attempted or a person from the stop list is detected, Id-Gate sends an automatic notification to the access control system and operator. Enhanced data and information security Even despite the division of access to different industrial enterprise areas, the security service needs to provide independent information system security. Employees with the same facility access rights may have different access rights to data. However, in that case, a personal password is not enough, as an employee may forget it, write it down and leave it as a reminder, tell a colleague to do something for him/her during the vacation, or just enter it at another person’s presence. Password-free biometric authentication systems make the procedure user-friendly and secure Password-free biometric authentication Password-free biometric authentication systems make the procedure user-friendly and secure. Such systems usually provide an option of two-step verification when successful password entry is additionally confirmed by biometric recognition. Hence, it is particularly relevant due to the current lockdown in many countries. To sum up, the application of biometric technologies solves several issues of the industry, such as: Optimises and partially automates the work of the security service, as it provides reliable identification and verification of visitors/employees, reduces the amount of time spent on finding a person on video and making a map of his/her movements, without spending hours on watching video archive in case of investigation. Provides a high level of reliability and protection from unauthorised access to the enterprise and the information system. Provides a two-step verification of the user/visitor (including password and biometric data) and almost eliminates the risk of substitution of user data/ID.

This year has brought about changes in virtually every sector. As with other frontline industries, the security sector has been tested more than those able to move entirely to remote working. While the promise of a vaccine means an end is in sight, the post-COVID era will not bring with it a return to the ‘normal’ we knew before the pandemic. Organisations have adapted, becoming more resilient and agile and this will have lasting effects. The coming months will continue to be testing. The tiered system will see the precautions in place fluctuate with the situation. Initial lockdown period At the same time, a gradual return to normal as the vaccine is rolled out will require adaptive measures. The security sector will be at the heart of keeping people safe throughout this process. The initial lockdown period and the first wave of panic buying might seem like a lifetime ago. However, the introduction of the second lockdown in November was accompanied by another wave of stockpiling despite organisations trying to reassure their customers. It is uncertainty that breeds anxiety, and we continue to see this as the restrictions fluctuate across the country. The tier system depends upon a number of factors: case detection rate, how quickly case numbers are rising or falling, positive COVID-19 test numbers in the general population, pressure on the NHS in that region, and local context and exceptional circumstances. Social distancing measures For the sector to meet demand, technology will be needed to work alongside the manned guarding role While travel is allowed in all tiers if necessary for work, government advice still recommends that those able to work from home should do so. This means that throughout the country, many buildings will remain empty or at minimal capacity for some time to come. Security risks vary with the restrictions in each area. Although shops are largely open, tier three still requires the closure of many premises. Vacant premises are more vulnerable to theft and damage, meaning officers and security technology remain in higher demand than usual. As more premises are allowed to open, the need for officers to implement social distancing measures increases, stretching the sector like never before. For the sector to meet demand, technology will be needed to work alongside the manned guarding role. Temperature checking devices It will continue to be important in providing security when officers cannot be present in person through CCTV and sensors. But it will also be integrated into the manned guarding role to streamline processes. We are already seeing the start of this as many officers are using handheld temperature checking devices to reduce the spread of COVID-19. We’ll also see temperature scanners installed into buildings to allow security guards to focus on other priorities. Those businesses that are open will need to continue to adapt to the changing regulations in the coming months. Christmas is a busy period that stretches the retail sector. Unpredictability results in heightened stress levels and makes it more difficult for people to reliably take in and recall information. Security officers are a key first point of contact both to enforce measures and reassure anxious staff and members of the public. Enforcing one-way systems Security staff will need to keep members of the public safe and prevent disruption Some shops are enforcing one-way systems and limiting the number of customers allowed inside. Over Christmas, many more may choose to do so. Security officers will be responsible for ensuring these precautions are followed. With the heightened pressure of the festive period, it can be hard to predict how members of the public will respond to officers enforcing measures. Security staff will need to keep members of the public safe and prevent disruption. Doing so will require tact and empathy in dealing with customers. Within shops, too, officers will be tasked with ensuring social distancing and other measures are followed effectively. Doing so, they must work closely with clients to understand what protocols are in place and how to handle a breach. They must also be able to enact discretion. For example, clients may not take issue with protocols being broken momentarily or accidentally. Extensive government guidance There is extensive government guidance on the precautions that should be taken on various premises. They include the introduction of one-way systems and limiting building capacity. Measures such as one-way systems may be broken by those that don’t notice or don’t care. Officers must be able to judge what responses are appropriate while maintaining a calm and reassuring presence. The security officer role has long been moving toward a more front of house position as, for many visitors to a building, they are the first point of contact. The pandemic has accelerated this trend. Working on the frontline of the pandemic, officers have had to play a more multifaceted role than ever before. Officers still act as deterrents and manage security issues, but they must also use empathy and strong communication skills to inform and reassure customers and staff onsite. Adapting to new technology They will need to be able to learn quickly on the job and adapt to new technology and practices Being able to demonstrate this flexibility and to read a situation and react appropriately will be some of the skills most in demand in the industry in the future. Officers will need to build close working relationships with clients. In addition, many will have new roles, such as taking temperatures with handheld devices. They will need to be able to learn quickly on the job and adapt to new technology and practices. Technology, too, will be more important. If the global pandemic has driven any point home, it is that we cannot always see or sense threats. Data-driven insights Temperature checks and occupancy sensors will be the norm in protecting from COVID, while security technology and data-driven insights will continue to grow in popularity. The security sector specialises in adapting to the unexpected and the threatening. It continues to demonstrate incredible value through the pandemic. While the coming months will undoubtedly be trying, the sector is adapting. Lessons have been learned from the pandemic that will affect business globally. Security specialists are taking these on and creating a stronger and more effective industry.

Thermal cameras can be used for rapid and safe initial temperature screening of staff, visitors and customers. Used the right way, the cameras can help prevent unnecessary spread of viruses like the novel coronavirus. During the global pandemic, use of thermal cameras has increased, but they have not always been used correctly, and therefore, not effectively. Hikvision’s temperature screening thermal products are currently assisting users in initial temperature screening across the global market. During 2020, demand increased in most markets, and the company highly recommends that Hikvision’s thermographic cameras be used in accordance with local laws and regulations. Limitations of the technology include throughput and the impact of ambient conditions. Detect viruses and fever Hikvision releases a video that illustrates how skin temperature measurements are normalised within minutes Thermal cameras cannot detect viruses and fever and should only be used as a first line of screening before using secondary measures to confirm, says Stefan Li, Thermal Product Director at Hikvision. “We also believe it is important for businesses and authorities to use [thermal cameras] alongside a full programme of additional health and safety procedures, which includes handwashing, regular disinfection of surfaces, wearing protective clothing such as masks, and social distancing.” Hikvision has released a video that illustrates how skin temperature measurements are normalised within minutes after someone emerges from the cold. Mr. Li says the video demonstrates the accuracy of forehead measurement under difficult circumstances when people come inside from a cold outdoor environment. Temperature screening facilities “There have been some claims that measuring the forehead temperature is not as accurate as measuring the inner canthus, and we believe this video demonstrates the accuracy of forehead measurement very well,” he says. “We also illustrate how the skin temperature will experience a process of recovery (warming up), no matter if it is measured by a thermal camera or a thermometer.” Mr. Li adds that people should wait five minutes in such circumstances before starting a temperature measurement. “We hope that stakeholders who are involved in the design of temperature screening facilities and associated health and safety procedures will recognise how important it is to consider the skin temperature recovery time, and that forehead measurement can provide accurate test results,” says Mr. Li. Thermal imaging manufacturers The algorithm is based on a large number of test results to obtain a value that tends to be dynamically balanced The temperature measurement principle of thermal imaging is to detect the heat radiation emitted by the human body. The detected heat value often does not reflect the true internal body temperature of an individual. Furthermore, the temperature varies among different parts of the human, such as the forehead, ears, underarms, etc. A temperature compensation algorithm can be used to adjust the measured skin temperature to align with the internal body temperature. The algorithm is based on a large number of test results to obtain a value that tends to be dynamically balanced. At present, thermal imaging manufacturers in the market, and even forehead thermometer manufacturers, have developed their own algorithms to map the skin temperature measured by the camera to the internal body temperature, so as to compensate the skin temperature to the internal body temperature. Thermal cameras This is also why Hikvision recommends that the "actual body temperature" should be checked with a secondary device for confirmation. The calibration work for a thermal camera is completed in the production process at the factory, including calibration of reference values and detection point and so on. At the same time, the equipment parameters should be adjusted before on-site use to ensure accurate temperature reads. Hikvision does not deny the accuracy of temperature measurement at the inner canthus but prefers forehead temperature measurement and algorithms based on actual use scenarios, says Mr. Li. A large amount of test data and practical results indicates that the forehead is a correct and easy-to-use temperature measurement area, says the company. There are advantages and disadvantages of choosing different facial areas for temperature measurement. Default compensation temperature Two main approaches direct the measurement area and how compensation algorithms are applied: Forehead area + default forehead compensation algorithm value Upper half face (forehead + canthus) + default inner canthus compensation algorithm value. Both methods deploy compensation algorithms, but the default compensation temperature of the inner canthus will be less than the default compensation temperature of the forehead, generally speaking. The reason is that the temperature of the inner canthus of most people is higher than their forehead, so the temperature compensation is relatively low (i.e., closer to the actual temperature inside the body.) Upper face area Hikvision found that selecting the upper face area plus the default compensation value for the inner canthus resulted in situations when the calculated temperature is lower than the actual temperature. For the Hikvision solution, the forehead is a relatively obvious and easy-to-capture area on an entire face Mr. Li explains: “The reason is that when the camera cannot capture the position of the inner canthus (for example, when a person is walking, or the face is not facing the camera), the camera will automatically capture the temperature of the forehead. Then the result that appears is the sum of the forehead temperature plus the default compensation temperature of the inner canthus, which is lower than the actual temperature of the person being measured. Therefore, errors are prone to occur.” Thermal imaging products But for the Hikvision solution, the forehead is a relatively obvious and easy-to-capture area on an entire face. Also, the default forehead compensation temperature is based on rigorous testing and can also correctly mimic the actual temperature of the person being measured, says Mr. Li. After many test comparisons, considering that the results of forehead temperature measurement are relatively more stable, and in order to avoid the false results from inner canthus temperature measurement, Hikvision chose the forehead temperature measurement approach. “We look forward to bringing thermal imaging products from a niche market where there is a relatively high-end industry application to a mass market and serving more users,” says Mr. Li. Facial recognition terminals Additional application parameters can maximise effectiveness of thermal cameras for measuring body temperature: Positioning and height - All cameras must be mounted appropriately to avoid loss of accuracy and performance. The installation height of each camera must be adjusted according to camera resolution and focal length, and stable installation is needed to avoid errors caused by shaking. Ensuring a ‘one-direction path’ - The detection area must ensure that cameras capture the full faces of all those passing by or stopping, and obstacles should be avoided in the field of view, such as glass doors that block the camera. Adequate start-up and usage - A waiting time of more than 90 minutes is required for preheating, after the initial start-up. Before conducting a thermal scan, people should be given three to five minutes to allow their body temperature to stabilise. When Hikvision MinMoe facial recognition terminals are used, people must stand at a fixed distance, pass one by one, make a short stop, and face the camera directly. Hikvision cameras support efficient group screening, but one-by-one screening is suggested for more accurate results, says Mr. Li. Unstable environmental condition An unstable environmental condition may affect the accuracy of thermal camera systems Environmental factors can impact the accuracy of thermal cameras, and the idea of using a black body is to provide the camera with a reference point that has a stable temperature. The black body is heated to a specific temperature and helps the thermal camera to know how much error is caused by environmental factors in the room, and how the camera should calibrate itself in real time to improve its accuracy. A black body can help increase the temperature measurement accuracy, and the most common improvement is from ±0.5 degrees to ±0.3 degrees. However, it also increases the cost of the installation. In some markets, customers may require black bodies in order to comply with regulatory accuracy requirements. An unstable environmental condition may affect the accuracy of thermal camera systems for measuring temperature. Medical temperature measurement Therefore, Hikvision suggests that the ambient conditions should be met for installation and use. First of all, users should avoid installing devices in hot or changeable environments. All cameras require indoor environments with calm air, consistent temperature and no direct sunlight. Installation should also be avoided in semi-open locations that may be prone to changes in ambient conditions, such as doorways, and there should be enough stable, visible light. All devices should be installed to avoid backlighting, high temperature targets, and reflections in the field of view as far as possible. “We often see the misconception that thermal cameras can replace medical temperature measurement equipment, which is not the case,” says Mr. Li. Rapid preliminary screening “Temperature screening thermographic cameras are designed for the detection of skin-surface temperatures, and the measurement should be conducted to achieve rapid preliminary screening in public areas. It is really important that actual core body temperatures are measured subsequently with clinical measurement devices.”

An impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been to accelerate change. In 2020, the security industry was among many others that sought to adapt to shifting norms. In the process, we grabbed onto new opportunities for change and, in many cases, re-evaluated how we have done business for decades. If necessity is the mother of invention, perhaps crisis is the mother of acceleration. This article will reflect on how these themes impacted the physical security industry in 2020, based on content we published throughout the year, and with links back to the original articles. Sensitive data leakage Since the lockdown came into effect, organisations globally have undergone years' worth of transformations in a matter of months. Whether it has been to transition their operations online or moving their IT infrastructure to the cloud, there’s no denying that the face of business has changed permanently, experiencing a seismic shift, both operationally and culturally. As we enter the ‘next normal’ there remains a great deal of uncertainty around what the next 12 months holds and how organisations can navigate turbulence in the face of a possible recession. One of the most notable and widely reported trends has been the switch to remote methods of work, or home working. With so many employees logging on from residential networks, through personal devices that may be more easily compromised, the overall attack surface has greatly increased, raising the risk of potential corporate and sensitive data leakage in their new home office settings. Security and data protection are larger issues than ever. Good cybersecurity hygiene Criminals will use the crisis to scam people for money, account information and more" With a majority of the world working from home, businesses had to respond to this changing landscape. While it used to be that in-person networking events and sales pitches secured new projects or opportunities, the current landscape pushes businesses to be more creative in how they reach their customers. For example, with ISC West being postponed, many companies have turned to online resources to share new product demonstrations and other company news. Others are hosting webinars as a way to discuss the current climate and what it means for the industry. Without the proper precautions, working from home could become a cybersecurity nightmare, says Purdue University professor Marcus Rogers. “Criminals will use the crisis to scam people for money, account information and more,” he says. “With more people working from home, people need to make sure they are practicing good cybersecurity hygiene, just like they would at work. There is also a big risk that infrastructures will become overwhelmed, resulting in communication outages, both internet and cell.” Work-life balance In a typical office with an on-premise data centre, the IT department has complete control over network access, internal networks, data, and applications. The remote worker, on the other hand, is mobile. He or she can work from anywhere using a VPN. Until just recently this will have been from somewhere like a local coffee shop, possibly using a wireless network to access the company network and essential applications. There are many benefits of working remotely with productivity right up the top of the list There are many benefits of working remotely with productivity right up the top of the list. By reducing the unproductive time spent commuting and travelling to meetings, we are able to get much more done in a day. Add to this the reduction in stress and improved work-life balance and it makes for an impressive formula of happier, healthier and more motivated colleagues. And it’s still easy to measure results no matter where someone is working. Video conferencing platforms Trade shows have always been a basic element of how the security industry does business - until the year 2020, that is. This year has seen the total collapse of the trade show model as a means of bringing buyers and sellers face to face. The COVID-19 pandemic has effectively made the idea of a large trade show out of the question. The good news is that the industry has adapted well without the shows. A series of ‘on-line shows’ has emerged, driven by the business world’s increasing dependence on Zoom and other video conferencing platforms. The fact is, 2020 has provided plenty of opportunities for sellers to connect with buyers. Some of these sessions have been incredibly informative – and conveniently accessible from the comfort of a home office. Online training courses Online training has grown in popularity this year, and the change may become permanent Online training has grown in popularity this year, and the change may become permanent. “We have seen unprecedented international demand for our portfolio of online training courses ranging from small installation companies to the largest organisations, across a wide range of sectors,” says Jerry Alfandari, Group Marketing Manager of Linx International Group, a UK training firm. “More than ever, businesses are looking to ensure they have the skills in-house to coordinate their response to the changing situation. Individuals are also taking this time to upskill themselves for when we return to ‘normal’ by bringing something with them they didn’t have before. Perhaps unsurprisingly, people are still seeking to better themselves for what will be, eventually, a competitive market.” Virtual trade show ‘Crisis and the Everyday’ was part of Genetec’s Connect’DX virtual trade show last spring. The virtual conversation – emphasising both in form and content the topsy-turvy state of the world – included interesting insights on the current pandemic and its near- and long-term impact on the industry. In the middle of this pandemic, there is an opportunity to help security reinvent itself “In the middle of this pandemic, there is an opportunity to help security reinvent itself,” said Brad Brekke, Principal, The Brekke Group, one of the panelists. “Amid the business disruption, we should ask ‘what’s the new playbook?’ It’s an opportunity for security to look at ourselves now and look at a business plan of what the future might look like. We need to align with the business model of the corporation and define our role more around business and not so much around security.” Cloud-based platform As a cloud-based platform for service providers in the security, smart home and smart business markets, Alarm.com adapted quickly to changing conditions during the coronavirus pandemic. In the recent dynamic environment, Alarm.com has kept focus on supporting their service provider partners so they can keep local communities protected. “We moved quickly to establish work-from-home protocols to protect our employees and minimise impact on our partners,” says Anne Ferguson, VP of Marketing at Alarm.com. The Customer Operations and Reseller Education (CORE) team has operated without interruption to provide support to partners. Sales teams are utilising webinars and training resources to inform and educate partners about the latest products, tools, and solutions. Alarm.com’s partner tools are essential for remote installations and support of partner accounts.

The coronavirus pandemic had a monumental impact on all aspects of the business world, including the security industry. However, amid the gloom and doom, many security professionals also saw opportunity: New ways the industry’s products could be applied to address the challenges of coping with the virus. This article will review some of those opportunities, based on our reporting throughout the year and including links back to the original articles. During and after the pandemic, security systems are an important asset when it comes to helping to keep occupants and buildings safe as employees return to work. For example, video analytics can provide insight into how spaces have previously been used and can help to predict where and when occupants encounter each other or congregate. Role of thermal cameras These foot-traffic patterns can inform settings for a variety of devices - like ventilation and temperature controls - and even help owners create social distancing plans and monitor personal protective equipment (PPE) compliance. Thermal surveillance, a mainstay of traditional physical security and outdoor perimeter detection, began being deployed early in the pandemic to quickly scan employees, contractors and visitors as part of a first line of defence to detect COVID-19 symptoms. These systems provide flexibility and can offer integrations with multiple VMS platforms and access control devices These systems provide flexibility and can offer integrations with multiple VMS platforms and access control devices. Thermal cameras can be a tool for detecting fever, but any use of the technology for this purpose is full of qualifications and caveats. Importantly, how the camera system is configured makes all the difference in whether temperature readings are accurate, and the downside of inaccurate readings is obvious - and potentially deadly. Temperature detection systems FDA guidelines limit how the cameras are used, not to mention guidance from other regulatory/government bodies such as the CDC. One of our Expert Roundtable panelists compares the market to a “wild west scenario,” and almost all the panelists are clear about how customers should approach the market: Buyer beware. There are many companies jumping into selling temperature detection systems to the state, local governments, hospitals, airports and local businesses, but do they know how to drive one? Anyone can get behind a car and drive it into a wall by accident. The same can happen with a temperature detection system. Customers need to know what questions to ask to ensure they maximise the accuracy of body temperature detection systems. Rise of contactless Spread of the novel coronavirus has jolted awareness of hygiene as it relates to touching surfaces such as keypads. No longer in favor are contact-based modalities including use of personal identification numbers (PINs) and keypads, and the shift has been sudden and long-term. Both customers and manufacturers were taken by surprise by this aspect of the virus’s impact and are therefore scrambling for solutions. Immediate impact of the change includes suspension of time and attendance systems that are touch-based Immediate impact of the change includes suspension of time and attendance systems that are touch-based. Some two-factor authentication systems are being downgraded to RFID-only, abandoning the keypad and/or biometric components that contributed to higher security, but are now unacceptable because they involve touching. "Users do not want to touch anything anymore,” says Alex Zarrabi, President of Touchless Biometrics Systems (TBS). Facial recognition system Another contactless system that benefits from concerns about spread of COVID-19 is facial recognition. New advancement in software, specifically in the areas of algorithms, neural networks and deep learning and/or artificial intelligence (AI), have all dramatically improved both the performance and accuracy of facial recognition systems, further expanding its use for an increasing number of applications. A low-tech solution - the face mask - became a leading preventative measure during the pandemic. But, a high-tech solution is necessary to ensure that everyone is wearing them. Cameras powered by artificial intelligence can now identify whether or not people entering a facility are wearing facemasks and help enforce adherence to mask mandates. This technology is proving to be a cost-effective solution that reduces risks of confrontations over masks policies and gives managers the data they need to document regulatory compliance and reduce liability. Smart video analytics Other technology approaches, including artificial intelligence (AI), were also brought to bear during the pandemic. The German data analytics powerhouse G2K, for example, has developed a Corona Detection and Containment System (CDCS) that is ready for immediate use in record time. Detection takes place in combination with AI-supported data analysis to specifically identify virus hotspots and distribution routes, as well as to identify other potentially infected persons. One specific AI application fuels the reopening of the world and successfully keeps the spread of the virus abated One specific AI application fuels the reopening of the world and successfully keeps the spread of the virus abated. A “collaborative security” application includes a synthesis of smart video analytics, facial recognition, object identification/detection, and thermal cameras that can support the reopening of businesses globally when installed within those facilities frequented by customers. Enforcing social distancing Several applications have been successful to date and will increase in usability in the foreseeable future, creating “smart cities” working together towards a safer, more secure world. The site of one pilot programme is the 250,000-square-foot HID Global facility in Austin. For the pilot programme, 80 HID Location Services readers were installed in a wide area in the facility, including a variety of environments. Initially 30 badges and 30 fobs, all BLE-enabled, were issued to employees. If a badge identifies another nearby beacon (suggesting a social distancing failure), it emits a blinking LED light, which can be seen by the offending co-worker. To ensure social distancing, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon is emitted from an employee’s fob (or from a badge that has the same functionality). The beacon communicates peer-to-peer with a beacon emitted by another employee’s fob or badge to alert if the location of the two employees is less than six feet apart. For contact tracing, the beacons communicate via a nearby “reader” (a BluFi BLE-to-Wi-Fi gateway) to the Bluzone cloud-based software-as-a-service. COVID-19 white papers In addition, we published several White Papers in 2020 that addressed various aspects of the coronavirus pandemic. They included: The top five security lessons learned that apply across all industries navigating COVID-19. Using video analytics to keep staff, visitors and customers safe by enforcing social distancing. How antimicrobial treatment on door handles and levers can reduce disease spread. How companies can put in extra precautions that will continue to grow and adapt with their environment over the long-term. Determining the practicalities and capabilities of today's thermal cameras to accurately detect body temperature.

Since the beginning of the Corona pandemic, MOBOTIX thermal cameras have been increasingly used in the healthcare sector, as well as airports, train stations, public authorities, and companies, to detect temperature anomalies in people without contact and thus contain the spread of the virus. However, this aspect is only one area for which MOBOTIX technology is currently providing special services. The MOBOTIX 7 Platform, with its intelligent and cyber secure camera systems M73 and S74, predestined MOBOTIX video technology even before the pandemic to ensure comprehensive, digital support in healthcare clinics and the care of the elderly and disabled. The reliable, high-quality video systems made in Germany reduce hospital and nursing staff's workload, provide digital care for patients and residents, and optimise care and workflow processes. Parking lot management Basic safety and pandemic protection in healthcare Also, during the pandemic, a special duty of care applies to employees, patients, and residents as a risk or high-risk group. MOBOTIX video technology is used in numerous clinics, retirement, and care facilities worldwide to ensure that patients, residents, and employees have a carefree stay and can work safely. Dangers and sources of risk are detected, and the intelligent systems warn, report, or directly initiate assistance and rescue measures. With the MOBOTIX 7 platform and the versatile apps, MOBOTIX offers exceptional application possibilities This allows staff to concentrate on their work, while hospital patients and nursing home residents can recover more quickly and get the rest they need. MOBOTIX video technology is also used for early fire detection and access control, mainly to protect sensitive areas such as sterile rooms, operating theatres, or medication depots. MOBOTIX also offers the right solutions for intrusion and theft protection, securing outdoor spaces, or access monitoring and parking lot management. With the MOBOTIX 7 platform and the versatile apps, MOBOTIX offers exceptional application possibilities: Temperature-sensitive people are detected as soon as they enter the facility and can be immediately sent for further examination. Crowding is avoided, and social distancing can be supported. MOBOTIX video systems detect when no mask is being worn and trigger an alarm or an information announcement. Cyber security and data protection Cyber security and data protection "Made in Germany” Particularly in the healthcare sector, cyber security and data protection must be given the highest priority. After all, it is a matter of protecting lives. But it is also about sensitive, personal data that must not fall into the wrong hands under any circumstances. MOBOTIX video systems consist of high-quality components. Developed, produced, and comprehensively tested at the company's German headquarters in Langmeil/Rhineland-Palatinate, the company creates products and solutions that are impressive not only because of their outstanding image quality - even in the most challenging lighting conditions. One hundred percent DSGV-compliant, the decentralised MOBOTIX systems stand for the highest possible cyber security and comprehensive data protection. Unauthorised persons cannot read the stored data. Intelligent video technology Relieving the workload of hospital and nursing staff with "digital care” Using intelligent video technology from MOBOTIX can significantly reduce the hospital and nursing staff's workload Hospital and nursing staff often work at the breaking point. Using intelligent video technology from MOBOTIX can significantly reduce the hospital and nursing staff's workload. For example, adequate video support can be used to carry out control rounds digitally. On the one hand, this creates free space that can be used for personal care and nursing, while on the other hand, emergencies are reported directly at the time they occur - and thus, the staff does not lose critical time. Effective signaling and calling systems targeted alarm differentiation, and the avoidance of false alarms keep staff motivation high and reduce alarm fatigue. Incorporating audio systems Digital and discreet care for patients and those in need of care MOBOTIX provides discreet video support for round-the-clock security without anyone feeling they are being watched. The video surveillance systems in healthcare facilities are discreetly and unobtrusively installed; they also detect and alert only when defined events occur to keep recordings to a minimum. At the same time, patients and residents can be sure that help will arrive quickly in an emergency. Even at night, helpless individuals are detected immediately, ensuring their safety and preserving their independence. By incorporating audio systems, MOBOTIX video solutions for healthcare also enable patients to be addressed and communicated directly with. Licence plate recognition Optimise hospital and care processes Smooth organisation of routines helps hospitals and retirement and care facilities be efficient and profitable Smooth organisation of important routines helps hospitals and retirement and care facilities be efficient and profitable. Numerous processes can be automated and optimised with MOBOTIX video technology, from the facility's journey to check-out. For example, professional parking management with licence plate recognition can ensure that only authorised vehicles can access specified areas. In this way, ambulance access routes can be kept free, or parking fees can be billed in a straightforward, fast, and accurate manner. Queues in registration or examination areas can be avoided, and smooth administration and medical and care areas can be enabled. University hospitals or teaching institutions can use high-resolution camera systems, e.g., in operating theaters, to fulfill their teaching and training mission without disruptions. Customers can develop further apps that enable completely individual solutions themselves or have them created by MOBOTIX and its technology partners and certified concerning cyber security. Advanced video technology Comprehensive solutions with the best return on investment Healthcare is a market that is extremely important to MOBOTIX. The high level of solution expertise digitises processes and work steps in everyday hospital and home life, using intelligent and future-proof video technology. Thus, simplifying work and making it safer also relieves the healthcare budgets' pressure and increases profitability (ROI).

Milton Keynes University Hospital has installed a Videx VX2200 system, one of the UK’s renowned access control manufacturer’s flagship door entry systems with 5178 hands free audio units and touch free entry points. Through opting for a touch free entry solution, the hospital has been able to reduce physical contact between people to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Four independent units were installed by ST Fire and Security in different buildings of the hospital. One was installed at The Campbell Centre, a 38-bed acute inpatient mental health unit, another system fitted at the hospital’s dental surgery, a system fitted at the entrance of urgent care and a final one at Eaglestone Health Centre which is a specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) facility. Audio apartment station Simon Turpin, Owner of ST Fire and Security, said: “The Videx VX2200 system with hands free audio apartment station and touch free entry points delivers huge benefits to the hospital by safeguarding patient, visitor and NHS staff safety as well providing easy and convenient access. The new system reduces waiting times as when a visitor uses it, someone in the building is immediately notified and will come to see them to complete entry.” “The Videx kit is the only one on the market currently that can offer convenient access in a touch-free way - they’re highly useful in helping the hospital ensure people stick to the designated one way system in place.” Touch free access Proximity access control can be added allowing authorised personnel to enter buildings touch free" As well as providing touch free access, the Videx system has replaced an existing system that had failed, affecting secure and convenient access to and from The Campbell Centre. The Videx solution means no patient or member of staff is waiting for access into the secure mental health unit, safeguarding patients and employees. Ben Davies, South East Sales Manager, Videx UK, said: “Our touch free access control range has proved hugely popular in recent months as minimal contact remains key to reducing the spread of the coronavirus. The range offers both exit buttons and entrance panels in a touch free format using infrared sensor technology, providing a no touch solution for businesses as they focus on creating a COVID secure environment for their employees, partners and customers.” Bespoke entry panels “Proximity access control can be added allowing authorised personnel to enter buildings touch free, which is particularly useful for hospitals and other NHS buildings such as GP surgeries and urgent care facilities. We can also provide fully customised options, offering bespoke entry panels and exit buttons that are in keeping with the surroundings of the building whether that’s a specific hospital ward, GP surgeries, or dentist practices.”

Globally renowned security video wall technology and audio visual solutions expert, Ultimate Visual Solutions (UVS) has announced that the company has secured its first contract in Poland, as part of a concerted sales drive across Central and Eastern Europe. The project deal, for a client in the energy sector, is to supply a control room with UVS Lucidity video wall controller technology. This deal takes the number of countries where Ultimate Visual Solutions has worked in or supplied equipment to 17 in the last two years. UVS Lucidity video wall controller technology The contract is the result of detailed online demonstrations of the UVS Lucidity video wall controller technology The contract is the result of detailed online demonstrations of the UVS Lucidity video wall controller technology during lockdown, to a client brought to UVS by the audio-visual distributor, Business International Group. The AV distributor, based in Warsaw, Poland provides professional solutions, devices and audio-visual accessories to a wide range of clients. UVS technology will be at the heart of a new operations centre, where it will be providing the monitoring of key Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and other critical data. Monitoring of SCADA systems and critical data Business International Group was introduced to Ultimate Visual Solutions by Pawel Religa, the UVS representative in Central and Eastern Europe, who was recruited to take advantage of the region’s fast-growing audio-visual markets. He was given technical support by UVS’s certified and authorised Eastern Europe pre-sale and after-sale service support partner, Robert Chlebowski of SIGE Poland. Pawel Religa has a wealth of experience in the AV sector, with previous employers including, Edbak (EDBAK Sp. Zo.o.). He is focusing on Russia, Poland and other key parts of the European mainland. Live demonstrations of UVS technology Pawel Religa commented, “The fact that Ultimate Visual Solutions (UVS) were able to provide Business International Group and their end client with very specific online live demonstrations and evaluations of the proposed UVS technology, and using the exact same SCADA application as the end client has implemented, convinced the end client that it was providing the correct solution.” Pawel further adds, “Ultimate Visual Solutions support during the sales, procurement and installation cycle has been excellent and Business Group are looking forward to a long term business relationship.” UVS remote services suite Ultimate Visual Solutions launched a suite of remote services, including a live online demonstration facility Earlier this year, Ultimate Visual Solutions launched a suite of remote services, including a live online demonstration facility, in order to provide full video wall technology evaluations for partners and their clients, even in lockdown or self-isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Steve Murphy, Managing Director of Ultimate Visual Solutions (UVS), which is based in the Business First - Burnley Business Centre, said “This contract is the first to come as a result of the many proposals we have been doing during lockdown for Business International Group in Poland, which have benefitted greatly from our ability to provide online demonstrations.” Video wall displays and AV solutions provider Steve Murphy adds, “The investment we made at the beginning of 2020 in our remote demonstration and remote support capability is proving invaluable and has contributed to a very strong finish to 2020.” Ultimate Visual Solutions (UVS), which has its headquarters at the Business First - Burnley Business Centre in Burnley, United Kingdom, provides video wall displays and audio visual solutions to a range of clients across the UK and the rest of the world. It changed its name from eyevis UK in September 2018, following the acquisition of eyevis GmbH by the Leyard Group.

HID Global, the globally renowned company in trusted identity solutions, has announced that Bay State College safely brought its students back to its campuses in Boston and Taunton, Massachusetts using a digitised contact tracing solution that includes HID Bluetooth BEEKs Beacons to provide real-time location services. HID Bluetooth beacon The HID Bluetooth beacon is in the form of a simple badge holder that is used to carry existing ID badges for students, faculty, staff and guests. The beacons are part of a robust solution that makes it possible to quickly and easily perform contact tracing, removing the manual and time-consuming effort to identify who has been in contact with whom on campus. “Contact tracing is a key component for safely operating our campuses and considered by health departments to be one of the most important efforts to help slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Jeffrey E. Myers, Chief Information Officer with Bay State College. Contact tracing solution He adds, “HID BEEKS beacons are carried by each person on campus as part of our solution that enabled us to safely resume in-person classes and keep our campus operational should isolated parts of our community find themselves infected.” The HID BEEKS Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) beacons provide the starting data that Bay State College’s contact tracing solution uses to calculate the time, place, and proximity of faculty, staff, and students while on the college’s two campuses. HID BEEKs Beacons HID’s offering is part of a broader platform that provides smart building and optimisation capabilities" The information from the beacons enables college administrators to comply with state and local occupancy mandates and, when needed, rapidly respond to cases. Logs are maintained only for the 14-day period required for contact tracing, and the university has adopted strict privacy policy guidelines for data use and access. “We are very pleased that Bay State College has used HID BEEKs Beacons to help streamline and accelerate the often daunting task of contact tracing,” said Mark Robinton, Vice President of IoT Services at HID Global, adding "In addition to creating a completely digitised approach to this process, HID’s offering is part of a broader platform that provides smart building and optimisation capabilities that extend well beyond today’s pressing need to stem the spread of COVID-19.” HID Location Services HID BEEKS Beacons are part of a complete HID Location Services for Workplace Safety that also simplifies and streamlines how to manage social distancing. These workplace safety solutions build on the company’s comprehensive HID Location Services platform, deployed by Fortune 500 companies worldwide, to manage building occupancy, optimise office and facility space, improve energy efficiency and enhance security. The platform can also monitor assets as well as the condition and health of industrial equipment.

Boon Edam Inc., a globally renowned company in security entrances and architectural revolving doors, has announced that Dexus Wholesale Property Fund has upgraded the Gateway Building in Sydney’s Circular Quay to feature entry security measures to protect employees, visitors and valuable data. The ideal solution was found by integrating Boon Edam Speedlane Swing optical turnstiles, IDEMIA’s MorphoWave touchless fingerprint scanners, Schindler’s elevator dispatch and Honeywell’s access control technology. Integration with MorphoWave touchless reader MorphoWave scans and verifies four fingerprints through a simple hand wave gesture Gateway’s access solution allows authorised and registered tenants to simply wave their hand in the MorphoWave touchless fingerprint scanner reader to enter the secure area through the turnstiles. Guests can sign in and register their finger pattern to become authorised to enter. MorphoWave scans and verifies four fingerprints through a simple hand wave gesture, during which the sensor takes several 3D photos of the fingerprints to extract biometric data and compare with the authorised fingerprints stored in the device. If they match, the user is granted access. This process all happens in less than one second. Featuring Schindler’s PORT Technology Each MorphoWave reader is connected to Schindler’s PORT Technology, which then receives the user’s credential data and conducts a cross-check with the building’s access control database. If the user is valid, a command is sent to the Boon Edam Lifeline Speedlane Swing to open its barriers. This interaction is surprisingly quick, with limited latency. “Tenants have a duty of care to protect their employees and visitors as well as valuable data and intellectual property, and they need the cooperation and support of a responsible and innovative building manager such as Dexus to manage secure entry into the building,” said Michael Fisher, Managing Director, Boon Edam Australia. Seamless access control integration A major part of the solution involves elevator destination control, whereby a user’s credentials are automatically assigned an elevator as they are verified and allowed access through the turnstile. This seamless integration was facilitated by an existing global partnership between Boon Edam and Schindler. The partnership arranged for Schindler’s PORT 4 mini technology to be embedded into the Speedlane Swing optical turnstiles at the manufacturing stage in the Boon Edam factory. Using an advanced algorithm and the integrated Schindler PORT 4 mini elevator destination control for visual and audio feedback, an elevator is automatically assigned, at the same time the turnstile is opening, allowing for optimum efficiency. The security is controlled by Honeywell’s access control system, integrated with Schindler’s PORT Technology. Honeywell access control system Honeywell has managed the security and building management systems for the Gateway building since 1990 Honeywell has been managing the security and building management systems for the Gateway building since it was first opened in 1990. Honeywell Asia-Pacific Solution Architect Leader Rhys Crabb said “Early engagement at all stages and a commitment to a collaborative approach enabled Dexus to select the best available technologies. Dexus placed customer outcomes first and foremost in the project brief, ensuring the delivery of a product that provided tenants and visitors with a premium, modern and secure user experience that is flexible and easy to use.” Boon Edam optical turnstiles Mr. Stephen Hodge, Senior Project Manager, Dexus, said “With so many stakeholders, and a strong need for reliability and quality, it was important that everyone knew the goals of the project and worked well together. I’m pleased to say that it was like a perfect jigsaw and everything came together smoothly." Stephen adds, “What was important to Dexus is that we were pushing the boundaries to create better experiences, but we’re only doing so with proven products. Boon Edam’s optical turnstiles have been installed globally and locally, and this gave us added confidence that they were the right product for this forward-looking project.” Enhanced building security “Another significant help with this project was that the companies involved built a prototype, located at Schindler’s Head Office based in Sydney, so that the Dexus management and technical teams could test the solution well in advance of implementing it at Gateway,” Hodge continued. He further stated, “It gave us peace of mind that we’d selected the right suppliers. We have tenants in Gateway who requested ground floor security, so we went out to tender to seek the best combination of sophisticated security and elegance, without being obtrusive to the building’s users.” Touchless fingerprint scanners for privacy Touchless fingerprint scanners were chosen to control access to secured floors and areas of the building Touchless fingerprint scanners were chosen to control access to secured floors and areas of the building, because they provide an extra level of privacy that was attractive to tenants. “A computer algorithm converts each person’s unique fingerprint signature into binary code, zeroes and ones, and uses that code to grant access,” explained Mr. Hodge, adding “Boon Edam turnstiles have the ability to integrate facial recognition, which could be highly valuable in other projects, but the fingerprint scanners were the right fit for this building. Boon Edam made it simple to integrate the scanners with their optical turnstiles, which helped us meet project deadlines.” Effective management of system installations For such a complex project, installation always has its challenges, including managing installation work as people continue to use the building. Mr. Bill Garrett, Facility Manager at Gateway Building, was impressed by Boon Edam’s service and installation team. He said, “The Boon Edam installation team always ensured safety was the number one priority and they did a quality job, even with some very difficult-to-access areas.” Garrett adds, “I’m delighted with the result of the project. One of the major benefits of the new entry system is that there’s a dedicated underground entrance for tradespeople, couriers and deliveries, which removes congestion and bulky carts from the main lobby. It’s all about enhancing the user experience, and Gateway will set a new benchmark for a seamless, secure and aesthetically pleasing entry.” Staged approach towards system implementation The testing, combined with the staged approach, allowed for a smooth transition to the new security technology" Mr. Garrett explained that to get tenants used to a totally new system, they adopted a staged approach. At first, the turnstiles were put into place but left in the open position and after an initial period, some of the turnstiles were closed so that tenants could try entering using the new technology, if they wished. Finally, the entire system was fully implemented. “In addition to this staged approach, we met with key tenants and allowed them to test the system in advance. The testing, combined with the staged approach, allowed for a smooth transition to the new security technology,” said Garrett. Scope of touchless access control technologies Now that the technology has been successfully rolled out at Gateway, Dexus is looking at other locations that could utilise the same harmony of security technologies. “We are continuing to assess opportunities to implement touchless technologies in new developments as well as in our existing buildings,” said Mr. Hodge. “The stylish and secure entrance at Gateway has been ideal through the COVID-19 pandemic. It manages flow, queries guests on recent visits to pandemic hotspots, if they are feeling any symptoms, and can record all entrants to the building, helping us meet government requirements. And the same features will be beneficial in a broader context, too, to help mitigate against unauthorised entry,” concludes Hodge. Dexus is actively exploring the possibility of rolling out similar security entrance systems in other buildings, thereby delivering the seamless balance of security and elegance.

In a time where marking specific locations have never been more important to aid in carrying out safe social distancing, security teams can struggle to communicate locations that do not have physical addresses. Need to effectively track locations Traditional street addresses can only work to a certain extent, globally 70% of addresses will not take one to the front door, with 74% of people saying clients, services and deliveries struggle to find them. Many places don’t have an address at all, so teams are left to depend on landmark-based descriptions such as, for example an address mentioning behind the third building to the left of the large tree, just after the crossroads. GPS coordinates can help, but they are difficult to communicate over the radio. what3words location tracking app what3words is a free app which has divided the world into 57 trillion 3-metre squares and given each square a unique combination of three words, a what3words address. The what3words app enables people to easily convey locations from specific building entrances or parking spots, and it provides easy location references in places with no street addresses, such as building sites, event spaces and large offices with multiple entrances. Location and property management company, The Movie Lot, use what3words to manage their security operations. The Movie Lot specialise in film and television security, location support, and traffic management for the British entertainment industry. Cutting-edge GPS technology We’ve used what3words to coordinate guards on locations from Hospital sites to outdoor film sets" They are experts at using cutting-edge GPS technology to ensure that even the most complex operations are equipped to cover the smallest detail. The Movie Lot use what3words to coordinate production and security crews as well as equipment whilst on location, and have also provided security staff for University College Hospital London during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as working on some of the world’s renowned household name entertainment productions, such as the Fantastic Beasts and Doctor Who movie franchises. The Director at The Move Lot, Mark Davies, explains how what3words has helped their security. He said, “We are proud to be partnered with what3words, it has been a huge addition for us to navigate guards to their exact position on locations. We’ve used what3words to coordinate guards on locations from Hospital sites to outdoor film sets.” An effective and quick emergency response Mark adds, “what3words is commonly used in the film industry and being able to utilise it on site to describe precise locations has given our team great support.” what3words has also been credited for its capability of saving lives, with emergency services urging the public to download the app in order to facilitate a more efficient response. what3words works offline, making it ideal for use in rural areas or areas with an unreliable data connection.

As an industry, we often speak in buzzwords. In addition to being catchy and easy to remember, these new and trendy industry terms can also reflect the state of the security market’s technology. In short, the latest buzzwords provide a kind of shorthand description of where the industry is - and where it’s going. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What new buzzword(s) rose to prominence in the security industry in 2020? (And how do they reflect industry trends?)

What a year 2020 was for the security industry! There were vast challenges that could not have been foreseen at the beginning of the year. It is safe to say that the events of 2020 defied all industry prognosticators. However, is that any reason not to hope our expectations looking ahead to 2021 will be much closer to reality? Can we possibly benefit from looking ahead and trying to plan for the challenges of the year ahead? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What will be the security industry’s biggest challenge in 2021?

As a subset of the larger economy, the security industry is bound to feel the effects of an economic downturn. Such was the case in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic undermined economic growth and presented a brand new set of challenges to business. The security industry has been able to pivot toward emerging opportunities, but that success has been offset by broader economic challenges. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What impact, positive or negative, has the larger economy had on the security marketplace in 2020?