Network / IP security

Razberi Technologies has extended its software platform to integrate deeper with video management software (VMS) from Milestone Systems, providing increased uptime assurance, cyber threat protection and faster problem resolution. Monitor security network With Razberi Monitor™, security professionals can securely and remotely monitor their physical security network – especially relevant during these times of social distancing requirements. IT professionals can quickly review cyber status data to help manage potential cybersecurity risks. Razberi Monitor™ provides secure, remote visibility into the availability, performance, and cyber posture of servers, storage, cameras, and other networked security devices. This new tool simplifies the monitoring and support of multi-site enterprise security systems, predicts and prevents problems for security professionals, and provides a centralised view that benefits both IT and Physical Security departments with valuable situational awareness. Positive Customer Impact According to Tom Galvin, Chief Product Officer, Razberi Technologies, "We have listened to the surveillance industry and created our software platform to enhance relationships and align Physical Security and IT departments. Razberi Monitor allows security professionals running Milestone VMS to be proactive by predicting problems within the video management system." Razberi Monitor’s software platform paired with Milestone VMS enables customers to save on the cost of sending maintenance crews to check on potential downed cameras or other issues with devices connected to the surveillance network. Cyber posture alerts "We have a long-standing partnership with Razberi Technologies as a gold-level Milestone Technology Partner. This enables us to collaborate closely and achieve unique integrations like the new Razberi Monitor 3.0. This update allows users of Milestone XProtect VMS software to remotely monitor highly distributed video networks. The ability to receive cyber posture alerts within the Milestone VMS will reduce customer truck rolls exponentially,” said Tim Warren, Community Technical Manager, Milestone Americas. “Users will now have clear oversight of operations and potential vulnerabilities from a simple dashboard view and be able to remotely see specific alerts to each site, to troubleshoot more quickly and efficiently than sending a technician.”

Telguard, a provider of security and life safety communications, announced that it’s partnering with sister company AMETEK Land to offer the VIRALERT 3 Integrated Human Body Temperature Screening System as part of its security distribution channel offering. The VIRALERT 3 is a non-contact temperature monitoring camera that detects body temperatures as people enter a building while maintaining appropriate social distancing. The VIRALERT 3 builds on AMETEK Land’s expertise in temperature technology. AMETEK Land has been developing high-accuracy infrared measurement instruments for more than 70 years. Developed over 10 years by AMETEK Land’s world famous temperature monitoring experts, the VIRALERT 3 is a real-time scanning solution that’s safe, accurate, and easy to use. Automatic face detection Audible and visual alarms will alert when elevated temperatures are discovered The VIRALERT 3 provides an all-in-one solution with the integrated camera and thermal imager, as well as the fixed blackbody reference source on a single mount. The compact system can be mounted and left to operate automatically and won’t interrupt or slow down the flow of people into a building. Using automatic face detection, VIRALERT 3 determines the best location for a skin temperature reading and then calculates core body temperature. It’s accurate within 0.9°F at a distance of 3.4 feet (one meter). Audible and visual alarms will alert when elevated temperatures are discovered. VIRALERT 3 is fully compliant with the National Defense Authorisation Act (NDAA). Wide range of applications “The new VIRALERT 3 system has a wide range of applications, from hospitals to transportation, retail, office and manufacturing. We are excited to be able to offer security dealers and integrators this new solution as they support the reopening of the U.S. and Canada,” said George Brody, President of Telguard.

Genetec Inc., a globally renowned technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, has announced that a patent infringement lawsuit initiated by a non-practicing entity (NPE) was withdrawn by the NPE, at an early stage of the proceedings. “We don’t negotiate payment with patent trolls,” said Pierre Racz, President of Genetec Inc. In a rare result, the NPE paid an undisclosed sum to Genetec Inc. In patent litigation in the United States, it is highly unusual for a plaintiff to pay a defendant to resolve a case. Genetec stated that the company understands that legal attacks from non-practicing entities are an unfortunate part of the technology business, representing a reported 90% of high-tech patent litigation cases in 2019 alone. Patent trolling The practice, known as ‘patent trolling’, involves groups that don’t create technology, but rather aggregate patents that are generally of no technological value to use as the basis to initiate IP infringement cases against businesses. Widely disparaged by courts, legal scholars, and world leaders including former U.S. President Barack Obama, as a form of legal extortion, these pursuits are estimated to cost businesses tens of billions of dollars per year. Leveraging hoarded patents Unlike the way many other companies deal with these sorts of attacks, we do not negotiate payment with patent trolls" Although, the number of patent trolling cases has flattened since a landmark 2014 US Supreme Court decision, many groups continue to attempt to leverage hoarded patents as a legal bullying tactic against companies that actively innovate. While larger firms facing this sort of litigation are more often reported on, the majority of victims of patent trolling are smaller companies or startups (below US$ 10 million in revenues). “Unlike the way many other companies deal with these sorts of attacks, we do not negotiate payment with patent trolls,” said Pierre Racz, President of Genetec Inc., adding “Despite the potentially high cost of litigation, bending to their anti-innovation tactics only encourages their behaviour and, as a matter of principle, Genetec will always vigourously defend its technology and the hard work of the people who create it.” Pierre adds, “Though we have quietly followed this course since the first patent troll arrived at our door, we felt that this occasion was a good time to speak out against this practice.” Defence against NPEs Jean-Yves Pikulik, Director of Intellectual Property at Genetec Inc., stated “This represents an important symbolic victory for Genetec, and a clear demonstration of our policy of never paying nuisance value settlements.” He adds, “While we would much rather spend our time patenting our innovations than fighting off patent trolls, we will continue to vigourously defend ourselves against NPEs and seek legal costs in lawsuits that we perceive as frivolous.” This resolution settles all outstanding claims by the non-practicing entity against Genetec Inc.

Hanwha Techwin has launched AI deep learning-based video analytics Social Distance Measuring application which, in a COVID-19 affected world, helps businesses to implement their social distancing policies. Developed by A.I Tech, Hanwha Techwin’s award-winning technology partner, the server-based Social Distance Measuring application is able to accurately measure the distance between people in a camera’s field of view and will generate an alarm if social distancing rules are not being complied with. Users can also be alerted if the number of people within an area exceeds a specified threshold. Indoor and outdoor environments Compatible with all Wisenet cameras, the application has been developed for use in workplaces, such as offices and factories, as well as a wide range of other indoor locations including art galleries, museum and places of worship. The Social Distance Measuring application performs equally well in outdoor environments and offers a highly effective social distancing implementation tool for public transport environments and in city centres where local authorities are looking to monitor and manage the crowds which may gather in popular locations. Video Management Software The application has been integrated with Wisenet WAVE Video Management Software (VMS), with users having the option to use web-based AI Tech dashboard to collect, aggregate, view and act on alarms and events from multiple camera streams. The data can also be visualised through charts, tables and images, whilst data is easily exported through .csv, .jpeg or .pdf and integrated into third-party systems. The dashboard is fully customisable to meet individual user’s operational requirements and is accessed via a PC, smartphone or tablet. Social Distance Measuring application “In our ‘new normal’ world, there are countless businesses who wish to give their colleagues, customers and visitors confidence that the need for a safe distance between them, is being respected,” said Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing for Hanwha Techwin Europe. “The Social Distance Measuring application will help them do so and as such, perfectly complements the capabilities of our licence-free Occupancy Monitoring solution which is designed to be installed at entrances and accurately counts the number of people entering or leaving a building. Both are part of a suite of COVID-19 related solutions offered by Hanwha Techwin, which also includes a Face Mask Detection application.”

Patriot One Technologies Inc. (‘Patriot One’), developer of the PATSCANTM multi-sensor threat detection platform, is pleased to announce the appointment of Karen Hersh as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Corporate Secretary, effective immediately.  In this role, Ms. Hersh will be responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of Patriot One Technologies Inc., while supporting the Board of Directors on strategic matters relating to the commercial deployment of the company’s PATSCAN platform, corporate development initiatives and capital markets. Mike Barnsley, the current CFO of the company due to retire, will support her transition into the new role, prior to retiring. Supporting PATSCAN platform deployment Karen Hersh brings with her a great deal of expertise in financial management of both public and private companies" “We’re excited to welcome Karen Hersh to Patriot One Technologies, as she brings with her a great deal of expertise in financial management of both public and private companies,” shared Martin Cronin, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Patriot One Technologies, Inc. Martin adds, “Karen’s hands-on CFO experience in financial planning and reporting, corporate governance, business development and operations for start-up and growth stage technology companies makes her the right choice for this key C-Suite position.” Strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions expert He further stated, “She has a demonstrated and proven track record for leading cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives and value creation, which is critical as we continue to execute on our vision and capitalise on the market opportunity before us.” Ms. Karen Hersh joins Patriot One Technologies, Inc. with over 20 years of experience across a broad spectrum of finance activities, including financial reporting, strategic planning and corporate finance, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Cyber security technologies veteran She has also held several senior leadership roles in the past, most recently as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for a global private equity company that is focused on cyber security technologies, where she was responsible for mergers and acquisitions, financial reporting, and portfolio management.  Prior to this role, Ms. Hersh held the positions of Chief Financial Officer at VIQ Solutions Inc. and Vice President of Corporate Finance & Investment Banking at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC).  Ms. Hersh holds a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University and is a Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA). Global deployment of life-saving technologies I am eager to assist the company in bringing its vision to life and creating a world safer from acts of violence on our global citizens" “I’m very excited about the opportunity to work with this passionate team in moving its life-saving technology towards global deployments and success,” said Karen Hersh, adding “When first approached about this role, I was immediately impressed with the approach Patriot One Technologies Inc. is taking with its multi-sensor platform, as being both unique and highly important to protecting our communities.”  She concludes by saying, “I am eager to assist the company in bringing its vision to life and creating a world safer from acts of violence on our global citizens.” Moving towards full scale operations Mike Barnsley, Patriot Technologies’ current CFO, has been looking towards retirement, and feels this is the right time as the company moves from start-up to full scale operations with the PATSCAN platform in commercial deployment. Mr. Barnsley will ensure a smooth transition of duties to Ms. Hersh prior to his departure and will serve in an advisory role to the Company. “Today, we say goodbye to Mike, who has been a great influence for me, the board and our management team in steering Patriot One on this first leg of our journey from inception to productisation,” expressed Peter van der Gracht, Chairman of the Board at Patriot One Technologies Inc. Peter adds, “We wish him well in his retirement, but know he will be watching us closely, as he’s been an instrumental part of the company and will want to see success of the PATSCAN platform in saving lives and a way of life in all our communities.”

Pivot3, the provider of intelligent infrastructure solutions for mission critical video, announces it is the first hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) platform to be certified with BVMS – the video management system from Bosch. This certification enables organisations using BVMS to realise additional improvements in economics, simplicity and agility in their physical security environments that only Pivot3’s video-optimised infrastructure can offer. Pivot3’s HCI surveillance solution is the industry’s only hyperconverged infrastructure designed specifically for the unique demands of video workloads and complements the embedded resilience, scalability and reduced total cost of ownership benefits BVMS delivers. Mission-critical video surveillance We are pleased to partner with the Bosch team on this validation” Pivot3’s hyperconverged infrastructure unifies storage, compute and virtualisation resources into a highly resilient, easy-to-deploy and scale solution that reduces cost, complexity and organisational risk. Pivot3 is purpose-built for mission-critical video surveillance and security operations with the ability to consolidate video management, video storage, video analytics, access control and other security workloads onto a common infrastructure. Pivot3’s infrastructure also uses intelligent automation to deliver proactive system health, configuration optimisation and automatic information sharing with Pivot3’s Support Cloud to ensure systems are running at peak performance and availability. “Bosch’s focus on resilience, reduced cost of ownership, and scalability address the business needs that enterprises such as airports, commercial buildings, manufacturing plants, and large entertainment complexes have,” said Mike Koponen, sr. director business development, Pivot3. “We are pleased to partner with the Bosch team on this validation; this certification validates the use of Pivot3 HCI with BVMS for customers wishing to deploy our intelligent solutions together.”

Motion detection is a key feature of security systems in residential and commercial environments. Until recently, systems have relied heavily on closed circuit television (CCTV) and passive infrared (PIR) sensors, which both require significant investment and infrastructure to install and monitor. Developments in wireless technology are increasing home security possibilities. Few years ago, these developments led Cognitive Systems to discover that the wireless signals surrounding oneself can be used to detect motion. Known in the wireless industry as WiFi sensing, this technology brings many benefits that other motion detection solutions have not been able to provide. The working of WiFi sensing At Cognitive Systems, the company has used WiFi sensing technology to develop a motion detection solution called WiFi Motion™, which measures and interprets disruptions in RF signals transmitted between WiFi devices. When movement occurs in a space, ripples in the wireless signals are created. WiFi Motion interprets these ripples and determines if an action, such as sending a notification, is needed. Enabling this functionality in a space is incredibly simple. With a software upgrade to only one’s WiFi access point (or mesh router), motion sensing capabilities are layered into one’s WiFi network. Existing connected WiFi devices then become motion detectors without detracting from their original functions or slowing down the network. Using artificial intelligence (AI), WiFi Motion establishes a benchmark of the motionless environment and learns movement patterns over time, which could be used to predict trends. This allows unusual movement patterns to be detected with greater accuracy while decreasing the potential for costly false alerts. WiFi Motion requires no line-of-sight or installation WiFi sensing and other home monitoring solutions All of these capabilities are made possible by WiFi sensing and together create a motion detection system that provides unparalleled accuracy, coverage, privacy and affordability compared to other solutions on the market. PIR integration is far more complex and imposes electronic and physical design restrictions compared to WiFi sensing. In terms of placement, PIR systems are difficult to install, requiring line-of-sight and a device in every room for localisation. WiFi Motion requires no line-of-sight or installation and is also a scalable solution compared to PIR. Much like cameras, PIRs can only cover so much space, but WiFi Motion can cover the entire home and even detect motion in the dark and through walls, without adding additional devices to the home. WiFi Motion detects less distinguishing context than cameras and microphones, but more context than regular PIR sensors for the perfect balance of privacy and highly accurate motion detection. Privacy solution While cameras have been the security solution for years, WiFi Motion offers a more affordable solution that can rival the privacy and coverage capabilities of even the most high-end cameras. With such a wide coverage area, one might think that WiFi sensing infringes on privacy, but actually, the opposite is true. With WiFi Motion, the contextual information collected cannot be used to identify a specific individual, unlike cameras which can clearly identify a person’s face or microphones, which can identify a person’s voice. It is different from other smart home security options that use cameras and microphones because it only senses motion using WiFi signals - it doesn’t “see” or “listen” like a camera or microphone would. This provides opportunities for added security in spaces where privacy might be a concern and installing a camera may not be a comfortable solution, such as bathrooms and bedrooms. The data collected is also anonymised and highly encrypted according to stringent industry privacy standards. Existing connected WiFi devices then become motion detectors Additional WiFi sensing applications Since WiFi sensing technology requires no additional hardware or subscription fees, it is much more affordable than other motion detection solutions. It can be used as a standalone solution, or it can be easily layered into more complex systems. This ease of integration, scalability and relatively low cost brings a lot of potential for various applications. Motion detection can trigger other smart devices in the network to turn lights on or off In eldercare, for example, WiFi sensing can be used to help seniors live comfortably in their homes for as long as possible. With the increasing aging population and high costs associated with care homes, the market for this application is considerable. Caregivers can use an app to monitor movement in their loved one’s home and be alerted about unusual movement patterns that could indicate a concern. For smart homes and other environments that have a network of smart devices, the artificial intelligence (AI) component of the technology allows for improvements to automated features. Motion detection can trigger other smart devices in the network to turn lights on or off or make adjustments to the temperature in a room. Security for the commercial sector For office buildings and other commercial properties, it is easy to see how all of these features could be scaled up to offer a highly accurate and cost-effective motion sensing and smart device automation solution. Cognitive Systems is closely involved with the development of WiFi sensing technology, working with various industry groups to establish standards and help it reach its full potential. WiFi Motion is merely the tip of the iceberg in terms of motion sensing possibilities, but its applications in the world of security are undeniably compelling. It is an exciting time for the wireless industry, as one works with stakeholders in the security space to explore everything this technology can do.

The COVID-19 pandemic is the defining global health crisis of our time. In order to be able to fight against it, mask detection and temperature measurement have become daily routines for everyone. In this situation, Merit LILIN, with over 40 years of experience in IP video manufacturers of IP cameras, recording devices, and software, have created a cost-effective COVID-19 solution to ensure end-user health and safety. Temperature measurement Many solutions should provide temperature information, with alert settings that trigger alarms when temperatures are high. The main component of LILIN Temperature Measuring Camera is a dual-lens camera with two sensors, one a visible image lens and the other a thermal array sensor. This design not only provides temperature information and color image information but also high-temperature alert settings when the temperature exceeds.  Mask detection With COVID-19 rules and regulations now incorporating person protection equipment such as masks, many solutions are now geared towards mask detection. LILIN has its own mask detection AI, which can be run on an i3 CPU-supported PC. Using the LILIN AI system and Aida NAV server, the system can recognise if the person is wearing a mask or not. If the system identifies a user that is not wearing a mask, an alert goes out with an image of the person. It allows the application to run automatically and enforces the wearing of masks in many situations. A notification is sent to an administrator when an image of a person is captured.  Social distancing measures In addition to temperature measurement and mask detection becoming daily epidemic prevention matters, maintaining social distance is extremely significant as well. Through the LILIN Aida detection system, people can calculate the social density and use it with alarm notifications, if an area exceeds the density threshold. Moreover, the LILIN COVID-19 solution has a wide range of applications in different sectors, including schools, public transportation systems, offices, retail and more. By doing so, extensive safety measures can combat COVID-19, providing the public with intelligent epidemic prevention solutions, through innovative AI detection systems.

The benefits of some physical security systems have an obvious return on investment, such as surveillance cameras trained on retail cashiers and access systems that keep unauthorised persons from entering protected areas. There are others that may only show a return once a negative event has occurred, and some may argue that gunshot detection falls into this category, however there are many reasons to see the value in this technology. Below are a few reasons why you should look at gunshot detection and some best practices for evaluating this type of technology.  Reduced casualties = reduced costs Most of gunshot detection’s value will be measured on the system’s ability to reduce response time to a shooting incident. Statistics have shown that an average of one death occurs every 5-15 seconds during an active shooter incident. One question to ask gunshot detection manufacturers is how quickly their system alerts. Applying these statistics against alerting speed can help calculate a potential reduction in casualties to employees.Mitigating casualties can also reduce subsequent benefit costs for those psychologically traumatised by the incident Mitigating casualties can also reduce subsequent benefit costs including paid sick leave, death benefits, and mental health care for those psychologically traumatised by the incident. To put this into real-world context, a major retail brand experienced a workplace shooting that tragically resulted in loss of lives and multiple casualties. The corporation spent more than $40M in costs associated with the shooting. It was after this incident that the company decided to install gunshot detection, because although they had looked at it previously, they finally made the connection to the return on investment: Reduced response time will decrease (and hopefully eliminate) casualties, which will save lives and millions of dollars if a future incident were to occur at one of their sites. Meeting OSHA requirements OSHA’s General Duty Clause states that employers must provide a workplace free of “recognised hazards” that are likely to cause death or serious injury. Courts have interpreted this to mean that employers have a legal obligation to abate the active shooter hazard when there is a feasible method available to do so. Mark Terry, Director of Global Enterprise Security for Rackspace in San Antonio, sees gunshot detection as a life safety necessity that also fulfils the corporation’s Duty of Care. He told me that adding gunshot detection is not only a game changer for active shooter response, it fulfils their Duty of Care and brings peace of mind that his company has done everything they can to protect their people. Lawsuits charging security negligence have become commonplace after shootings Reduce litigation risk with gunshot detection – but choose wisely Lawsuits charging security negligence have become commonplace after shootings, naming a “lack of gunshot detection devices” as a source of culpability, such as the $800M lawsuit victims brought against MGM after the Route 91 concert shooting in October 2017. What is important to realise, however, is that not all gunshot detection systems are created equal, so there are a number of performance characteristics to consider. For example, acoustic-only systems have a higher likelihood of false alerting to loud noises, especially indoors, as do those that search a library of gunshot audio files before reporting shots.Dual mode systems that require both acoustic and infrared detection in order to report are far more accurate Dual mode systems that require both acoustic and infrared detection in order to report are far more accurate. Tedd Steele, Senior Network Architect at Charleston International Airport, told Airport Improvement Magazine that the system they installed “can determine gunshots with a high degree of accuracy thanks to the dual mode sensors. It knows the difference between loud bangs and a gunshot.” When looking at wireless gunshot detection systems, end users should ask about sensor uptime, self-testing features, battery life and encrypted communications. Regulations and standards Currently, there are no standards or regulations to follow in order to market a technology as gunshot detection. A video camera is typical in that you can expect that the product will capture video. There are different feature sets like facial recognition and analytics that set different systems apart on the backend, but first, cameras must capture a moving image. When you apply this same analogy to gunshot detection, the waters are a bit muddier because the science of isolating gunshots while also filtering out false alerts is much more complex than simply detecting and reporting a loud bang.The NFPA has also issued guidelines for the use of gunshot detection Many manufacturers of aggression detection systems now claim ‘gunshot detection’ as a feature set, and there are smoke detectors and cameras now marketing this claim, but these devices are not on the same level playing field as genuine gunshot detection systems. In the absence of regulations and standards, consumers should look to authorities that have evaluated systems such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Centre for the Protection of Critical Infrastructure in the U.K., The NFPA has also issued guidelines for the use of gunshot detection as a part of their principal role in creating life safety codes for buildings.   Testing and References If you place a number of gunshot detection systems side by side in a shooting range, they all will likely report a shot, but this is not a reasonable test because a range is a controlled environment. What happens in a real world environment? Does the system need to be calibrated to its environment? What happens in the presence of fire alarms and strobes going off in a live incident? Seeing a system respond to live fire is important in the evaluation process, but it is not the only marker of overall system capability. Consumers will want to ask manufactures questions like how many systems have been deployed in customer environments and for how long, and let their customers tell you their detection and false alert rates have been. Enterprise consumers will want to look closely at network and cybersecurity features and look closely for any potential security risks. Also ask for references from customers in your industry so you can see how and where they are using gunshot detection to meet challenges that might be unique to your type of workplace, school, or public venue. Overall, it is extremely important for organisations to be able to declare that they have done everything in their power to properly prepare for and respond to active shooters. Combining an effective gunshot detection system with video, access control and mass notification will not only improve your ability to effectively respond to a shooting incident, it raises your security posture and confidence that you have done everything you can to protect your people from modern day threats. It also puts these security systems to better use by delivering real-time, additional situational awareness during a shooting incident. And this will be especially true when you have done your due diligence before selecting a gunshot detection system.

Within days, a rule will take effect that bans from U.S. government contracts any companies that “use” video products from Chinese companies Hikvision and Dahua. The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) rule implements the “blacklist” (or “Part B”) provision of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which is understood in the security industry as prohibiting dealers and integrators that do business with the federal government from selling Chinese-made video products to any of their customers (even for non-government projects). The rule, which is officially still interim, states: “On or after August 13, 2020, [federal] agencies are prohibited from entering into a contract, or extending or renewing a contract, with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system.” Federal rules  Within days, a rule will take effect that bans U.S. government contracts any companies that “use” video products from Chinese companies Hikvision and DahuaFederal agencies issuing the rule are the Department of Defense (DoD), the General Services Administration (GSA) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). GSA provides centralized procurement for the federal government. Because the COVID-13 crisis delayed issuance of the rule, the usual 60 days will not be allowed for public comment before the rule is implemented. However, public comments are welcome and will be addressed in subsequent rulemaking. “Telecommunications equipment” refers to equipment or services provided by Huawei Technology or ZTE Corp, both Chinese telecommunications giants. The rule also specifies that it applies to “certain video surveillance products or telecommunications equipment and services produced or provided by Hytera Communications Corp., Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company (or any subsidiary or affiliate of those entities).” Hytera is a Chinese manufacturer of radio systems. Hikvision and Dahua are major international manufacturers of video surveillance equipment. Limits and prohibitions  The rule states: “This prohibition applies to the use of … equipment or services, regardless of whether that use is in performance of work under a Federal contract.” In the industry, this clause is taken to mean that integrators that “use” any of the covered equipment are prohibited from selling to the government. “Use” presumably covers an integrator deploying the equipment in their own facilities and/or selling it to other customers. The rule also prohibits “service … related to item maintenance,” which in the case of a security integrator would include providing service contracts on previously installed systems. Security Industry Association (SIA) The Security Industry Association (SIA) comments: “Due to applicability [of the rule] to uses by entities with federal contracts even unrelated to their federal work, this broad interpretation is expected to have widespread impact on the contracting community across many sectors, as covered video surveillance equipment is some of the most commonly used in the commercial sector in the United States.” Security integrators that do business with the federal government have largely anticipated the new rule and already switched their Chinese camera lines for NDAA-compliant competitors. However, as SIA points out, extensive common uses of the Chinese equipment in various commercial sectors raises additional concerns.   Easing compliance burdens The interim rule adopts a “reasonable inquiry” standard when an offeror (government contractor) represents whether it uses covered equipment. “A reasonable As SIA points out, extensive common uses of the Chinese equipment in various commercial sectors raises additional concerns. inquiry is an inquiry designed to uncover any information in the entity’s possession about the identity of the producer or provider of covered telecommunications equipment or services used by the entity. A reasonable inquiry need not include an internal or third-party audit.” SIA notes that this provision may be aimed at easing the compliance burden by suggesting that contractors only need to inquire based on what information they already possess. The 'blacklist' The new rule covers Paragraph (a)(1)(B), which has informally been referred to as the “blacklist” provision of the NDAA, the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2019. However, the “Chinese ban” provision [Paragraph (a)(1)(A)] already went into effect a year after the law was signed by President Trump (August 13, 2018). “Part A” covers use of Chinese-made products in fulfilling government contracts. A growing threat Seeking to justify the new restrictions, the FAR rule states: “Foreign intelligence actors are employing innovative combinations of traditional spying, economic espionage, and supply chain and cyber operations to gain access to critical infrastructure and steal sensitive information and industrial secrets. The exploitation of “Telecommunications equipment” refers to equipment or services provided by Huawei Technology or ZTE Corp, both Chinese telecommunications giantskey supply chains by foreign adversaries represents a complex and growing threat to strategically important U.S. economic sectors and critical infrastructure.” SIA has urged a delay in implementing the “Part B” provision, stating: “The federal government estimates that it will cost contractors well over $80 billion to fully implement this prohibition on the use of certain Chinese telecommunications and video surveillance equipment, yet endless delays in publishing the rule now mean that federal suppliers have just weeks to understand and comply with the new rule, which raises as many questions as it answers.” SIA continues: “Federal suppliers across a wide range of industries have increasingly concluded that Part B is unworkable without clarification of the scope and meaning of key terms in the provision, which the rule does not do enough to define. For example, Part B bans agencies from contracting with a provider that “uses” any covered equipment or service. This term is not clearly defined in law or regulation, yet contractors must certify compliance beginning Aug. 13, 2020.” The Part B rule, which only applies to prime contractors, enables agency heads to grant a one-time waiver on a case-by-case basis, expiring before Aug. 13, 2022.

As a cloud-based platform for service providers in the security, smart home and smart business markets, Alarm.com has adapted quickly to changing conditions during the coronavirus pandemic. In the recent dynamic environment, Alarm.com has kept focus on supporting their service provider partners so they can keep local communities protected. “We moved quickly to establish work-from-home protocols to protect our employees and minimise impact on our partners,” says Anne Ferguson, VP of Marketing at Alarm.com. The Customer Operations and Reseller Education (CORE) team has operated without interruption to provide support to partners. Sales teams are utilising webinars and training resources to inform and educate partners about the latest products, tools, and solutions. Alarm.com’s partner tools are essential for remote installations and support of partner accounts. Helping customers remain connected Adapting to challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, Alarm.com is further investing in solutions that help customers remain connected and engaged. The company has created a resource hub called “Succeeding Remotely” that provides tools, tips and news links that partners can use to adapt their business operations. From adjusting sales and installation techniques to maintaining cellular upgrades, Alarm.com is helping partners stay connected to customers remotely, keep their teams trained, and address rapidly evolving customer concerns without rolling trucks.The company has created a resource hub called “Succeeding Remotely “Additionally, after seeing all that our partners are doing to support their local communities in need, we were compelled to highlight those efforts with ongoing videos called Good Connections, which we’re sharing with our partner community to spark more ideas and ways to help,” says Ferguson. “Though our partners have experienced varying degrees of disruption to their business, we’re inspired by their adaptability, ingenuity and resilience,” says Ferguson. “Along with establishing proper safeguards for operating in homes and businesses, our partners are leveraging our support resources more heavily, while our entire staff has worked tirelessly to deliver new, timely resources.” Do-It-Together solutions Alarm.com partners are successfully employing Do-It-Together (DIT) solutions, focusing on 3G-to-LTE upgrades, and pivoting to new verticals like commercial and wellness. Many are also streamlining their business operations and taking advantage of virtual training opportunities to enhance their technicians’ skills and knowledge, says Ferguson. Do-It-Together installs involve depending on customers to perform part or all of the installation process. Partners can send customers fully configured kits with mounting instructions, or technicians may guide customers on a remote video call. Alarm.com’s tools, training and products help partners modify remote installation options depending on each customer’s needs. End users can validate the Alarm.com Smart Gateway with their central station that sensors they have mounted were done correctly using the Alarm.com mobile app Alarm.com Smart Gateway For example, the Alarm.com Smart Gateway can be pre-configured with indoor and outdoor cameras for easy customer installation and to reduce the likelihood of future service calls. Also, end users can validate with their central station that sensors they have mounted were done correctly using the Alarm.com mobile app. “DIT is helping our partners continue onboarding customers and avoid backlogs,” says Ferguson. “We’ve been pleasantly surprised by the resiliency and level of future investment that our residential and commercial partners have shown in the face of adversity,” adds Ferguson. For example, a significant number of business customers have used the slow period to install systems that are typically too disruptive to put in during normal business hours. Similarly, service providers are adopting new technologies or business models, such as cloud-based access control. “They’re often saying to us, ‘I’m going to take this opportunity to make changes to improve our business,’ and have been working closely with us on training and business consulting to support their efforts,“ she says. Shift to the cloud Ferguson sees a growing preference for cloud-managed surveillance and access systems over ones that have historically been run on-premise. The technology itself is attractive, but especially driving change is the enhancement to the daily lives of service providers and customers, which have been strained during this time. “The foundational benefit of our cloud-based solution is the hassle-free, seamless customer experience it delivers,” says Ferguson. “We make this possible by taking ownership of the servers, software maintenance, firmware updates, health monitoring, and more. With cloud technology, these aspects become invisible to the customer and take a lot off their plate, which is more important than ever.” End users can take advantage of Smart Tip video tutorials to help with DIT installations, or they can use the Alarm.com Wellcam to connect with loved ones anywhere.End users can take advantage of Smart Tip video tutorials to help with DIT installations Partners can attend training workshops focused on remote installation tactics, while driving consumer interest in new offerings through Alarm.com’s Customer Connections platform. The goal is to make it simple for partners to stay connected to their customers to maximise lifetime account value. “We are well-positioned to endure the pandemic because of the strength of our partners in their markets along with our investments in technology, hardware and our team,” says Ferguson. “As restrictions slowly lift, there is cautious optimism that the residential, commercial, property management, plumbing/HVAC, builder and other verticals will recover quickly. We believe that as more partners adopt the DIT model and add commercial and wellness RMR, they will find increasing opportunities to deploy security, automation, video, video analytics, access and more throughout their customer base.”

The COVID-19 global pandemic will have a profound and lasting impact on the physical security industry. It will boost adoption of new technologies to address new types of threats. It will map out a path for new involvement of physical security technologies in areas of public health. It will raise new notions of privacy and turn previous thinking about privacy on its head. And the aftermath of the pandemic will give rise to all these changes in a breathtakingly accelerated timeframe. In the wake of the pandemic, change will come faster than ever, and the industry will be more challenged than ever to keep pace. Security and the futureIn the wake of the pandemic, change will come faster than ever, and the industry will be more challenged than ever to keep pace These were some of the thoughts I heard recently in a panel discussion titled “Crisis and the Everyday,” which was part of Genetec’s Connect’DX virtual trade show, April 20-21. The virtual conversation – emphasising both in form and content the current topsy-turvy state of the world – included interesting insights on the current pandemic and its near- and long-term impact on the industry. “In the middle of this pandemic, there is an opportunity to help security reinvent itself,” said Brad Brekke, Principal, The Brekke Group, one of the panelists. “Amid the business disruption, we should ask ‘what’s the new playbook?’ It’s an opportunity for security to look at ourselves now and look at a business plan of what the future might look like. We need to align with the business model of the corporation and define our role more around business and not so much around security. “How do you support the business and, more broadly, societies and communities?” The new normal for security The “new normal” for security will include addressing biological risks alongside our traditional emphasis on physical risk and digital risk. “Some industry sectors are being challenged in a way I have not seen in my lifetime,” said Brekke. “But they are learning fast.” “We should take a look at where we have been and where we are going,” said Brekke, whose firm develops comprehensive strategies to align security organisations with corporate missions. “This is a point in time that has never existed, and a time to take a fresh look at what security is to the corporation and greater community. It’s more a mindset than a specific set of tasks. “We just need to take a fresh look from a mix of perspectives.” “Crisis and the Everyday" was part of Genetec’s Connect’DX virtual trade show Infrared cameras and access control technologies New technologies to address the pandemic are enabling some nations around the world to track how people come and go and who they are exposed to. Technologies like infrared cameras are being used to detect body temperatures, and access control helps to monitor occupancy and social distancing. But what will such use of these technologies mean in the long term? Technologies like infrared cameras are being used to detect body temperatures, and access control helps to monitor occupancy and social distancing “We will see whether people will become more comfortable with this technology,” said Ken Lochiatto, President and CEO, Convergint Technologies, a service-based security integration company. “Tools are in hand, and coming soon, that will allow us to be more proactive, to step in and measure the health of colleagues, for example,” said Lochiatto. “There are a lot of questions that will have to be addressed, and a lot of discussion will have to happen. Coronavirus will knock down the barriers (to the use of newer technology) in the short term, but where will it settle two years from now?” Manufacturer philanthropy Security product manufacturers are expanding their scope beyond law enforcement and emergency management and stepping forward to help with the public good. “Technology in the security space is moving faster than the political establishment is thinking about,” adds Lochiatto. “We have to manage it as an industry so the government will not step in. We need to manage the discussion.” An accelerated timeline will raise the stakes even further. “All the questions that would have taken longer to answer will be answered in the next 6-8 months. For the security industry, it will drive even greater need for products,” said Lochiatto. “The biggest question is ‘Where does this all go?’” said Brekke. “What is the new normal? What is the future, and how do we prepare our companies for it? What does technology look like in the future? There isn’t just one particular set of questions, just a constant stream of ‘What’s next?’” Public health versus individual liberty The current environment of disruption will shift the playbook and rebalance the tradeoff between privacy and protection, especially as it pertains to sharing medical information. “There will be a new balance between public health and safety as a whole versus individual liberties,” said Brekke. “Technology providers need to be at the table talking about the solutions. We should all be engaged in government affairs to balance the discussion and add our own perspectives. As a society and country, we have to come to a different perspective on this.” The current environment of disruption will shift the playbook and rebalance the tradeoff between privacy and protection “There are not enough ethics and guard rails,” said Jonathan Ballon, Vice President and General Manager, Intel Corp. “The majority of people are not afraid enough. They should be afraid; we need more regulation. We need to establish an ethical code of conduct for use of technology in these situations. We need to eliminate bias, respect individuals, and ensure people are being treated fairly. “In the next several years, there will be a lot of experimentation in the quest to get to a future state we can see and almost grasp. There will be black eyes and bruises on the path to getting there.” From smart security to more intelligent technology After the pandemic, the innovation climate will befit new technology adoption. “Platforms are only limited by our imaginations, and it creates an extraordinary opportunity and drives a lot of economic value,” said Ballon. “Long-term, the future is extremely bright. Companies should ensure that they are resilient and take advantage of another period of technology adoption, which we see coming out of every economic downturn.” After the pandemic, the innovation climate will befit new technology adoption Another evolution in the market is a transition from “smart” systems to more “intelligent” ones. Intelligence includes the ability to “learn” using tools such as deep learning and artificial intelligence. “Systems are going from smart to intelligent to autonomous, including systems that can operate within the constraints we have established,” said Ballon. Pierre Racz, president and CEO of Genetec, offered some words of caution about the growth of artificial intelligence in his keynote presentation, “AI Hype Self Defense.” Racz sought to provide guidance on the limits of the technology and urged the online audience to be skeptical of technology that “works best when you need it least.” “Science and technology are morally neutral,” he said. “How we use them is not.” Intelligent automation over artificial intelligence Specifically, Racz contends that artificial intelligence “doesn’t exist” and provides the “reasoning power of an earthworm”. AI systems don’t know anything that isn’t included in their input data – for better and for worse. Racz contends that artificial intelligence “doesn’t exist” and provides the “reasoning power of an earthworm” “A properly designed system can be useful [only] if you engineer around the false positives, false negatives and the unanticipated training set biases,” said Racz. For example, because AI is based on probabilities, it doesn’t perform as well when identifying improbable things. In lieu of “artificial intelligence,” Racz recommends the term “intelligent automation” (IA), which describes using a machine (computer) for heavy computational lifting and keeping a human in the loop to provide intuition and creativity. “Do not misinterpret crafty guessing for intelligence or thinking,” Racz warns. “AI doesn’t exist, but real stupidity exists. And we must design our systems taking into account the legitimate fears of the public we serve.”

iSpace Environments, a Minneapolis-based commercial furniture and technology dealership, is now using Carousel Digital Signage software to promote its services and amplify its message throughout its showroom as part of a technology upgrade and renovation. A longtime Carousel Digital Signage reseller, iSpace provides furnishing and technology design and integration services to clients in the corporate, higher education, healthcare, and automobile retail sectors. As organisations re-open following the COVID-19 pandemic, iSpace is helping clients reconfigure their workspaces to comply with the new health and safety regulations. Their interior transformation adheres to these compliance standards and demonstrates how furniture and technology can create safe, comfortable work environments. Content creation and management Showing the technology creates awareness of what AV technology offers for workplace design" iSpace is now using Carousel Cloud software to communicate health and safety guidelines, welcome messaging, visitor information, and examples of how clients can apply digital signage to their own environments. All visual messaging is distributed to flat panel televisions and video walls throughout the building, leveraging Carousel Cloud’s interoperability with Apple TV devices to simplify and centralise media playout. iSpace’s AV experts demonstrate the software’s capabilities during tours, including multi-display support, Apple TV interoperability, and ease of use including simplified content creation and management. Communicate competitive advantage “Showing the technology creates awareness of what AV technology offers for workplace design,” said Nate Pesch, Technology Sales Manager at iSpace Environments. “Our customers aren’t always aware of our technology-related products and services, and Carousel Cloud helps us communicate our competitive advantage.” Pesch confirms that the digital signage content they show to visitors often opens the conversation to broader possibilities. “The Carousel content always looks visually impressive and provides an opportunity to share our expertise around technology integration,” he said. “We have many examples of becoming a one-stop shop for customers.” Standalone server infrastructure Those conversations then lead to Carousel Cloud’s benefit in workspace communications. Carousel Cloud gives users the flexibility of being able to update content at any time and from anywhere - a benefit that Pesch says is increasingly critical during as business operations continue to change. He also points to the cost-reducing benefits of Carousel Cloud, which eliminates the traditional expense of a standalone server infrastructure. Instead, Carousel Cloud software is deployed on the organisation’s existing IT infrastructure and can use common Apple TV devices or BrightSign media players (including the BSN.cloud platform) on the playout side. Use built-in templates One organisation’s safety protocol may different from another, but everybody wants to feel safe" “Carousel software is easy to learn, so an organisation lacking in-house design resources can use built-in templates to create content,” said Pesch. “That’s important these days as many content managers are working from home. With Carousel Cloud, content managers can make changes remotely. We can also show how easy it is to use these templates across different aspect ratios, as we display the content on portrait screens, landscape screens, and video walls in our showroom and meeting spaces. It’s very powerful.” iSpace Environments, which has remained open through the pandemic as an essential business, is seeing an increase in traffic as organisations consider how life in the workplace will change. With organisations across the globe updating facilities in accordance with new regulations, many customers are aiming to create environments that communicate how safety is their top priority. Organisation’s safety protocol “We’re helping people get back to business any way we can, whether it’s with screen dividers on desks, furniture reconfigurations, or digital signage to communicate the proper safety measures,” said Pesch. “Businesses and schools need to show that they’re thinking about safety, and digital signage is one way to communicate that they’re doing something about it. One organisation’s safety protocol may different from another, but everybody wants to feel safe. Digital signage is one of the most effective ways to communicate these messages.”

Schools and heritage sites present their own unique difficulties for security and access control. It becomes a challenge when the same is to be applied to a school that is also a heritage site of exceptional value. This was the challenge facing security administrators at the Colegio Diocesano Santo Domingo in Orihuela, Spain. The Colegio Diocesano is more than just a school. Its historic buildings date to the 1500s, a heritage site as well as a place of learning - with a museum that requires the protection of the same access system. Hence, the brief for a new access system required minimal disruption on two fronts. The college buildings are a Resource of Cultural Interest and on Spain’s heritage registry: they must not be damaged. School chiefs also required little disturbance of everyday school learning. Wireless access control was the obvious answer. A wireless access solution to a 16th-century problem Powerful management option enables real-time security control to limit free access to and around the site SMARTair® wireless access control devices now control access through 300 doors around the school. A mix of battery-powered escutcheons and weather-proof escutcheons, knob cylinders and wired wall readers (including for lifts) are connected to SMARTair’s intuitive software by a network of 38 wireless communication hubs. The school chose SMARTair Wireless Online management for its new keyless access system. This powerful management option enables real-time security control to limit free access to and around the site, even if the school data network is down. Automated emails inform security staff of any incidents, keeping students, staff, equipment, and precious heritage safe. “The main benefit is the ease of real-time key management — from any place and at any time — via the wireless online management system,” says IT Manager, Francisco Fernández Soriano. “This increases security for children and for staff because no unauthorised people can enter the school.” SMARTair locks and readers SMARTair TS1000 software makes it easy to issue and cancel access credentials for temporary visitors such as parents SMARTair locks and readers provide a streamlined way to manage access. Student and staff carry credentials programmed to allow access to specific authorised areas. SMARTair TS1000 software makes it easy to issue and cancel access credentials for temporary visitors such as parents. “In addition to the main entrances and classrooms, access to private spaces such as lifts, offices, staff rooms, the church, the museum, the library and the IT room is constantly monitored,” he adds. “Thanks to our SMARTair devices installed at more than 300 doors, the security team can find out who has accessed which space and when, at any time.” Installation and integration The system was installed without a hitch and also without any disruption to classes" The installation of the school’s new SMARTair system demanded minimal work. Some school doors date to the 16th century, so major alterations to door hardware were not possible. “The system was installed without a hitch and also without any disruption to classes,” confirms Fernández Soriano. Because SMARTair is a modular system, scalability is built in. They can extend or fine-tune their access system when they choose. Indeed, SMARTair’s “Phase II” is already under discussion. SMARTair software also easily slotted into the school’s existing management workflows. The Colegio Diocesano has used iinventi education management software for the past five years. Integration with SMARTair software was simple: access control, the library and canteen are managed from an integrated system.  “SMARTair gives the school’s security team the answers they need,” concludes school director, Reverend José María Fernández-Corredor.

Generally, the Less Than Load (LTL) industry is always looking to increase the amount of product shipped per truck. A lesser amount of product on a truck equates to a lower amount of billable product per trip. Raw Load Average (RLA) Raw Load Average (RLA) is the percentage of product on a truck – 100% is a completely full trailer. As the name implies, LTL averages less than 100%. In the fast- paced world of logistics, delivering millions of packages per day, than how do companies maximise the RLA? Most shipping managers are responsible for inspecting each trailer, before it leaves for several additional items. They make sure that the packages are secure and then evaluate whether the truck can handle any more inventory. There might be 200+ dock doors in a 400,000 sq. ft. facility and dozens of trucks waiting to leave and get on with their trips. At peak times, inspections will require several individuals running all over the facility. Less Than Load (LTL) Industry experts estimate that only about 80% of trucks are actually inspected Industry experts estimate that only about 80% of trucks are actually inspected. The missed trucks are now at risk for unsecured packages arriving damaged. More importantly, they are leaving 74% full. If the truck had waited another 30 minutes for inspection, they could have added another one skid of products to increase the load to 75%. That 1% difference does not sound like much. However, considering the volume of shipments that the top 10 LTL companies deliver, the 1% will amount to somewhere between US$ 6 million and US$ 12 million per year, which goes directly to the bottom line. Role of video security systems So, what is the role of security video systems here? Well most people say that security video does not have a real Return on Investment (ROI) in its traditional role. It’s hard to disagree. One exception might be when security companies have used video systems to reduce the number of guards. Using video, one guard can see as much as 3 or 4 guards could see in the past, without ever having to leave their post. This certainly reduces cost, but at the end of the day, guarding is still an overall cost to the bottom line. This case study will highlight how a couple of Salient’s very resourceful customers have transformed video into cash generating systems. Operational efficiency with video In the guarding scenario, video can put one person in several places at once. This operational efficiency can also be applied to how many people are needed to inspect trailers. But the ROI doesn’t come from removing a couple of salaries from the payroll. The real money comes into play because now inspecting 100% of the trailers leaving the dock are possible versus 80% and get that RLA up by 2 or 3%. Then, it’s about the big bucks. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg, when looking at the overall operational efficiencies available by utilising video. Using video for misclassified products or shipment validation In logistics, there is a huge revenue miss every year when it comes to products being ‘accidentally’ misclassified In logistics, there is a huge revenue miss every year when it comes to products being ‘accidentally’ misclassified when shipped. All products being shipped have a classification, and each classification has a specific associated cost. These per-pound costs fluctuate based on the value of the product, required insurance, risk and other factors. An example would be a sporting goods manufacturer shipping ammunition and firearms, under the code for clothing. In this example, a 200-pound load would be billed at about US$ 100, when it should be billed at closer to US$ 300. Multiply this by hundreds of packages a day and the total of the missed revenue is astronomical. So how would a video surveillance system correct this problem? Certainly, security cameras cannot see though a box, but one would expect a box with 200 pounds of clothes to be a fairly large box. But if the box were full of firearms or ammunition, the video would reveal a much smaller box. This anomaly when noticed would prompt an operator to investigate the contents of the box and contact the manufacturer to rectify the billed amount. This process might seem a bit hypothetical, but already a current customer of Salient Systems is capturing over US$ 40 million a year with the right system components. Using video to reduce OSHA violations and false claims The logistics industry requires a tremendous amount of labour in order to operate. The more labour hours, the greater the propensity for on-the-job injuries, OSHA violations, insurance payouts, lawsuits and business interruption. False claims are also a consideration. Let’s look at some real-world examples of using video to reduce or eliminate these issues: OSHA reports that 5,250 workers died on the job in 2018 (3.5 per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers), on average, more than 100 a week or more than 14 deaths every day. The loss of an employee is one of the most emotionally devastating situations a business can encounter. There are several benefits of video that can increase safety. One result of a fatality is typically an OSHA investigation. An action item that could result from this investigation would be to increase security guards. This is a perpetual cost that could continue for several months to years. Video systems enhance guards’ efficiency Video systems have been shown to improve the efficiency of guards, allowing them to have eyes on multiple areas Video systems have been shown to improve the efficiency of guards, allowing them to have eyes on multiple areas at the same time. The systems can be coupled with the use of video analytics to alert guards to specific situations such as motion in areas that should be unoccupied or traffic proceeding in an unauthorised direction. In these ways, video systems can reduce the quantity of physical guards, thereby reducing the cost. One of Salient’s customers is saving almost US$ 20,000 per month with the reduction of two guards and it has OSHA’s approval. The end result is that the safety of the employees has been increased and operational cost is lowered by implementing technology. Inadvertently, this same type deployment at another facility helped mitigate a US$ 900,000 slip-and-fall lawsuit, which could have also been a possible cause for an OSHA investigation. Validation of safety policy Validation of safety policy can also be a drain on resources. Auditing seatbelt use for forklift drivers, pedestrians using appropriate marked walking paths, and proper social distancing in work spaces are a few examples among many. Assigning an individual to monitor this activity is costly and people typically obey the rules only when that individual is present. However, video can capture this information all the time without huge labour cost. This information can then be audited and used for education processes. OSHA statistics indicate that there are roughly 85 forklift fatalities and 34,900 serious injuries each year, with 42 percent of the forklift fatalities from the operator's being crushed by a tipping vehicle. The safest place for the driver to be is strapped. A facility that used video to audit seatbelt usage showed a 65% compliance rate. After the information was presented to the manager and employees, the next audit resulted in a jump to 87% compliance rate. In the event of an injury, this type of verifiable data can go a long way to prove that the employer is serious about employee safety and investing in ways to improve the safety culture within the company. Using video to increase sales LTL is a very competitive business and it is viewed primarily as a commodity type operation LTL is a very competitive business and it is viewed primarily as a commodity type operation. A few pennies per pound can typically sway a decision-maker. Already some great operational efficiencies and benefits from video to lower cost and to making LTL more competitive has been discussed. But these ideas still don’t move LTL out of the ‘dog-eat-dog race to the bottom on price’ world. Now, let’s look at how to use the implementation of these same video systems to provide value propositions and competitive advantages for customers. Many LTL customers have sensitive merchandise for which the safety and security of its delivery might outweigh cost differences. An example is freight regulated by government agencies, such as Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Agency (ATF), and Dept. of Energy (DOE). For example, the DEA reported ‘The overall trend of incidents of Controlled Prescription Drugs lost in transit increased in 2018 with the highest number since 2010.’ Extra layer of security And the ATF’s Interstate Theft Program states that ‘Under the program, hundreds of reports of thefts and losses from interstate shipments are received each year’. With statistics like these, customers in these categories have a heightened sense of vulnerability. Offering systems such as surveillance video can add that extra layer of security and added confidence. This is a marketable differentiator to help LTL companies set themselves apart from the traditional companies that only offer a lower cost. This, bundled with some of the other cost-saving measures outlined above, could be the icing on the cake needed for security departments to convince C-Level executives in their organisation to invest in video.

Based in the affluent district of St John’s Wood, Collection Place is a high-specification development comprising 14 luxury apartments, built nearby the infamous Abbey Road studios. Home automation and integration specialists, Advanced Integration (AI) invited Comelit to present custom door entry systems, as part of a security upgrade programme of works. Specification included bespoke brass video flush panels with video monitors and smart capability to manage from a mobile, incorporating full links to dedicated 24-hour concierge services. Smart door entry systems Says Kem Rashica, Estate Manager of The Collection Management Limited / Harrods Estates Asset Management: “Every element of our development, set in heart of our beautiful St John’s Wood, was created to present residents with a high-end luxury lifestyle, from specification to security and privacy. We are always looking for best ways to maintain and futureproof this expectation.” “Advanced Integration highlighted the opportunity to present smart door entry systems and recommended Comelit, as a brand renowned for delivering on design and style without compromising on technology or security. The installation was seamless and residents are now delighted to be able to manage their home from the convenience of their mobile.” Monitors with video capability Maria Tsiftis, Chief Operating Officer of Advanced Integration added: “When it came to upgrade the door entry, we wanted to incorporate a visual, smart capability, without affecting the style or ambience on site. Being a residential development, we also had to be conscious of any works programme not causing disruption to daily lives." “Comelit responded with a bespoke specification, including high-end entrance panels, monitors with video capability and concierge systems, enabling a combination of door entry and messaging. Being involved from the design stages ensured a smooth delivery and beautiful custom finish befitting to this luxury development.” Video intercom calls on a smartphone Comelit designed the door entry systems for Collection Place, to operate through its innovative VIP system, which offers a powerful all-encompassing opportunity for residents to receive video intercom calls on a smartphone. Sam Arnold, Business Development Manager at Comelit UK concluded: “St John’s Wood is one of London’s most upmarket residential locations, and Collection Place has been established in the elegant villa-style housing that is synonymous with the area.” “Any enhancements to door entry had to be delivered to complement this lavish attention on detail, but also serve discerning homeowners who want the advantages of service and latest technology. By working closely with Advanced Integration, we have delivered a sleek and functional, smart security solution to accommodate these requirements.”

Loughborough University has selected the ASSA CLIQ® Remote system from the ASSA ABLOY Door Hardware Group to help secure its plant control rooms. With more than 18,000 students at Loughborough University for 2018-19, the award-winning ASSA CLIQ® Remote technology has been used across the site for a range of different applications, including teaching laboratories and offices. Its success as a security and access control solution has led to it being extended to cover the university’s plant control rooms too. Providing an easy-to-use electromechanical locking system, the ASSA CLIQ® Remote solution uses high-end micro-electronics and programmable keys and cylinders to offer flexible control over access rights. ASSA CLIQ® Remote solution Loughborough University can programme and update each key remotely, removing or granting access privileges for the key holder in real-time. This allows only those with the necessary authority at the university to enter a plant control room. Furthermore, the system removes the security risks associated with lost or stolen keys, eliminating the time and cost spent on replacing a mechanical lock. For staff that have access to these areas and then leave the university, their access rights can be easily be removed by using the system’s simple, web-based interface, ensuring ex-employees and contractors never pose a security risk. ASSA CLIQ® Remote also provides a full audit trail for assured peace of mind around who has accessed the plant control rooms and - because the locks are powered by a battery inside the programmable ASSA CLIQ® Remote key - no extra wiring is required when installing the system. Wireless electronics locks Phil Sheppard, Senior Clerk of Works at Loughborough University, said: “For us, a big advantage to ASSA CLIQ® Remote is that its electronics effectively extend the patent of the key indefinitely. The system cannot be copied, which means ASSA CLIQ® Remote provides a long-lasting access control solution.” “The audit capabilities of the system are also really useful, ensuring we know exactly who accessed a plant control room, and when. The system can be extended really easily as well, which has been another key reason why we continue to use ASSA CLIQ® Remote to meet our access control needs across the university.” “Ultimately, by working with a trusted manufacturer such as ASSA ABLOY, we can be safe in the knowledge that only authorised individuals can access the university’s plant control rooms.” Secure access control solution Sean Falkinder, National Sales Manager for ASSA CLIQ® Remote, adds: “We have provided a range of solutions for Loughborough University over the years, and the use of ASSA CLIQ® Remote for the university’s plant control rooms is just the latest success story. We’re delighted that the technology is able to provide such a safe and secure access control solution for the site.”

Commenced in 2016, the large business club was built with smart infrastructure and modern amenities, in the futuristic town of Kolkata, to provide leisure-cum-business conducive atmosphere to their members and visitors. The contemporary building of business club is spread over 10 acres area and serves as a cultural, commercial, and business hub in the region. Having a beautiful landscape, it attained tremendous popularity due to its high-end specifications, green landscape, wedding lawn, tennis court, cafeteria, business centre to name a few. Missing real-time video surveillance With a consistently large volume of patrons visiting the business club for various events, security is the vital component of the successful operations at the site. The customer has been relying heavily on analogue video surveillance to secure its facilities and workforce. Due to its limited scalability, there was no way to do real-time surveillance throughout the premises. Moreover, every incident recorded by the video cameras required time-consuming manual investigation, therefore, causing delay in decision-making.   Aiming to advancing the surveillance solution, the customer wanted to make an investment to maintain a watchful eye, manage threats/incidents proactively along with integrate existing and new system into the unified interface. Videonetics Unified Video Computing Platform Intelligent Video Analytics (IVA) is helping operators detect vehicles wrongly parked in ‘restricted’ or ‘no parking’ zones After a thorough evaluation of various solution offered by various companies, it was Videonetics that came out on top. Thanks to Videonetics Unified Video Computing Platform (UVCP™) that blends Intelligent Video Management Software (VMS), Intelligent Video Analytics and seamless integration of existing analogue system into one user-friendly solution, able to grow effortlessly with customers’ need over time.   Incident response management Videonetics Intelligent VMS is managing 100+ cameras including PTZ network camera, dome cameras, fixed cameras, and bullet cameras, installed throughout the interior as well as exterior of the premises. In addition, 32 legacy analogue cameras are also integrated into the unified solution, eventually providing centralised control of the cameras to the security operators. The in-built failover and redundancy features of Intelligent VMS ensure the operators to always have access to live and recorded video. This means if any incident occurs, they can always have evidence of it. Zero Blind Spot at Entrance The Intelligent Video Analytics (IVA) is helping operators to detect vehicles which are wrongly parked in ‘restricted’ or ‘no parking’ zones, at the outside of premise. For the perimeter security at entry & exit gates, the PTZ camera tracking helps in detecting unusual behaviour of the person and provides alert to security operators for faster action. At the entrance, face capture has been installed to detect a person in the scene and locates his/her face, which is saved in the database, indexed and time stamped. In addition, vehicle capture is deployed to track and record license plates of vehicles along with time and date, entering the premise. Zone monitoring Operators will be notified if a person stays beyond a certain duration in a user-marked zone The business club needed a solution that could help it identify theft, intrusion and trespassing throughout its facilities. In the first phase of the project, Videonetics along with stakeholders of business club and system integrator identified sensitive areas, that requiring immediate security system. To monitor suspicious activities, zone monitoring has been enabled at the fence of tennis court, lawn, emergency gates and open field area. Operators will be notified if a person stays beyond a certain duration in a user-marked zone. To combat unauthorised entry in generator room, operators gets alert if any intrusion happens in a marked area. Similarly, unusual activities are also being monitored in this area through loitering detection. Trespassing detection Operators can handle alarms and manage events, reducing manual checks of cases and helping to expedite investigations At the peripheries of the business club, trespassing detection has been deployed to detect if any person intrudes into a premise. The system is well capable to trace trajectory of the trespasser and prevent incident before it occurs. The authorities wanted to have alert in case any mob formation happens at the field area, known as forbidden region, of the club. Crowd formation detection has been deployed that estimates density of people in a scene and generated an alert as soon as the density in any defined area crosses a certain limit. Empowering with mobile application The ease of use of Videonetics unified solution has been instrumental to the business club. The operators and senior authorities are efficiently accessing videos anytime and anywhere, thru an intuitive interface of IVMS web and mobile applications. At the time of incidents, operators can handle alarms and manage events, therefore, reducing manual checks of cases and helping to expedite investigations.   After various phases of implementation, installation, and testing, the Videonetics unified solution went into live operation. Since upgrading to Videonetics unified solution, the business club has been able to better handle incidents of thefts/intrusion and apprehend suspects. Therefore, the level of security has been lifted by allowing the early detection of incidents and monitoring the premises round-the-clock, even in the harsh environmental condition. Furthermore, the added layer of security has been significant in business club’s efforts to attract more members and sustain business relations with existing members. Detecting patterns Now the operators use the information being collected in the unified interface to better understand the environment. They are successfully detecting patterns on how visitors/members access and move through the club. Thus, using these insights to develop strategies that maximise the use of space and keeps everyone safe. The open architecture of Videonetics unified solution allows customer to integrate with third-party systems such as access control, emergency system and much more. “To go from conventional to a professional and scalable surveillance system was a huge improvement for our client. It has enhanced our client’s reputation for providing safe and secure environment to visitors, employees, and members. Commendation to Videonetics for providing their unified video computing platform that empowered security operators by improving their efficiency in monitoring the premise and handling threats swiftly. I deeply appreciate their dedication and untiring efforts for making it a reality”, said Gaurav Das, Director, Webdesk Technologies Private Limited.

Retrofit projects provide new levels of physical security modernisation to existing facilities. However, retrofits come with their own set of challenges that can frustrate system designers and defy the efforts of equipment manufacturers. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the biggest challenges of retrofit projects, and how can they be overcome?

The first half of 2020 has been full of surprises, to say the least, and many of them directly impacted the physical security market. The COVID-19 pandemic created endless new challenges, and the physical security market has done our part to meet those challenges by adapting technology solutions such as thermal cameras and access control systems. In the second half of 2020, we can all hope for a return to normalcy, even if it is a “new normal.” In any case, technology will continue to play a big role. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Which technologies have the greatest potential to disrupt the security industry in the second half of 2020?

Ten years is a long time, but it seems to pass in an instant in the world of security. In terms of technology, 2010 is ages ago. Changes in the market have been transformative during that decade, and we called on our Expert Panel Roundtable to highlight some of those changes. We asked this week’s panelists: What was the biggest change in the security industry in the 2010-2019 decade?