Vacant property security

Namib Property Patrols Ltd, the Oxfordshire-based security and protection company, is using employee scheduling and mobile workforce management software SmartTask to streamline operational processes, saving both time and money. The company is using the software for proof of attendance and guard monitoring across its mobile patrol and alarm response operations, which has helped reduce in administration by more than 15-hours a month, while enhancing service delivery to customers. Credible and transparent security services “We strive for quality through technology, so we needed a software solution that would enable us to serve our customers better; operate on tight margins in order to give value for money; and continue to innovate,” explains Joel Shikongo, Operations Director at Namib Property Patrols Ltd. “SmartTask is enabling us to deliver high-quality, credible and transparent security services in the most efficient manner possible.” The simple expandability of the software is enabling the company to take a phased roll-out" SmartTask was selected following a review of the marketplace to replace manual processes that had become time-consuming and no longer met the reporting needs of the business. The simple expandability of the software is enabling the company to take a phased roll-out with plans to adopt additional functionality, such as SmartForms for electronic incident and logbook reporting, in the next 12 months. Alarm response callouts Namib Property Patrols uses SmartTask at around 40 commercial and industrial sites within Oxfordshire to record arrival and departure times for mobile patrols and alarm response callouts. For scheduled patrols, active tags are used at critical and vulnerable points around the customer’s premises, which are scanned by an asset protection officer using a SmartTask-enabled smartphone. These tags can also contain unique messages to communicate specific tasks and patrol requirements. Namib Property Patrols has full visibility of completed work and officer welfare from its head office in Bicester, with the ability to create electronic operational reports at a push of a button. Clients can also log in to an online customer portal to view their individual security activity in real-time and generate bespoke performance reports. Reducing printing costs Our software is already delivering proven results for a wide range of businesses" As a result, the company has been able to dramatically reduce the time needed to compile reports, saving more than 15-hours each month, as well as reducing printing costs by around 50 per cent. “SmartTask is an ideal fit for our brand and values, underpinning our commitment to operational excellence and client satisfaction. The software is not only helping us to streamline our processes and operate more effectively in an ever-evolving world, but also retain and win business by always putting the customer first. SmartTask’s team is always on hand to provide first-rate support and is constantly looking at new ways to improve our service delivery, so they are a highly-valued technology partner,” adds Shikongo. Mobile workforce management solution Paul Ridden, CEO of SmartTask commented: “We have created an employee scheduling and mobile workforce management solution that is highly configurable and feature rich, so is a perfect fit for SME, mid-sized and top 30 security companies alike. Our software is already delivering proven results for a wide range of businesses by helping them to better plan, manage, deliver and report on their security services.”

Asset protection specialist VPS Security Services, warns that the ongoing Brexit saga is likely to lead to a rise in vacant properties, both commercial and residential, as property developers and investors are even more reluctant to move forward with their UK real estate strategies. Despite a serious housing shortage, there remain over 200,000 homes in the UK that have been empty for 6 months or longer, and as commercial rentals slow down, especially in the retail sector, there is a growing movement to ‘repurpose' commercial properties into housing, even temporarily. Wintry weather forecast "Empty properties of any type can be a significant cost to the owners, local authorities and to the environment." explains Phil Bunting, a director of VPS Security. "They attract vandalism, metal thieves, arsonists and squatters far more than occupied premises. And owners have a legal duty of care for empty properties even to the extent of maintaining their safety for unauthorised trespassers."  Illegal fly tipping occurs every 40 seconds, and grounds such as a car park surrounding an empty office block, are prime targets Across the country dozens of fires are deliberately started every day in or next to vacant premises. Illegal fly tipping occurs every 40 seconds, and grounds such as a car park surrounding an empty office block, are prime targets. With more severe wintry weather forecast, storm damage from snow and ice are also likely to take their toll far more on an empty building. Several security options "The longer an empty property is left unattended, unprotected and neglected, the greater the risk of further devastating dilapidation, compounding the cost and timing of eventual remediation. The sooner it is secured against unwanted visitors and the elements, the sooner it will be re-let or sold to provide a home again." Mr Bunting says. Vacant properties can be protected in a number of ways, with several security options, all of which can be combined in a flexible mix that provides a best fit solution for each site. The most basic solution is setting up a secure perimeter fence, and installing steel screens or hoardings on all main entry points, such as windows and doors. Concrete blocks can be used to prevent access to car parking or external grounds. High-profile locations The environmental impact of steel screens can be lightened by using specialist decals that imitate the look of the original windows and doors. Alarms placed in and around buildings can trigger alerts if there is an attempted breach to the premises. CCTV Towers can provide many more ‘eyes' to protect a site 24/7 at a fraction of the cost of human guards Human guards may be needed for certain high-profile locations, but they are an expensive option, and the range of technological alternatives are fast moving into and taking over this more traditional guarding option. CCTV Towers can provide many more ‘eyes' to protect a site 24/7 at a fraction of the cost of human guards. Operators at remote video response centres, can speak direct to the trespassers, which often is an effective deterrent, if the sensors are triggered and a video feed shows intruders. Installing property guardians Away from the technological and traditional methods of protecting vacant properties, a relatively new trend is to provide security through occupation, by installing property guardians into temporarily empty buildings. This method not only provides low-cost accommodation, but can help significantly reduce the costs of neglect or vandalism, as well as cutting business rates for the property owners. VPS Security Services are part of the VPS Group that specialise in protecting people, property and assets, by securing, maintaining and managing properties across a wide range of customer and industry sectors. Core building services cover the vacant, unoccupied and void property lifecycle from an initial risk assessment, to security, including guarding, monitoring, clearing, maintenance and also ‘security through occupation', via their VPS property guardians service.

Two separate divisions of VPS (UK) Ltd are combining to operate under a new banner of VPS Security Services. Their Property division, providing protection for people, property and assets for over 25 years, will merge with their Site Security unit, which specialises in securing construction sites, utilities and assets in remote, challenging environments. Bluetooth-enabled Smart Door and Smart Alarms  "We have the widest range of security options in the business, combining the highest quality in-house designed products, such as the VPS Security Tower range, the industry leading Bluetooth-operated Smart Door and our Smart Alarms, with the expertise and experience of our inspectors, engineers and business development managers." "Each customer has a unique set of requirements. It makes complete sense for both teams to pool their resources and knowledge. This simply enhances our staff's commitment and passion for designing the best fit solution and delivering excellence." says Phil Bunting, a VPS Director. Wide range of security support Their recent projects reflect the wide range of security support on offer, from protecting pubs and churches that have closed down, through to devising electronic ‘goalposts' to prevent low-bridge strikes during a major highway refurbishment programme. VPS (UK) Ltd have won multiple peer-reviewed awards including Supplier of the Year, Best Innovation, and, just a few weeks ago, Customer Care Initiative of the Year in the IFSEC Security and Fire Excellence Awards for their market-leading customer portal.

ASSA ABLOY Security Solutions, a UK division of ASSA ABLOY, a provider of door opening solutions, has released its latest white paper on key management and control for void properties in the social housing sector. According to the Department for Communities and Local Government, housing associations and local authorities own five million homes in the UK, with 610,000 of these homes empty at any one time between tenancies - approximately an eighth of the total stock. Impact of effective key management The white paper from ASSA ABLOY Security Solutions addresses the impact that effective key management The time spent by local authorities physically handing over keys between different maintenance staff and contractors can cause significant workflow delays, increase the risk of keys being lost or stolen, and result in considerable delays in re-letting properties. All of these issues can potentially lead to large costs for councils and housing associations. The white paper from ASSA ABLOY Security Solutions addresses the impact that effective key management and control can have on improving operational efficiencies for void properties, as well as ensuring budgets are used more efficiently. Finally, the white paper outlines how ASSA CLIQ Remote can make a huge difference to an organisation’s key management and control processes. These include streamlining operations, reducing the risk of lost or copied keys being compromised, cutting costs and improving an organisation’s sustainability credentials. Electro-mechanical locking system ASSA CLIQ Remote is a simple, intelligent electro-mechanical locking system that allows only those with the necessary authority to access a building. It enables owners to have complete control over who can access a property, with members of staff allocated a single key, and entry permissions that can be altered remotely or set for only a certain length of time. The need for an efficient and effective key management process is really important" One organisation to benefit from ASSA CLIQ Remote is Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council (RMBC). Since its introduction, the system has helped the council save approximately 40 hours of time every week. The reduction in re-let times has allowed RMBC to deliver an additional £60,000 a year in rental income revenue, enabling the council to use its budget and resources more effectively. Social housing sector The guide’s author, Simon Wilson, National Sales Manager for ASSA CLIQ Remote, said: "In the social housing sector, the pressure to re-let houses as quickly as possible and work to tight budgets should not be underestimated. Nevertheless, properties will inevitably stand empty between tenancies, while staff and contractors carry out the necessary repairs and maintenance." He further added, "As a result, the need for an efficient and effective key management process is really important. Our latest guide discusses this in more detail, while demonstrating the benefits of adopting ASSA CLIQ Remote. It has proven to help save local authorities and housing associations considerable amounts of time and money."

Dahua Technology has been officially crowned by the State Intellectual Property Office (hereinafter referred to as “SIPO”) as one of the ‘2017 National Intellectual Property Role Model Enterprises’. Its patented ‘HD digital video signal transmission methods and devices, cameras, and aggregation equipment’ are recognised as a winner of the 19th China Outstanding Patent Award. According to the notice issued by SIPO on December 20th, Dahua is one of the 182 companies crowned with the title. These companies are widely acknowledged as key companies that can lead and greatly influence industry in their own realms. In 2016, Dahua continued its high investment in R&D, which reached 10.69% of sales revenue this year. Till the end of November, 2017, Dahua R&D Center, with more than 6000 employees, has filed more than 1340 patents, 654 have been granted including 146 invention patents. Dahua is working hard to accelerate the transformation of technological achievements to actual productivity, creating added values to its customers and partners. With a mission of ‘Enabling a safer society and smarter living’, Dahua will continue to focus on ‘Innovation, Quality, and Service’, to serve its partners and customers around the world.

Embsec’s laser scanning will position GJD as a leader in the field of laser detection GJD, a manufacturer and designer of professional external detector equipment and LED illuminators announced it has signed an agreement to acquire from Embsec AB, a Swedish R&D house, all of their internet protocol (IP) and laser technology plus all related intellectual property rights. The IP technology will be integrated into GJD’s D-TECT detector and Clarius LED illuminator product ranges to provide automated and digitally connectable security solutions.Laser scanning technologyEmbsec’s laser scanning and time of flight technology solutions will position GJD as a leader in the field of laser detection. These products are proving very popular and provide extremely accurate detection for high risk security applications. The external laser detectors will be manufactured in-house at GJD’s UK factory under the Laser-Watch and vFence trademarks.Traditional analogue security and lighting systems have been the most popular choice for a variety of applications for decades. In 2016, the Internet of Things (IoT) exploded into the security world. More and more companies are looking to seamlessly connect their products (security or otherwise) to the Internet for remote diagnostics, programming, and control applications. The purchase of Embsec’s IP products, software, and technology allows GJD to offer a fully integrated IP solution, with all products being manufactured in-house at GJD’s head office in Heywood, Greater Manchester.High-speed remote access “There is a high demand for IP security products to complement the rise in smart home and building management systems” In this digital age, it is extremely rare to be without an internet enabled device. Smart phones, tablets, and computers are always readily available. One of the major advantages of having a GJD security device connected via the internet is that the high-speed remote access permits full control and diagnostics at anytime from anywhere in the world.The IP technology will complement GJD’s product range instantly. It will provide installers, specifiers, and consultants with a one stop shop for IP connected detectors, alarm devices, and LED illuminators for smart building networks. Mark Tibbenham, Managing Director of GJD commented: “This strategic acquisition will enable the company to substantially develop and grow in terms of technology innovation. There is a high demand for IP security products to complement the rise in smart home and building management systems. GJD’s unique IP enabled intrusion detection and illumination products will open up new doors to these markets.”Cutting-edge technologyErik Lindstein, Managing Director of Embsec AB commented: “GJD is a fantastic company to take this cutting-edge technology forward. We have worked with GJD for many years and are confident that our customers and suppliers will benefit greatly from GJD’s focus on technology innovation and world class service offering.”Erik Lindstein continued to say: “This change is fantastic news for our customers and partners. Embsec will continue to support our customers during the transition process to ensure it is as smooth as possible.”

After a lot of studying and getting ready for what seems like an endless stream of exams, teachers and students alike will enjoy having some much-needed time off — whether it’s just for a weekend, a break during the school year or the long summer holidays. Schools that are left empty for a sustained amount of time obviously increases the risk of arson attacks, thefts and vandalism. Staff members at an establishment should therefore work through this checklist before they leave the classroom on the last day of term — as well as throughout the new school year heading into weekends: Checks around the school’s perimeter Before looking at the school itself, there are a few aspects that should be checked around the perimeter of the education establishment. Report any large or overgrown trees or shrubbery both inside the school grounds and around the perimeter. These can make access to the grounds easier, as well as lead to unnecessary blind spots of CCTV coverage. Ensure all locks have also been checked to make sure they are still fit for purpose, as well as that the access control features on gates are functioning properly so that trespassers cannot gain easy access to a school’s grounds. It is wise to have a look that all of the fencing around a school is fully intact too, with no damage or footholds that allow for simple access into the grounds. Security measures to be checked It is important to review a school’s maintenance programmes to ensure everything is in working order before leaving an establishment empty. This will ensure that fire alarms, intruder alarms and sprinkler systems are all operating properly. Cloud CCTV means that a space can be monitored without the requirement of being on site at all times Are there any areas around the school which are in need of additional alarms or security? Look out for areas that do not have adequate surveillance currently but house many pieces of expensive equipment and technology. Cloud CCTV should also be considered when enhancing security, as it means that a space can be monitored without the requirement of being on site at all times. If set up in a school, make sure that security shutters and grills are operating correctly. Damage to the fittings or bulbs of any external lights should be reported as soon as the issue is seen. So that they cannot be used as an accessory to gain access to a school, make sure that bins and skips are also stored within a secure part of the grounds and at least eight metres away from any building. Checks inside the classroom Before leaving a classroom at the beginning of a weekend or a school break, check to make sure that all windows have been closed and locked, and that all electronics have been switched off at the mains. Ensure all valuable equipment has been kept out of view, by locking it away in a secure place. Throughout the term, any breakage or deterioration to doors, windows, roofs, wall cladding, ceiling tiles, alarms and locks need to be reported upon being discovered. That way, there should be enough time to get them repaired before the weekend or holidays begin.

Executive protection can be costly, but it isa fraction of the loss that protecting a topexecutive could prevent  Corporate security departments work hard to protect people and property. Executive protection is one of the key components of corporate security services. In fact, many corporate security departments are now taking on this new responsibility. “We are seeing more companies adopting executive protection as a normal part of corporate security,” says Brian Jantzen, executive vice president with Seattle, Washington-based AS Solution, a company that provides a variety of security services, including executive protection, around the world. Need for Executive Protection Why should a company bring in an executive protection firm? Two reasons, says Jantzen: First, it could prevent the significant loss in the value of the company that would follow a successful attack on its executives. Second, executive protection is different today. In addition to security, executive protection also helps to support executive productivity.  Financial implications of corporate security An argument against executive protection may be its expense. Recent news reports have noted that Amazon spends $1.6 million annually to protect CEO Jeff Bezos. Disney pays $584,075 annually to protect CEO Bob Iger. Other high-profile companies spend hundreds of thousands of dollars per year to protect their top executives. Why so expensive? High-profile executives travel extensively by car and jet, and an executive protection team provides round-the-clock coverage in shifts. The team’s costs include salaries and expenses for travel, food and lodging. The team may also maintain a post at the executive’s home. “You also have an intelligence analysis piece and threat assessment,” Jantzen says. “That involves continuously looking for emerging risks and threats for the individual. For a high-profile executive, the threat assessment changes constantly and requires constant review.” "For a high-profile executive, the threat assessment changesconstantly and requires constant review" While it does sound expensive, Jantzen points out that the executive protection cost is a fraction of the loss that protecting the top executive can prevent. Effect of lack of executive security Imagine a public company with a $1 billion market capitalisation, he says. The sudden death of the company’s CEO would likely have a significant impact on the company’s stock price. Suppose the share price were to fall by 5 percent, it would reduce the company’s market capitalisation by $50 million. “Not all sudden deaths can be prevented,” notes Jantzen. “But some can. Wouldn’t it be worth spending a fraction of $50 million on trying to prevent such a loss?” Add to that the other key service provided by today’s new executive protection practitioners: Security for top executives plus productivity support. Productivity benefits to Executive Protection Executive protection services today go beyond basic executive protection. “Companies expect more from executive protection firms, today,” Jantzen says. “At AS Solution, for example, our premise is to keep people safe, happy and productive.” "Not all sudden deaths can beprevented," notes Jantzen. "Butsome can. Wouldn’t it be worthspending a fraction of $50 millionon trying to prevent such a loss?" “Of course, the idea is to mitigate risks based on a risk and threat assessment of the environment — on company property and in the areas of the world where company executives travel.” “At the same time, our teams carefully plan travel logistics. Well-planned travel reduces the exposure of a principal by avoiding long waits between appointments. When a principal finishes a keynote speech, for instance, he or she is smoothly escorted from the building and to the vehicles for the move to the next location.” “Flawless logistics are risk mitigation tactics that also support productivity,” Jantzen says. “By keeping the principal on the move, it is possible to increase the number of meetings attended in a day and countries visited on a five-day trip. That’s the productivity side of executive protection services.” Security practitioners’ capabilities Executive protection isn’t what it used to be. Today’s goals and capabilities have been fashioned by years of experience with the dangers stalking the modern world. At the same time, today’s professional security practitioners understand that corporate security has two jobs: Keeping people and property safe while contributing to the company’s business goals in the way that executive protection can boost productivity.  

  In practice, 90 percent or more of burglar alarms are false, and studies have estimated the related arrest rate at about 0.02 percent. No wonder law enforcement responds as a low priority, if at all. In contrast, a video-verified security alarm provides the virtual equivalent of an eye-witness to a crime in progress, and responding to video alarms yields arrest rates in the double digits – 20 percent or higher. That's a thousand times higher than non-video alarms. The Partnership for Priority Video Alarm Response (PPVAR) is a public/private partnership advocating the benefits of video alarms for insurance companies, law enforcement and security companies. Stakeholders in the battle against property crime are on the PPVAR board of directors, and the organisation is working with police and sheriff's departments throughout the United States to drive new standards and best practices. Members of PPVAR's Video Verification Committee include members of the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department; Phoenix, Houston and Chicago police departments; and the Texas Police Chiefs Association. Video alarms become more useful with improved technology Technology innovation has increased the usefulness of video to verify burglar alarms. “Surveillance camera prices are coming down,” says Keith Jentoft, president of RSI Video Technologies, which makes the Videofied product line of video-verified intrusion alarms. Such devices are now comparable in price to “blind” PIR (passive infrared) sensors commonly used for security alarms. “The hardware costs are cheap, and installation is easy with battery-powered and wireless devices,” says Jentoft, “monitoring costs are the same.” Jentoft is the Partnership Liaison for PPVAR. Getting the most benefit from technology improvements depends on police dispatchers modifying their practices to give higher priority to video-verified alarms, in effect communicating the increased value and urgency of video alarms to police officers in the field. Only then can improvements in arrest rates for property crimes be realised. Central monitoring stations must move video-verified alarms to the top of their queues. Police can then treat a verified security alarm as a crime in progress. For example, in Grand Prairie, Texas, the response time for video alarms is less than 2 minutes, versus a 15-minute response time for non-video alarms. The department is realising a double-digit increase in arrest rates as a result. Effective action against property crime with verified video alarms PPVAR is driving creation of best practices, defining what constitutes a video-verified alarm Law enforcement resources are diminishing, so property crimes tend to take a back seat to crimes against persons. With limited resources, it is critical that time spent on property crimes yields arrests. Video-verified alarms increase a department's efficiency when investigating property crimes. The insurance industry is active on the PPVAR board of directors, motivated by a shared desire to prevent property crime through more arrests – for insurers, one arrested burglar is the equivalent of 30 fewer claims. “Insurers want to have lower claims, cops want to make more arrests, and the alarm industry wants to see greater security,” says Jentoft. Establishing best practices and standards Greater implementation of best practices depends on evolution of standards and operating procedures for law enforcement. PPVAR is driving creation of best practices, defining what constitutes a video-verified alarm, what information is communicated to an emergency dispatch operator, formats for sharing video clips, etc. New standards will minimise false alarms and maximise arrests. Currently, there is a dearth of standards nationwide, and each police chief has typically set his or her own policy. A standardised policy could be easily adopted by individual departments, thus accelerating acceptance of video-verified alarms as higher priority calls. Involvement of police professionals in the standards-making process increases likelihood of widespread adoption of a uniform standard. Underwriters Laboratories (UL), which certifies central station standards, is also involved in PPVAR's standards initiative. A free educational session at ISC West, April 3, 2014, in Las Vegas, NV, will feature law enforcement, insurers, and industry executives, available to provide information on how verified video alarms create stakeholder value. Watch the Video Verification - How does it work? video to learn more. Partnership for Priority Video Alarm Response (PPVAR)

ISONAS Inc., an IP access control and hardware solution provider and part of the Allegion family of brands announced that the ISONAS™ Pure IP™ access control solution has been deployed at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Grove City, Ohio. The parish is comprised of seven buildings, which include the church, preschool, elementary school, rectory, storage garage, athletic building, and modular classrooms.  The parish grew from around a dozen visitors daily to more than 80 people visiting the church every weekday morning and more than 500 people visiting over three separate services each weekend recently. Controlling Access  The elementary school has grown to host more than 300 students and 50 staff members and volunteers, with the preschool adding another 40 students and staff members to the campus tally. With 28 exterior doors encompassing the fully renovated church, school, and preschool, the parish needed a substantial security upgrade.                                                            The new system needed to not just limit access, but also control it. A main challenge at the parish was being able to control access at all seven buildings and provide an environment with improved personal security for their staff, students, and patrons. The security system the parish had in place consisted of a few standalone keypads and electric locks on a couple of doors with no centralised management or communication. Upgrading Security With an influx of people accessing the parish and its facilities, both the facilities director and the maintenance/technology specialist at the parish were ready to find the right access control solution. The new system needed to not just limit access, but also control it. After careful consideration and research, the parish selected the ISONAS™ Pure IP access control solution for their security upgrade. ISONAS introduced the parish to its local certified independent security integrators, Systems 28. “Working with ISONAS on this project was a tremendous experience from start to finish, and we were thrilled to be brought on board to handle this security upgrade,” said Scott Hoover, sales estimator at Systems 28. “As a certified independent ISONAS systems integrator, we were proud to install this unique solution at our local parish and help make our community safer.” ISONAS RC-04 reader controller The parish also liked the fact that an on-site server was not required with the ISONAS solution The project consisted of installing 24 ISONAS RC-04 reader controllers, with 21 deployed on exterior doors and three on interior doors in a month’s timeframe. The parish chose the ISONAS solution for a myriad of reasons, with one main factor being the ability to use power over the ethernet for the card readers and electric locks. The parish also liked the fact that an on-site server was not required with the ISONAS solution, as having a cloud-based server was critical to managing access remotely for multiple buildings. ISONAS Pure Access software “We are extremely happy that the parish selected ISONAS as the right solution for their security upgrade and look forward to providing capabilities to easily expand the system in the future,” said Jonathan Mooney, ISONAS sales leader. The ISONAS system is extremely user-friendly and much more convenient Along with the ISONAS hardware, the ISONAS Pure Access software was deployed for its remote access capabilities. Pure Access™, ISONAS’s software, is a cloud-based access control application that provides users the ability to manage their access control from anywhere at any time, on any device. Remote access functionality “The ISONAS system is extremely user-friendly and much more convenient than the previous ‘stand-alone’ system we had in place prior to this upgrade,” said Kevin Radwanski, facilities director at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish. “We especially like the remote access functionality, as it has been great for us to be able to lock and unlock doors remotely during regular times and emergency situations like the global pandemic.”

OPTEX Teams up with Mobile Pro Systems to create a Rapid Security Deployment Solution for a high-end condominium builder in Extreme Weather Conditions. The solution was required for a large construction site for Cove Properties, one of Alberta, Canada’s premier luxury condo builders. Weather conditions With many developers and construction companies building throughout the year, they're forced to battle a myriad of different weather conditions including rain, sleet, snow and extreme cold. On top of this, they still face the inevitable problem of theft and vandalism. Theft of tools, machinery, new materials and scrap material cost contractors millions of dollars per year and leaves the construction companies and their sub-contractors with the effect of having to deal with their losses. The general contractors and developers feel the chain reaction as well, as they have to deal with higher insurance premiums and weeks and months of project delays. To avoid the major effects of construction site theft, Cove Properties turned to 2020 Digital Security Solutions of Alberta, Canada for help. Cove’s requirements included a mobile solution capable of wireless communication that could be moved from site to site with surveillance, motion detection, lighting and remote monitoring capabilities. In addition, it had to survive the harsh outdoor elements of Northern Canada. Powering network and surveillance solution 2020 Digital Security Solutions took all of Cove’s requirements into consideration and found the perfect solution in the PowerSentry by Mobile Pro Systems. The PowerSentry is a self-sufficient, temporary, semi-permanent or permanent surveillance solution. Cove is using 6 Redscans with 2 fixed cameras on six poles, and ran power to each pole Built as a “power platform”, it can power anything from surveillance, security, communications and/or network technologies. And with its universal mounting options, the PowerSentry can be mounted to a pole, a wall or tripod or can be easily hooked over a fence or roof parapet for superior mobility. It accepts 90-277VAC to minimise re-wiring and is equipped with a high quality Lithium-Ion battery pack as a backup power source due to loss of power or power outages. In addition, the PowerSentry has a unique remote system status and control software called Power Broker, which monitors the PowerSentry’s battery voltage, current power usage, displays active map GPS monitoring, intrusion detection reporting, warning and flood lighting control and horn/speaker control. Motion-activated floodlights To help solve the limited daylight obstacle, 2020 DSS had two 8,000 lumen LED flood lights mounted to the chassis of the PowerSentry. The LED floodlights are motion activated and have a pre-determined setting of how long they will stay on. The lights can also be turned on and off manually through the Power Broker software. “Due to the short amount of daylight during the winter months, the flood lights will help light the site in the evening hours and after hours if there is a breach in the perimeter,” said Gene Telfer president of 2020 DSS. The perimeter and the interior of the construction site is protected by an Optex RedScan laser perimeter detection device which was connected to the PowerSentry and mounted 8’ below providing a 200’ horizontal area of detection. “We decided to mount the RedScan below the PowerSentry instead of on it because we will get a wider detection range and a firmer detection trigger,” Telfer said. Optex Redscan laser detectors With abnormal cold temperatures hitting the Northern United States and almost all of Canada, the first test was in late December into early January when normal temperatures fell to -40°F and -60°F with the wind chill. “The systems are working great and we haven’t had a system go down at all,” Telfer said. According to Telfer, Cove is using 6 Redscans with 2 fixed cameras on six poles, and ran power to each pole that made installation very quick and easy. They are using Milestone video management software that integrates with the cameras and Redscan laser detectors for visual verification and event response in one platform.

Optex installs intrusion detectors at a gated, luxury motor coach resort community in the desert area of Southern California. The property features a clubhouse, fitness room, community pool, and 141 "Casitas": 1200 sq ft. custom-built living spaces with waterfront motor coach pad. Because most owners were on site only a portion of the year, the property faced an increasing issue with trespassers in the off- season months. The increase in trespassing also lead to an increase in vandalism and theft cases. The large perimeter, combined with the desert heat, required a robust, long distance solution that would stand up to the elements. Detection range of 650 feet The integrator worked directly with OPTEX to plan out a perimeter system that would overcome the challenges faced on the site. Because power was readily available and a long distance solution was required, hardwired AX-650TF beams with a detection range of 650ft. were selected. After discussing possible mounting options with the OPTEX sales representative, the integrator decided on the AX-TW200 photobeam tower. Because the customer provided a site plan, OPTEX was able to pre-build the towers and mount the beams in them at no additional charge. Once installed, the tower and beam solution provided full perimeter protection by activating strobes and notifying an on-site guard to the location of an intrusion. The result was a huge decrease in the amount of unknown trespassers, thus greatly reducing reports of theft and vandalism.

Openpath, a provider of modern mobile access control, is announcing a partnership with Lincoln Property Company (LPC), one of the diversified real estate service firms in the United States. Openpath has been selected as LPC’s technology partner to standardise and bring best-in-class technology solutions across its current portfolio and planned developments of commercial spaces. Openpath’s platform focuses on integrated technology to provide frictionless mobile access and scalable cloud-based solutions that can also integrate with legacy systems. This collaboration future-proofs LPC’s security offerings for modern commercial development. The partnership marks a shift in the commercial real estate market, as operators and tenants demand technology-capable properties that provide ease, efficiency and advancement to address high-risk security challenges. Already deployed in a number of LPC’s Los Angeles properties, Openpath will continue to outfit buildings across the country, providing state-of-the-art, personalised security plans and solutions for individually customised building needs. Integrated security solution LPC is one of the ten largest commercial property developers in the nation, managing or leasing over 403 million square feet and $76 billion in assets. As the first developer to choose an access control and technology partner, LPC is now leading the charge for tenant experience and innovation. With the built world becoming more technology-reliant, an integrated security solution is critical to making an environment attractive for LPC’s tenants and employees. This partnership provides a future-proofed solution for LPC properties, as Openpath’s cloud access control technology provides a standardised solution that can be integrated across LPC’s current and future technology needs. In addition to mobile access control, Openpath offers LPC buildings a broad range of first-to-market services including Lockdown and Tailgating Prevention to address current workplace security concerns. While required integrations will continue to evolve, Openpath and LPC’s strategic relationship enhances and ensures the property's attractiveness years down the line. Customisation capabilities “This partnership provides an opportunity for us to continue to develop and personalise our solutions tailored towards Lincoln Property Company’s unique portfolio of commercial spaces,” said James Segil, co-founder and President of Openpath. LPC is focusing on the future of how we integrate better solutions" “Our mobile platform provides necessary customisation capabilities while giving LPC’s tenants the freedom of control in their daily security. LPC is focusing on the future of how we integrate better solutions and we’re excited to see this next stage of development as we continue to design products that meet evolving property needs.” “Our goal is to ensure that every building provides the highest quality experience for our tenants,” said Eric Roseman, VP of Innovation & Technology Ventures, Lincoln Property Company. “We are excited to be the first major real estate firm to partner with Openpath to bring this technology to a nationwide commercial portfolio, and to spearhead the movement of tenant experience by providing our buildings with state-of-the-art security and mobile access control.”

Being a property management and home security service provider, DOM UK Ltd. considers specialised door security solutions for different premises such as holiday homes, serviced apartments and other temporary accommodations. By implemented keyless solutions on a rented property or serviced apartment provides effortless access granted by property managers and ease of control. Guests can also benefit as the last thing they want to worry about is looking after an extra set of keys. DOM Tapkey cloud-based smart locks DOM Tapkey, is a cloud-based smart lock, which diminishes the problem of remotely managing property access, including the expense and hassle of constant key exchanges, the disruption of early check-ins and overstays, and minimise the security risks of unauthorised access. A similar issue was put across to DOM UK by a popular AirBnB situated in Oxford. Pillow Talks are a specialist property management business based within Oxfordshire. Both Pillow Talks and their tenant, Ginger Video, who are renting premises for their business needs, wanted to replace their existing mechanical locks with an alternate, safe and secure digital locking solution. Allowing them full management and control of the premises. Digital locking system With DOM Tapkey, users can use the same ID on several smartphones and tablets simultaneously that works for temporary tenants or small business owners renting premise, allowing multiple access at any one time. DOM Tapkey is a revolutionary way to lock and unlock the doors to homes and offices The revolutionary digital locking system allows users to manage access and security of their home or office environment with the easy-to-use Tapkey app. They can add or remove users with smartphones and transponders on their smartphone conveniently. Whether at work or a meeting, it’s a quick and easy process. This locking system offers an innovative plug-and-play solution for all security needs. Home and Corporate Security National Sales Manager, DOM UK Ltd, Mr. Lloyd Chitty states “The project itself had been installed by one of our trusted partner and security expert, Oxford SMS (now J.Priest&Son), the tenant was highly impressed by the product and service provided by Mr. Jason Priest, they requested for a digital cylinder to be installed within their private home and labelled the locking cylinder as a new 21st Century system.” DOM Tapkey access control solution is more than just a digital door opener. It’s also a smart management tool that allows homeowners to remotely program electronic keys, send authorisations to other users, share access and receive event notifications. DOM Tapkey is a revolutionary way to lock and unlock the doors to homes and offices. Simply place the smartphone against the digital cylinder and avail instant access.

Amthal Fire & Security has installed a bespoke designed Keyzapp management system at its head offices, to ensure the safekeeping and accountability of client keys at all times. Electronic Fire and security company Amthal required a system to improve key management processes, especially as the business has seen significant growth with an increased number of customer keys being kept on site for property protection, maintenance and monitoring services. Audit control capability for key transactions Keyzapp was selected due to its flexible design. This enabled Amthal to create a system that was easy for authorised engineers to operate, whilst management could rely on audit control capability for all key transactions, without the need for a dedicated member of staff 24/7 manually issuing and recording them. It’s really automated our complete process and has proven to save the engineering team valuable time and resource" Says Simon Kendall, Amthal Supply Chain Leader: “Amthal has a growing network of dedicated engineers that work across the country, with varying access requirements for customer’s keys that are all kept at Amthal offices. Completing manual audits for keys taken had become increasingly time consuming to ensure awareness of allocations and traceability. “The implementation of Keyzapp’s system has made such a difference. It’s really automated our complete process and has proven to save the engineering team valuable time and resource, which they can dedicate to better serving our customers. It runs itself in the background and if there is an issue, it can be resolved quickly and efficiently.” Control to key access with smart credentials Keyzapp’s simple management solutions are designed using latest technology to decrease downtime and improve work efficiencies. The ability to further add control to key access with smart credentials and audit capability ensures full visibility of keys at any time. Tim Hill, Keyzapp Director added: “What Amthal demonstrates is the importance of attention to key control. We worked with the team to tailor our system around the business requirements for asset management, including allowing 24 / 7 access with no need for dedicated staff issuing keys. “The management side has also been scaled around ensuring instant traceability to ensure growing number of keys held on site are accounted for at all times. It’s great to see it’s made such a positive impact on a leading fire and security specialist, who prides itself on ‘protecting what’s precious,’ which includes its key customer assets!” Traceability and visibility for valuable equipment Our engineers find it simple to use, and we’ve even recorded improved site attendance times" So impressed with Keyzapp, Amthal is now working on a bespoke system to manage the specialist loan equipment being booked in and out of its office stores and warehouse, to reflect the same level of traceability and visibility for valuable equipment. Jamie Allam, Commercial Director Amthal Fire & Security concluded: “Keyzapp had an instant impact on the whole team, with improved time and operational savings. Our engineers find it simple to use, and we’ve even recorded improved site attendance times. Plus the management capability is great from our perspective to help towards the efficient, operational running of our business.” User needs for security safety and convenience Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)