Healthcare security

The technology partnership established between BlueBox Video and Hanwha Techwin means that images captured by Wisenet Full HD, ultra-high definition 4K and 360 degree fisheye cameras can now be cost effectively displayed on and across a video wall, as well as on a desk top PC monitor. The successful integration of Wisenet WAVE Video Management Software (VMS) with professional grade video wall controllers manufactured by BlueBox provides an affordable control room solution for a wide range of applications including education campuses, hospitality, transport and construction, as well as emergency services. Multi camera video surveillance system We have worked closely with the BlueBox technical team to develop a simple Wisenet WAVE accelerated plugin BlueBox Video wall controllers are specifically designed to meet high performance demands of a multi camera video surveillance system. Utilising low power high-density processing, the controllers are able to accelerate the decoding of H264, H265, MJPEG and MPEG2 compression releasing traditional CPU methods for any further encoded formats. With three appliances in the BlueBox range, control rooms have the option to choose video wall configurations in either True and Ultra High Definition output models. Setup is made easy with the help of an installation wizard. The 2u and 3u rack mounted form factors minimise appliance footprint, whilst total cost of ownership is further reduced through typical power consumption of around 120 watts.  Affordable video wall solution “After an extensive evaluation of the BlueBox controllers testing process, our product management were able to conclude that we could confidently recommend them to system integrators who are looking to supply control rooms with a robust and affordable video wall solution,” said Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing for Hanwha Techwin Europe. “As a result, we have worked closely with the BlueBox technical team to develop a simple Wisenet WAVE accelerated plugin which ensures transparent interaction between our VMS and the video wall controllers.” Richard Lince of BlueBox Video comments, “After 25 years in the video wall industry we’re unaware of a more powerful, affordable and simplified surveillance solution. Through the client WAVE application, operators can directly control video streams, fisheye de-warping parameters and archived video content in real-time across the entire video wall.”

In any busy medical facility — surgeries, dental practices or physiotherapy suites — it’s all too easy to accidentally leave a door unlocked. With expensive equipment or controlled drugs on the other side, any opening invites an opportunist. But if a customer installs a Code Handle electronic PIN lock, they need never worry again. The secure, easy-to-fit Code Handle fits right over an existing locking cylinder. The user can simply swap the door handle for a sleek, low-profile Code Handle, and fix it in place with two screws, to instantly add PIN security to any consultation room, medicine store or equipment cupboard. With Code Handle, there is no wiring and no expensive access control to fit. Two standard batteries (CR2) slot inside the handle, typically lasting 30,000 lock/unlock cycles before replacement. The Code Handle comes with a master code and 9 different user PINs — it’s that simple to free staff from the inconvenience of carrying or keeping track of mechanical keys. PINs are easy to set and change whenever an office manager decides. Staff won’t need any specialist or outside help to manage your Code Handle doors. Extra level of security Fit a Code Handle so you no longer need to track a physical key or get the lock changed The Code Handle integrated PIN keypad is equally easy for users. Anyone authorised enters their 4-digit code on the handle to unlock the door. Doctors, nurses and other professionals, as well as admin staff, practice managers, security guards and cleaning teams, come and go with their own PINs. For added security and peace of mind, a Code Handle locks itself when the door closes. Now a user can be sure nobody has seen the confidential patient file on their desk or entered the drug cupboard without permission. Code Handle rooms In any healthcare facility, not all staff should have access to every room. People don’t want just anyone walking in on their consultation. Doctors and patients expect privacy. With Code Handle rooms remain confidential. Where would the controlled drugs or hazardous waste bins be kept? Fit a Code Handle so as to no longer need to track a physical key or get the lock changed when it goes missing. And many treatment and examination rooms house expensive or dangerous equipment, including X-ray machines, dental tools and specialist physiotherapy kit. With Code Handle, all this gets the extra level of security it deserves — without the expense of fitting access control.

ASSA ABLOY Group brands Corbin Russwin and SARGENT released a new status indicator for, respectively, the ML2000 Series and 8200 Series mortice locks. Featuring the largest viewing window available on the market, a reflective coating for improved clarity in low light conditions and a patent-pending curved design, these mortice lock status indicators combine emergency preparedness and enhanced privacy to meet the needs of any type of facility. “Schools, offices and all types of commercial spaces need to prioritise safety and create inclusive environments,” says Bill Grambo, President, Access and Egress Hardware Group, ASSA ABLOY. “Our mortice lock status indicators make it easier to see if a door is locked from a distance and at almost any angle, thereby avoiding awkward disturbances or interruptions and enabling a more secure and private experience in a given space.” Improving security through efficient design With its viewing window 25% larger than other indicators on the market and a reflective coating, it’s easier to see the lock status on these indicators, even in low-light conditions. Because of the curved design, it’s also possible to view the lock status from any angle. Available in both sectional and escutcheon trim, these mortice lock status indicators help users secure an opening and determine more quickly when that opening is locked. Quickly seeing that a room is occupied can avoid awkward moments in restrooms in public facilities ASSA ABLOY’s mortice lock status indicator also offers the option to include engraving on the lock escutcheon or sectional plate to visually confirm the direction to turn the key or thumbturn to lock or unlock the door. By clearly displaying the status of an opening, ASSA ABLOY’s latest mortice lock status indicators prevent interruptions when a person attempts to open a locked door. Quickly seeing that a room is occupied can avoid awkward moments in restrooms in public facilities. Enhanced safety and privacy These indicators can also prevent classroom interruptions, maintain a secure and quiet environment in rooms for nursing mothers, and keep a space distraction-free for office meetings or employee meditation. The result is an inclusive environment where end users can focus and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Upgrading to the latest mortice lock status indicators is quick and easy. For facilities with existing ML2000 or 8200 series mortise locks, an upgrade kit is available with either escutcheon or sectional trim to secure to the lock body. The upgrade kit uses the existing door preparation and leaves no holes. Security and individual privacy are increasingly important in all manner of spaces, and ASSA ABLOY’s latest mortice lock status indicators provide both of these experiences. The ease of installation facilitates safety and comfort in facilities ranging from education to healthcare to commercial buildings, and the industry-leading features signal what’s next in the evolution of inclusive spaces.

The highly acclaimed Dubai Health, Safety & Environment Forum returns to Dubai from 24-25 November, with a stellar line-up of confirmed speakers from Ministry of Health & Prevention, UAE, Dubai Municipality, ADNOC, DEWA, Emirates Global Aluminium as well as senior executives from leading international and regional companies. On the agenda for this year’s forum are topical health, safety and environment issues. With a raft of infrastructure and construction developments underway in the UAE in the run up to Expo 2020, safety and sustainability issues will be highlighted by speakers and delegates. Taking place from 24-25 November 2019 at Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection Dubai, the Dubai Health, Safety & Environment Forum brings together industry experts from across the region; including health and safety professionals, government regulators, policy makers and solution vendors. Monitoring hazardous environments with IoT The forum presents an opportunity for attendees to gain deep insights on policy, strategies and technical expertise Advisory panellists include Raed Marzooqi, head of HSE, Dubai Municipality; Dr Rehab Al Ameri, director of National Accreditation System Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology; Salman Dawood Abdulla, executive vice-president of HSSEQ, Emirates Global Aluminium; Professor Janvier Gasana, chair of department of Occupational Health, Kuwait University; Nasser Al-Buhairi, head of Emergency Unit, Kuwait Oil Company; Dr. Ola Ahmed Mira, Accredited Physician, International Coach Federation. Topics that will be discussed at The Dubai HSE Forum 2019 include wellness and prevention management, challenges to occupational health and safety, changing the construction industry safety mindset in the industry 4.0 era, human factors vs. process safety, the impact of digital transformation on workplace health and safety, mitigating work-related risks using artificial intelligence (AI) and monitoring hazardous environments with IoT (Internet of Things). These topics are crucial for major sectors such as oil and gas, construction, utilities, logistics and transportation, manufacturing, and food and beverage. Strategies and technical expertise The forum presents an opportunity for the attendees to gain deep insights on policy, strategies and technical expertise. Held in association with Vin Technology, Lloyds Register, Clyde &Co, Ideagen, Board of Certified Safety Professionals, JLG, Universal Site Monitoring, and Arasca, the Dubai HSE Forum builds on the success of the highly acclaimed inaugural event that was first held in September 2015. “The forum gives a chance to step out of the daily routine and to think and reflect about the subjects that have been spoken about – to relate experiences to what is going on. It gives the visitors a platform to connect and network,” said Andrew Barker, general manager – Group Health and Safety, Rezayat Group. AI and IoT Soumen Chakraborthy, event producer, Dubai HSE Forum 2019 commented: “While the UAE’s vision and ambition is showcased in events such as Expo2020, there is a need to significantly strengthen the workforce by providing appropriate training in issues related to occupational health, safety and environment. The Dubai Health, Safety and Environment Forum is the perfect platform for safety professionals to explore how new technology such as AI and IoT is transforming their profession. We look forward to delivering an informative, enriching and vibrant fifth edition of the Dubai HSE Forum."

Aegis AI, a venture capital-backed AI startup, which provides computer vision software to turn any security camera into a threat-detecting smart camera, has announced that it is rebranding as Actuate and launched new AI threat-detection features included in it. After careful analysis of the company’s market positioning, Actuate leadership decided to adopt the new brand name in alignment with its new features, which expand the firm’s offerings beyond gun detection. Intruder- and threat-detection AI solutions Our new intruder- and threat-detection features help make our customers safer" The new features include intruder- and threat-detection AI solutions. The Actuate system can now alert customers to unauthorised entry to customer facilities and catch individuals acting in a threatening manner even before weapons are fully visible. “Our new intruder- and threat-detection features help make our customers safer,” said Ben Ziomek, Actuate chief product officer. “We’re excited to offer them to the market as we debut a new brand that highlights our expanded scope.” Vertical-specific marketing content Actuate is also launching new, vertical-specific marketing content that targets healthcare, education, corporate, and public-sector customers as part of the rebrand. The new Actuate logo modernises the brand while maintaining the key colors and look-and-feel that defined the Aegis brand. It moves the brand from a focus on its defensive posture to a more general, enterprise-ready brand that opens the door to Actuate’s use as a building-management platform. Deep data science and AI Actuate was founded in early 2018 by University of Chicago MBAs Sonny Tai and Ben Ziomek. Tai is a former Marine Corps captain who spent his formative years in Johannesburg, South Africa, where gun violence rates are some of the highest in the world, while Ziomek brings deep data science and AI expertise gained from his time as a program manager at Microsoft. “This rebrand recognises that we’ve grown as a company,” said Tai, Actuate’s chief executive officer. “I’m thrilled to announce new intruder- and threat-detection features, which we feel strongly, contribute to our central goal of making society safer.”

A free cyber audit tool has been released to its customers by a global technology leader in integrated access control, intruder alarms management and perimeter protection, in what it believes is an industry first. Gallagher Security has unveiled its Security Health Check (SHC) tool to help its customers identify and understand potential vulnerabilities within their security system. Security risks and system vulnerabilities SHC identifies system vulnerabilities, assesses the severity of the threat, and provides specific recommendations Gallagher Security customers can use the SHC utility free to run an automated check via their Command Centre system at any time, reducing the time and expense of performing regular manual audits. SHC identifies system vulnerabilities, assesses the severity of the threat, and provides specific recommendations to mitigate the risk and ensure correct system configuration. It also provides a mechanism to compare against earlier audit results to ensure organisations can track improvement over time and better plan system upgrades. Gallagher chief technology officer Steve Bell said: “We designed SHC to give sites ownership of the state of their system as security risks and system vulnerabilities aren’t static. It’s important to us to promote and support a culture of ongoing improvement within our industry.” Lighting and building systems SHC proactively addresses the ever-evolving threat of cyber-attack, while supporting sites to protect the data held within their access control system. “Security systems can be vulnerable to cyber-attack for a variety of reasons, and the consequences can be significant,” said Bell. A cyber breach via security systems can potentially allow access to personal data" “A cyber breach via security systems can potentially allow access to personal data, restricted areas, and intellectual property, it could also lead to unauthorised control over HVAC, lighting and building systems in order to disrupt operations.” Gallagher believes that in today’s world of evolving threats, it’s no longer enough to supply the tools and walk away. Cyber-secure solutions As the first security system manufacturer to offer a system audit tool of this kind, Gallagher hopes to inspire the security industry to become more transparent with its customers and empower them to better understand their vulnerabilities. Gallagher dedicates significant resource to the research and development of cyber-secure solutions, and has a commitment to helping customers gain full visibility and a deep understanding of how their security system works.

Growing up, I was surrounded by the military way of life as my father was a Captain in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and my grandfather and uncles all served in the military. Even from a young age, I knew I was going to serve our country. My 22-year career in the military includes serving in the United States Air Force, the California Air National Guard and as a reservist assigned to an active-duty Air Force unit. Training and development operations Over the course of my military career, I held a variety of assignments from starting out as a Gate Guard to becoming a Flight Chief and Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC) of a Security Forces section. I retired from the military as a Master Sergeant. After my deployment to Afghanistan, I joined Allied Universal as a security director. My 17-year career at Allied Universal encompasses roles including Service Manager and General Manager at the West Los Angeles Branch and leading the Training and Development operations and Fire Life Safety Division. In 2008, I was tasked to develop and implement the company’s Healthcare Division. Attaining meaningful employment opportunities Below are just a few reasons why the physical security sector is a natural fit for military veterans: Self-Discipline and Organisation Coveted in Security Sector - I believe that the skills learned in the military, such as self-discipline and organisation, have provided the necessary tools to be successful. I truly enjoy working with other veterans at my company as we all know that we can count on each other to get the job done right. This bond and sense of commitment to each other is always there. Multi-faceted Career Paths Available - The security sector also offers veterans the ability to attain meaningful employment opportunities with multi-faceted career paths. A veteran’s background and experience are highly valued in this sector and there are many positions to match our skill sets and expertise. The responsibility we have for those in our charge is really not any different than what we have learned in the military. Team Players - Teamwork is a lesson all military veterans learn. In the military, you live and work together, and are taught to support your team members and efficiently collaborate with the people around you. This is an invaluable skill in the security sector whether you are seeking an entry level or management position. No Military to Civilian Decoder Needed - Veterans need a ‘military to civilian decoder’ system to help explain the significance of their military skills and how they translate to the general employment landscape. The physical security sector, however, understands the language of the military and don’t generally require that military responsibilities be coded into language that non-military can understand. Securing mid-level appointments The physical security sector features a wide variety of jobs from entry level, middle management to senior positions. A retired veteran with a pension may look to the security sector for part-time or full-time entry level work. Other former military, who are not eligible for retirement benefits, may secure mid-level appointments with the goal of climbing the ladder to the highest rungs. The flexibility and opportunity are unparalleled in the security sector. Veterans generally enter the workforce with identifiable skills that can be transferred to the physical security world and are often skilled in technical trends pertinent to business and industry. And what they don't know, they are eager to learn - making them receptive and ready hires in physical security environments that value ongoing learning and training.

The statistics are staggering. The death tolls are rising. And those who now fear environments that were once thought to be safe zones like school campuses, factories, commercial businesses and government facilities, find themselves having to add the routine of active-shooter drills into their traditional fire drill protocols. The latest active shooter statistics released by the FBI earlier this year in their annual active-shooter report designated 27 events as active shooter incidents in 2018. The report reveals that 16 of the 27 incidents occurred in areas of commerce, seven incidents occurred in business environments, and five incidents occurred in education environments. Deadly active-shooter events Six of the 12 deadliest shootings in the country have taken place in the past five years Six of the 12 deadliest shootings in the country have taken place in the past five years, including Sutherland Springs church, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, the San Bernardino regional center, the Walmart in El Paso and the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, which have all occurred since 2015. Although these incidents occurred in facilities with designated entry points common to churches, schools and businesses, the two most deadly active-shooter events since 2015 were the Route 91 Harvest music festival shooting in Las Vegas that left 58 dead and the Pulse nightclub killings in Orlando where 49 perished. As Christopher Combs, special agent in charge of the FBI field office in San Antonio, Texas, said during a news conference following the August 31 mass shooting in Odessa, Texas that claimed seven lives: “We are now at almost every two weeks seeing an active shooter in this country." Active shooter incidents Between December 2000 and December 2018, the FBI’s distribution of active shooter incidents by location looks like this: Businesses Open to Pedestrian Traffic (74) Businesses Closed to Pedestrian Traffic (43) K-12 Schools (39) Institutions of Higher Learning (16) Non-Military Government Properties (28) Military Properties—Restricted (5) Healthcare Facilities (11) Houses of Worship (10) Private Properties (12) Malls (6) What the majority of these venues have in common is they all have a front entrance or chokepoint for anyone entering the facilities, which is why any active-shooter plan must include a strategy to secure that entry point. Situational awareness in perimeter and door security Preventing people with the wrong intentions from entering the space is the goal" According to Paul Franco, an A&E with more than 28 years of experience as a consultant and systems integrator focusing on schools, healthcare and large public and private facilities, that while active shooter incidents continue to rise, the residual effect has been an increase in situational awareness in perimeter and door security. “Certainly, protecting people and assets is the number one goal of all our clients. There are multiple considerations in facilities like K-12 and Healthcare. Preventing people with the wrong intentions from entering the space is the goal. But a critical consideration to emphasise to your client is getting that person out of your facility and not creating a more dangerous situation by locking the person in your facility,” says Franco. High-security turnstiles “Schools today are creating a space for vetting visitors prior to allowing access into the main facility. Using technology properly like high-security turnstiles offer great benefits in existing schools where space constraints and renovation costs can be impractical.” What steps should they be taken when recommending the proper door security to ensure the building is safe As a consultant/integrator, when discussions are had with a client that has a facility in a public space like a corporate building, government centre or industrial facility, what steps should they be taken when recommending the proper door security to ensure the building is safe and can protect its people and assets? For Frank Pisciotta, President and CEO of Business Protection Specialists, Inc. in Raleigh, North Carolina, a fundamental element of his security strategy is making appropriate recommendations that are broad-based and proactive. Properly identifying the adversaries “As a consultant, my recommendations must include properly identifying the adversaries who may show up at a client’s door, the likelihood of that event occurring, the consequences of that event occurring, determining if there are tripwires that can be set so an organisation can move their line of defence away from the door, educating employees to report potential threats and creating real-time actionable plans to respond to threats. A more reactionary posture might include such thing as target hardening such as ballistic resistant materials at entry access points to a facility,” Pisciotta says. Veteran consultant David Aggleton of Aggleton & Associates of Mission Viejo, California recommends that clients compartmentalise their higher security areas for limited access by adding multiple credential controls (card + keypad + biometric), along with ‘positive’ access systems that inhibit tailgating/piggybacking such as secure turnstiles, revolving door and mantrap if your entrances and security needs meet the required space and access throughput rates. Integrated solution of electronic access control Defining a single point of entry in some public facilities is becoming the new standard of care according to many A&Es and security consultants, especially in a school environment. This approach allows a concerted effort when it comes to staffing, visitor monitoring and an integrated technology solution. The bottom line remains: most buildings are vulnerable to a security breach A proactive stance to securing a door entryway will use an integrated solution of electronic access control, turnstiles, revolving doors and mantraps that can substantially improve a facility’s security profile. The bottom line remains: most buildings are vulnerable to a security breach, so it’s not a matter of if there will be a next active shooter tragedy, it’s only a matter of where. Enhancing access control assurance “There is no easy answer to this question,” says Pisciotta referring to how a secured entrance can deter an active shooter. “There have been at least two high-profile incidents of adversaries shooting their way into a facility through access control barriers. So, if the threat so dictates, a ballistic resistant might be required.” He concludes: “There is obviously no question that turnstiles, revolving doors and man traps enhance access control assurance. Electronic access control is easy to integrate with these devices and providing that credentials are secure, approval processes are in place, change management is properly managed and the appropriate auditing measures in place, access control objectives can be met.”

There’s a lot of hype around the term ‘digital transformation.’ For some, it’s the integration of digital technology into everyday tasks. For others, it’s the incorporation of innovative processes aimed at making business optimisation easier. In most cases, digital transformation will fundamentally change how an organisation operates and delivers value to its customers. And within the security realm, the age of digital transformation is most certainly upon us. Technology is already a part of our day-to-day lives, with smart devices in our homes and the ability to perform tasks at our fingertips now a reality. No longer are the cloud, Internet of Things (IoT) and smart cities foreign and distant concepts full of intrigue and promise. Enhancing business operations We’re increasingly seeing devices become smarter and better able to communicate with each other These elements are increasingly incorporated into security solutions with each passing day, allowing enterprises the chance to experience countless benefits when it comes to enhancing both safety and business operations. The term ‘connected world’ is a derivative of the digital transformation, signifying the increasing reliance that we have on connectivity, smart devices and data-driven decision-making. As we become more familiar with the advantages, flaws, expectations and best practices surrounding the connected world, we can predict what issues may arise and where the market is heading. We’re increasingly seeing devices become smarter and better able to communicate with each other through the IoT to achieve both simple goals and arduous tasks. Within our homes, we’re able to control a myriad of devices with commands (‘Hey Google...’ or ‘Alexa...’), as well as recall data directly from our mobile devices, such as receiving alerts when someone rings our doorbell, there’s movement in our front yard or when a door has been unlocked. Analytics-driven solutions The focus is now shifting to the business impacts of connectivity between physical devices and infrastructures, and digital computing and analytics-driven solutions. Within physical security, connected devices can encompass a variety of sensors gathering massive amounts of data in a given timeframe: video surveillance cameras, access control readers, fire and intrusion alarms, perimeter detection and more.As the data from each of these sensors is collected and analysed through a central platform, the idea of a connected world comes to fruition, bringing situational awareness to a new level and fostering a sense of proactivity to identifying emerging threats. The connected world, however, is not without its challenges, which means that certain considerations must be made in an effort to protect data, enhance structured networking and apply protective protocols to developing technology. Physical security systems We can expect to see the conversations regarding data privacy and security increase as well As the use of connected devices and big data continue to grow, we can expect to see the conversations regarding data privacy and security increase as well. Connectivity between devices can open up the risk of cyber vulnerabilities, but designing safeguards as technology advances will lessen these risks. The key goal is to ensure that the data organisations are using for enhancement and improvements is comprehensively protected from unauthorised access. Manufacturers and integrators must be mindful of their products' capabilities and make it easy for end users to adhere to data sharing and privacy regulations. These regulations, which greatly affect physical security systems and the way they're managed, are being implemented worldwide, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). In the United States, California, Vermont and South Carolina have followed suit, and it can be expected that more countries and U.S. states develop similar guidelines in the future. Technology is already a part of our day-to-day lives, with smart devices in our homes and the ability to perform tasks at our fingertips now a reality Automatic security updates Mitigating the concerns of the ‘connected world’ extends beyond just data privacy. IoT technology is accelerating at such a pace that it can potentially create detrimental problems for which many organisations may be ill-prepared - or may not even be able to comprehend. The opportunities presented by an influx of data and the IoT, and applying these technologies to markets such as smart cities, can solve security and operational problems, but this requires staying proactive when it comes to threats and practicing the proper protection protocols. As manufacturers develop devices that will be connected on the network, integrating standard, built-in protections becomes paramount. This can take the form of continuous vulnerability testing and regular, automatic security updates. Protocols are now being developed that are designed to ensure everything is encrypted, all communications are monitored and multiple types of attacks are considered for defensive purposes to provide the best security possible. IoT-connected devices Hackers wishing to do harm will stop at nothing to break into IoT-connected devices Built-in protection mechanisms send these kinds of systems into protection mode once they are attacked by an outside source. Another way for manufacturers to deliver solutions that are protected from outside threats is through constant and consistent testing of the devices long after they are introduced to the market. Hackers wishing to do harm will stop at nothing to break into IoT-connected devices, taking every avenue to discover vulnerabilities. But a manufacturer that spends valuable resources to continue testing and retesting products will be able to identify any issues and correct them through regular software updates and fixes. ‘IoT’ has become a common term in our vocabularies and since it’s more widely understood at this point and time, it's exciting to think about the possibilities of this revolutionary concept. Providing critical insights The number of active IoT devices is expected to grow to 22 billion by 2025 — a number that is almost incomprehensible. The rise of 5G networks, artificial intelligence (AI) and self-driving cars can be seen on the horizon of the IoT. As more of these devices are developed and security protocols are developed at a similar pace, connected devices stand to benefit a variety of industries, such as smart cities. Smart cities rely on data communicated via the IoT to enhance processes and create streamlined approaches Smart cities rely on data communicated via the IoT to enhance processes and create streamlined approaches to ensuring a city is well-run and safe. For example, think of cameras situated at a busy intersection. Cameras at these locations have a variety of uses, such as investigative purposes in the event of an accident or for issuing red-light tickets to motorists. But there are so many other possible purposes for this connected device, including providing critical insights about intersection usage and traffic congestion. These insights can then be used to adjust stoplights during busy travel times or give cities valuable data that can drive infrastructure improvements. Physical security market The impact of connected devices on cities doesn’t stop at traffic improvement. The possibilities are endless; by leveraging rich, real-time information, cities can improve efficiencies across services such as transportation, water management and healthcare. However, stringent protections are needed to harden security around the networks transmitting this kind of information in an effort to mitigate the dangers of hacking and allow this technology to continuously be improved. Whether you believe we’re in the midst of a digital transformation or have already completed it, one thing is certain: businesses must begin thinking in these connectivity-driven terms sooner rather than later so they aren’t left behind. Leveraging smart, connected devices can catapult organisations into a new level of situational awareness, but adopting protections and remaining vigilant continues to be a stalwart of technological innovation within the physical security market and into the connected world.

Video, access control and visitor management are among the technologies that are enabling greater safety and security at hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Video surveillance systems enable hospital management and security professionals to know what goes on in and around a medical facility. Recording images in high resolutions (megapixels and gigapixels) is becoming more and more important in healthcare, says Jason Ouellette, Product Line Director – Access Control, Tyco Security Products. Video event management software Video analytics are now being leveraged for patient tracking, asset tracking, and operational purposes If an incident occurs in a medical facility, the security staff has to be able to identify faces easily and accurately. Storage and costs have to be considered, of course. With technology improving and prices decreasing, video solutions can even be used for purposes beyond traditional security. For example, video analytics are now being leveraged for patient tracking, asset tracking, and operational purposes, and captured video can be used to defend against liability claims. What’s next? Video analytics will continue to be a valuable addition to any surveillance infrastructure due to its ability to address patient needs, operational efficiencies and early risk detection, says Brandon Reich, Senior Director of Surveillance Solutions, Pivot3. Through video event management software (VEMS), hospitals can customise the statistics that are relevant to their individual buildings or campuses without having to spend extra time or money on rigorous employee training. Data capture form to appear here! Real-time access control security updates Furthermore, once healthcare facilities are able to digitise all of their patient records, secure any of their ingress and egress points with real-time access control security updates, and fully transition from analogue to IP video surveillance cameras, VEMS systems that house analytical software will be able to multiply the benefits offered to hospitals, not just in real time, but in planning ahead for future risk, expansion and safety protocols. It is vital to implement integrated and innovative access control solutions With large, complex facilities, directors of security at hospitals struggle with controlling access to various levels of the facility, according to Eric Widlitz of Vanderbilt Industries. To manage the risks that hospitals face and ensure a comprehensively protected atmosphere for patients and staff, it is vital to implement integrated and innovative access control solutions. For example, ease of access with controlled entrances is vital to medical crash teams, as is the need for a zonal access control lockdown in the event of a contagious disease outbreak. Strict access limitations Different hallways, rooms, floors and waiting areas within a hospital require different amounts of restriction, and sensitive materials, such as medical files, controlled substances and sterile environments (such as operating and procedure rooms) all necessitate an additional layer of protection. Access control in particular has advanced significantly to offer healthcare facilities the ability to control access remotely, through mobile applications, confirm identity quickly and easily and program varying levels of access for visitors, patients, doctors and staff. One area that is recently experiencing rapid growth – and drastic change – is the securing of narcotics within healthcare facilities, says Robert Laughlin, CEO and Chairman, Galaxy Control Systems. In the past, all medicine was controlled in a central pharmacy located somewhere in the hospital or health facility. These pharmacies were highly secured areas, with strict access limitations; only authorised staff could get near the medicine stocks. Fiber optic communication lines For vehicle access control, medical centers and hospitals prefer beam barricades and shallow foundation barriers To improve the speed of delivery, and to have the necessary medicines ready at hand for in-patients without retaining a large delivery staff, the current trend is to have distributed pharmaceutical closets or carts that hold medicines much closer to the intended patients. For vehicle access control, medical centers and hospitals prefer beam barricades and shallow foundation barriers, according to Gregg Hamm of Delta Scientific. Manual beam barricades are installed at the Fort Bragg Veterans Administration Hospital in North Carolina to shut down certain areas of the facility when a higher alert is sounded. They will stop a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling 50 mph. The Navy Hospital in San Diego uses high speed, high security and very shallow foundation barricades to control all vehicles going in and out of the facility. With their extremely shallow foundation, they obviate the concerns of interference with buried pipes, power lines and fiber optic communication lines. They will stop a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling 50 mph. At the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, even stronger shallow foundation barriers are used for traffic control and protection. These barriers will destroy a 65,000-pound (5.4 million foot-pounds) dump truck traveling 50 mph and continue to stand. Physical access control systems Controlling visitors to hospitals and healthcare facilities can directly impact security Controlling visitors to hospitals and healthcare facilities can directly impact security. Traditional methods of visitor management, such as paper visitor logs and handwritten badges are insufficient given today’s variety of security challenges. A hospital using paper-based systems cannot easily cross-check information, confirm patient information, check visitor names against up-to-date watch lists, or visually confirm identity. An increasingly popular and important application is secure and simplified visitor management, integrated with the physical access control systems (PACS). Today’s visitor management systems enable the screening, badging and tracking all visitors or, at a minimum, those visiting critical areas or during ‘after hours’ periods, Quickly identify inappropriate visitors One other growing technology is the ability to link to internal or governmental watch lists, to quickly identify inappropriate visitors before they gain access to the facilities. For example, Visitor Management systems can be configured to perform a Sex Offender search in both Children’s Hospitals and Pediatric areas, further decreasing the likelihood that someone of the list could gain access. Wayfinding is indoor navigation to guide a person step-by-step on the way to a desired destination HID Global and Phunware Inc. are addressing the need of healthcare institutions to deploy standardised technology to provide a better wayfinding and visitor engagement experience inside the hospital, across campus and even in parking lots. The companies are collaborating to improve the experience for hospital patients and visitors to find their way within medical facilities, using wayfinding on their mobile phones. Wayfinding is indoor navigation to guide a person step-by-step on the way to a desired destination. Enterprise-level mobile wayfinding “It’s easy for visitors and patients to get lost in hospitals, and every time they do it puts appointment times and patient satisfaction at risk,” says Rom Eizenberg, Vice President of Sales, Bluvision, part of HID Global “With our location-aware app on a mobile device, we equip the visitor to get instant, turn-by-turn navigation that creates a better experience than that which is currently available on the market.” HID’s healthcare IoT solution-enablement platform simplifies the delivery of real-time location of clinicians, patients and devices. The platform is enabled by Bluvision (part of HID Global). Phunware’s Multiscreen-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform also provides enterprise-level mobile wayfinding, engagement, data and more for other vertical markets, including retail, residential, hospitality, media and entertainment and more. Missed the rest our healthcare mini series? Read part one here and part two here.

The healthcare market is rife with opportunity for security systems integrators. Hospitals have a continuous need for security, to update their systems, to make repairs, says David Alessandrini, Vice President, Pasek Corp., a systems integrator. “It’s cyclical. Funding for large projects might span one to two years, and then they go into a maintenance mode. Departments are changing constantly, and they need us to maintain the equipment to make sure it’s operating to its full potential.” The experience of Pasek Corp. is typical of the opportunities available for security integrator companies in the healthcare vertical. A single large hospital system can supply a dependable ongoing source of revenue to integrator companies, says Alessandrini. Hospitals are “usually large enough to provide enough work for several people for an extended length of time.”  Healthcare customers in Pasek’s service area around Boston provide the potential for plenty of work. “We have four major hospitals, each with in excess of 250 card readers and 200 cameras, in the Boston area,” Alessandrini says. One appeal of the healthcare market for North Carolina Sound, an integrator covering central North Carolina, is the breadth of possible equipment they can sell into the healthcare market, including access control and video, of course, but also other technologies, such as audio-video systems in a dining room. North Carolina Sound has also installed sound masking in some areas with waiting rooms to protect private patient information from being overheard. Locking systems on pharmaceutical doors are another opportunity. Data capture form to appear here! IP based networked video systems A facility’s IT folks must be convinced an IP solution will function seamlessly on their network Among North Carolina Sound’s customers is Wayne Memorial Hospital, Goldsboro, N.C., which uses about 340 video cameras, with 80 percent or more of them converted to IP. The hospital is replacing analogue with IP cameras as budget allows, building network infrastructure to support the system. The healthcare market tends to have a long sales cycle; in general, sales don’t happen overnight or even within a month or two. In fact, the period between an initial meeting with a healthcare facility and installation of a system could stretch to a year or longer. A lot happens during that time. Healthcare systems involve extensive planning, engineering, and meetings among various departments. Physical security systems that involve the information technology (IT) department, as do most systems today, can be especially complex. Installation of networked video systems based on Internet protocol (IP) requires deep and probing discussions with the IT team about how a system fits into the facility’s network infrastructure. A facility’s IT folks must be convinced an IP solution will function seamlessly on their network. Compatible with the network They must vet the technology to ensure the devices and solutions will be compatible with the network, and must sign off on technology choices. And even more important is determining if the security system will adhere to cyber security requirements of the facility. A complete solution that integrates nearly any system that lives on or uses a facility’s network is ultimately what the healthcare vertical is moving toward, says Jason Ouellette, General Manager – Enterprise Access Control & Video, Johnson Controls. Healthcare security professionals are early adopters of technology, implementing the best technology available” “We are hearing more and more from customers across industries that they want to be able to use their security systems and devices for more than just security: they want added value,” says Ouellette. Many want to use access control, video surveillance and other data sources to assess their business operations and/or workflows with the goal of improving efficiency. Upgrade cost-effectively Historically, three factors have prevented many organisations from moving forward with new technologies: lack of money, proprietary systems, and the need to “rip and replace” large parts of the installed systems, says Robert Laughlin, CEO and Chairman, Galaxy Control Systems. "Today, while funding is almost always a limiting factor at some level, the progression of industry standards and ‘open’ systems has made a big positive impact on the ability of organisations to upgrade cost-effectively,” he says. Despite any obstacles, healthcare customers generally welcome new innovations. “I would say healthcare security professionals in general are early adopters of technology and like to implement the best technology available,” says Jim Stankevich, Global Manager – Healthcare Security, Johnson Controls/Tyco Security Products. “For most, rapid implementation is limited by budgets and available funding." Read parts one and three of our heathcare mini series here and here.

When violence or a life-threatening incident occurs, hospitals and other healthcare institutions are often in the crosshairs. Hospitals increasingly face a reality of workplace violence, attacks on patients, and threats to doctors and other support staff. And even if violence happens outside a hospital – such as an active shooter at a public place – the local hospital must be prepared to respond to an influx of injured victims. When conflicts arise inside a hospital, there is an urgent need to lock the facility down quickly. Security professionals and their teams need access control options that allow lockdowns to occur at the touch of a button. Lockdown capabilities are an important aspect of safety and security for hospitals, doctor’s offices and medical facilities The need for mass notification is also growing in the healthcare environment Fire alarm public address system The need for mass notification – another aspect of responding in an emergency – is also growing in the healthcare environment. Various systems can communicate through the fire alarm public address (PA) system to notify people in an emergency, or, alternately, to use email notification, text messaging, pagers, smart phones and/or personal computers (PCs). In lockdown situations, access control systems provide an emergency button with various triggers in the system – a hospital can lockdown specific units or the entire facility. Data capture form to appear here! Jim Stankevich, Global Manager – Healthcare Security, Johnson Controls/Tyco Security Products, points out that the safety of hospital staff, particularly nurses, cannot be overlooked. In the emergency room, 55 percent of nurses are assaulted in some way each year, which is a high percentage. The safety of nurses and all hospital staff deserves more attention. Duress/emergency notification technology Stankevich says one solution is to use duress/emergency notification technology: staff can carry and wear a ‘panic button” or have a two-key combination on their computer as an alarm trigger. When the staff member hits the panic button, a direct message can be sent to security, alerting security staff about the event and requiring a response. There has been an increase in demand for the safety and security of patients, staff and visitors at healthcare institutions, as evidenced by the recent CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) Emergency Preparedness Rule. As of Nov. 17, 2017, healthcare institutions that participate in Medicare or Medicaid must demonstrate compliance with the rule. Emergency preparedness systems A major challenge in compliance to this rule is balancing patient safety with comfort At its core, the rule seeks to establish national emergency preparedness requirements to ensure adequate planning for both natural and man-made disasters, and coordination with federal, state, tribal, regional and local emergency preparedness systems. A major challenge in compliance to this rule is balancing patient safety with comfort. Institutions should consider two-way communication that enables leadership to disseminate targeted messages quickly and efficiently, while arming all employees with a tool that can alert the appropriate staff should an incident occur. Solutions like this enable swift communication of issues without disturbing patients and visitors unless necessary. Effective response to emergencies “Fortunately, hospitals and their security departments are generally well equipped to respond to most emergency situations”, said John M. White, president/CEO of Protection Management, a consultant who works with hospitals to address their security needs. During the Ebola scare in 2014, however, hospitals had to re-examine their plans to ensure they were prepared to meet the challenges specific to rare and deadly disease. “Hospitals are prepared for most things, but Ebola seemed to have caught the whole world off guard, so people responded in different ways,” says White, who previously was security director of two multi-campus medical facilities before becoming a consultant. Hospital security Hospitals made adjustments to their emergency programs to determine how best to handle Ebola patients" He adds, “Hospitals made adjustments to their emergency programs to determine how best to handle Ebola patients and to protect other patients and staff. It was a new threat that healthcare organisations had not specifically addressed.” A particular concern was the possibility of an infected person walking into an emergency room and infecting other people and/or requiring facility decontamination. One role the hospital security department plays in such an emergency is to control access to the facility and to control visitors’ movements once they are inside the facility, says White. If the Ebola scare had progressed to the point that a hospital would need to screen patients, security would be positioned at the front entrance to help with that screening and, if necessary, to direct patients to a specific area for quarantine. Protective equipment Security might also need to wear protective equipment to handle a patient who is resistant to treatment, for example. There are often interactions between security personnel and the general public, a scenario that becomes more complicated if Ebola or a similar infection is likely. In general, security would be tasked with maintaining order and keeping people where they need to be, freeing up the medical professionals to do their jobs more efficiently, says White. To prepare for the impact of the Ebola scare, hospitals addressed various training and equipment needs and adjusted their disaster/emergency response plans. Read parts two and three of our heathcare mini series here and here.

Security companies provide a type of service that tends to go unnoticed except when it’s missed. Small cities and towns are increasingly growing every day mostly due to internal migration and the high prices of rent in Los Angeles county USA. Veteran Los Angeles security services company, Hillquest Security & Patrol plans to meet this growth head-on. For that reason, Hillquest has decided to expand their already wide range of action (which included more than 60 cities by 2018) to all the Orange and Riverside counties. Hillquest’s security mobile patrols Hillquest Security started to provide security guard services in Orange County and Riverside since early 2019 Hillquest Security started to provide security guard services in Orange County and Riverside since early 2019. What was initially a test venture that turned out to be really successful for the company has now became a full-service activity. Furthermore, Hillquest started to offer its full range of security options for businesses and individuals in those areas. Businesses and other entities in the OC and Riverside can now hire Hillquest’s security mobile patrols, bodyguards, security systems, loss prevention and other security services for banks, construction areas, healthcare facilities, hotels, apartment complexes, movie sets, parking lots, schools and event venues. Manned Guarding and security services "We provide security services that are perfectly tailored for our clientele," said John Bouzy, Hillquest Security owner. "Our trained, licensed expert security officers can handle any and all of our customers’ security needs. Moreover, we can do that any time of day as well." According to Hillquest Security & Patrol’s corporate website, the company is insured with a US$ 5 million policy and its officers "meet the standards set by the bureau of security and investigative services."

Device and application security solutions provider, Trustonic has announced that OPTOLANE has selected Trustonic Secured Platform (TSP) to bring security and trust to the company’s new connected medical diagnostic device. The product is primarily used at the point-of-care for early diagnosis and preventative healthcare, particularly for diagnosing cancer, infectious diseases and congenital abnormalities. Healthcare devices have become top targets for cybercriminals due to their critical nature, the valuable intellectual property they employ and the sensitive personal information that they collect and store. Research shows that there were 8.2 attempted cyber-attacks per connected healthcare endpoint in each month of 2018. Smart diagnostic platform OPTOLANE’s simple, fast and smart diagnostic platform is based on Nexell’s system on chip (SoC) platform To ensure security, privacy and high performance, OPTOLANE’s simple, fast and smart diagnostic platform is based on Nexell’s system on chip (SoC) platform, which integrates Trustonic’s Trusted Execution Environment (TEE). OPTOLANE’s in vitro diagnostic (IVD) platform, called LOAA (Lab on an Array) Analyser, examines blood and tissue samples for multiple targets, including DNA, RNA, proteins and metabolites, in real-time. It was developed to satisfy market demand for ‘sample to answer’ IVD tools and enables sample extraction through to analysis with a single cartridge. “Investment in connected healthtech is increasing and IVD is an important segment in the global diagnostics industry,” comments Ben Cade, CEO of Trustonic. “These solutions add significant value to diagnosis and treatment, enhancing the well-being of the general public while increasing productivity and reducing costs. But, where personal data this sensitive is being captured, processed, and transmitted, the appropriate steps must be taken to protect it from malicious actors.” Trustonic security platform Trustonic’s hardware-backed security platform, TSP, enables secure and private data extraction, processing, storage and transmission. The technology: Enables a secure image processing channel from the sensor to the application processor; Provides cryptographic tools to protect individuals’ sensitive medical data; Ensures data integrity; Creates a secure environment to run algorithms analysing raw data from the sensor; Encrypts sensitive data when being shared with the cloud. Do Young Lee, CEO of OPTOLANE, says “There is clear demand for innovative new diagnostics solutions that go from ‘sample-to-answer’ in real-time. Importantly, though, we fully understand our responsibility to protect patient data." Enhanced data security To deliver connectivity while protecting the sensitive personal data collected by diagnostic devices, we needed a proven hardware-backed security foundation. Trustonic’s experience protecting smartphones, wearables and IoT hardware, and securing critical mobile applications in the financial and automotive sectors, is assurance that our devices and patient data are secured to the highest standard.” OPTOLANE expects to receive FDA certification for the new device in the first quarter of 2020. Once certification is achieved the product will be available to clinicians in healthcare facilities around the world.

The stakes are higher when it comes to hospital security. Patients expect and deserve privacy and safety. Yet a hospital building or complex must remain a welcoming and supportive space, around the clock. Mechanical lock and key technology may be too passive for this modern healthcare environment, but that does not mean users should abandon the familiarity of keys altogether, because not all keys are created equal. Programmable electronic key systems Programmable electronic key systems put sophisticated access control into the form of a traditional key Programmable electronic key systems put the advantages of sophisticated access control into the form of a traditional key. They reinvent the key for the 21st century, making it more flexible, more powerful and better equipped to handle the security demands of a busy place. Lost keys and departed employees are no longer a problem, because their key’s access rights can be cancelled with a click. And at multiple secure points around the hospital, the familiarity of a key is welcome to a user group who are not experts — at least, not in access control technology. CLIQ locking system Keys can be as smart as any card-based credential. For example, CLIQ technology from ASSA ABLOY backs up the familiarity and ease of use of key-based locking with the flexible management and real-time security features of an intelligent electronic access system. A CLIQ locking system consists of battery-powered, programmable keys; cable-free padlocks and cylinders that are easy to retrofit to almost any standard opening; and management software that can be run locally or via a secure cloud. For users, CLIQ means carrying a single, programmable key pre-loaded to unlock all authorised openings — not just doors, but also gates, alarm boxes, cabinets and lifts. Say goodbye to huge key rings. Programmable key solution For hospital security managers, a programmable key solution enables users to create personalised access schedules — even for temporary contractors — and collect audit trails for doors or keyholders automatically. Staff travels into, out of and through the hospital based on set rules and programmed into their keys. Many hospitals find CLIQ invaluable in managing access to medicines and other controlled substances. Nursing staff using older mechanical key systems struggle to keep track of who has the right keys. Searching for that person to gain access to drugs wastes precious time. Unauthorised access to drug stores can, of course, bring serious financial and safety implications. Medicine management with key-based access control Lock electronics are powered by the battery inside every key, so the retrofit was cable-free At Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, pharmacy managers sought a better solution adapted to nurse-accessed medicine stores. They chose a PROTEC2 CLIQ system which combines mechanical disc cylinders with battery powered, programmable CLIQ keys. Lock electronics are powered by the battery inside every key, so the retrofit was cable-free. CLIQ devices secure doors, cabinets and mobile drug trolleys within the same access system. Security and pharmacy managers can see who opened every lock whenever they want — making medicine audits and incident investigation much easier. “Programmable key solutions can really boost medicine safety in hospitals,” says Stephan Schulz, CLIQ Product Manager at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEA. “Nurses at Queen Elizabeth, Birmingham, carry their own key with personalised access rights, so they don’t waste time finding out who has the key to every cupboard. Patients benefit. A similar system trialled at Scunthorpe Hospital found the total wasted time eliminated would equate to having an additional 24 nurses on duty across the Trust every day,” Stephan Schulz adds. Key-based access control solution Key-based access solutions are equally comfortable at scale. At University Hospital Frankfurt 1,100 eCLIQ cylinders secure doors in a new building. A fully electronic implementation of CLIQ technology, eCLIQ cylinders and keys are easy for staff to use and for hospital security managers to administer from web-based software. The CLIQ Web Manager makes it easy to program, reprogram and audit every CLIQ key, cylinder or padlock. Because the interface is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection — via multifactor login over https:// — users can manage a CLIQ system whenever and from wherever they choose. Its architecture supports multiple administrators or sites. CLIQ Web Manager The Web Manager also integrates easily with all kinds of business management software, helping users automate tedious operations and processes. They can also make the Web Manager one element within an existing access control system. The Web Manager can run in a self-hosted IT environment or completely free of local software installation with two different Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions, Shared SaaS or Dedicated SaaS with hosting just for users and maintenance schedules set by them. With either option, the security software is always up-to-date — a major benefit in healthcare, where confidentiality makes cyber-attack resistance critical.

Located in the Southern Vietnamese metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, the Deutsches Haus office tower is a symbol of cooperation between Germany and Vietnam. Opened in September 2017, it is the country’s first building to earn LEED (leadership in energy and environmental design) Platinum environmental certification and serves as a cultural, commercial and diplomatic hub in the region. Next to the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany the 25-story building with a 40,000-square-meters floor area is home to regional offices of international firms such as VISA, Adidas, Schneider Electric, and Bosch Vietnam. As premium amenities, Deutsches Haus also features a gourmet cafe, multifunctional conference and events area, health club, and rooftop restaurant. Creating a challenging security environment Deutsches Haus needs to meet the highest security demands: All security systems, including security guard teams From a security manager’s perspective, this multi-use blend of diplomacy, business, and leisure facilities – in a building fully accessible to the public – creates a challenging security environment. As the seat of the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany, Deutsches Haus needs to meet the highest security demands: All security systems, including security guard teams, have to be approved by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany. Adding to the challenge, Deutsches Haus is located opposite from the Consulate General of the United States of America – and in close vicinity to the Consulate General of France and the British Consulate General – on a busy intersection between two main streets. Therefore, monitoring pedestrians and automobile traffic on the building’s perimeter is just as crucial to end-to-end security as tracking public and high-security areas on the inside. Detecting security events automatically In search of an adequate video security solution, the team at Deutsches Haus knew that high-definition cameras alone would not suffice. The reason: When several hundred cameras are required to secure an area of this size, personnel tend to be overwhelmed by the amount of video feeds. After only 20 minutes, the average operator misses 90 percent of important scenes, as studies have proven. Bosch experts covered the building and its perimeter with network security cameras For this reason, modern IP security cameras feature Intelligent Video Analytics – using algorithms and AI-based image recognition – to support operators by detecting security events automatically. Bosch experts covered the building and its perimeter with network security cameras featuring built-in Intelligent Video Analytics. Indoor areas like the entrance doors, reception area, lobby, café, as well as parking garages and corridors to the fire escape staircases are monitored by over 170 DINION IP starlight 7000 HD and FLEXIDOME IP panoramic 7000 MP cameras. Alerting security personnel of illicit behaviour The building’s elevators are also protected by Bosch cameras. Thanks to built-in-intelligence, IP cameras automatically alert security personnel of illicit behaviour, for instance persons accessing restricted areas. The building’s perimeter and parking lot are safeguarded outdoor-approved AUTODOME IP starlight 7000 HD cameras with pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) capabilities. Integrated with a third-party solution to open barriers for authorised vehicles, the cameras can automatically track moving objects such as cars and pedestrians – and warn personnel of threats – with their 30x zoom lens while obtaining images under low light conditions via Bosch starlight technology combined with Intelligent Video Analytics. As a key requisite, the networked cameras are able to withstand the city’s four-month rain period and prove resistant to vandalism. Enhancing safety of building occupants The staff can easily announce and notify a building guest about a forgotten purse which was left in the café PAVIRO, the Public Address and Voice Evacuation system of Bosch was installed in the building for the safety of building occupants. The PAVIRO solution makes it possible for occupants to feel safe in the building while enjoying high quality music and excellent Public Address speech intelligibility. The staff can easily announce and notify a building guest about a forgotten purse which was left in the café. To make building evacuations as efficient as possible, the PAVIRO solution provides phased evacuation: automated messages direct occupants to immediate safety. Next to this, building occupants and guests can also enjoy high-quality music in the rooftop restaurant, café, health club and event areas which of course contributes to the nice building atmosphere. Providing government-grade security For the building owner, PAVIRO can establish long-term cost-saving and minimise total cost of ownership. The system is especially eco-friendly because less amplifiers are needed due to power-load sharing of the amplifier architecture, which in turn requires fewer batteries. Since opening day, the Bosch system has provided government-grade security at Deutsches Haus in Ho Chi Minh City. “I am proud to have Bosch both as a tenant and as a brand who secures Deutsches Haus with their high quality and reliable video security cameras and sound systems,” added Ryan Lower, Property Director, Colliers International – Deutsches Haus. While meeting the challenge of securing diplomatic and enterprise assets in a publicly accessible building, the future-proof solution provides an important reference in this dynamic market.

Evelina London Children's Hospital has had many different brands of door entry system, as is often the case with NHS Hospitals spread across the UK. Managers at Evelina wished to have a standardised system across the wards in order to improve operating efficiency and reduce maintenance costs. Upgrades needed to be quick problem free and cost-effective. Each independent ward utilises a self-contained door entry system to control security critical access to their busy nursing area. The Maternity Ward provides a good example of a security critical area that requires an intuitive and cost-effective system to control access with the ability of a ward receptionist to permit entry and exit via an audio-video communication link. The DUOX 2 wire system functions perfectly using most types of cable Time and date stamping of visitors Fermax Area Manager Andy Saxton worked closely with Evelina’s nominated installation company to ensure that the Fermax system design using DUOX and VEO met the hospital’s needs. Based on 2 wires system with aesthetically pleasing profiles and user-friendly features and functionality, the Fermax DUOX system with VEO video monitors was a perfect match for the hospitals requirements. Purely digital in nature, the DUOX 2 wire system functions perfectly using most types of cable which meant that it could be retro-fitted onto the existing system infrastructure, thereby avoiding the excessive costs of re-cabling. Equipped with the Photocaller function which allows for the time and date stamping of visitors, the Fermax DUOX VEO monitor delivered the ideal solution.

As in every health facility, security for the Haute Savoie region’s new hospital presented a complex challenge. Access control required multiple checkpoints and access rights tailored to individual staff and contractors. Real-time control, enabling managers to respond proactively including by opening and closing doors remotely, was another essential. To meet their security challenges, managers selected Aperio® locking technology integrated online with an ARD access management system. Because Aperio® locks are wireless, the hospital could introduce many more layers of security and secure doors without incurring excessive installation or operating costs, including for sensitive offices and drug stores. Central access system software Secure 128-bit AES encryption protects communications between Aperio® lock, hub and system Now staff no longer carry key bunches or waste valuable time hunting down relevant keys. All their individual permissions are stored on a single, programmable RFID credential. Alongside standard wired locking, the hospital chose 1,300 Aperio® wireless escutcheons, 10 Aperio® wireless handles with integrated RFID reader, and 301 Aperio® wall readers. A network of 228 Aperio® communications hubs connects every Aperio® lock wirelessly to the central access system software. All these battery-powered Aperio® devices integrate natively with the centralised access system, so wired and wireless access points at Centre Hospitalier Métropole Savoie (CHMS) are managed together, with real-time management logs, remote door opening and free time slot management. Secure 128-bit AES encryption protects communications between Aperio® lock, hub and system. Maintaining access control autonomously “Having just a single badge — and not having to carry around heavy keys — has been a major advantage for us,” says Béatrice Dequidt, Health Executive at CHMS. “This solution's advantage is it represents a single site from an authorisation management and systems perspective,” explains Aurélien De Riols, ARD’s Eastern Region Director. One single, intuitive management interface enables security teams to administer and maintain access control autonomously, as well as streamline laborious everyday tasks. “We have implemented internal HR management procedures, creating badges that are automatically integrated into ARD's operating software,” adds Alain Gestin, CHMS’s IT Systems Architect. Aperio and ARD maintain compatibility of credentials with the French government’s electronic Health Professional Card (CPS), for added staff convenience. For every site user, the advantages of carrying a single RFID-enabled badge — instead of multiple keys — are clear.

Passwords are one of the most familiar elements of information systems, but also one that can be overlooked or underutilised. New alternatives are emerging, and the role of passwords is evolving in the age of the Internet of Things. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How is the role of passwords changing in physical security systems?

Artificial intelligence is on the verge of changing the face of multiple industries – from healthcare to entertainment to finance, from data security to manufacturing to the cars we drive (or that will drive themselves!) In the physical security market, AI has garnered a lot of attention as a buzzword and as a harbinger of things to come. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What security markets are most likely to embrace artificial intelligence (AI)?

The ability to treat patients in a secure environment is a base requirement of hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Whether facilities are large or small, security challenges abound, including perimeter security, access control of sensitive areas, video surveillance, and even a long list of cyber-risks. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of hospitals and the healthcare industry?