Smoke Detection

One of the world’s most famous hotel-chains, DoubleTree by Hilton, part of Hilton Worldwide, has selected a high-performance fire system from Advanced Fire Systems Inc. at their eight-storey, 366 room hotel in Boston, Massachusetts. The challenge was to replace an existing system, integrate speakers to all guest rooms and ensure that all audio messages and strobes were fully synchronised across the hotel, in the event of a fire situation, without the need for costly re-wiring. Advanced audio system The Axis AX system was the preferred choice of the client too thanks to its voice communication system, coupled with PerfectSync" An Advanced audio system was specified by the stylish, four-star, DoubleTree by Hilton Boston North Shore as it met regulatory requirements for the low frequency 520 Hz warning tones necessary for the sleeping areas of the hotel and its award-winning emergency communications system, PerfectSync, synchronised tones and digital messages to ensure compliance with local codes. Christopher Whitmarsh, President at Hayden Systems, Inc., commented: “I was confident that the Advanced equipment could meet the application requirements based on my knowledge and experience with the equipment. In this case, the Axis AX system was the preferred choice of the client too thanks to its voice communication system, coupled with PerfectSync, ensuring the hotel adhered to strict guidelines. The system integrated seamlessly into the fabric of the building and provided the client with a solution that met their needs as well as satisfying the rigorous demands of the local fire authority.” PerfectSync emergency communications system PerfectSync automatically synchronises audio, voice and strobe signals across Advanced’s Axis AX fire alarm networks dynamically, as conditions change. Synchronisation of audio and visual signals across multiple notification zones, floors & areas, prevents confusion in an emergency situation and aids in meeting intelligibility standards. Using high performance, distributed, digital amplifiers that come standard with an integral backup amplifier and power source, should a fire spread to an adjacent floor or area, audio and visual indicators come on immediately, and the audio messages will quickly synchronise with any identical audio message on the system. Advanced’s Axis AX fire alarm system Advanced’s Axis AX system has been designed to offer enhanced power and performance in a user-friendly format Advanced’s Axis AX system has been designed to offer enhanced power and performance in a user-friendly format, offering a vast range of configurations, control and interface options all with simple set-up and operation. The Axis AX systems includes easily networked panels, audio panels and command centers, DynamixSmoke smoke control and a huge range of peripherals, devices and interfaces that make it ideal to suit almost any fire and life safety application. Advanced fire systems Mike Troiano, President and CEO of Advanced in the USA, said: “Advanced fire systems are specified in some of the most famous and prestigious hotels across the world and it was a pleasure to work with our customer Hayden Systems, Inc. to provide a system that will meet the rigorous standards required and ensure that the DoubleTree by Hilton’s staff and guests alike are safeguarded.” “PerfectSync insures synchronisation of audio, paging and strobe signals without the need for special wiring or programming, it’s all done automatically by the Axis AX system. Since its introduction in 2014, Award Winning PerfectSync has built a solid reputation with engineering firms and fire authorities alike for its ability to deliver superior performance. The end result is a technologically advanced, easy to use audio and visual communications system that improves life safety for all of the occupants of a building in an emergency situation.”

It took six years to remodel the interior of the ‘Palace of Culture’, a monument to socialism built in the 1960s under East German communist rule. Now Bosch is contributing intelligent solutions to make sure that visitors feel safe there, without detracting from its historic charm. It takes the right setting for culture to flourish. Various things are essential: an ambience in which visitors feel at ease, excellent acoustics, and flawless organisation. Now that the Palace of Culture has been completely renovated to ensure all of this, the city of Dresden boasts a new, modern venue for promoting the arts. Sophisticated security solutions The main auditorium seats 1,700 people, and the building as a whole can accommodate up to 2,800 A completely new, state-of-the-art auditorium is the heart of the building. It meets international standards with its striking architecture and top-notch acoustics, providing ideal conditions for the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra and all kinds of other musicians to give concerts. There is also a new municipal library branch, emphasising the Palace of Culture’s new, open character. Spacious lobbies containing a restaurant and ticket sales link all of the facilities and rooms with one another. Many of the events held here in central Dresden are sold out. The main auditorium seats 1,700 people, and the building as a whole can accommodate up to 2,800. Crowds like these call for sophisticated security solutions that can be smoothly integrated into the overall design. Cleverly integrated components “We wanted a cost-effective overall solution that would do justice to the Palace of Culture and its unique architecture,” says Steffen Meyer, the building’s manager. “We published an invitation to bid for the project and of all the applications we received, Bosch convinced us that they were right for the job.” The building experts from Bosch implemented a customised solution for the Palace of Culture with a host of cleverly integrated components for fire protection, evacuation, access control, video surveillance and building management. The result is a harmonious overall system that meets the entire range of security needs. “As a public facility where people gather, we have to comply with very strict fire protection rules,” explains Meyer. Invisible smoke detectors “We also had to meet some special requirements.” Since the Palace of Culture has protected status as a historic landmark, the appearance of the walls, ceilings and floors may not be noticeably altered. Security staff can also tell whether anyone is still in the building, an important piece of information in case it is ever necessary to evacuate it Now virtually invisible smoke detectors preserve the ambience of the concert hall. Special calculations were even carried out to avoid impairing its acoustics. Advanced video technology automatically counts visitors to prevent the building’s capacity from being exceeded. Security staff can also tell whether anyone is still in the building, an important piece of information in case it is ever necessary to evacuate it. Building integration system In critical situations, special speakers powerful enough to be heard over the orchestra or even a rock concert are lowered from the ceiling to make sure that everyone hears important announcements. All of the individual components are networked via the Building Integration System from Bosch. It makes it easy for the well-trained security guards to monitor and control everything. And to ensure that everything functions reliably in the long term, experts from the Bosch centre in Dresden will regularly check and service the system. Meyer stresses that “we don’t want our culture fans to run any risks.”

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

Located in the Northern Italian town of La Spezia, the Biblioteca Civica Pietro Mario Beghi is a state-of-the-art public library with an extensive collection of books and media across three floors. The 1,560-square meter facility with its bright, modern interior architecture was completed in April 2017 in a historic building remodeled by the architect’s firm 5+1AA. It continues the region’s long literary tradition: The harbor town is situated on the “Golfo dei Poeti” (meaning “Poet’s Golf”), named for the many writers and poets who have lauded the coastal area throughout history.   EN 54 fire detection and alarm system standard Aside from a self-service book lending station, a child reading room and a 72-seat auditorium, the Beghi library is also home to the La Spezia Institute for the History of the Resistance and the Contemporary Age. With so many valuable books and original documents under one roof, end-to-end fire protection according to the high demands of the European Union’s EN 54 fire detection and fire alarm system standard – plus demands by the local fire brigade – was a prime requisite from the start. Choosing a fire alarm and evacuation solution for the library in an open tender, the municipality of La Spezia had an open ear when local system integrator Bagnone SNC proposed a comprehensive solution: An interface between a high-end fire alarm system and evacuation system delivered by Bosch as the single provider. Convincing the officials, the Bosch system could be installed discretely without disturbing the library’s upscale interior design. Addressable Fire Panel 1200 Series The comprehensive solution enables automated alarm messages and public addresses over wall-mounted speakers After receiving the contract, Bagnone SNC installed the Addressable Fire Panel 1200 Series from Bosch interfaced via a serial connection with the Plena Voice Alarm System, supporting also multi-stage evacuation. The comprehensive solution enables automated alarm messages and public addresses over wall-mounted speakers from Bosch that match the library’s color palette. The system accurately detects fires via automatic optical fire detectors and three beam smoke detectors strategically placed across the building. Alarms can also be triggered via manual call points, while in the case of an emergency, pre-recorded messages, sounders and strobes direct building occupants to safety. As a result of the interfaced solution, the Biblioteca Civica Pietro Mario Beghi benefits from highly accurate fire detection and efficient evacuation in an aesthetically pleasing package from Bosch as the single provider. “Our expectations have been exceeded in a major way. Everything went as planned from both a technical and a management point of view,” said Claudio Canneti, Technical Public Works Manager, La Spezia Municipality.

Vanderbilt’s SPC Wireless devices range from detectors, panic buttons, fobs, and a transceiver. They are discreet and tasteful in design with sleek and modern lines to complement the interior styles of many environments, such as retail stores and apartment buildings.  Battery longevity Battery life is a key component of the SPC Wireless devices. An automatic power saving mode supports them. In fact, the SPC Wireless smoke detector comes with a battery life of over ten years. The devices use the powerful Energizer lithium batteries, resulting in an extended battery life of five years or more on average. This longevity can free up installers’ time for more urgent tasks, as they won’t have to go to site as often to keep changing out batteries. Protection from intruders This also means homeowners won’t have to go to worry about continually changing out batteries, giving them peace of mind that their home is under consistent protection against intruders. This release marks the first phase of wireless development for the award-winning SPC system. In subsequent releases due later this year, Vanderbilt will also present repeaters, bells, sirens, PIR cameras, and keypads for their wireless range to the market.

Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, manufacturing company Mouka Limited has built a position on the country’s household and industrial markets since its founding in 1959. With 800 employees and production facilities in Lagos, Benin and Kaduna, Mouka is now Nigeria’s foremost supplier of branded mattresses and foam-based products for sleep solutions. Products such as foam blocks, beddings and duvets, and polyurethane blocks are widely available throughout retail and wholesale channels in Nigeria. Due to the highly flammable nature of foam and polyurethane materials, fire safety at manufacturing facilities is a prime concern. However, when Mouka Limited was looking for a solution that detects fire and smoke in less than 30 seconds – before fire can spread and potentially harm employees – the market had nothing to offer. The reason: Common point-type detectors, detecting smoke particles in the air, rely on smoke particles to rise, which can take several minutes – especially when detectors are mounted on high warehouse ceilings. Provides additional information Fortunately, Bosch offers an innovative product sensitive enough: AVIOTEC, a VdS-certified solution for visual fire monitoring detecting smoke and flames at the source, which is much faster than common point-type detectors. Software inside each device analyzes the video images for visual patterns associated with fires like specific motion and shape characteristics or color changes. When connected to IP-based video management solutions the video images provide additional information e.g. for alarm verification or localization of the fire. AVIOTEC was much closer to the insurance’s requirements than any other solution on the market. Working closely with the teams at the three Mouka Limited factories in Lagos, Benin and Kaduna, Bosch provided 34 AVIOTEC devices for video-based fire detection, alarm sounders, strobes and a third-party sprinkler system, all connected to a Bosch addressable Fire Panel 1200 Series. Ability to detect flame and smoke at a very early stage, Bosch video-based fire detection system is a real assetShorten alarm response times With its ability to detect flame and smoke at a very early stage, the Bosch video-based fire detection system is a real asset at all three facilities. First, it significantly raises the safety of hundreds of employees at Mouka Limited factories. Second, it shortens alarm response times and thereby minimizes the risk of potential damage to equipment and product inventories. And third, analysis of video images of a fire allows for root cause analysis after an incident. In addition, the fact that the system offers fire detection at industry-leading speeds has been appreciated by the insurance provider responsible for setting the insurance premium for Mouka Limited’s facilities. Meanwhile, word about the new state of the art in early fire detection at industrial manufacturing sites is spreading throughout Nigeria – and beyond.

In the digital age, speed has never been more critical. Customers expect an instant response to a query. Executives expect sales data on their tablets in front of them in real-time. A site manager at an oil refinery needs an instant alert about a defective valve. An IT manager expects to know about a phishing email before it hits his employees’ inboxes. The 'need for speed' is impacting the physical security sector too. Customers increasingly expect their security systems to identify and act upon threats before they turn into real incidents. They expect to know right now if the fire or intruder alarm is false, and to take corrective action swiftly. Driven by this heightened customer demand for quicker information to make better decisions faster, innovation in video surveillance technology has accelerated in recent years. Video analytics for fast threat detection Video analytics enables site managers and security teams to swiftly address threats in any building or around a perimeter, often before they take place. For example, Honeywell’s Xtralis LoiterTrace is a technology that can identify an individual hovering suspiciously in an area, alert the security team or central monitoring station (CMS) and is even capable of delivering a pre-emptive voice warning to the potential criminal. So sophisticated are the latest technologies available on the market that, when correctly installed, they are capable of differentiating between a sheep grazing near an airport fence and a would-be intruder crawling on their hands and knees. They are also designed to withstand outside forces that negatively impact system performance such as adverse weather conditions or animal interference. Some developments from Honeywell also enable geo-fencing of specific sections of a video frame so the system can be set up so that an alarm is only triggered if a specific section of the picture is occupied by an individual. In busy areas such as a parking garage or a shopping centre, these innovations help to target specific areas that require surveillance and minimise false alarms. Technology can identify an individual hovering suspiciously and alert the security team or central monitoring station Video verification technology reduces false alarms False alarms cost organisations money, and cause hassle and reputational damage if they are not quickly and decisively addressed by a business. For that reason, the integration of video verification technology that can visually confirm the presence of a threat, is one of the most exciting developments in the physical security sector today. Let's imagine that a CMS supporting a major industrial site detects an alarm going off in one of the maintenance buildings. The default decision today is often a call to the site manager followed by an inconvenient, time-consuming site visit or a call to the local police force with a request to investigate (which may be ignored). Video verification enables the existence and nature of an intrusion to be immediately detected and addressed.   Using Honeywell’s Videofied, a visual verification technology, an Arizona-based security contractor Eyesite Security recently apprehended a copper theft ring of three men and a woman who had been repeatedly targeting a construction site and stealing metal in the back of a van. The company used mounted wireless, cordless, weatherproof MotionViewers throughout a jobsite to act as portable sentries which enabled a quick, effective response. Detecting fire and toxic emissions Another area that video verification is accelerating decision-making is in the crucial early detection of fire and other toxic emissions. Honeywell’s VESDA air sampling technology is up to 15 times more sensitive than a standard ceiling-mounted smoke detector. The addition of video verification to this product is compelling for installers and end users. Triggered by the smoke alarm, new technologies such as the ADPRO SmokeTrace can analyse images from strategically placed cameras to confirm the presence of smoke using video technology. These images are then transmitted to a CMS for assessment and appropriate action as well as actionable intelligence for first responders that speeds up and improves their decision making. Video verification is accelerating decision-making in the crucial early detection of fire and other toxic emissions Integrating security and building management The seamless integration of various security, safety and building management technologies into one unified system is another way organisations can significantly accelerate the speed of both human and machine-to-machine decision making. A simple example is video management systems - like Honeywell’s MAXPRO® VMS, which enable a user to control multiple sources of video subsystems in a facility to collect, manage and present video in a clear and concise manner. This provides security teams at large sites with the ability to view multiple video inputs concurrently, weighing up risk in real-time and reacting quickly to threats. A sophisticated example is the Honeywell deployment of the Pro-Watch® integrated security management suite at Nantes University Hospital in France, which includes video surveillance, access control, and intruder detection systems to improve the security of staff members, visitors and patients. A single monitoring centre allows alarms and video footage to be monitored by security staff, while another set of cameras are deployed to control the access of emergency and service vehicles to the hospital. The management tool also allows the hospital’s 12,000 professionals, and 5,000 guest visitors, to access the hospital’s buildings, car parks and restaurants using a unique access card. Benefits of superior user interface Much has been made about the ‘Apple effect’ on all industries, driving up the quality of the user interface and simplicity of the experience. However, the major benefit of a superior UI is not aesthetic, it’s functional. Simple, clearly laid out user interfaces can significantly speed up the amount of time taken to install, learn, operate and maintain a system, as well as reducing manual errors. Honeywell seeks to create its systems with a ‘"Learn One, Know Them All" philosophy for this reason. In summary, the digital world has significantly increased the speed of doing business. It has raised customer, employee and stakeholder expectations to new heights. Video surveillance technology – analytics, verification, integration, UI - is quickly evolving to match, but companies must adopt it aggressively to keep pace with the breathless new business environment.

Security solutions should be about integration not isolation. Many organisations are considering their existing processes and systems and looking at how to leverage further value. Security is part of that focus and is a central component in the move towards a more integrated approach, which results in significant benefits. Gert Rohrmann, Technical Manager for the solutions division of Siemens Building Technologies UK, examines how by drawing data from a number of different sources and subsystems, including building automation, it is possible to move towards a truly smart environment.For larger systems that can leverage existing IT network infrastructures, integration is an important factor. It makes sense to move away from a single discipline approach to one that views security in a more holistic way. This applies not only to the integration of different security functions, but also how security and safety can be integrated into general business processes. The market has moved significantly in connectivity terms, particularly with the development of open architecture.New physical access control standardsOriginally driven by the network video sector, the focus for the security industry has switched to the adoption and development of new physical access control standards with a push to build compliant devices. Open architecture continues to develop around the BACnet protocol, particularly in the building management systems environment, with a further drive towards standard protocols in the security arena led by industry forums such as ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) and PSIA (Physical Security Interoperability Alliance). Supporting customers to move away from proprietary communication protocols, providing software through cross-domain management and command and control solutions will become an increasing focus as the trend towards integration and standard IT solutions accelerates. Operational teams require intelligent and integrated management tools as the business environment becomes more complex. The focus for the security industry has switched to the adoption and development of new physical access control standards Enterprise Resource Planning software Smart cards have the potential to enhance workplace security through the inclusion of authentication for accessing the IT network and applications, digital signature and email encryption, biometric data, printer access management and other ‘bolt on’ functionalities such as cashless vending. Increasingly, standardised and certified interfaces are being established with Enterprise Resource Planning software systems such as SAP and Human Resources, as well as facilities management. This ability to interface with data sources enables an automated process for identity management, including automatic assignment of access entitlements based on the individual’s role and responsibilities. The operational cost savings, increased data consistency and security that can be achieved is significant.Enhanced energy efficiencyAn important area of integration is to enhance energy efficiency and subsequent cost savings. Security has a vital role to play in this process as the security systems provide the information relating to the occupancy of a building. At its simplest, if the alarm detection or access control system knows that no-one is present in a given room, the heating, ventilating, lighting and air conditioning systems can be automatically adjusted to reflect the situation. It is also possible to set building conditions based on the person that has entered Furthermore, it is also possible to set the conditions based on the person that has entered a building, as the access control reader will know the identity of that individual and their role. An example would be lowering the temperature for cleaning staff, whose role is more physically active than that of an office worker carrying out more sedentary tasks for a longer period of the day.Intrusion and emergency managementAnother benefit of integrating security and building management systems is the ability to handle an emergency incident. In the event of an intrusion, the appropriate lighting and surveillance video cameras can be activated automatically, or in response to an emergency evacuation, wayfinding instructions can be set in motion to ensure safe exit.Enhancing fire protectionObtaining a return on investment is an important factor in implementing integrated management systems and capitalising on synergies between core subsystems - such as security and fire safety protection, power, communications and building energy management – makes it possible to minimise or remove system overlaps, thereby saving money and improving manpower allocation. It is common for security and fire safety systems to operate independently; however, deep integration across security and fire technologies will not only offer higher levels of performance from these areas, but also create a fully automated approach to task handling and incident management by extending cause and effect to include security within life safety systems. Deeper integration will enable identification and analysis of unusual behaviour and facilitate more proactive decisions We are familiar with security subsystems such as CCTV, alarms, access control and perimeter protection working together to protect assets and restrict entry to specific areas; however, fire safety systems such as fire detection and clean extinguishing still usually work in isolation. Deeper integration will enable identification and analysis of unusual behaviour and facilitate more proactive decisions. By combining a wide variety of systems and creating a logical sequence, it is possible to limit potential damage. For example, in the event of fire, a workflow-oriented approach driven by security and safety devices would maximise protection across the site, as video surveillance cameras would verify the situation, ventilation systems would adjust to prevent smoke from spreading, escape routes would be activated and live messaging would alert relevant personnel and facilitate safe, orderly evacuation. The integration of these multiple technologies would enable a complete incident record to be collated and communication with the access control system would create an instant roll call of people on site.Fully integrated security installationSiemens has installed a fully integrated fire, security and energy management solution at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Turkey.  This intelligent solution has been designed to deliver first-rate protection and maximum energy efficiency for the airport’s passengers, staff and assets and the general public. The operator can view displays of alarms, messages and the status of all connected systems The safety and security system required the installation of 200 video surveillance cameras and 28 digital recorders, and 9,000 Sinteso fire detectors combined with 400 carbon monoxide gas detectors, all fully integrated to provide maximum levels of protection. The operator can view displays of alarms, messages and the status of all connected systems and the modular architecture makes it both cost-effective and scalable. In the event of evacuation, an integrated voice notification system using 4,600 loudspeakers will be activated automatically.Total Integrated Power systemTo further enhance safety, a Total Integrated Power system enables power distribution from the medium voltage supply right through to the socket outlet, providing maximum control and improved protection, helping to detect any irregularities in the energy distribution system to prevent the possibility of a fire or power failure. The solution has the flexibility to adapt to changes in usage and requirements and can be expanded at any time in the future Cost and energy efficient systemsThe Siemens Desigo building automation system measures 11,000 data points and reacts by raising blinds, turning off lights and reducing or increasing heating and air conditioning, thereby saving energy and ensuring a comfortable environment inside the terminal.The integration of security, fire safety and energy management means that all the disciplines are fully coordinated to ensure that the airport buildings are safer, more comfortable, more efficient and economical. The solution has the flexibility to adapt to changes in usage and requirements and can be expanded at any time in the future, thus maximising the value of the original investment.Integrated and automated security managementAt a corporate level, successful integration contributes to the delivery of strategic and operational objectives and on a day-to-day level, provides a safe and efficient working environment, which is essential to the performance of any organisation. Businesses are increasingly demanding technology that will assess and manage critical situations, distribute information and co-ordinate and manage resources. It is common for building systems to operate independently; however, deeper integration of building management with security technology will not only offer higher levels of performance and greater energy efficiencies, but also create a fully automated approach to task handling and incident management.

D-Tec's MD, Ian Moore, explains the importance of smoke detection systems in the early detection of tunnel fires. Fire in the context of tunnels has been brought into sharp relief in recent years, as a result of a number of high profile tragedies.  Most notably the Mont Blanc Tunnel in 1999, which claimed the lives of 39 people.  As a result, there has been increasing interest in the application of CCTV cameras in conjunction with video analytics technology, specifically Video Smoke Detection (VSD), to provide vital early warning of accidents. Effective detection - heat or smoke? When it comes to fire prevention and safety, road, rail and service tunnels present an extremely testing proposition because of their small cross sectional area.  As some modern tunnels can stretch many miles in length, access is more problematic than in many other scenarios.  The higher heat release rate within these tunnels is also associated with the fires that develop within this environment. Experience suggests that it is smoke and not heat that is needed to obtain vital advance notice of imminent danger.  Sadly in the past, many people have perished before more commonly deployed heat detection systems have been initiated due to smoke inhalation and the smoke in the tunnels has impaired driver's vision causing accidents. Historically smoke detection in road tunnels was difficult due to the dirty environment that created many false alarms as a result of vehicle exhaust fumes.  This factor was compounded by the near impossible task of maintaining any device in working order within acceptable limits.  Thankfully, VSD, due to its design and complex algorithms, has the potential to overcome these problems. Video Smoke Detection (VSD) Looking in more detail at VSD, this approach works by utilizing standard CCTV images in realtime - from any number of cameras simultaneously - that are then analysed by specialized image processing software.  It seeks out the particular pattern that smoke produces by applying extensive detection and known false alarm algorithms.  By programming the software to look for anticipated motion patterns of smoke over a specified area within a camera image, and analysing pixel changes, VSD has the potential to deliver an exceptionally fast response - typically in seconds. Crucially, once smoke has been detected the system can alert the operator as well as deliver a visual representation of the smoke on the system's monitor.  Whether the camera is situated 10 metres or 100 metres from a risk area, VSD has the capacity to detect smoke, providing an early warning that would be impossible with conventional detection. In addition, as the location of smoke can be readily identified by using cameras at multiple points, the VSD system can supply valuable management information to those responsible for fire safety.  It allows passengers or commuters to be directed safely away from any incident whilst avoiding the most dangerous areas - this situational awareness is particularly beneficial in tunnels with a gradient where smoke as it rises will tend to gather more on a particular side of a fire. It is important to stress that VSD is distinct from other camera-based detection systems that are in reality motion detectors or obscuration-change detectors.  These are unable to differentiate between smoke and other sources of movement and so are liable to generate a high level of false alarms.  This is not the case with VSD whose sophisticated algorithms allow it, for example, to readily distinguish between smoke and other similar phenomena, which can prove problematic for other solutions. Application of VSD at Sydney Harbour Road Tunnel When it comes to the practical application of CCTV camera-based Video Smoke Detection (VSD), Sydney Harbour Road Tunnel offers an impressive reference point in terms of the capability of this FM-approved technology, to provide a rapid response to potential fires. In this case, VSD was retrofitted to 80 of the tunnel's CCTV cameras - 40 in each tube - offering a vital early warning of incidents in the tunnel which carries nearly 90,000 vehicles a day. A series of controlled vehicle fires were created to test the tunnel's exhaust system's ability to remove smoke, the activation of the point detectors, and the capability of the deluge system to suppress a fire.  At this stage the Sydney Harbour Road Tunnel management invited D-Tec and our Australian agent Chubb Fire Safety to take part in these tests and trial the Video Smoke Detection system (VSD). During the live burning of the vehicles, temperatures at the fire site reached in excess of 500°C.  The operation of the deluge system was delayed in order to allow the fire to develop and for a large volume of smoke to spread along the tunnel.  The live images of the fire were screened through the VSD system and crucially, the first alarm was generated in 14 seconds of visible smoke and prior to any visible flames, a further 30 alarms were generated throughout the remainder of the test burn.  The key point here is that at no point during the tests did any of the older automated systems within the tunnel generate an alarm. A networked future Looking ahead for future tunnel projects, whether it be the exciting installations protecting multiple road tunnels in Italy or service tunnels in Dubai and Sydney, from our perspective at D-Tec we see the trend in VSD moving towards systems which come with a networked capability so no solution is limited to being monitored locally on site. Now with the latest IP enabled systems, such as our own FireVu, there is the potential to offer 24-hour remote monitoring.  This offers a fast response to incidents, with alarm and associated video images distributed to an unlimited number of locations for review by using a network's TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) as the communications backbone.  A key advantage, from a tunnel operator's perspective, is that one control centre can potentially be used to monitor a number of FireVu VSD tunnel installations. Ultimately, we are likely to see many more examples of CCTV being applied intelligently to deliver fire safety benefits in areas such as tunnel safety, where there are critical gaps in the capability of existing, conventional, and alternatives.

Cybersecurity is a growing concern for manufacturers of life safety and security products, and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) wants to help solve the problem. Specifically, UL seeks to work with manufacturers to up their game on cybersecurity and to certify compliance to a minimum level of cybersecurity “hygiene.” UL cybersecurity certification UL is a familiar brand in consumer goods and in the security and life safety markets. UL certification is sought by manufacturers in a range of product lines, from electrical goods and smoke alarms to access control and central monitoring stations. Approximately 22 billion UL marks appeared on products in 2016. In the physical security industry alone, products are certified to around 20 different standards covering access control, intrusion detection, locks, safes and vaults, software and other categories. Now UL is working to increase the prominence of their brand in cybersecurity with the UL Cybersecurity Assurance Program (CAP). The UL 2900-1 standard, the standard that offers General Requirements for Software Cybersecurity for Network-Connectable Products, was published in 2016 and in July 2017 was published as an ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard. The standard was developed with cooperation from end users such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. National Laboratories, and other industry stakeholders. UL 2900-2-3 – the standard that focuses on electronic physical security/Life Safety & Security industry, was published in September 2017. Testing for cybersecurity weaknesses The UL 2900 standard encompasses three main areas related to cybersecurity – software weaknesses, known vulnerabilities and risk control such as encryption, access control, passwords, remote communications, and software patches and updates. UL conducts structured penetration, fuzz testing and other tests to establish a reasonable level of confidence that a product or system has addressed cybersecurity concerns. “Certification to the standard means that a product or system has been evaluated to a minimum level of cyber hygiene,” says Neil Lakomiak, Director of Business Development and Innovation, Building and Life Safety Technologies, for UL LLC. “It covers the ‘blocking and tackling’ that you would expect manufacturers to do. It doesn’t provide absolute assurance, but rather a level of confidence that a product has been vetted.” The certification is good for one year, and changes in products require recertification. UL has written more than 1,600 standards defining safety, security, quality and sustainability Lakomiak says applying the standard will: “create an environment where companies are starting to incorporate cybersecurity into their development processes; creating security by design. It will elevate the industry to consider cybersecurity earlier in the development process.” An overall goal of UL is to “give people peace of mind around the products and systems they use.” Underwriters Laboratories at ASIS 2017 Companies that achieve certification can promote it as a point of differentiation in the market, although not a guarantee that a product is cybersecure. UL’s independent evaluations carry weight in the market, as reflected by the ubiquity of the UL brand, and Lakomiak contends the industry can benefit from applying the same level of testing and certification to the area of cybersecurity. He sees UL’s cybersecurity initiative as complementary to other cybersecurity measures, such as “white hat” hacking. From a standards perspective, UL’s efforts seek to complement industry efforts such as SIA, ASIS International, PSA and ONVIF. Lakomiak was at the ASIS 2017 show in Dallas, where he met with existing manufacturer customers and potential future clients – including large and small companies in the industry – to discuss cybersecurity and the road to certification. He says many manufacturers are not yet ready for certification, in which case UL provides consultancy and advisory services to help them get there. “A lot of companies just need help understanding what their current processes and cybersecurity posture are,” says Lakomiak. “They want help to create a roadmap to get certification. A variety of manufacturers are on the path to certification.” Underwriters Laboratories security mission The cybersecurity element is an extension of UL’s mission to help companies demonstrate safety, confirm compliance, deliver quality and performance, and build excellence. Lakomiak says many people mistakenly perceive UL as a quasi-governmental organisation, perhaps because UL standards are sometimes incorporated into regulations. However, the organisation is a business and wants to operate like one by serving the needs of its manufacturer customers. “We want to have the service we provide be market-driven. We understand the pain points of manufacturers, integrators and others as they interface with technology. We want to devise programmes to help them be successful in the market. Our focus is to make our customers succeed by providing objective certification.” To the extent that cybersecurity is a growing pain point for the physical security industry, there is a large potential role to be played by UL and many others.

One of the world’s most famous hotel-chains, DoubleTree by Hilton, part of Hilton Worldwide, has selected a high-performance fire system from Advanced Fire Systems Inc. at their eight-storey, 366 room hotel in Boston, Massachusetts. The challenge was to replace an existing system, integrate speakers to all guest rooms and ensure that all audio messages and strobes were fully synchronised across the hotel, in the event of a fire situation, without the need for costly re-wiring. Advanced audio system The Axis AX system was the preferred choice of the client too thanks to its voice communication system, coupled with PerfectSync" An Advanced audio system was specified by the stylish, four-star, DoubleTree by Hilton Boston North Shore as it met regulatory requirements for the low frequency 520 Hz warning tones necessary for the sleeping areas of the hotel and its award-winning emergency communications system, PerfectSync, synchronised tones and digital messages to ensure compliance with local codes. Christopher Whitmarsh, President at Hayden Systems, Inc., commented: “I was confident that the Advanced equipment could meet the application requirements based on my knowledge and experience with the equipment. In this case, the Axis AX system was the preferred choice of the client too thanks to its voice communication system, coupled with PerfectSync, ensuring the hotel adhered to strict guidelines. The system integrated seamlessly into the fabric of the building and provided the client with a solution that met their needs as well as satisfying the rigorous demands of the local fire authority.” PerfectSync emergency communications system PerfectSync automatically synchronises audio, voice and strobe signals across Advanced’s Axis AX fire alarm networks dynamically, as conditions change. Synchronisation of audio and visual signals across multiple notification zones, floors & areas, prevents confusion in an emergency situation and aids in meeting intelligibility standards. Using high performance, distributed, digital amplifiers that come standard with an integral backup amplifier and power source, should a fire spread to an adjacent floor or area, audio and visual indicators come on immediately, and the audio messages will quickly synchronise with any identical audio message on the system. Advanced’s Axis AX fire alarm system Advanced’s Axis AX system has been designed to offer enhanced power and performance in a user-friendly format Advanced’s Axis AX system has been designed to offer enhanced power and performance in a user-friendly format, offering a vast range of configurations, control and interface options all with simple set-up and operation. The Axis AX systems includes easily networked panels, audio panels and command centers, DynamixSmoke smoke control and a huge range of peripherals, devices and interfaces that make it ideal to suit almost any fire and life safety application. Advanced fire systems Mike Troiano, President and CEO of Advanced in the USA, said: “Advanced fire systems are specified in some of the most famous and prestigious hotels across the world and it was a pleasure to work with our customer Hayden Systems, Inc. to provide a system that will meet the rigorous standards required and ensure that the DoubleTree by Hilton’s staff and guests alike are safeguarded.” “PerfectSync insures synchronisation of audio, paging and strobe signals without the need for special wiring or programming, it’s all done automatically by the Axis AX system. Since its introduction in 2014, Award Winning PerfectSync has built a solid reputation with engineering firms and fire authorities alike for its ability to deliver superior performance. The end result is a technologically advanced, easy to use audio and visual communications system that improves life safety for all of the occupants of a building in an emergency situation.”

It took six years to remodel the interior of the ‘Palace of Culture’, a monument to socialism built in the 1960s under East German communist rule. Now Bosch is contributing intelligent solutions to make sure that visitors feel safe there, without detracting from its historic charm. It takes the right setting for culture to flourish. Various things are essential: an ambience in which visitors feel at ease, excellent acoustics, and flawless organisation. Now that the Palace of Culture has been completely renovated to ensure all of this, the city of Dresden boasts a new, modern venue for promoting the arts. Sophisticated security solutions The main auditorium seats 1,700 people, and the building as a whole can accommodate up to 2,800 A completely new, state-of-the-art auditorium is the heart of the building. It meets international standards with its striking architecture and top-notch acoustics, providing ideal conditions for the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra and all kinds of other musicians to give concerts. There is also a new municipal library branch, emphasising the Palace of Culture’s new, open character. Spacious lobbies containing a restaurant and ticket sales link all of the facilities and rooms with one another. Many of the events held here in central Dresden are sold out. The main auditorium seats 1,700 people, and the building as a whole can accommodate up to 2,800. Crowds like these call for sophisticated security solutions that can be smoothly integrated into the overall design. Cleverly integrated components “We wanted a cost-effective overall solution that would do justice to the Palace of Culture and its unique architecture,” says Steffen Meyer, the building’s manager. “We published an invitation to bid for the project and of all the applications we received, Bosch convinced us that they were right for the job.” The building experts from Bosch implemented a customised solution for the Palace of Culture with a host of cleverly integrated components for fire protection, evacuation, access control, video surveillance and building management. The result is a harmonious overall system that meets the entire range of security needs. “As a public facility where people gather, we have to comply with very strict fire protection rules,” explains Meyer. Invisible smoke detectors “We also had to meet some special requirements.” Since the Palace of Culture has protected status as a historic landmark, the appearance of the walls, ceilings and floors may not be noticeably altered. Security staff can also tell whether anyone is still in the building, an important piece of information in case it is ever necessary to evacuate it Now virtually invisible smoke detectors preserve the ambience of the concert hall. Special calculations were even carried out to avoid impairing its acoustics. Advanced video technology automatically counts visitors to prevent the building’s capacity from being exceeded. Security staff can also tell whether anyone is still in the building, an important piece of information in case it is ever necessary to evacuate it. Building integration system In critical situations, special speakers powerful enough to be heard over the orchestra or even a rock concert are lowered from the ceiling to make sure that everyone hears important announcements. All of the individual components are networked via the Building Integration System from Bosch. It makes it easy for the well-trained security guards to monitor and control everything. And to ensure that everything functions reliably in the long term, experts from the Bosch centre in Dresden will regularly check and service the system. Meyer stresses that “we don’t want our culture fans to run any risks.”

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

Located in the Northern Italian town of La Spezia, the Biblioteca Civica Pietro Mario Beghi is a state-of-the-art public library with an extensive collection of books and media across three floors. The 1,560-square meter facility with its bright, modern interior architecture was completed in April 2017 in a historic building remodeled by the architect’s firm 5+1AA. It continues the region’s long literary tradition: The harbor town is situated on the “Golfo dei Poeti” (meaning “Poet’s Golf”), named for the many writers and poets who have lauded the coastal area throughout history.   EN 54 fire detection and alarm system standard Aside from a self-service book lending station, a child reading room and a 72-seat auditorium, the Beghi library is also home to the La Spezia Institute for the History of the Resistance and the Contemporary Age. With so many valuable books and original documents under one roof, end-to-end fire protection according to the high demands of the European Union’s EN 54 fire detection and fire alarm system standard – plus demands by the local fire brigade – was a prime requisite from the start. Choosing a fire alarm and evacuation solution for the library in an open tender, the municipality of La Spezia had an open ear when local system integrator Bagnone SNC proposed a comprehensive solution: An interface between a high-end fire alarm system and evacuation system delivered by Bosch as the single provider. Convincing the officials, the Bosch system could be installed discretely without disturbing the library’s upscale interior design. Addressable Fire Panel 1200 Series The comprehensive solution enables automated alarm messages and public addresses over wall-mounted speakers After receiving the contract, Bagnone SNC installed the Addressable Fire Panel 1200 Series from Bosch interfaced via a serial connection with the Plena Voice Alarm System, supporting also multi-stage evacuation. The comprehensive solution enables automated alarm messages and public addresses over wall-mounted speakers from Bosch that match the library’s color palette. The system accurately detects fires via automatic optical fire detectors and three beam smoke detectors strategically placed across the building. Alarms can also be triggered via manual call points, while in the case of an emergency, pre-recorded messages, sounders and strobes direct building occupants to safety. As a result of the interfaced solution, the Biblioteca Civica Pietro Mario Beghi benefits from highly accurate fire detection and efficient evacuation in an aesthetically pleasing package from Bosch as the single provider. “Our expectations have been exceeded in a major way. Everything went as planned from both a technical and a management point of view,” said Claudio Canneti, Technical Public Works Manager, La Spezia Municipality.

Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, manufacturing company Mouka Limited has built a position on the country’s household and industrial markets since its founding in 1959. With 800 employees and production facilities in Lagos, Benin and Kaduna, Mouka is now Nigeria’s foremost supplier of branded mattresses and foam-based products for sleep solutions. Products such as foam blocks, beddings and duvets, and polyurethane blocks are widely available throughout retail and wholesale channels in Nigeria. Due to the highly flammable nature of foam and polyurethane materials, fire safety at manufacturing facilities is a prime concern. However, when Mouka Limited was looking for a solution that detects fire and smoke in less than 30 seconds – before fire can spread and potentially harm employees – the market had nothing to offer. The reason: Common point-type detectors, detecting smoke particles in the air, rely on smoke particles to rise, which can take several minutes – especially when detectors are mounted on high warehouse ceilings. Provides additional information Fortunately, Bosch offers an innovative product sensitive enough: AVIOTEC, a VdS-certified solution for visual fire monitoring detecting smoke and flames at the source, which is much faster than common point-type detectors. Software inside each device analyzes the video images for visual patterns associated with fires like specific motion and shape characteristics or color changes. When connected to IP-based video management solutions the video images provide additional information e.g. for alarm verification or localization of the fire. AVIOTEC was much closer to the insurance’s requirements than any other solution on the market. Working closely with the teams at the three Mouka Limited factories in Lagos, Benin and Kaduna, Bosch provided 34 AVIOTEC devices for video-based fire detection, alarm sounders, strobes and a third-party sprinkler system, all connected to a Bosch addressable Fire Panel 1200 Series. Ability to detect flame and smoke at a very early stage, Bosch video-based fire detection system is a real assetShorten alarm response times With its ability to detect flame and smoke at a very early stage, the Bosch video-based fire detection system is a real asset at all three facilities. First, it significantly raises the safety of hundreds of employees at Mouka Limited factories. Second, it shortens alarm response times and thereby minimizes the risk of potential damage to equipment and product inventories. And third, analysis of video images of a fire allows for root cause analysis after an incident. In addition, the fact that the system offers fire detection at industry-leading speeds has been appreciated by the insurance provider responsible for setting the insurance premium for Mouka Limited’s facilities. Meanwhile, word about the new state of the art in early fire detection at industrial manufacturing sites is spreading throughout Nigeria – and beyond.

A security system provided by Hikvision USA Inc., the North American company that offers video surveillance products and solutions, was installed by Holmes Security Systems to provide full coverage security and remote monitoring for a custom home built by Whitney Blair Custom Homes and sponsored by Southern Living Magazine. Established in 1966 and published by Time Inc., Southern Living Magazine is one of the largest lifestyle brands in the country. The Southern Living Idea House is a custom home built annually that showcases top-of-the-line residential products and technologies. The 2017 Idea House was built on Bald Head Island in North Carolina and features a Hikvision security system. “Every year, we create an idyllic house that inspires millions of Southern Living readers with design and decorating ideas they can steal for themselves. Using the South's best architects, builders, designers, and landscapers, we reimagine the ultimate Southern home and bring it to life in the magazine, on southernliving.com, and on our social platforms. Now in its 28th year, no franchise is more eagerly anticipated by our audience than the Southern Living Idea House,” said Sid Evans, editor in chief of Southern Living.Holmes Security offered professional expertise and the Hikvision security camera system delivered high quality results Remote monitoring access Bald Head Island in North Carolina is known for its multi-million dollars vacation homes. The video surveillance equipment had to provide security with remote monitoring access for the homeowner. Whitney Blair Custom Homes, a major builder on Bald Head Island, sought out the expertise of Holmes Security Systems, a 109-year old security company with offices in both Fayetteville and Wilmington, NC. “It was an honor to be selected by Southern Living Magazine to be the builder for the 2017 Idea Home. Our success depends on the quality of our trade partners and their product selection, especially with an accelerated schedule and limited access with transportation by boat only. Holmes Security offered professional expertise and the Hikvision security camera system delivered high quality results with a design that fit the home’s style,” said Jeff Sanderson, president of Whitney Blair Custom Homes. Monitored fire alarm system Every house on Bald Head Island is required to have a monitored smoke and fire alarm system. Holmes Security owns and operates its own UL-listed central monitoring station, which influenced Whitney Blair’s decision to choose Holmes as a security partner. Other important considerations for the security system included aesthetics and functionality. As a Southern Living Idea home, it required innovative technology that could withstand a range of temperatures while being elegant and discreet. The video surveillance system had to blend seamlessly into the décor.Covering the indoor and outdoor space while keeping the camera placement discreet was challenging Security installation challenges The installation posed many, varied challenges. Bald Head Island is a car-free barrier island accessible only by boat and located about 35 miles south of Wilmington, N.C. All personnel, tools, and equipment had to travel to the island each day by ferry and then, once on the island, by golf cart. The Idea House is a two-story, 3,273 square foot structure with a separate two-door golf cart garage, topped by a crofter – a separate flexible living space similar to a mother-in-law suite with a kitchen, bathroom and bedroom/sitting area. The home boasts more than 1,300 square feet of outdoor living space with a paved patio, backyard fire pit, outdoor kitchen and lounge area. “Covering the indoor and outdoor space while keeping the camera placement discreet was challenging,” said Dave Foster, sales and marketing manager for Holmes Security Systems. “Also, the Idea House was completed in an amazing six-month timeframe. The accelerated construction schedule meant that deadlines were tight, and subcontractors were stumbling over each other at times. Communication with the builder, other subcontractors, our supplier, and our own installation team was key.” Full-coverage security Holmes Security recommended and installed an eight channel Hikvision DS-7608NI-E2/8P NVR with four terabytes (TB) of storage, paired with a Hikvision DS-D5021FC 21-inch monitor and six cameras to provide a customised, full-coverage security solution for the home. The builder wanted to store up to two weeks of video. Holmes Security selected the four terabyte Hikvision NVR for its capacity to store up to four weeks of video. The NVR was easy for Holmes Security to install and program and is also designed to be easy to use for the future homeowner. Five Hikvision DS-2CD2332-I Outdoor Turret cameras were installed to completely encircle the exterior of the home. Hikvision’s EXIR enhanced technology has built-in IR LEDs housed in a window separate from the camera lens to deliver superior viewing and recording quality in low light conditions, an important feature as Bald Head Island gets very dark at night.Whitney Blair included a second-floor equipment room to provide the homeowner with 24/7 access to video footage from an NVR Round-the-clock access to video footage Locations were chosen carefully to ensure key areas of the home would have coverage. The front and rear porches were equipped with turret cameras to view the front and rear doors, and one turret camera was installed to cover the garage door. The additional outdoor turrets were deployed to give the best angle of surveillance along the sides of the house.  For the interior of the home, a Hikvision DS-2CD2532F-I Compact Dome camera was installed inside the front corner of the living room to cover living and dining areas. The dome camera captures the entire open space and provides good coverage of the front and rear doors while its low-profile blends seamlessly into the design. Whitney Blair included a second-floor equipment room to house the NVR and the monitor, to provide the homeowner with 24/7 access to video footage. Tailored security system with remote viewing Hikvision’s iVMS software provides remote viewing that will allow the future homeowner to access the camera feed from their smartphone, tablet or computer when away from the home.Southern Living donated a portion of each ticket sold to benefit the Old Baldy Foundation “Southern Living looks to the builder and subcontractors to offer innovative solutions that fit our vision for the design. Holmes Security recommended the Hikvision security camera system, and it met all the functional needs for security at the Idea House while delivering great aesthetics that blended with the décor,” said Misty Chandler, marketing manager at Time Inc. Once completed, the 2017 Southern Living Idea House was open for public tours, with thousands of people viewing the home. Southern Living donated a portion of each ticket sold to benefit the Old Baldy Foundation, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to maintaining North Carolina’s oldest lighthouse built in 1817 and located on Bald Head Island. After the initial Open House, Bald Head Island Realty hosted tours while also listing the property for sale. Surveillance expertise Whitney Blair Custom Homes currently has 19 additional Southern Living-inspired homes planned for construction on Bald Head Island. All will include Hikvision security systems. The Southern Living Idea House features the best in construction products and features. By combining aesthetic style, discrete camera placement with HD quality video and remote viewing, Hikvision’s security system provides full coverage for this custom home. Hikvision integrator partner Holmes Security System’s expertise, professionalism and adaptability to construction challenges enabled Southern Living and the home builder to provide the best in residential video surveillance for the future homeowner.