Fire Safety

Schools are continuing to upgrade security measures for pupil safety. However, on top of all the fundamental challenges schools face, implementing well-rounded and effective security solutions can seem a great difficulty. Andrew Shaw, architectural consultant for Allegion UK, discusses the advantages of electro-mechanical solutions. Schools can equate to some of the most complex security challenges for architects, specifiers and school officials alike. This is because choosing the right solution requires a comprehensive analysis of a building’s design and layout and the different requirements of each perimeter, alongside specific uses, user groups and opening hours. Different areas and spaces, such as reception areas, entry points or classrooms, each need to be approached differently in terms of safety and security measures. Precautionary lockdown strategy Adequate training also means all staff know how to support an effective lockdown and facilitate a safe escape in the event of an emergency What’s more, if the building is used for out-of-hours purposes, or if contractors are on-site, these issues will also need to be addressed. Simply put, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for schools. Security hardware and a precautionary lockdown strategy are necessities, as they are integral to the safety of teachers, students and visitors. Adequate measures need to be implemented so that schools are prepared for, and safeguarded against, external threats or unauthorised access. Whilst a lot of the responsibility falls on the shoulders of facility managers, it’s also important for teachers and administrators to be aware of, and educated on, solutions and training. This means knowing how certain hardware works and how to spot a faulty product. Adequate training also means all staff know how to support an effective lockdown and facilitate a safe escape in the event of an emergency. Unique building requirements This is becoming increasingly important with newer systems too, especially as the Internet of Things (IoT) becomes more commonplace within the industry. Integrating electro-mechanical solutions into existing school security systems is now more commonly viewed as an achievable and viable option. Because an off-the-shelf security solution to fit all doesn’t exist, the benefits of integrating both electronic and mechanical solutions into systems are quickly becoming realised. As such, schools are growing more accustomed to tailored solutions based on their own unique building requirements and budgets. Each school layout is unique and, therefore, must address a range of security factors specific to different areas. Many areas within a school’s building design must accommodate for high capacity, especially in places that may be part of a fire escape route. Mechanical door hardware Schools need to consider the amount of exit and entry points, which will be dependent on the size and layout of the school grounds All schools need to address three different levels of security. The first level is the least vulnerable of the three and concerns the perimeter entry and exit points. The second level is more vulnerable than the first and relates to the point at which people are screened before entering the interior of the school. Finally, the third level - and the most vulnerable - refers to the core of the school that both pupils and staff occupy. The first level of security is the perimeter, and these areas become more important depending on the time of day. Schools need to consider the amount of exit and entry points, which will be dependent on the size and layout of the school grounds. Incorporating some level of electronic access control should be a consideration, whether that is a combination of electronic and mechanical door hardware, or a complete electronic solution. Greater visitor management An electromechanical solution, such as electric strikes, can be beneficial in the effectiveness of perimeter security as they provide greater visitor management and traffic control. Electric strikes are able to control access via keypads, cards and proximity readers. When combined with mechanical locks, they provide the benefits of unrestricted egress. This option also allows integration with central security systems, which can be automatically activated and pre-programmed for regular scheduled control. These solutions help lower the risk of potential unauthorised entry, which can lead to theft of equipment, and compromising people’s safety. They also aid facility and site managers in knowing where potential weak points are in the school perimeter. Because schools will most likely have multiple access points, the combination of mechanical hardware and access control systems allows for both security and convenience, providing greater control and monitoring. Efficient access control A well-designed school with a single-entry point allows for such monitoring, but should also cater to the efficient movement in and out of the building The second level of security is the administration or reception area. As this area will be designed primarily to facilitate visitor entry, it will require adequate monitoring of access control. This area should be able to restrict visitors from freely accessing the rest of the school. A well-designed school with a single-entry point allows for such monitoring, but should also cater to the efficient movement in and out of the building. To do this, the latches used on access-controlled egress doors can be electronically controlled from the reception area or school office. Exit or entry doors can be opened by a push from the inside and, if the entry area is also an emergency exit, electronically-powered panic bars can also provide an effective solution. When using access control solutions, schools are provided with information on who entered a part of the premises and when, are able to restrict or limit access to specific times of the day, and easily add and delete users, allowing them to manage access to the building more efficiently. Integrated centralised systems The areas most susceptible to vulnerability are the internal hallways, corridors, stairwells, entry points and restricted areas (such as staff lounges and science laboratories). These are the areas where a school must foster the safest environments for pupils, whilst also providing protection as they often contain confidential information, expensive equipment or chemicals. For these areas, there are a number of different solutions that will be beneficial, whether electronic, mechanical or a combination of the two. For electronic solutions, there are two options available: remote or centralised systems. With remote lockdown systems, individual locks are activated by remote control within proximity to the door. With integrated centralised systems, the access control system is linked to all doors within the school building and locked at the touch of a button.  Mechanical solutions, which include a cylinder lock and key, are also ideal for places such as classrooms, as doors can be locked externally with a key or internally with a thumbturn, to prevent unauthorised persons from entering. When paired with electronic access control systems, mechanical hardware can provide simplified yet improved security levels. Electromagnetic door closers Electromechanically exit devices allow for monitored and safe access, whilst also allowing for an immediate exit In schools, it is often the case that entrance doors will also be fire exits. Electromechanically exit devices allow for monitored and safe access, whilst also allowing for an immediate exit. When integrated with electronic access control systems, emergency exit points become safer and more secure as access control measures can be added, whether for teachers, pupils or visitors.  In the interest of fire safety, and to eliminate the illegal practice of propping fire doors open as well as aid free passage in busy areas, electromagnetic door closers can be linked with the building’s fire alarm system. When the fire alarm sounds (or in the event of a power outage), the electromagnet deactivates, bringing the door to a close in a normal manner, preventing the spread of fire and smoke. Building design requirements By design, electronic access control systems are also easy to use and maintain. The reliability and durability of such systems also means that there will be less need for excess time and money spent on maintenance, and there’s peace of mind in knowing the systems are code-compliant. Their flexibility additionally allows for the implementation of a highly-effective bespoke solution. Electronic access control and electronic devices are able to be integrated with or into a variety of other electronic and mechanical systems. This means schools are able to successfully tailor solutions to their own budgets and building design requirements. Fully integrated security solutions and biometrics are becoming increasingly affordable and accessible, giving school officials and managing teams greater control over their buildings. These solutions also give them scalability for the future, meaning systems are both future-proof and easily upgradable.

Artificial Intelligence will play an important role in the Middle East commercial security market’s future, as interconnected video surveillance systems and autonomous IP-based solutions become the norm, said the boss of a global video surveillance manufacturer. Gaurav Khemka, the Director of CP PLUS, said mining scores of data to find answers and facilitate prompt decision making has become simpler with the help of video analytics and digital surveillance, solving multiple problems across a range of applications, from small retail outlets to high-level government intelligence agencies. Video analytics to benefit multiple sectors CP PLUS is one of more than 1,300 exhibitors from 59 countries at the upcoming Intersec 2019 exhibition in Dubai“There are countless opportunities and problems waiting to be solved by video analytics, as the computing power of IP cameras continues to improve,” said Khemka. “Benefits will be seen across multiple sectors, from assisting intelligence agencies to local retail outlets, and perhaps, in the future, a fully predictive surveillance system may be a reality.” CP PLUS is one of more than 1,300 exhibitors from 59 countries at the upcoming Intersec 2019 exhibition in Dubai, the world’s leading trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection. Khemka said the company has completed numerous projects in the Middle East, last year, highlighting the UAE’s Landmark Group as one of its flagship references. IP Cameras for Landmark’s retail outlets “The Landmark Group is a multinational conglomerate involved in consumer retail while it also has interests in hospitality and leisure, healthcare and mall management,” added Khemka. Round the clock surveillance was a major requirement for Landmark Group’s vast network of retail outlets, and CP PLUS provided more than 1,500 IP cameras for this purpose.  While retail is one industry vertical that has benefitted from the value-added offerings of integrated security systems and video analytics, Khemka said almost all other industry verticals are now catching on: “Today security has transcended from a need for safety to that of value addition and an enabler for people and processes,” Khemka said. Integration with fire and alarm systems CP PLUS will put the spotlight on its Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things based technologies at Intersec 2019“When integrated with other aspects of security such as fire and alarm systems, it can not only create a complete security ecosystem but also a huge support for managing operations and manpower. As such, all verticals, be it banking, education, hospitality, law enforcement, real estate, retail, or transportation, have identified with the need and adopted it wholeheartedly.” CP PLUS will put the spotlight on its Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things based technologies at the 21st edition of Intersec, which takes place from 20-22 January at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. It will line-up alongside more than 500 global solutions providers in the three-day event’s Commercial Security section, the largest of seven dedicated show sections that include Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, Homeland Security & Policing, Physical & Perimeter Security, Information Security, and Smart Home & Building Automation. GESAB at Intersec 2019 Spanish company GESAB is another international player in the Commercial Security section looking to build its network with key regional decision makers of security and defence-related projects. EC3 is one of the world’s largest and most modern control centres, tasked with monitoring Dubai’s mass transit network  A returning exhibitor to Intersec in 2019, GESAB specialises in technical solutions for the design, manufacture and installation of both control centre and data processing centre projects. The Madrid-based company was involved in the Dubai RTA’s (Roads and Transport Authority) new Enterprise Command and Control Centre (EC3). Opened in 2017, EC3 is one of the world’s largest and most modern control centres, tasked with monitoring Dubai’s mass transit network, including the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, public buses, taxis and marine transit systems.  Developing technical furniture for EC3 project Fernando Cajal, International Sales Manager for GESAB in the Middle East, said GESAB’s role in EC3, which came through a contact made at Intersec, was to develop the technical furniture for the Main Control Room, Security OCC, Tram back up room, IT SOC Room, Lecture Room, and Gold and Silver Rooms. “EC3 is an unparalleled project for facilities where the future becomes a reality today,” said Cajal. “It’s also an example of why the security industry contributes the greatest number of projects to GESAB, and why the Middle East is a reference market due to its capacity to generate constant business and large-scale projects.” GESAB will showcase at Intersec 2019 its own custom designed and manufactured range of technical furniture and control consoles, along with its Dynamic IP-based KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) system called DeskWall. Importance of video and analysis systems GESAB will showcase at Intersec 2019 its Dynamic IP-based KVM system called DeskWall Cajal said CCTV platforms and control centres are used for the control and management of security, both in the private sphere and in public spaces, adding: “It’s in this sense that video and analysis systems are of vital importance.   “The future related to digital surveillance and video analytics, in regards to our expertise, is of control rooms where the tasks are developed in a collaborative integrated way but in individual ergonomic work positions that have the capacity to operate with technologies such as big format screens and high-efficiency digital KVM solutions like DeskWall.” Many more of the world’s leading security solutions providers have also confirmed their participation at the 21st edition of Intersec, including 18 of the global top 20, such as Hikvision, Assa Abloy, Axis Communications, Flir Systems, Hanwha Techwin, Avigilon, Infinova, Nedap, IDIS, and Milestone Systems. Commercial security market growth All of these have also enjoyed considerable success in the Middle East commercial security market that, according to analysts 6Wresearch, will grow by nearly 17 percent annually over the next six years, valuing US$7.4 billion in 2024, compared to an estimated US$2.9 billion in 2018. With 75 percent of the regional market in 2017 (US$1.87 billion), video surveillance is by far the largest product segment, followed by access control (US$367 million), and intrusion detection (US$262 million). The two Gulf nations of Saudi Arabia and the UAE are the largest contributors to the Middle East commercial security market  Retail and banking currently hold the lion’s share of the regional market by industry verticals according to 6Wresearch, with an 8.6 percent (US$249 million) and 7.5 percent (US$217 million) share respectively. Meanwhile, the two Gulf nations of Saudi Arabia and the UAE are the largest contributors to the Middle East commercial security market, with Saudi Arabia holding a 31 percent stake (US$899 million), and the UAE 24 percent (US$696 million). Showcasing AI and automation technologies Andreas Rex, Intersec’s Show Director, said: “The Middle East commercial security market has evolved significantly over the years and Intersec exhibitors in this area have always stayed ahead of the curve when it comes to presenting new technologies and innovations for varied end-user verticals, from retail and hospitality, to banking, transport, government, aviation, and smart city concepts. “New-age solutions are all about automation, AI, and resource efficiency, and Intersec 2019 will showcase a wide spectrum of the latest developments in the commercial security sector.” Intersec 2019 returns early next year with a revamped conference line-up, including a three-day Intersec Future Security Summit raising key issues on Artificial Intelligence, security integration, emergency preparedness and response, data protection, IoT and much more. Return of SIRA and Drone Zone Returning popular features in 2019 include the Drone Zone, an Outdoor Demo Area, a Smart Home Pavilion Returning is the SIRA (Security Industry Regulatory Agency) Forum, with the latest updates in security law and industry regulations in Dubai, while a one-day Fire Safety and Protection Conference will involve authorities, fire chiefs, engineers, fire fighters and emergency response professionals. Returning popular features in 2019 include the Drone Zone, an Outdoor Demo Area, a Smart Home Pavilion and the Safety Design in Buildings Pavilion. More than 150 exhibitors will be participating for the first time, while Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, UK, and the USA comprise the 15 country pavilions. Intersec 2019 is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and supported by the Dubai Police, Dubai Police Academy, Dubai Civil Defence, SIRA, and the Dubai Municipality.

ULIS, a designer and manufacturer of a wide range of innovative thermal image sensors, has announced the launch of ThermEye Building, a thermal sensor line for system integrators of detection and people counting equipment for connected buildings. ThermEye Building rangeThe new ThermEye Building range includes two new products: ThermEye-b90 and ThermEye-b120 The new ThermEye Building range includes two new products: ThermEye-b90 and ThermEye-b120. These 80x80 thermal sensors provide system integrators with advanced functionalities to detect presence (even when people are immobile) and localise and count people in order to improve capabilities in analysing human activity and communicate with relevant smart building applications. Coupled with a 90° or 120° field of view (FOV) lens, a single ThermEye Building sensor can cover a zone of 30 sq. meters (323 sq. feet), equivalent to a meeting room accommodating eight to ten people. The product range is configured with a conventional video channel (50 images per second) and features an intermittent mode that is compatible with low-power consumption applications. Thermal image sensing technology It only requires one AA battery to run a ThermEye Building sensor when transmitting an image at two-minute intervals. The advantage of running entirely on batteries means end-users can deploy these detections, people counting and localisation systems in both new and existing buildings. Energy management and fire safety The solutions developed for the ThermEye Building product line guarantee occupant anonymity and privacy The solutions developed for the ThermEye Building product line guarantee occupant anonymity and privacy, as there is no facial recognition. This is a plus for integrators wishing to use data to develop other future solutions for smart building applications that improve how facilities optimise space usage and energy management, detect potential fire hotspots and manage people flow during a fire. “ULIS is invested in the connected buildings market. This novel product demonstrates our commitment to bringing smarter sensing solutions to facility managers,” said Cyrille Trouilleau, smart buildings manager at ULIS. “We have extensive expertise and experience in designing reliable high-resolution thermal image sensors. We are now applying this know-how and industrial rigor to our mass market sensors. ThermEye-b90 and ThermEye-b120 are 80X80 resolution sensors offering the right level of added performance needed for intelligent systems. Our industrial platform based on a disruptive technology that drives costs down will allow us to produce several hundred thousand of these sensors every year for commercial applications.”

The 14th China International Exhibition on Public Safety and Security 2018 (Security China 2018) kicked off at the China International Exhibition Center in Beijing. Dahua Technology presented its theme, ‘Dahua Heart of City (HOC)’, thoroughly displaying various vertical industry solutions supported by its new smart city framework such as Smart Policing, Smart Traffic, Smart Fire Control, Smart Manufacturing, and Smart Retail. All these solutions are based on the integration of its newest innovations in artificial intelligence, deep learning, cloud computing, IoT, and other cutting-edge technologies With vigorous smart city construction all over the world, Dahua Technology has released its ‘Dahua Heart of City (HOC)’, which is a smart city development engine supported by ‘Full Sensing, Full Intelligence, Full Computing, and Full Ecosystem’. The HOC achieves the construction of a ‘1 Platform, 2 Centers, N-Applications’ new smart city framework for city, industry, and consumer level markets to meet the needs of city management, industry applications, and consumers. HOC Smart Policing and Traffic Solutions The Dahua HOC Smart Traffic Solution is centred round the core of ‘Improve traffic efficiency, and safeguards road safety’The Dahua HOC Smart Policing Solution satisfies the work flow and needs of public security departments, tapping the potential of big data resources to build a new AI-driven ‘Smart Policing’ model, driving front-line teams to operate accurately, efficiently, and intelligently. By employing this solution, Dahua Technology assisted the Hangzhou Jianggan Police in building a national model project for smart policing. The Dahua HOC Smart Traffic Solution is centred round the core of ‘Improve traffic efficiency, and safeguards road safety’. The solution employs a traffic big data platform, AI series cameras, traffic operation centre, and three-dimensional AR command scheme to consistently create value for customers. Public Safety and Fire Control Solutions The Dahua HOC Public Safety Solution fully demonstrates its core strategy of ‘Full Coverage, Full Sensing, Full Connectivity, and Full Intelligence’. During the exhibition, Dahua Technology showcased its Safe Community Solution, which relies on residential community management platforms to provide a ‘smart network’ that offers precise management of personnel, vehicles, housing units, and events, serving communities, property management, and house owners. Dahua Technology’s Smart Fire Control solutions have brought far-reaching benefits to the intelligentisation of the industry The Dahua HOC Smart Fire Control Solution realises the top-level planning and detailed designing of smart fire control layouts for house units, streets, districts, counties, and entire cities. It is worth mentioning that the fire control products the company displayed at the exhibition are all developed in-house with high quality, appealing design and complete certifications, suitable for diverse application scenarios. Dahua Technology’s Smart Fire Control solutions have brought far-reaching benefits to the intelligentisation of the industry. AI Series Perimeter Protection Cameras In the most popular area - artificial intelligence - of the stand, Dahua Technology displayed its intelligent algorithms which enhance the company’s competitiveness in the field of AI. In addition, it integrates the advantages of its products, solutions, platforms, and algorithms to build its smart AI system. The area of face recognition, which provides optimal match according to various customers, scenarios, and project scales, exhibited its AI Series Perimeter Protection Cameras which fully employ AI and possess powerful face snapshot and real-time analysis capabilities. The video structuring areas featured AI cameras which have the ability of analysing human faces, vehicles, non-motor vehicles, and feature attributes simultaneously, effectively improving the capability of objects capturing and metadata collection. The Smart Perimeter Solution, empowered by smart technologies, engages in the effective screening of things that cause false alarms such as animals and swaying trees, realising precise alarm alerts. X80 Face Recognition Server The Dahua AI Series Intelligent NVR realises the transition from traditional to smart video applicationsThe Dahua AI Series Intelligent NVR realises the transition from traditional to smart video applications. It also includes the universal DSS7016 platform which integrates intelligence, platforms, and storage to significantly improve the flexibility and convenience of deployment. This year, Dahua Technology also launched its X80 Face Recognition Server, which is an ultra-large-scale analysis platform that supports a 1.6 billion face image database and 20 billion comparisons per second. This product achieves on-demand computing power allocation, rapid & central deployment, and effective use of energy consumption and installation space, suitable for large-scale policing, traffic management, and public safety projects. In addition to displaying its full AI series products, Dahua Technology also presented thermal series, 64MP multi-sensor Panoramic Network Camera + PTZ Camera series, multi-sensor panoramic camera series, full-colour series cameras, HDCVI 5.0 products, and other smart video monitoring solutions. In addition, the company also debuted next-generation cutting-edge smart video IoT products and technologies including drone, fire control, smoke exhaust, warehousing, and smart patrol robots. The application of these products across various industries received broad attention from exhibition guests. K8 AI Face Recognition Smart Lock On display were Imou’s intelligent products, including K8 AI Face Recognition Smart Lock, Active Deterrence CameraAs Dahua Technology’s consumer IoT brand, Imou took the stage with its newly unveiled brand image. On display were Imou’s intelligent products, including K8 AI Face Recognition Smart Lock, Active Deterrence Camera, Pan & Tilt Smart Camera, 720° Panoramic Camera, and other smart solutions, conveying the concept of ‘Enjoy Smart Life’, and enabling global users to enjoy safer, freer, and happier lifestyles with the support of smart technologies. During the exhibition, the Dahua Heart of City (HOC) Sub Forums began with great enthusiasm. During the forum, Dahua Technology presented its advanced products and case studies to share its ‘4-Full’- supported solutions including Dahua HOC Smart Policing, Dahua HOC Smart Traffic, Dahua HOC Smart Park, and Dahua HOC Smart Retail, receiving rave reviews from the audience. Accelerating IT transformation of policing Smart Policing Sub Forum: The Dahua Smart Policing Solution employs ‘online object capturing, online data computing, and online command’ as its top-level planning and ‘scene, standard, and case oriented’ as its detailed designing principal to actively match with the policing work flow, solve its pain points and control overall investment, accelerating the IT transformation of policing. Smart Traffic Sub Forum: The Dahua HOC Smart Traffic Solution makes use of a ‘full sensing, precise computing, and action plan’ as its top-level planning and design principal, as well as ‘scene, standard, and case oriented’ as the guideline to its detailed designing in order to create a new model, new system, and new status-quo for smart city traffic. Face recognition and smart conferencing The Dahua HOC Smart Industrial Park Solution integrates face recognition access and smart conferencing products and solutions Smart Industrial Park Sub Forum: The Dahua HOC Smart Industrial Park Solution integrates face recognition access and smart conferencing products and solutions to effectively solve the problems of monitoring people, vehicles, objects, and environments within office building, commercial complexes, manufacturing facilities, and residential areas, building a safe, convenient, comfortable, efficient, and green industrial park environment for all. Smart Retail Sub Forum: Dahua Public Cloud series solutions use offline sensing to gather data insights from personnel, goods, and scenes to connect ‘data islands’ for each offline scene, integrating these islands onto a cloud-based ‘data brain’, which provides powerful data-based support for the R&D, manufacturing, sales & marketing of each product as well as for overall store management. As a video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, Dahua Technology will continue to focus on technological innovation, in-depth industry insights, and technology trends to bring end-to-end solutions and true values for our global customers.

ADT Inc., the provider of monitored security and interactive home and business automation solutions in the United States and Canada, announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Boca Raton, FL-based Red Hawk Fire & Security, a leader in commercial fire, life safety and security services and portfolio company of Comvest Partners, for $317.5 million in cash. This transaction accelerates ADT’s growth in the commercial security market and expands the company’s product portfolio with the introduction of commercial fire safety related solutions. It is the latest in a series of strategic acquisitions made over the last year to drive commercial growth and build on ADT’s strong foundation of superior customer service. With the addition of Red Hawk, ADT will have an increased geographic footprint and enhanced customer service capabilities across the nation. Revenues from the combined company’s business customers are expected to represent approximately 25% of total revenue. Red Hawk is a pioneer in the design, installation, integration, monitoring and servicing of commercial fire, security and life safety solutionsOffers mission-critical solutions Red Hawk is a pioneer in the design, installation, integration, monitoring and servicing of commercial fire, security and life safety solutions. Red Hawk represents one of the few last independent large national commercial integrators, offering complex, mission-critical solutions across its 45 district locations and is expected to generate approximately $300 million of revenues in 2018. In recent years, Red Hawk has demonstrated double-digit revenue growth across a diverse set of customers, markets and geographies, leveraging its strong local presence backed by its nationwide footprint and differentiated fire and security expertise. Expanding business and service capabilities “Commercial security is one of the core pillars of ADT’s growth strategy and today’s announcement marks a significant step in our concerted efforts to expand our commercial business with the critical capabilities and services that our customers expect,” said ADT President and incoming CEO, Jim DeVries. We are excited to welcome the talented and experienced Red Hawk team to the ADT family while expanding our geographic reach"“Red Hawk’s exceptional portfolio of commercial fire and security solutions complements ADT’s existing commercial business, positioning us to provide a superior customer experience at a local and national level. We are excited to welcome the talented and experienced Red Hawk team to the ADT family while expanding our geographic reach, service capabilities and product offerings. Having long admired Red Hawk, we are confident that combining the strengths of our two companies will allow us to deliver increased value to our customers and shareholders.” Providing high-quality customer service “We are delighted to join a company with ADT’s resources, growth potential and shared commitment to providing high quality customer service and innovative solutions to customers,” said Red Hawk President and CEO Michael McWilliams. “We look forward to our future with ADT, which we are confident will help us to achieve our next phase of growth.” “It was a rewarding and collaborative experience working with Michael McWilliams, Mark Foley, Red Hawk’s CFO, and the other members of Red Hawk’s senior management team to build Red Hawk into a market leader from our original acquisition, and Red Hawk is positioned to continue to thrive under ADT’s leadership,” said Roger Marrero, the Managing Partner of Comvest Partners. Strategic and financial benefits of transaction Substantial increase in scale to accelerate ADT’s commercial growth: The combined commercial business will have substantially increased scale with an expanded commercial technician work force that will allow the company to meet growing customer demand across the U.S. and provide enhanced customer service capabilities. This transaction creates the opportunity to leverage the capabilities of both organisations to create a more robust and differentiated commercial security offering in a highly fragmented industry. Introduction of fire safety solutions: This transaction expands ADT’s product portfolio with the introduction of Red Hawk’s fire safety solutions, allowing the company to become a single destination for both fire and security needs at the commercial level. The company intends to leverage Red Hawk’s fire safety solutions and expertise to help capture new business opportunities with new and existing customers. Compelling long-term financial benefits: Given the strong financial and operating profile of Red Hawk’s business – which, similar to ADT’s growing commercial and multi-site businesses, has a very attractive net customer acquisition cost and retention characteristics – the acquisition is expected to be accretive to free cash flow generation, before taking into account meaningful expected cost benefits. The completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to close by the end of the fourth quarter 2018.

Secutech, the business platform for safety and security products returns for its 22nd edition next year with a sharpened focus on artificial intelligence and IoT technology. The fair will be held from 8 – 10 May 2019 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre in Taipei. IoT and artificial intelligence technologies are continuing to transform the security industry by opening up new avenues for product functionality. The traditional surveillance camera that was once used solely for security purposes, for example, can now also be used to collect useful business information such as customer footfall and purchasing patterns. As these technologies continue to blur the boundaries between sectors, they are also opening up more opportunities for integrated security. Security subsystems such as surveillance cameras, security alarms and access control systems, for example, can now be integrated and tracked from a single monitoring centre through the IoT. This allows end-users to tailor security systems that track specific priorities such as perimeter security and fire safety through one unified system. Secutech allows the professionals to come together to network, and exchange information with regards to new technologies"Opportunity for networking    Speaking about the role of Secutech within this shifting technological landscape, Ms Regina Tsai, Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd said: “As the regional business hub for security industry professionals, Secutech allows the professionals to come together to network, conduct business and exchange information with regards to new technologies for Asia’s fast growing vertical markets. “At the last edition, we welcomed a record 427 exhibitors as well as over 19,900 visitors to the show. The upcoming edition of the fair will have a strong focus on artificial intelligence and the IoT, but it will also be highly multifaceted with security solutions for buyers from all walks of security.” Zones dedicated for AI and cybersecurity Products from the six categories of security, IoT security, IT/ ICT automation, mechanical and electrical equipment, as well as industrial safety will be hosted at Secutech 2019. Seven thematic zones will allow trade visitors to easily identify specific technologies. In the realm of artificial intelligence and the IoT, zones will be designated for ‘AI + Software’, ‘LPWAN applications’, ‘Smart locks’, ‘Cyber security’ as well as ‘Smart factory and industrial safety’. The concurrent Info Security event will delve into security protocols for IoT devices as well as IP-based security systemsMeanwhile there will also be dedicated zones for ‘Police equipment’ and ‘RFID applications’. With so many products at the fair set to feature IoT technology, the concurrent Info Security event will delve into security protocols for IoT devices as well as IP-based security systems. To highlight the unique business applications of new technologies, there will also be seven intelligent solution pavilions spread across the show floor. The pavilions will display specialised security solutions for the vertical markets of retail, factory, transportation, parking, healthcare, hotels and community. SMAhome renamed as SMABIoT Many visitors travel long distances to attend Secutech each year because the show allows them to stay ahead of the curve in a wide range of industry sectors. Three concurrent events for ‘Mobility’, ‘Fire & Safety’, and ‘SMABIoT’ will allow such visitors to catch up on emerging trends for specific product groups during the 2019 edition of the fair.  The successful SMAhome will return under the new name of SMABIoT as the first event of its kind in Asia to accommodate buyers from the smart building IoT market segment. Visitors to the event will have the opportunity to source smart solutions for commercial and residential buildings as well as the healthcare and hospitality industries. A ‘Smart Solution Centre’ will be featured at SMABIoT to demonstrate the real-world applications of smart home ecosystems and robotsFeatured products will be imbedded with facial recognition, voice command and deep learning technology and will include a selection of brands with cross-disciplinary applications. A ‘Smart Solution Centre’ will also be featured at SMABIoT to demonstrate the real-world applications of smart home ecosystems and robots for home, elderly care, smart community and smart hotel. Spotlight on intelligent transportation solutions Sector specific insights will also be available at the concurrent Mobility event, which will place a spotlight on intelligent transportation solutions. The event will focus on commercial vehicle and smart parking solutions and will host the ‘Intelligent Transportation Pavilion’ with product applications for smart road, smart railway and fleet management.    Meanwhile, fairgoers searching for the latest fire and safety equipment will have the opportunity to do so at the concurrent international Fire & Safety event, which will run into its 18th edition during the show. Continuing its role as the regional hub for fire safety and disaster management, the event will feature two zones focusing on smart fire safety and smart disaster prevention and mitigation.

A concierge orders a taxi for an employee or takes his shirts to be cleaned, then greets a visitor and escorts her to an elevator. And these are just a few of countless possible examples of the NOVE office complex’s unique, multifaceted service culture. It attains the standard of security, efficiency and comfort of a five-star international hotel in a state-of-the-art facility where 1,300 people work for no fewer than eight different companies in the heart of Munich. The NOVE has even been honoured with platinum certification from LEED (‘Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design’, a program developed by the U.S. Green Building Council to encourage the construction of energy- and resource-efficient, healthy buildings). Completely integrated solution Tim Wiesener therefore went looking for a reliable and experienced partner, and found it in Bosch’s building experts “We wanted an office building that felt like a five-star designer hotel,” says Tim Wiesener, the CEO of Salvis Consulting AG. The company envisaged a high standard of security backed by smart networked solutions that blended smoothly and esthetically with the architecture and interior decorating. “We certainly didn’t want employees and other users of the building to feel bothered or overwhelmed by its technology.” Tim Wiesener therefore went looking for a reliable and experienced partner, and found it in Bosch’s building experts. “Bosch applies both experience and foresight to its projects, and its specialists immediately grasped our vision.” Video surveillance, access control and intrusion alarm systems, fire protection, visitor management: Bosch planned and implemented a completely integrated solution that harmonised with NOVE’s character and personality. Its leading-edge technology and software are distributed and networked across six stories, a 23-meter-high atrium, and a nine-floor tower. Manage video surveillance The concierges working shifts at the 24-hour reception play an important role in the overall concept, since they are also trained security experts. Among other things, monitors behind the counter let them keep a watchful eye on images from over a hundred surveillance cameras that can be remotely controlled, zoomed and pointed as required, all courtesy of the Bosch Building Integration System. The software lets them efficiently manage video surveillance as well as fire and intrusion alarms. Around-the-clock assistance is also available to the 300 or so visitors that enter the NOVE each day, aided by the dedicated BoVisit visitor management system. The software’s functionality includes announcing guests, printing name tags for them, and assigning them to employees. Thanks to a centralised solution, the concierges always know who is where inside the building. Visually integrating This is especially important in case a critical situation ever arises. At the press of a button, the system generates a vitally important overview of how many people need to be evacuated from each area. Not everything the concierges do is high-tech, of course; they are devoted to helping both tenants and visitors with a smile. “Our receptionists are efficient but not nameless. We combine security with personal service,” says Tim Wiesener. Tenants can naturally access the NOVE any time of the day or night Italian star architect Antonio Citterio designed the complex, which spans roughly 27,500 square meters of gross floor space. He paid especially great attention to visually integrating the security equipment so it wouldn’t stand out. “This called for a certain finesse,” explains Tim Wiesener. Networked solutions Tim Kosok, a sales representative with Bosch Energy and Building Solutions in Munich, worked hard to find out exactly what the customer wanted, explaining that “we painted installations the same color as the ceilings or walls and positioned them just right so they would be practically invisible. Even the door intercoms are designed to be inconspicuous.” Tenants can naturally access the NOVE any time of the day or night. Tim Wiesener is confident that everyone consistently feels safe there, thanks to the networked solutions. “Our collaboration for implementing the complex was excellent and collegial. We worked closely with the Bosch experts to create a solution that’s geared to people and their needs.”

Teleste Corporation reveals that its S-AWARE platform has been selected by Helsinki City Transport to drive improved situational awareness and safer travelling across the Helsinki metro system. The deployment of the platform will be started in 2019 and the project will be carried out in several phases and be completed at the end of the year 2020. The total value of the deployment will be more than two million euros. “We are delighted to expand our long-term cooperation with Helsinki City Transport on developing smart and safe public transport in the Helsinki metropolitan area. The rapidly growing urbanisation challenges public transport operators throughout the world to find solutions that can provide enhanced operational control and tools to increase safety in public places. Adding situational awareness through intelligent public transport systems is one of the key methods the operators can use to reach the target,” stated Esa Harju, Head of Teleste’s Video Security and Information Business unit. Prioritizing passenger safety Every year, over 80 million passengers and commuters enjoy travelling in the system, which forms the northernmost metro in the world During recent years, the Helsinki Metro has undergone several upgrades and major extensions. Today, it includes more than 20 stations in Helsinki and its neighbouring cities and serves the capital region of Finland with hundreds of thousands of daily rides. Every year, over 80 million passengers and commuters enjoy travelling in the system, which forms the northernmost metro in the world. Keeping the safety and security of the passengers and the entire metro system in mind, Helsinki City Transport is adopting Teleste’s S-AWARE platform to develop their response capabilities and to ensure a high service level, e.g., during possible security failures, alerts and states of emergency, as well as in other complex or critical situations. Safe and attractive travelling experience “Helsinki Metro is being developed to bring seamless mobility to the growing metropolitan area. At Helsinki City Transport, our mission is to continue building an increasingly effective and highly functional metro system that provides a safe and attractive travelling experience for our customers in their everyday life,“ told Ville Lehmuskoski, CEO, Helsinki City Transport. Teleste S-AWARE platform has been designed to help enhance efficiency, safety and security in public transportation, airports, critical infrastructure The Teleste S-AWARE platform has been designed to help enhance efficiency, safety and security in public transportation, airports, critical infrastructure and in the governmental sector. The platform works by collecting real-time information from various subsystems, data sources and sensory inputs, and it displays a unified and real-time view of the whole operational infrastructure. This provides for the improved understanding of what is happening in the surroundings and creates grounds for sharp and efficient decision-making. Smart incident management In addition, the platform can be used to pre-define automated operating procedures for efficient and smart incident management, hence ensuring that corrective action is immediately taken when unexpected incidents occur. The advanced reporting, debriefing and training tools ensure that the system can be used to project future events and be prepared for exceptional situations. Teleste’s deployment to Helsinki City Transport will also enable efficient use of the system for multiple other operators, including the police, fire and rescue forces, Helsinki Regional Transport Authority, and the cities of Helsinki and Espoo. Delivering the right information to the right people at the right time, the system is harnessed with high information and data security that guarantees protection from any unauthorised access.

Brazilian infrastructure company Companhia Energética de Pernambuco (CELPE) is the main supplier of electricity in the country’s Northeastern state of Pernambuco. Headquartered in the state capital Recife, one of the most important economic and urban hubs in the country, CELPE serves a population of more than 8.8 million inhabitants in the 184 municipalities of Pernambuco. As part of the Brazilian government’s commitment to clean energy, the CELPE grid also contains several hydropower plants at rivers across the state. Providing electricity to private customers and industrial clients in the expansive region requires a 136,762 kilometres distribution network and 4,386 kilometres of transmission lines. As critical parts of the power infrastructure, CELPE operates 240 substations across Pernambuco. But as most of these stations are located in remote areas, the last few years saw an alarming increase of vandalism and theft of expensive power cables. For video security, Bosch installed its AUTODOME IP starlight 7000 HD cameras, integrated via the Bosch Video Management SystemBosch’s Building Integration System Looking to safeguard its vital infrastructure, CELPE needed an integrated security solution that achieved three goals: firstly, keep out criminals and alert police upon security breaches. Secondly, provide seamless access control for the 300 maintenance teams in the field. And thirdly, connect fire alarm, communications, and voice evacuation on an integrated system that allows for remote management from CELPE headquarters. As a one-stop solutions provider, Bosch won the contract for equipping sixteen substations with video security systems, access control, communications, fire alarm and voice evacuation as well as intrusion alarm connected on the Building Integration System (BIS). For video security, Bosch installed its AUTODOME IP starlight 7000 HD cameras, integrated via the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS). The fire alarm revolves around smoke and heat detectors, while for voice alarm and evacuation, Plena Mixer Amplifiers are connected to driver loudspeakers. Cameras with built-in video analytics For added security, selected cameras feature built-in video analytics to automatically set off intruder alarms and alert authorities All systems and cameras are monitored by security personnel at the company’s control centre in Recife. For added security, selected cameras feature built-in video analytics to automatically set off intruder alarms and alert authorities. The system also fulfils the key customer requirement for remote management via the management system BIS (Building Integration System), including administration of user credentials and access rights for the 300 maintenance teams serving various substation sites. Successfully installed at sixteen stations in Pernambuco, the Bosch solution has proven to be an asset for CELPE and its personnel. Aside from safeguarding valuable infrastructure against criminals, the system has also streamlined communications among the service teams in the region by including elements such as conferencing and automatic alerts for fires and intrusions through a messenger system. The remote management of user access rights at the substations has enhanced the overall service level and prevented security breaches. Satisfied with the end-to-end solution, CELPE has now commissioned Bosch to equip approximately 240 electrical substations over the next years.  

Brazilian infrastructure company Companhia Energética de Pernambuco (CELPE) is the main supplier of electricity in the country’s Northeastern state of Pernambuco. Headquartered in the state capital Recife, one of the most important economic and urban hubs in the country, CELPE serves a population of more than 8,8 million inhabitants in the 184 municipalities of Pernambuco. As part of the Brazilian government’s commitment to clean energy, the CELPE grid also contains several hydropower plants at rivers across the state. Detecting and deterring power thefts Providing electricity to private customers and industrial clients in the expansive region requires a 136,762 kilometers distribution network and 4,386 kilometers of transmission lines. As critical parts of the power infrastructure, CELPE operates 240 substations across Pernambuco. But as most of these stations are located in remote areas, the last few years saw an alarming increase of vandalism and theft of expensive power cables. Looking to safeguard its vital infrastructure, CELPE needed an integrated security solution that achieved three goals: firstly, keep out criminals and alert police upon security breaches. Secondly, provide seamless access control for the 300 maintenance teams in the field. And thirdly, connect fire alarm, communications, and voice evacuation on an integrated system that allows for remote management from CELPE headquarters. Bosch video security and intrusion detection systems  For video security, Bosch installed its AUTODOME IP starlight 7000 HD cameras, integrated via the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS) As a one-stop solutions provider, Bosch won the contract for equipping sixteen substations with video security systems, access control, communications, fire alarm and voice evacuation as well as intrusion alarm connected on the Building Integration System (BIS). For video security, Bosch installed its AUTODOME IP starlight 7000 HD cameras, integrated via the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS). The fire alarm revolves around smoke and heat detectors, while for voice alarm and evacuation, Plena Mixer Amplifiers are connected to driver loudspeakers. All systems and cameras are monitored by security personnel at the company’s control center in Recife. IP cameras with built-in video analytics For added security, selected cameras feature built-in video analytics to automatically set off intruder alarms and alert authorities. The system also fulfills the key customer requirement for remote management via the management system BIS (Building Integration System), including administration of user credentials and access rights for the 300 maintenance teams serving various substation sites. Successfully installed at sixteen stations in Pernambuco, the Bosch solution has proven to be an asset for CELPE and its personnel. Aside from safeguarding valuable infrastructure against criminals, the system has also streamlined communications among the service teams in the region by including elements such as conferencing and automatic alerts for fires and intrusions through a messenger system. The remote management of user access rights at the substations has enhanced the overall service level and prevented security breaches. Satisfied with the end-to-end solution, CELPE has now commissioned Bosch to equip approximately 240 electrical substations over the next years.

Stockport Homes is installing a new breed of digital noticeboards at residential tower block properties managed on behalf of Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council. These innovative new screens are being installed in communal areas by OpenView Security Solutions, the UK’S largest privately owned independent security company and a national supplier of fire, electrical and mechanical services to the public and private housing sector, and will provide real-time information to improve communications with residents. Internet-enabled device According to Matthew Platt, Asset Manager at Stockport Homes: “Having a successful longstanding partnership with OpenView Security Solutions, we asked them to recommend a digital solution that would enhance the way that we communicate with residents to alert them of works such as lift maintenance and other important information. This rolling programme of installations demonstrates our ongoing commitment to enhance service provision to all residents across Stockport.” The digital noticeboards, manufactured by Intratone, comprise an IP65 rated 15 inch colour screenThe digital noticeboards, manufactured by Intratone, comprise an IP65 rated 15 inch colour screen with options for surface or flush-fit mountings according to the requirements of each location. They are quick and easy to install and update using a free and secure cloud-based website, enabling the information to be updated remotely in real-time using any internet-enabled device without requiring site managers to visit each location individually. Innovative solution The notice boards use GSM technology so there is no need for any wireless networks to be installed. This links all properties managed by Stockport Homes and, as well as alerting residents about essential maintenance, can also be used to provide information such as weather forecasts, events, meetings and other local news. Jack Wylie North UK Sales manager for Intratone, added: “It was a pleasure working with Openview on this project as they really supported the product from start to finish. Stockport Homes will now reap the benefits of this innovative solution by being able to communicate information with their residents quickly and easily.”

International logistics giant DB Schenker has set benchmarks with its new headquarters in Essen. On 30,000 m² of floor space, the new building offers not only ideal working conditions, but it also features an impressive holistic building, safety and security technology concept from Siemens. All disciplines – room automation, access control, fire and intrusion detection, and video surveillance – are integrated in one central building management platform. Architecturally speaking, the Ruhr region metropolis of Essen continues to reinvent itself. One recent example is the new corporate headquarters of DB Schenker, a leading international logistics provider. In the spring of 2016, the company moved into a new eight-story office building located just a few steps from the city’s main train station. It has 30,000 m2 of floor space for 900 employees. DB Schenker has dubbed the X-shaped, fully gazed structure The Grid. From here, the Deutsche Bahn AG subsidiary manages its logistics network of 700,000 customers worldwide. Desigo room automation controllers With just a glance at the screen, operators can check the status of all the systems, devices and alarm management components – in each of the 431 rooms For its new corporate headquarters, DB Schenker wanted building technology from a single source. The building owners chose the Desigo building automation system from Siemens, a seamlessly integrated solution covering the entire range of building automation – from the field level to room automation to the management level. In addition, the Desigo solution can be adapted to new requirements at any time. The dimensions alone made the job extremely demanding. The system includes 560 Desigo room automation controllers, a DALI lighting control system, shading control for 2,000 blinds, an access control system with 40 Siport readers, a fire detection system with 1,500 detectors, an intrusion detection system with 50 elements, as well as video surveillance equipment. Advanced visualisation of building disciplines All the systems and devices at DB Schenker headquarters are interconnected via the Desigo CC building management platform. All disciplines can be centrally controlled, monitored and optimised from two operator screens. Support for open communication standards also allows the integration of third-party components. Even though DB Schenker uses an escape door control system from a specialised vendor, the doors can be unlocked via Desigo CC. For maintenance, all the fire detectors in an area can be switched off from the control centre, eliminating the need to send technicians to each location Desigo CC offers advanced visualisation of the integrated building disciplines. With just a glance at the screen, operators can check the status of all the systems, devices and alarm management components – in each of the 431 rooms. The setpoints for valve position, room temperature or lighting can be individually adjusted for every single device and room. On-screen graphics are used to control the various disciplines; Desigo CC displays floor plans identifying all the field devices installed in any given room or floor. Auto display of reports and trends This also allows central control of cross-disciplinary scenarios such as an event in a specific room or a fire in a particular area. In addition, cross-disciplinary timer groups can be defined. Alarms are displayed for all disciplines on one overview screen. Reports and trends can be displayed automatically if so desired: PDFs are created and e-mailed based on individual preferences. For maintenance, all the fire detectors in an area can be switched off from the control centre, eliminating the need to send technicians to each location. This saves DB Schenker building services a great deal of time and personnel costs. Adjusting temperature for energy efficiency The individual room controllers are connected to the central control system and can hence be operated centrally as well Every room at DB Schenker headquarters is equipped with integrated room automation controllers, allowing heating, cooling, lighting and shading to be adjusted for maximum energy efficiency. A total of 431 Desigo TRA individual room controllers were installed in offices, conference rooms and open spaces. They are equipped with sensors, but users can adjust the temperature, lighting and shading as desired using the room operator unit in each room. The panel displays a green or red leaf to indicate whether the settings are eco-friendly. Open KNX communication standards make the room operator units freely programmable. For example, the presentation scenario can be programmed from the operator unit in a conference room to simultaneously dim the lights, close the blinds and lower the projector. The individual room controllers are connected to the central control system and can hence be operated centrally as well. KNX standard DALI lighting controller The DALI lighting controller uses the KNX standard as well, making the digital lighting systems efficient and easy to operate. Defective light fixtures are identified immediately so they can be replaced as quickly as possible to avoid repeated complaints. Optional motion sensors for autonomous DALI lighting systems were not installed at The Grid. Instead, they are replaced by occupancy buttons on the room operator units. To save even more energy, weather sensors on the roof of the building control the blinds for optimal incident light. The measures taken to increase the energy efficiency of the building earned DB Schenker a LEED Silver certification Heating, ventilation and air conditioning use approximately 900 data points whose signals converge in seven plant rooms. Siemens supplied and installed the field devices for heating, cooling and ventilation and set up the control cabinets. The measures taken to increase the energy efficiency of the building earned DB Schenker a LEED Silver certification, demonstrating that the logistics provider takes its sustainability strategy seriously. EN 54-compliant FC2080 fire control panel The Siport system controls access to The Grid. 40 readers and 200 door locks with electric rotary knobs (offline cylinders) were installed. At DB Schenker’s request, the access system forwards timestamps to a separate system. The electric locking system secures nearly 300 doors. The fire protection system combines an EN 54-compliant FC2080 fire control panel with 1,500 fire detectors, 900 sounders and 40 loops. This latest and most powerful Siemens fire control panel was selected because of the size of the building. DB Schenker uses multi-protocol detectors that can be tailored to individual room parameters. If the room usage changes, i.e. if the space is converted to a computer or break room, the fire detection system can be adjusted without having to replace the sensors. Intrusion detection, video surveillance and VMS Siemens installed a CIC 2000 intrusion detection system, a SINVR video surveillance system and SiteIQ Analytics video management system Siemens also installed a CIC 2000 intrusion detection system according to VdS standards. 50 elements were integrated, including motion sensors and door monitors. A SINVR video surveillance system with the SiteIQ Analytics video management system rounds out the solution. 30 cameras are interconnected, 24 of them around the building as a virtual fence solution. Any violation of the defined security distance triggers automatic recording. Because the building borders on public streets, the video system uses partial pixelation. In the past, DB Schenker had to outsource building management to specialised vendors. Now Desigo CC gives the in-house building technicians everything they need on a central screen: heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, shading, fire detection and building security. The technicians work independently, although a five-year service contract ensures they can request support at any time. Siemens technicians and experts are available to assist DB Schenker technicians via remote access.