Crowd Management

At ISC West 2018, visitors to the Genetec Inc. booth #26065 will be able to learn about the company’s new range of market-specific solutions specifically developed to address the needs of airports, cities, educational institutions, retailers, and transportation customers. “By leveraging the growing availability of valuable yet untapped sources of data, these portfolios create a host of new opportunities for organisations to find synergies between their security, operations, and business intelligence needs,” comments Jimmy Palatsoukas, Director of Product Marketing at Genetec. Genetec Citigraf is a decision support system ideally suited for law enforcement, emergency services, and public safety agencies Genetec Airport Sense At ISC West, airport customers will be particularly interested in looking at Genetec Airport Sense, an advanced operational analytics solution that correlates data provided by existing security sensors to produce actionable intelligence about passenger flow, airport security, and overall operations. Attendees will also be able to see how Genetec Security Center, a unified security platform, Genetec Clearance, a digital evidence management system, and Genetec Mission Control, a collaborative decision management system, are helping leading airports around the world heighten security, improve operations, and grow retail revenue. Genetec Citigraf Already installed in several cities around the world, Genetec Citigraf is a decision support system ideally suited for law enforcement, emergency services, and public safety agencies. Citigraf was first introduced in the city of Chicago, where it is helping to improve collaboration, shorten the first-response time of reported incidents, and significantly reduce crime. Featuring a powerful correlation and analytics engine, as well as a unified view of public safety operations, Citigraf instantly detects and displays relevant information from disparate systems for inter-agency collaboration. The proliferation of new surveillance systems, body-worn cameras, in-car video and mobile phones has created more ways to gather evidence, while exponentially increasing the quantity of data collected. A digital evidence management system, Genetec Clearance allows cities, police officers, investigators, and security managers to collect, manage, and share digital evidence from a variety of sources. To help solve challenges such as traffic congestion, roadway accidents, and parking scarcity, Genetec recently introduced Genetec Traffic Sense Genetec Traffic Sense The efficient flow of people, vehicles, and goods throughout cities and communities is a fundamental aspect of everyday life and business activities. To help solve challenges such as traffic congestion, roadway accidents, and parking scarcity, Genetec recently introduced Genetec Traffic Sense. This unified traffic operations platform brings together traditional traffic operations systems with security and incident response platforms and uses advanced analytics to detect road incidents and slowdowns, automates response, and provides operators with a consolidated view of events. Genetec Security Center and Mission Control Teaching, research, and learning happen best when faculty, staff, and students feel safe. With thousands of students and staff to protect, sprawling campuses, and emerging threats, campus security is often left feeling overwhelmed. Working together, Genetec Security Center and Mission Control increase situational intelligence and enable security personnel to prepare for, and effectively respond to, common occurrences and emergency situations. By unifying all aspects of campus security, such as access control, video, ALPR (Automated License Plate Recognition), communications, and intrusion, Security Center enhances the efficiency of campus police. Not only do they benefit from a global view of all their buildings and campuses, but they are better equipped to centrally act on threats at a moment’s notice. Genetec Retail Sense Genetec Retail Sense enables brick and mortar retailers to increase operational intelligence to enhance customer service Retailers today are behooved to gather and rely on the same insightful customer analytics that online merchants can harvest automatically. Security Center offers retailers enterprise-wide visibility of sales floors, point-of-sale (POS) and cash-handling areas, distribution centers, and parking facilities so that they can efficiently safeguard staff, patrons, buildings and equipment. When used with Security Center, Genetec Retail Sense enables brick and mortar retailers to increase operational intelligence to enhance customer service by transforming existing video surveillance content into powerful consumer insights. Genetec solutions are designed to help public transit agencies develop and maintain the most efficient operations and processes to provide passengers with positive experiences in a secure environment. When transit and security personnel manage operations from a single, unified platform, such as Security Center, they have easy access to all the data being collected by their physical security system. With this bird’s-eye-view of their environment, they can respond quickly and knowledgeably to any incidents as they arise.

Despite the huge amount of video data collected, statistics show that only 10 percent of data is ever used and most loses its value within seconds of being generated. Why use such a limited amount of data? Many security organisations are focused on delivering the right information in case of an emergency or providing the correct evidence after a criminal act. Yet the fact is, a new video security system can be a large investment. Together with the service, maintenance and management costs associated with it, most video systems are currently considered overhead. So how can you maximise the value of your video system? Video analytics ensure surveillance images are continuously analysed in real-time to alert users to things that need attention. This helps organisations make sense of video data and adds an extra layer of protection by providing alerts to potential security risks before or as they occur, such as detecting loitering in a parking lot or a perimeter breach after hours.Integrating analytic alerts with other security systems enables organisations to use the data to trigger responses from other components of the security solution Video analytics can be programmed to alert on things such as line/perimeter crossing, illegal parking, loitering: people counting, speeding in areas like parking lots, colour matching alerts. These are just some of the ways video analytics can assist to enhance security and safety. Video analytics trigger system events Integrating analytic alerts with other security systems enables organisations to use the data to trigger responses from other components of the security solution. This can increase overall security, better mitigate risk, and reduce complexity for users to improve efficiency. For example, intelligent cameras equipped with video analytics can initiate intrusion detection system events when alarms are triggered. The analytic alert can immediately fault a corresponding point on the panel. This can prompt the panel to communicate the alarm to the central station or to send video snapshots to security personnel. In a retail store or warehouse environment, video analytics can also alert to an emergency exit that has been blocked by a pallet of boxes or by another object. Using an idle object rule, the IP camera with analytics can alert when an object remains in the area for longer than a pre-defined amount of time. People counting and crowd detection can also help organisations improve customer satisfaction by monitoring for long lines or people gathered in an area When this occurs, the alert can fault a point on the intrusion control panel, which can then send an email or text message with a video snapshot to the store or warehouse manager. This can help to prevent code violations and unsafe conditions. Extending beyond security Not only can video analytics detect threats, alert to security breaches, and help enforce health and safety regulations, it can also do much more. It can enable organisations to re-purpose the data for new uses for the business—offering valuable insights to other departments within an organisation, such as providing the ability to analyse behaviour in retail stores to help merchandisers create more effective display placements. How is this possible? Analytics can provide organisations with the additional information about video data that they need to re-purpose it for a business advantage. The cameras can interpret data directly at the source and re-assign it to help organisations make smarter decisions.By providing business information that goes beyond conventional security applications, new functionality can easily be added to a video security system This includes monitoring presence to reduce utility bills, identifying patterns in customer activity to improve sales, and distinguishing road blocks to optimise retail shop layout and increase customer satisfaction. Improving customer satisfaction People counting and crowd detection can also help organisations improve customer satisfaction by monitoring for long lines or people gathered in an area, indicating additional assistance may be needed. By providing business information that goes beyond conventional security applications, new functionality can easily be added to a video security system. In this way, video analytics can help organisations reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve sales. The organisation gains greater value from the system and a return on investment that can be measured in tangible business results. Then, the video system is no longer considered overhead. Overall, using video analytics as part of an integrated security system and fully using the data gained from the analytics can help you better meet your organisation’s needs for security and extend surveillance data to deliver additional business benefits. I believe that every business should be able to take advantages of these advances in technology - without the need for additional investment or a license fee. Every business is different, and new analytics solutions should be adaptaple to meet your exact needs. Thinking beyond security opens up video analytics to revolutionise how video data will be used in the future and can take data usage to a whole new level.  

Every year, over 7,000 major outdoor events are held in the UK, with over 85 million people attending festivals and events. However, with an increase in attacks over recent years, it’s crucial that there are security measures in place to keep all attendees, workers and acts safe. Here, First Fence, a supplier of security measures, discuss what security steps to take to minimise any risks. Metal detectors and bag searches Following last year’s devastating atrocities in Manchester and London, festivals have upped their security to reduce the terrorist threats that are ever-looming. Festival workers have received additional training to carry out more comprehensive bag searches, whilst ensuring that festival goers aren’t held up too much. Last year, organisers at Leeds Festival only allowed people to take bags into the arena that were smaller than an A4 sheet of paper. By planning for all possible scenarios, it means that everyone can enjoy the festival and feel safe It’s recommended that all festival goers minimise their luggage so as not to slow queues down; or take multiple trips through the barriers, as opposed to carrying all bags through in one go. With Coachella taking place in April in California, workers have recently received emergency training to specifically deal with mass shootings; in addition to the standard metal detectors. Whilst it's sad that we should even have to consider these eventualities, it’s important that everyone stays safe. By planning for all possible scenarios, it means that everyone can enjoy the festival and feel safe. Educating the public Festival organisers have been encouraged to advise members of the public to educate themselves on what they should do, should they find themselves in the horrific situation of a terrorist attack. The government has produced a handy leaflet, detailing what to do if people find themselves in the midst of a weapons attack, and have also created a stay safe video. This year, to help keep security tight at any upcoming festival, it is important to educate attendees on how they can stay safe should such an incident happen. Hopefully it will never come to that, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. To help keep festival goers secure, it is important to ensure that their workers are 100% clear on their roles and responsibilities Crowd control with barriers Security measures need to be put in place before an event even starts: get an idea of numbers attending and carry out a risk assessment. There should be plenty of entrances and exits with a clear concourse for people to walk through. It is also imperative to consider any temporary structures that could collapse, and the eventuality that people may try climbing on structures and equipment. Having barriers in place can be beneficial for crowds, especially due to an increase in the number of vehicles being driven into large crowds (something which the Edinburgh Fringe advocated last year). However, the other thing to consider with barriers and fences, is the possibility (however slight), that a crowd surge could result in people being crushed. To help keep festival goers secure, a company needs to ensure that their workers are 100% clear on their roles and responsibilities. Companies can’t go wrong with hiring several stewards, as they can show people around, and monitor crowds for any suspicious behaviour. Security risk assessments Doing risk assessments and having backup plans for all eventualities is a great way to up security at festivals, but attendees’ safety can be ensured even by working with local authorities, emergency services and the police. Once an emergency plan has been developed, it needs to be shared with them, and they can offer advice on anything that may have been missed, or whether there’s a better, more effective way of doing something. Whilst chance of an attack is unlikely, it’s something that needs to be considered, should the unthinkable happen Planning ahead In such a plan, it is necessary to include considerations on how festival goers can escape any immediate danger, and how any casualties will be dealt with. Ultimately, festivals are a place to have fun, enjoy the many live acts and spend time with friends; and whilst chance of an attack is unlikely, it’s something that needs to be considered, should the unthinkable happen. By planning ahead with these four tips, one can help to ensure festivals run smoothly, whilst knowing that everyone is as safe as they can possibly be.

Agent Video Intelligence (Agent Vi), global provider of video analytics solutions, has announced the launch of its breakthrough Anomaly Detection capability, as part of Agent Vi’s cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS), innoVi. Combining Agent Vi’s extensive research into Artificial Intelligence (AI) and development of Deep Learning-powered algorithms with the company’s 15 years of experience in providing cutting-edge Video Analytics solutions, the new Anomaly Detection is a robust self-learning capability that instantly alerts users to atypical incidents. innoVi turns unstructured video data into structured metadata by detecting and tracking all objects in the camera’s field of view innoVi cloud-based SaaS While innoVi’s Anomaly Detection can be applied to surveillance systems of all sizes, it is particularly valuable for large-scale deployments such as Smart Cities, where the sheer volume of cameras prevents video feeds from being monitored continuously. In such scenarios, and without pre-definition by the user, Agent Vi’s Anomaly Detection can quickly learn the regular movement and traffic in a scene, and alert to irregular incidents, such as a crowd forming or running, a traffic accident or interruption, and more. innoVi turns unstructured video data into structured metadata by detecting and tracking all objects in the camera’s field of view, and then further analyses the metadata to discover typical object types, motion patterns and models. Anomaly Detection continuously analyses the scene in real-time and compares it to the learned models, to identify and alert users to irregular incidents that may have otherwise gone undetected. This is achieved through autonomous and continuous learning by innoVi without any pre-definition by the user, eliminating the need for manual rule configuration and testing. innoVi boasts Anomaly Detection as well as highly accurate, user-defined rules for Real-Time Event Detection Real-time monitoring and anomaly detection innoVi boasts Anomaly Detection as well as highly accurate, user-defined rules for Real-Time Event Detection, making it an optimal solution for scenes where the events of interest are predicted and well-defined, as well as scenes with continuous motion where it is impossible to predict the range of irregularities that may require user attention. Implemented over scalable cloud infrastructure and applicable to any type of surveillance camera, innoVi is the ideal solution for any type of surveillance deployment, especially large Smart City installations. Agent Vi CTO, Zvika Ashani, commented that “By utilising the latest advances in AI and unsupervised learning, we are able to deliver a solution that fits our customers’ highest priority, namely, increasing their ability to quickly respond to unforeseen security and safety events, and improving overall management of their cities and facilities.” Agent Vi’s Anomaly Detection will be on display at ISC West, 11-13th April 2018 in Las Vegas, NV, USA, at the Agent Vi pod within the Axis Communications booth (#14051).

The year 2017 saw some of the worst natural disasters in North America, with Hurricanes Harvey and Irma wreaking havoc on Houston, Texas, and the Caribbean with force of which we haven’t seen before. While many people chose to evacuate these areas, many were left to deal with the devastation and first responders had the difficult job of assessing the damage, rescuing trapped victims and delivering food and supplies. AI-enabled drones and robotics to assess damage In addition, more than 1,800 FEMA employees were deployed to support the hurricane relief efforts along with over 340 workers from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.Robots could be vital in ensuring that security is maintained within a disaster zone - and they only cost a quarter of a police officer's salary That’s on top of the resources that were already actively working to save lives in the affected areas, including the Texas National Guard, the entirety of which was activated by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott shortly after Harvey came ashore. While these rescue workers work tirelessly to make a difference, many times there simply aren’t enough hands to truly help everyone in need. As a result, some companies look at this as a way to introduce technology to the equation that can be easily deployed in the event of disaster, including artificial intelligence-enabled drones and robotics to assess damage, provide initial triage for patients, and provide basic supplies to people in need. While still in the beginning stages, these initiatives are already being implemented in some emerging markets. Robots as mobile sentries Disaster situations tend to bring out the best in people as evidenced by those who turn out en masse, either on their own or by volunteering with service organisations, to try and help their fellow citizens following storms, earthquakes and other types of calamities.Utilising a robot instead of a human as a sentry means less law enforcement and/or security personnel Unfortunately, these types of incidents also bring out the worst in humankind in the form of looters and others who seek to take advantage of people who have lost everything. Although it should be noted that fears and reports of looting are often overstated during events like Harvey and other disasters, there’s no denying that keeping the peace and making sure that things do not descend into chaos and anarchy during what is a stressful time for all involved is paramount. Given that law enforcement and the National Guard must devote the majority of their attention to other recovery efforts, robots could be vital in ensuring that security is maintained within a disaster zone. In addition to not having to allocate manpower to security, which again involves bringing in people and placing further burdens on available resources, deploying robots to act as mobile sentries offers a number of benefits. Sustainable resources Obviously, there are cost advantages to using robots rather than people. For example, in a typical commercial environment, robots can be deployed for about half the cost of a traditional unarmed guard and they only cost about a quarter of what it takes to employ a police officer in a law enforcement-type application. Most robots are also outfitted with surveillance cameras, which provide authorities the ability to constantly monitor an area and record video for evidentiary purposes. Artificial intelligence-enabled drones and robotics aid to assess damage, provide initial triage for patients, and provide basic supplies to people in need during a natural disaster  Perhaps the most appealing benefit that robots offer to emergency management officials in a security role during disaster recovery efforts is sustainability. Robots never get tired, nor do they have to use the bathroom, eat or take a break. With the abilities afforded by AI, robots can also navigate any designated area autonomously to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior or alert first responders to those who may need aid.Pattern recognition programs are essentially the building blocks that make the larger umbrella of general AI possible The SMP Robotics S5 Security Robot from Robotic Assistance Devices, for example, can run for as long as 20 hours without needing to be recharged and a single operator working from a central command post could manage up to 25 of them. Robotic sentries to address short-staffing Having robots patrol certain locations also reduces the likelihood of violent encounters between people and security forces. It’s not uncommon for tensions to boil over in situations where people feel hopeless and they can sometimes lash out at the very people sent to help them. Such a situation occurred following Hurricane Katrina, which devastated New Orleans and other areas of the Gulf Coast in 2005. Just days after the Superdome was converted into a makeshift shelter for evacuees, conditions inside the massive building began to deteriorate and a National Guardsman was assaulted one night inside a locker room. The attack resulted in troops putting up barbed wire fencing in various places around the building for protection from the increasingly agitated crowd. Last but certainly not least, utilising a robot instead of a human as a sentry in the aftermath of a disaster means that less law enforcement and/or security personnel will have be pulled from surrounding areas, many of which are already short-staffed as it is.Robots are outfitted with surveillance cameras, which provide authorities the ability to constantly monitor an area Law enforcement, firefighters and EMTs from adjacent communities and neighboring states almost immediately pour into the hardest hit areas following a disaster; however, this also leaves their respective agencies somewhat vulnerable themselves should they encounter a devastating event of their own. The use of just 50 robots, because they can work more hours, could mean that roughly 120 first responders could stay put in their own cities, towns and counties. New possibilities with artificial intelligence While drones still largely require a human operator to chart their flight paths and control their movements, the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the capabilities of machines to work autonomously. Though it may sound like something straight out of a science fiction novel or movie, there are already numerous robotic technologies that leverage some form of AI technology today. Of course, there is still a bit of confusion about what exactly AI is as well as some of the underlying terminology surrounding it. Generally speaking, AI is the ability of a computer to imitate the cognitive thinking and decision-making capabilities of humans. AI is the ability of a computer to imitate the cognitive thinking and decision-making capabilities of humans Some of the terms used in conjunction with AI, such as machine learning, deep learning and neural networks, refer to the ability of software programs to recognize patterns in large amounts of ingested data. Pattern recognition programs such as these, labeled by some as ‘narrow AI’, are essentially the building blocks that make the larger umbrella of general AI possible.Robots used in disaster scenarios could help maintain law and order, assist in search and rescue operations, and provide vital communications capabilities Remote physical security capabilities The physical security industry has recently been inundated with technologies that leverage different components of this narrow AI category. The manned guarding segment, in particular, has seen the introduction of a variety of robot guards over the past several years, which have been deployed in a range of different applications. Aside from serving as a force multiplier, robots with machine learning capabilities give security end users the ability to have an expanded presence in locations or situations characterised as too 'dull, dirty or dangerous' to place a human guard. For example, while it may not be feasible to have a human patrol the outskirts of a vital electric substation located hundreds of miles from the nearest town, having a robot that can easily traverse the harsh terrain and notify the proper authorities when something is amiss would be a viable alternative.Sometimes health and safety concerns make it dangerous to have a human watch the site, such as at toxic waste dumps - robots do not have this issue Technology as force multiplier in disaster management There are also situations where health and safety concerns simply preclude the ability of having a human watch the site, such as at toxic waste dumps, but this is not the case for a robot. Similar to these situations where having human guards is not desirable or even possible, robots could be used in disaster scenarios where they could help maintain law and order, assist in search and rescue operations, as well as provide vital communications capabilities. Robots and drones that are equipped with artificial intelligence capabilities can offer first responders a look into the aftermath of a natural disaster and serve as a force multiplier in these cases. We’re seeing the rise of the use of this kind of technology, and as the world faces more and more weather-related and man-made disasters in the future, they will become a part of the fabric of emergency response.

Today’s security professionals are tasked with protecting the entirety of a facility or campus from every possible threat. It’s a big task, given the range of solutions available; from cybersecurity to prevent hacking, to video surveillance to monitor the goings-on within the facility, to the physical security of the building itself. For most businesses and schools, keeping the entrances and exits to a building secure is an extremely high priority—when an individual cannot get into the building they will have a harder time causing trouble for those within it. With quantum leaps happening in security technology, architectural revolving doors may not always be top-of-mind when designing a new security system from scratch. However, with recent technological advances in the last decade, and considering that they occupy less floor space and are extremely good at reducing unwanted air infiltration into an interior, it is definitely time to examine how they can participate in a complete physical security plan as well. A well-known financial company in the Midwest of America was the target of a protest, against their financing of a controversial initiative Restricted access for business continuity The exterior door to a building or premises, often a public entrance during business hours, is typically the first line of defence against unwanted persons or activity making its way into an organisation. If lobby or security staff sense trouble outside (distress, fights, weapons, protests, etc.), they need a quick and effective way to block anyone from entering the building and creating danger for those inside. Should this type of incident make its way into a building, it creates a number of risks, including the expenditure of unnecessary resources, loss of productivity, violence, and liability for the business. For example, recently a well-known financial company in the Midwest was the target of a protest against their financing of a controversial initiative. A large crowd gathered outside on the street, pushed inside the building, and took over the interior lobby. The protesters not only disrupted the retail banking business at the lobby level, but also attempted to block employees from going to work on the upper floors. The protest lasted hours, making it difficult to do business, and was stressful for employees. In addition, the news cycle around the protest created an image problem for upper management and the overall brand. Revolving doors for access control Thanks to technology employing electricity, today’s manual revolving doors can potentially save lives Beyond the immediate risks of theft and violence, crime has numerous intangible effects on employees, residents or students that can have a more profound and lasting impact. These include physical pain and suffering, along with a feeling of anxiety, stress, and uncertainty around future security. According to a survey conducted by Workplace Options in 2015, 53% of American workers have experienced a traumatic event while at work—with workplace violence or criminal activity listed as one of the top four events that cause trauma. Revolving doors can be a reliable solution for providing this necessary security. They are often deployed in buildings where public use is needed during the day, but controlled access is required in the evening—for example, banks, museums, commercial buildings, condominiums, libraries, dorms, recreational centres, and more. Thanks to technology employing electricity, today’s manual revolving doors are more capable than ever before and can potentially save lives or buy the time necessary to alert security staff or notify law enforcement to deal with a dangerous situation in time to prevent harm, stress, or liability. Secure access can be made possible via an access control device mounted on the outside of the door Enhanced security with electronic lock control The following security features are now available for manual revolving doors being deployed in buildings right now: Emergency security lockdown: Facility or reception staff can electronically lock the door in place, regardless of position, at the push of a remotely located button. In the event of an immediate security threat outside the entrance (weapons, protests, drunk and disorderly conduct, etc.), access to a lobby or entrance can be instantly denied, and those within protected. Remote locking: In an earlier time, the manual pushing of a pin was required to lock a revolving door’s wing into the ceiling or the floor. Today, you can lock a manual revolving door by using a remote pushbutton, or, an access control system can lock the door automatically at a specific time of day. If anyone is still in transit during the lock command, the door will allow them to exit before locking. Once the door is locked, staff can easily unlock it with the same remote mechanism if there is an authorised visitor. Access control integration: Integration with access control systems gives manual revolving doors even more capabilities. Secure access can be made possible via an access control device such as a keycard reader, mounted on the outside of the door. Upon valid authorisation, the door will unlock and the user can push to enter the facility. Once all compartments are clear, the door finishes rotating by positioning its door wings at the end posts of the throat opening and relocks. If tailgating is a concern, your revolving doors should be the first of several layers of physical security Efficient incident management Consider the usage of these features for a building such as a downtown high-rise condominium. During the day or night, residents can enter by showing credentials outside the door to the access control system. Any deliveries would have to stand outside, ring the doorbell and wait for reception to unlock the door and let them in. If anything threatening occurs during rotation, reception staff can immediately lock the doors to keep trouble out and call for help. At a high-rise office building, it can work differently. The door can be unlocked during the day for public entry with guards keeping a watchful eye outside, ready to lock the doors instantly if trouble happens outside. The access control system can lock the doors at 5pm until 7am the next morning, requiring employees or cleaning crew to present their credentials to enter. Access control integration It should be noted that standard revolving doors are not equipped to detect or prevent tailgating (an unauthorised person following an authorised person through an entrance). They should not be confused with a security revolving door, which is intended for individuals trained to use these doors at employee-only entrances. With this in mind, consider that with access control integration, a standard revolving door will unlock when presented with an authorised credential, but will continue to rotate as long as anyone is inside the door to prevent entrapment. Tailgating is still a possibility with these entrances, so if this is a concern, your revolving doors should be the first of several layers of physical security including, potentially, additional turnstiles, guard staff, surveillance cameras, additional locking mechanisms for restricted areas, and so on. Ensuring compliance with code requirements To keep building interiors safe, standard revolving doors can be a simple, cost-effective and easy to implement Finally, modern code requirements for revolving doors are defined by a number of different agencies—ANSI, IBC, and NFPA. All require that a revolving door’s wings be able to collapse or ‘book fold’ to create a path of escape during a fire, and that a swinging or sliding door must be present within 10 feet of any revolving door, on the same building plane. To make sure this additional door isn’t a security weak point, the extra sliding or swinging door can be ‘exit only’, or locked to those trying to enter from outside the building, but unlocked to those trying to exit from inside the building. To keep building interiors safe, standard revolving doors can be a simple, cost-effective and easy to implement solution that helps prevent unwanted entry by those looking to do harm and create unwanted liability. Considering revolving doors can be a first step into securing the entrances and exits of your building, and protecting everyone and everything within.

With security and safety a major focus during the recent World Cup in Russia, IDIS surveillance technology was chosen for a surveillance upgrade at the 45,000 capacity Rostov Arena and the 35,000 capacity Kaliningrad Stadium. At both locations an IDIS Total Solution was installed with a total of 3000 IP cameras comprising full HD and H.265 models and PTZ cameras featuring Smart UX Controls v2.0, a range of full HD, true wide dynamic range (WDR), IR bullet cameras and full HD box cameras with all external cameras equipped to withstand Russia’s often harsh weather conditions. IDIS technology deployed at these response centres enabled security staff to rapidly detect and respond to any breach of health and safety, suspicious behaviour or terrorist threat IDIS Critical Failover to prevent data loss A centralised surveillance monitoring centre utilising an IDIS ultra-thin bezel 55” video wall delivered command and control of the two stadiums and allowed security staff to access 60 days of archived footage from 50 remote IDIS DR-8364 NVRs implemented at situational centres. IDIS technology deployed at these response centres enabled security staff to rapidly detect and respond to any breach of health and safety, suspicious behaviour or terrorist threat. For complete protection, IDIS Critical Failover was installed in order to prevent loss of vital recorded data during a range of fault conditions. The system automatically steps in to ensure continued recording in the event of network instability, network failure, storage failure, recorder hardware failure and power supply failure, in each case ensuring that no data is lost. Our advanced technology helped to ensure safety and security by preventing unauthorised intrusion" Preventing unauthorised intrusion "The IDIS surveillance system, installed inside and around the stadium gave security controllers a complete overview of the site and perimeter fences,” said Joon Jun, President of the Global Business Division of IDIS. “Our advanced technology helped to ensure safety and security by preventing unauthorised intrusion. "We are proud that our brand credibility and product stability has been recognised on the global stage at an event which was the focus of world attention. To safeguard thousands of visitors at these key venues, it was essential to use the most reliable technology including high-resolution surveillance cameras with waterproof and dustproof functions and a solution that prevented data loss in the event of network instability."

With a number of terrorist attacks having taken place around the world in the past days, city surveillance has become a crucial issue with top priority for the local and central governments. Surveon city solutions provide product lines including high reliability cameras with excellent image quality, feature-rich VMS with video analytics function, and RAID NVR with large storage capacity for 365+ days non-stopping recording. These comprehensive solutions help governments to build good foundations to improve social order, crack down on crimes, and protect citizens from horrible attacks. High reliability cameras Generally speaking, the governments might encounter some major challenges when designing a suitable surveillance system, such as heat, humidity, and temperature changes in outdoor environment. Under such circumstances, Surveon provides cameras with excellent image quality and lowest RMA rate to handle all kinds of outdoor condition. "Surveon’s industrial designed and 100% own manufactured cameras have made us feel confident about this project. The cameras are now being used for a few years with an average failure rate of less than 0.03% which is really impressive." said Chan, the surveillance project manager of Kaohsiung. Surveon NVRs provide large capacities for 365+ days non-stopping recording, extended IP storage, and RAID function for zero video loss The data retention of recorded video is particularly important to the planning and acceptance of city projects. Surveon NVRs provide large capacities for 365+ days non-stopping recording, extended IP storage, and RAID function for zero video loss.  Enterprise VMS In addition, Surveon intuitive VMS offers features such as video analytics, offering police units powerful yet easy to use solutions for city surveillance. By paired with Surveon enterprise VMS, the solutions provide robust prevention, preparedness, detection, and quick response measures. Surveon city solutions have been successfully applied in some major cities in Taiwan and Mongolia. “With Surveon’s E2E solutions, from 3-megapixel IP66 cameras, hardware RAID NVR, clustered storage, to enterprise VMS, we are now better equipped to monitor the entire district and protect the community against illegal activities.” said the Sükhbaatar district police officer in Mongolia.

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

Airbus has expanded the range of its application portfolio for the Tactilon Dabat and partnered with new professional application developers. The aim is to better serve the communications markets in the field of public safety, transportation and healthcare. At the CCW exhibition in Berlin from 15 to 17 May 2018, Airbus is showcasing selected applications for professionals that combine multimedia real-time functions with highest standards of security.  “The apps that we showcase at the CCW work in various areas, whether it is industry, public safety or the health sector. They meet specific customer needs and requirements for different regions in the world,” explains Rahim Zaknoun, Head of Innovation & Developer Ecosystem at Secure Land Communications of Airbus. "We selected these apps for our customers and created them for the hybrid Tactilon Dabat.” For instance, the digitalised Triage application from Exomi helps first responders (paramedics) to send complex health data of patients from the ambulance on the scene to the hospital. The delivery of the constantly updated information is standardised and reliable. It can easily be shared not only via the Tactilon Dabat, the Android smartphone and Tetra radio in one device, but also on other platforms in control rooms or in the field. Thus, the application streamlines processes and accelerates a more accurate treatment for the patients. Commanders and group members (Tetra and smartphone users) can easily follow each other on the Dabat’s display based on a map configuration with GPS Live video sharing platform The application ES-Core features a live video sharing function that is secure and supports external video sources, such as from drones or vehicles. Even with little radio coverage the transmission is of high quality. Moreover, footing can be stored as evidence or for the purpose of analysis. “Clearly, this is a tool for police officers. However, paramedics work increasingly with this app on the scene and companies can also master situations by transmitting a live video stream,” says Rahim Zaknoun. Another application can fill frequently the gap of non-existing radio coverage in many public buildings: the ‘indoor positioning’ system for large sites creates a real-time situational awareness when communication groups move around in- and outdoors. Based on a map configuration with a GPS function, commanders and group members (Tetra and smartphone users) can easily follow each other on the Dabat’s display. The application serves especially security personnel in airports, train stations, or event sites: no configuration is needed, a seamless in- and outdoor positioning is put in place and the app works without broadband connection.  Track Worker Protection In order to save lives of railway track workers and minimise the risk of collisions, the company Intelligence on Wheels invented the app ‘Track Worker Protection’. This application with a clear map display receives permanent train location updates. Our SmarTWISP application developer programme is the key reference point when it comes to creating secure apps" The signals will be sent from the train operator’s control room and the train itself, which is equipped with a Train Collision Avoidance System. Critical scenarios can now be easily managed with the Tactilon Dabat and the ‘track worker protection’. “Our SmarTWISP application developer programme is the key reference point when it comes to creating secure apps,” says Rahim Zaknoun. “It enables the innovation and professional application development on the top of Airbus’ existing communication technology. It boosts our strong developer ecosystem."

Vicon Industries, Inc., designer and manufacturer of video surveillance and access control software, hardware and components has announced that The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, the largest Cathedral and fifth largest church building in the world, recently completed installation of a Vicon Valerus video management system to secure the Cathedral and surrounding 11.3-acre complex in Manhattan.  Valerus VMS As the seat of the Episcopal Diocese of New York, the Cathedral is the site of daily religious services, community programing and social outreach. It also plays host to a busy schedule of art exhibitions, concerts, receptions, public and private events and visiting dignitaries, who have included Nelson Mandela, The Most Reverend Desmond Tutu and President Bill Clinton. The new Valerus system combines over 70 Vicon high-resolution IP cameras, a Valerus application server and multiple recording servers The new Valerus system, installed by the Long Island office of ITsavvy, an IT products and technology solutions provider, combines over 70 Vicon high-resolution IP cameras, a Valerus application server and multiple recording servers. The system’s wide range of cameras include models with powerful zoom that provide detailed coverage of surrounding city streets, and others chosen for their ability to perform well in the low and challenging light inside the Cathedral. Vicon IP cameras Cameras also provide coverage of the Cathedral’s’ exterior, administrative and residential buildings that support the Bishop, clergy and Diocese, a world-class textile conservation laboratory, visitor center, information booths and surrounding grounds and gardens. The Valerus system is vital for providing safety for all visitors, staff, residents and students, as well as protecting the property and its many valuable artifacts. Cameras are particularly helpful in protecting the Cathedral from liability in slip-and-fall incidents Cameras are particularly helpful in protecting the Cathedral from liability in slip-and-fall incidents. They also document, for the police, any incidents that arise from the Cathedral’s service to the mentally ill and indigent. Live and recorded video from the Valerus system is frequently shared with NYPD and local security forces from Columbia University and other neighboring institutions.  Crime prevention and incident management Keith Hinkson, Director of Security at The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, says, “The searching feature is so much easier on Valerus, and we can see up to 99 cameras on one screen. This is huge for an institution like ours. I can go from one camera to the next with no trouble whatsoever.” “Vicon is incredibly proud that a world-class institution as prestigious as The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine has entrusted its security to an end-to-end Vicon solution, including our latest Valerus software. Our participation in this project illustrates that Valerus can deliver security effectively to the most high-profile of installations,” said Bret McGowan, Vicon’s Senior V.P. of Sales and Marketing.

Sports fans and festival goers will enjoy greater peace of mind from vehicle as a weapon (VAAW) attacks with the arrival of a new lightweight rapid-deploy vehicle security barrier (VSB).  The Rapid Defender temporary VSB was deployed in minutes to protect spectators and competitors from VAAW threat at the London Marathon and at football stadia and events the length and breadth of the country.  Rosehill Security, a manufacturer of perimeter security solutions, has created the innovative hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) barrier, made up of robust units of recycled rubber weighing just 49kg each. More than 150 people have died in 18 months of VAAW in cities from London to Manhattan and Melbourne – and just last week, Toronto Fast deployment StadiumTM – a specialist event services supplier of traffic management, stewarding, security and training services to the events industry that protects crowds at Premier League and EFL clubs, festivals and city-wide events – is extolling its benefits.  Founder, owner and MD David McAtamney says: “We want to change the face of crowd safety through HVM barriers. The Rapid Defender makes this a reality because of its speed of deployment – our teams installed 13m of the barrier in just five minutes at the London Marathon!” More than 150 people have died in 18 months of VAAW in cities from London to Manhattan and Melbourne – and just last week, Toronto. Rosehill Security has designed the Rapid Defender specifically to provide protection for crowds of people from such attacks. Integration for enhanced security Sales manager Dalton Marshall says: “It is surface-mounted with no foundations and weighs less than a third of comparable concrete barriers, so can be deployed in minutes almost anywhere, from the streets surrounding stadia to uneven festival sites.” The Perimeter Security Suppliers Association has launched a new online source of help and information on HVM – the HVMHubThe 333mm-wide units are connected by 20mm diameter steel cables or rods, creating an HVM barrier of any length. Four men can manually install a barrier across the width of a road in less than five minutes with no special tools or lifting equipment. It can then be removed and reused. The Rapid Defender can be anchored or integrated with other temporary or permanent HVM systems to create a stronger physical barrier as part of a holistic HVM solution. The Perimeter Security Suppliers Association (PSSA), to which Rosehill Security belongs, has just launched a new online source of help and information on HVM – the HVMHub – in conjunction with the Home Office’s Joint Security and Resilience Centre.