Lenel Systems’ OnGuard security management system safeguards U.S. Bank Stadium

As Philadelphia beat New England at U.S. Bank Stadium, fans were able to enjoy the spectacle safely, in part thanks to Lenel. As the host of major national and international events, U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota counts on Lenel to provide advanced security systems that help protect fans attending some of the world’s leading sporting events and concerts.

Lenel is part of UTC Climate Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp. Working in such a high-profile venue, Lenel teams are constantly adjusting systems to maintain a high-level of security.

Lenel’s OnGuard security management system has been a vital hub in the $1.12 billion stadium’s comprehensive, layered security plan since the first event in July 2016. In addition to major events, which can hold 66,000 people, the stadium routinely hosts a range of other activities for area residents such as college baseball, distance running and inline skating.

The Lenel team helped us create a comprehensive system that works exactly as we drew it up"

Integrated security

Bill Langenstein, director of event services for U.S. Bank Stadium venue manager SMG, said OnGuard’s integration of systems helps defuse potentially dangerous situations.

“I don’t know of another platform capable of integrating the number and size of disparate systems we have in this stadium,” Langenstein said. “The Lenel team helped us create a comprehensive system that works exactly as we drew it up. The result is we are more efficient and proactive.”

The OnGuard system acts as the single platform integrating access control with:

• More than 400 surveillance cameras monitoring seating areas, concourses and exterior perimeters
• Visitor management systems checking identifies at delivery gates
• Video intercoms protecting doors on high-value rooms
• More than 250 intrusion system alarm points protecting retail shops and ticket windows
• A real-time incident management system safeguarding attendees and staff

Incidents such as an altercation in the stands or a door improperly left open generates a real-time alert for the security team"Pre-defined alerts

Alex Housten, Vice President and General Manager of Fire & Security Products – Americas, said the incident management integration was critical as it provides stadium security with pre-defined alerts from all systems. Alerts are received in the command centres or on smartphones or tablets carried by patrolling guards.

“Incidents such as an altercation in the stands or a door improperly left open generates a real-time alert for the security team,” Housten said. “The OnGuard system helps guards take immediate action. And with the entry of a few keywords, other types of events can be added to the alert list.”

Secure viewing experience

Housten credited the Lenel Custom Solutions Group with seamlessly integrating the incident management system with the OnGuard platform. The group designs, develops and delivers software solutions to create custom solutions often by automating third-party integrations.

Langenstein said it’s vital that his team be able to perform their duties at the highest standard as many stadium events draw tens of thousands of fans and millions more television viewers.

“We strive to execute our jobs flawlessly,” he said. “It helps to be on the cutting edge of technology. With the Lenel integration, we know we’ll be ready to provide a memorable and secure experience no matter what type of event guests attend at U.S. Bank Stadium.”