Vehicle security

As building security becomes smarter, the need for electronic access control systems spreads further. Wired access points and security doors have long been the backbone. Yet at the same time, even buildings with extensive electronic systems leave mechanically locked doors unmonitored and unguarded — and certainly not ‘smart’. Mechanical locks cannot be connected. Thankfully, the latest generation of wireless locks can replace them easily and integrate them seamlessly within almost any access system. A recent industry survey — cited in the ‘Wireless Access Control Report 2018’, from ASSA ABLOY and IFSEC Global — finds integration is an increasing concern. Over 90% of industry professionals polled for the report suggest integrating security systems with each other (and with other smart building systems) has increased in importance in the last few years. Focus on integration Fewer security interfaces are easier to support and so require less training Integration is a recurring theme in conversations among professionals. For 53% of survey respondents, easy integration with CCTV, alarms, time and attendance, lighting and HVAC would make them interested in upgrading to a particular product — more than any other factor. Forty-three percent said easier integration with existing access control systems would make them more likely to upgrade. But why the focus on integration? What are the advantages? Fewer security interfaces are easier to support and so require less training. Integration can also enhance the experience of building occupants. One credential opens the car park, then the building, and accesses their laptop and buys lunch in the café. Smart access cards Integration across the business also means security systems — and security teams — contribute to business efficiency, not just the protection of people, premises and other assets. Integrate HR systems with your access control system, for instance, and smart access cards can be automatically revoked when people leave the organisation, reducing overheads and even headcount. A majority of those polled for the ‘Wireless Access Control Report 2018’ believe it very important (58%) that access control supports open standards in order to be flexible and future-proofed. A huge majority (91%) consider it at least somewhat important. Future-proofing is high on any list of procurement criteria. Will your system accommodate a changing business and the evolution of functions within it? Can you extend access control with components that contribute to, rather than detract from, the flexibility of all your building systems? Integrated RFID-readers The ease and cost-efficient integration wireless offers is surely driving this growth Expanding the coverage of traditional locks can be expensive and intrusive. But one fast, easy and cost-effective alternative enables you to forget about keys and the hassles of key management: wireless devices like Aperio, battery-powered locks with integrated RFID-readers. The aforementioned report cites growth forecasts for the wireless access control market of around 8% annually through 2025. The ease and cost-efficient integration wireless offers is surely driving this growth. Because Aperio has an open architecture, it is flexible and modular, so those who already have wired access control and want to add more doors to their existing system find wireless is the solution. Aperio wireless locks integrate with security systems from over 100 different OEMs worldwide, for new installations or to upgrade an existing system. Electronic access control Integration is seamless, extending the reach of an existing system with future-proofed devices. Security administrators operate the new Aperio-equipped doors from the same interface as the installed system. Site users carry a single smart access card for all doors, and other functions like canteen payments or library loans are just as easy to integrate. What if your security system uses mechanical keys, without electronic access control? Wireless locks like Aperio can also be the right solution. Battery-powered Aperio RFID-equipped cylinders, escutcheons, handles and locks can be fitted as a new access control system, or extend an existing installation by linking new doors to the same system wirelessly. There’s no need for staff to swap their key-cards, nor for anyone to carry more than one credential. Invasive building work Installing wireless locks is also more cost-effective than hard-wiring more doors, because there’s no cabling or invasive building work around the door Aperio locks work within almost every major access control ecosystem on the planet, from over 100 different manufacturers. They are energy-efficient, with batteries lasting an average of 40,000 cycles (typically 2 years) before they need replacing. “It’s easy to start the upgrade process,” says Matthias Weiß, Aperio Product Manager at ASSA ABLOY EMEA. “Your security or facilities manager only needs to contact their regular access control provider to find out if they offer Aperio. We can upgrade nearly any system.” Installing wireless locks is also more cost-effective than hard-wiring more doors, because there’s no cabling or invasive building work around the door. Changing door hardware is unnecessary. For example, it’s fast and easy to switch a mechanical handle for an Aperio wireless handle with integrated RFID reader, to bring more doors into an access system. Common door profiles Aperio devices with built-in RFID readers fit almost any opening or security level. Aperio locks protect both exterior and interior doors, from fire and escape route doors to meeting rooms, labs and offices; wooden, glass or aluminium doors are no obstacle. The portfolio includes cylinders, escutcheons and complete locks for security doors, plus a revolutionary new wireless handle with integrated RFID reader, which recently won Intersec’s Access Control Product of the Year. Aperio locks are compatible with all common door profiles: Euro, French, Finnish, Scandinavian and Swiss. Integration with your existing system can be Online or Offline, or both.

Security test standards for mechanical immobilisers for motor vehicles and plant as well as security systems for bicycles and ground anchors, have been launched by Element Materials Technology, a provider of testing, inspection and certification services. The new automotive standards give manufacturers a route to meet the requirements set by Secured by Design (SBD), the national police crime prevention initiative. After-market vehicle products The three vehicle security standards are based on the principles of Element’s test standard STS 202, which was established ten years ago to provide an alternative way to achieve SBD compliance on security-related construction products, such as doors, windows, garage doors, shutters and grilles. This standard has been embraced by the industry and is referenced in Part Q of the Building Regulations in England The tests for STS 202 involve attacking products to test their physical resistance to casual or opportunistic burglars using a range of tools based on a burglary rating between 1-6 with six being the highest. This standard has been embraced by the industry and is referenced in Part Q of the Building Regulations in England. Element’s decision to create a set of vehicle standards follows Thatcham’s decision to withdraw their physical test offering on after-market vehicle products. Mechanical immobilisers In addition, changing market conditions include the potential increase in plant theft with major construction projects, increasing reliance on mechanical immobilisers with ‘keyless’ cars, and that STS standards are more flexible than EN European equivalents and can adapt quickly to changing patterns of criminal behaviour. So Element has applied the STS 202 tests and adapted them for the new standards, which are: STS 501 mechanical immobilisers including steering wheel locks STS 502 security systems for bicycles STS 503 ground anchors. The standards were launched at Element’s Vehicle Physical Security Testing Open Day at their 50,000 square foot testing laboratory at Wednesbury, near Birmingham, on Thursday, 14 February. Steering wheel locks Addressing a specially invited audience from different related sectors within the security industry, Mark West, Operations Manager, Element, said: “These are the schemes we have started with, which we can add to if there is a new requirement or new product. The possibilities are endless.” “We are basically applying the test methodology we apply to doors, windows and security hardware to these kinds of products. It fits nicely,” he added. Guests saw a number of demonstrations of controlled physical attacks on a number of products including bike locks, steering wheel locks and wheel clamps using a range of simple tools such as a hacksaw to steal a bicycle and plastic wedges being hit by a hammer to remove a wheel clamp. Secure quality products The company became an United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) lab for the security testing of locks and lock cylinders in 1986 The security products, which were at the cheaper end of the marketplace, were breached within a few seconds underling the importance of secure quality products that can resist physical attack to standards required by SBD. Element services a diverse range of industry sectors including aerospace, transportation, oil and gas and fire, ‘where failure in-service is not an option’. The company became an United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) lab for the security testing of locks and lock cylinders in 1986; testing of doors and windows in 1996 when standards were first written; and became the established central location for the security certification of Warrington Fire Laboratories products in 2005. Enhanced security doors The scope of their tests include: Corrosion, including salt spray Environmental, including extreme hot and cold temperatures, thermal shock, humidity, solar infrared and water condensing Accelerated UV weathering for extreme sunlight Functionality and endurance testing of products like door handles and gear shifts Vibration and mechanical shock for products such as gear assemblies and interior components. Element is the largest provider of door and window and building hardware security testing in the UK. Their testing standards include: PAS 24 enhanced security doors and windows EN 1627 burglar resistant doors and windows on European level from residential to industrial doors BS 3621 enhanced security locks TS007 enhanced security cylinders and handles - a standard brought in to combat cylinder snapping TS008 enhanced security letterplates to include protection against fishing for keys TS009 enhanced security letterboxes for panels of mail boxes such as in student accommodation STS202 burglar resistance construction products including doors, windows, garage doors, shutters and grilles. Global testing capabilities The company can trace its roots back to 1827 under the name of Stork Engineering - a Dutch-based materials testing organisation. Element was formed out of a management buy-out in 2011 and purchased the Exova Group of companies in 2017. Mark West added: “We exist to help all of our customers to make certain that the materials and products that they make are safe, quality compliant and ultimately fit for purpose, using our 200 years of testing experience and our global testing capabilities.”

People and vehicle access control specialists Nortech will be exhibiting some exciting new products at Parkex 2019 this April. Ideal for businesses that want to know more about people and vehicle access solutions and their benefits, the South Wales-based company will be launching its new 8 Series detector range, debuting its next generation Nedap ANPR Access V2 and showing its popular Variable Message Sign (VMS) system. Extensive experience Nortech has supplied products and solutions to the security industry for over 25 years as an independent British company. The company uses extensive experience and expertise to create new security products to fit their clients’ needs and designs everything with the customer in mind.  The 8 Series is Nortech’s new flagship boxed detector range and boasts both intuitive and innovative detection technology packaged in a compact The company offers a range of products in vehicle detection, vehicle tagging and parking control management and are designed to ensure easy management of multiple vehicles. The 8 Series is Nortech’s new flagship boxed detector range and boasts both intuitive and innovative detection technology packaged in a compact, slimline housing - which bucks the trend of its predecessors. Dual channel detectors The 8 Series range of single and dual channel detectors is set to cater to market demand for detectors that facilitate ‘plug-and-play’ installation whilst still allowing full site configuration using the state-of-the-art DU800 diagnostics device and mobile app for the more tech savvy. The sleek new housing is a result of a conscious move away from the traditional 11-pin relay base to a slimline DIN Rail mount housing which exposes more physical connection options. The 8 Series detectors incorporate Nortech’s cutting-edge modular design, allowing for the expansion of channels, outputs and communication interfaces via the ingenious expansion port. The ANPR Access V2 short-range keeps up with the rapid growing demand for effective number-plate reading. Vehicle access control It is purposely designed for vehicle access control applications with built-in Wiegand modes whilst ensuring customers benefit from the latest developments in ANPR technology. Nedap’s ANPR cameras identify vehicles by capturing their number plates, making it the perfect solution for applications where it is undesirable or not possible to issue (RFID) tags. It is ideal in situations where vehicles need to be granted continual or temporary access to a site such as in employee or visitor parking applications. Nortech’s Variable Message Sign (VMS) is a high intensity, full colour SMD LED sign Nortech’s Variable Message Sign (VMS) is a high intensity, full colour SMD LED sign that is fully compliant with the European VMS standard EN12966, and offers bright, clear messages indicating available spaces and status messages. Carry corporate branding Contained in a robust weatherproof IP65 aluminium housing, the VMS comes either as a compact, single display sign or as a single/multi-level information sign complete with artwork. The multi-level signs are available with one to five level counts as standard, with customers specific count levels also available, making them ideal for many applications including highways, hotels, car parks, corporate offices, airports and hospitals. They can also carry corporate branding as required. Visit Nortech at Parkex 2019 on 2-4 April at Birmingham’s NEC to find out more about the many systems available and how they can benefit the future of people and vehicle control solutions.

ATG Access, an innovator of road blocker, bollards and vehicle barrier systems is thriving internationally thanks to the launch of Surface Guard, a pioneering, new hostile vehicle mitigation solution. Surface Guard vehicle mitigation solution  After its successful launch in the UK last year, Surface Guard has now been deployed in a number of overseas territories including France, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, Japan, Australia and America. The surface mounted security solution has protected a number of high-profile international events - including Serious Request Festival in the Netherlands, premier league football matches and presidential visits - where crowds are deemed to be vulnerable. Since Surface Guard’s launch last year, ATG Access has made close to £1.5million in sales Designed in response to the recent surge in vehicular attacks across Europe, a Surface Guard barrier can withstand the impact of a 7,200kg vehicle travelling at 32kph and has been tested in accordance to the IWA 14 crash test standard. The barriers’ lightweight and modular design means that it can be deployed quickly and efficiently by four men in under an hour, minimising disruption to event operation and the surrounding area. Easily deployed vehicle barriers Since Surface Guard’s launch last year, ATG Access has made close to £1.5million in sales; 15% of which have been attributed to the protection of European municipalities, 6% to Australian sites and 41% to protect American applications. And the company is currently on track to double this over the next year. Gavin Hepburn, managing director at ATG Access, commented: “Our Surface Guard solution was born out of the desire to provide a comprehensive method of protecting public events. When it comes to pedestrian-permeable, temporary event security, there aren’t any other security solutions that can challenge Surface Guard’s effectiveness, nor its ability to be rapidly deployed. This makes it an excellent option for securing temporary events and concerts around the world. As part of our continued international growth strategy, we aim to build on our relationships with countries across the globe, ensuring as many countries as possible have access to the best high-end security solutions, and the launch of Surface Guard is a driving force behind this.”

Videalert, a UK supplier of intelligent traffic management and enforcement solutions, is expanding the range of services provided at its recently opened Mobile Enforcement Vehicle (MEV) engineering hub in Trowbridge, Wiltshire. The company has announced the launch of a new refit service for MEVs that will enable councils to cost effectively extend the operational life of existing assets while driving significant increases in productivity and efficiency. ONVIF-compliant HD digital cameras This new refit service will enable councils using older TES and SEA vehicles to replace legacy analogue technology with HD digital cameras. These latest generation ONVIF-compliant cameras will deliver superior capture rates of up to 98% to dramatically increase productivity and reduce the total cost of ownership. Significantly, this capture rate is achieved with just a single pass at normal road speeds rather than having to make multiple passes at speeds of just 10-15 mph. From the CEO’s point of view, the new Videalert systems are simpler and easier to use with only minimal training.  According to Tim Daniels, Sales and Marketing Director of Videalert: “This service will enable councils to extend the operational life of MEVs by installing new camera technology and a complete suite of software. It will allow the vehicles to be used in a wide range of traffic management enforcement and monitoring applications. What is more, there is also no restriction regarding the types of vehicles that can be upgraded.”

People and vehicle access control specialist, Nortech is now offering long-range vehicle and driver identification tags to grant seamless access to approaching vehicles. Nedap TRANSIT reader range Designed to accompany the popular TRANSIT reader range from Nedap, the tags are ideal for use in staff car parks, for priority vehicle control, industrial site access control, fleet and parking management. Key features include simultaneous driver and vehicle identification, a reading distance of up to 10m, easy windshield mounting with suction pads and maximum perimeter security. Driver-based ID systems The TRANSIT Prox Booster (120-125 KHz), SMARTCARD Booster (13.56MHz) and SMARTCARD Booster Ultimate (2.45GHz and 433MHz) enable long range driver-based identification The TRANSIT Prox Booster (120-125 KHz), SMARTCARD Booster (13.56MHz) and SMARTCARD Booster Ultimate (2.45GHz and 433MHz) enable long range driver-based identification. Driver-based ID systems, a building access card and in-vehicle booster ensure that a vehicle can never gain access to a secured area unless occupied by an authorised driver. The booster is used in combination with a personal access credential and is an easy to integrate solution for vehicle access, eliminating the need to issue new cards. The booster is placed on the windshield on the inside of a vehicle. When an authorised building access card is inserted into the booster, it is read and then boosted to the external Nedap TRANSIT reader. The TRANSIT reader then transmits the credential ID to any standard back end security panel. If the credential is authorised and access is granted the gate will open automatically. Removal of the driver ID then allows the access card to be used for building access. TRANSIT Prox Booster 2G Users also have the facility to match up vehicles and drivers, as a separate ID (vehicle ID) can be programmed into the booster on certain models. This ensures the right driver is with the right vehicle. The TRANSIT Prox Booster 2G supports proximity access control cards operating on 120-125 kHz such as HID prox, EM and Nedap. The SMARTCARD Booster 2G supports ISO 14443 or 15693 compliant smartcards (eg. MIFARE, MIFARE DESFIRE, LEGIC, Calypso and HID iClass) operating on 13.56 MHz. SMARTCARD Booster Ultimate The SMARTCARD Booster Ultimate is also available for almost all card technologies The SMARTCARD Booster Ultimate is also available for almost all card technologies. It supports ISO 14443 or 15693 compliant smartcards (eg. MIFARE, MIFARE DESFIRE, LEGIC, Calypso and HID iClass) operating on 13.56 MHz. The advanced tag authentication of the SMARTCARD Booster Ultimate is only functional when the Security Key Pack has been installed in the TRANSIT Ultimate. The SMARTCARD Booster Ultimate operates with two frequencies, and uses the 2.45 GHz for robust vehicle identification and the 433 MHz frequency for advanced tag authentication using AES standards. A bi-directional communication feature in combination with the SMARTCARD Booster Ultimate has also made it possible to write information on the drivers’ access control card when the vehicle enters or leaves a perimeter. Credits, offline access rights or other information can be changed dynamically upon perimeter access. Booster applications in secured areas Typical booster applications are high secured areas like airports, seaports, military bases, utility companies, corporate and educational campuses, police, fire and other installations where vehicles must be assigned to a specific driver. Nortech has supplied products and solutions to the security industry for over 25 years as an independent British company. The company uses extensive experience and expertise to create new security products to fit their clients’ needs and designs everything with the customer in mind. 

Public spaces in cities and suburbs are important places for community development and promoting outdoor recreation. These areas may include main streets, parks, promenades, band shells and fields. Such locations are often utilised by public event planners for community activities, including summer festivals, wintertime ice skating rink installations, music concerts and art fairs. As the year drew to a close, holiday and Christmas markets as well as major New Year’s Eve events, presented cities with constant public event security needs. The public nature of these events increases risks of incidents with high-speed vehicles that put attendees in danger. Fortunately, there are three ways for public space managers to prevent casualty-causing collisions and further promote the use of local public areas. Developing an effective action plan    When strategising how to react to an alert, think about what time of the year and time of day the event is occurring It is important to have a plan developed before an incident or accident occurs. Warning systems, utilising doppler radar and digital loop technologies, alert guards to abnormal vehicle velocity changes in the surrounding area. Managers of public areas should organise a meeting with public safety authorities and local agencies to discuss what must immediately occur when a high-speed vehicle is approaching a public event. When strategising how to react to an alert, think about what time of the year and time of day the event is occurring. Having such a reaction plan in place combines technology and strategic planning to ensure everyone is on the same page to effectively target a threat and promote overall event safety. Securing public areas  Ideally, there will be no need to implement a well-conceived action plan. After all, taking preventive measures to secure public areas where events take place is important to keep people safe from accidental vehicle collisions and intentional attacks. Protect attendees by clearly separating pedestrian and vehicle locations using security devices such as – Barricades Portable barriers Bollards Install guard booths  Avoid the risk of vandalism and theft, making sure people are safe when walking back to the cars at night by keeping parking areas illuminated with flood lights. Install guard booths with employees who monitor activity in the parking area and who are prepared to react if an alert is triggered. Furthermore, prevent accidental collisions by clearly marking the parking area with informative warning signs and using barricades to direct traffic. These three tips can be used by public area managers to promote security at the next community event. Additionally, the technologies used to secure an event can also be used as infrastructure for year-round security. Installing gates that shut when the public space is closed or using aesthetically pleasing bollards are steps any public area manager can take to promote community safety.

In my coverage of China Tariffs impacting the security industry over four recent articles, products on the tariff schedules routinely integrated into security solutions included burglar and fire alarm control and transmission panels, video surveillance lenses, HDTV cameras used for broadcast use cases and fiber optic media converters. The general ‘callout’ of ADP (Automatic Data Processing) devices and peripherals technically includes servers, workstations and microcomputers, all of which are commonly used to support security solutions. The underperformance, from June 15 to August 24, of U.S. stocks with high revenue-exposure to China, and that of Chinese stocks with high revenue-exposure to the United States was significant and almost identical at 3.2%, significant losses to some investors already involved in security industry M&A activity. Significant public safety Facial Recognition (FR) vendors leveraging AI expanded their market focus to retail and public safety While it was not apparent that practitioners’ security program budgets kept pace with the growth of the more popular solution providers like video surveillance and cyber security, the ICT industries supporting the security economy continued to expand, especially in wireless and wired infrastructure, including preparations for 5G wireless rollouts. These omnipresent technologies drove significant public safety, smart city and public venue projects in 2018. Facial Recognition (FR) vendors leveraging AI expanded their market focus to retail and public safety. In 2018, virtually every public presentation, webinar and published Q&A on social media monitoring and facial recognition technologies I worked on, involved significant pushback from privacy advocates, almost to the point of alarmism. Massive risk reduction Several solution providers in these areas have made significant strides on data protection, accuracy, powered by AI and documented crime reduction cases; however, this real news is quickly shadowed by privacy advocates, seemingly ignoring massive risk reduction, especially in the case of active assailants and gang-related crime. Will FR become mainstream? The cautious security industry may take a cue from the maverick retail industry, sports venue and VIP verification solution providers that grew in 2018. 2019 trends: presupposition or repudiation; winners and losers. Chinese tariffs have had a huge impact on the security industry, which can be seen from changes to U.S and Chinese stocks  Although technology adoption forecasting is inexact, there are definitive opportunities in the security industry born on necessity. With the widespread problem of false alarm transmission and inability for first responders to ‘be everywhere,’ developers of solutions that provide automated verification and alternative security incident detection are expected to become mainstream. Promising detection systems The use of AI, NLP, LiDAR, UAS (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles aka drones) with surveillance and thermal imaging will grow, mostly due to higher acceptance in other industries like autonomous vehicles, rail safety, terrain and post devastation mapping/rescue. However, legacy ‘listing’ or certification organisations will be forced to make an important decision for their own survival: work toward integrating these promising detection systems into acceptance by insurance, licensing and standards development organisations. 2019’s ‘true’ Industrial Philanthropists will be needed to fund early warning tech for firefighters and the presence of active assailants 2019’s ‘true’ industrial philanthropists will be needed to fund early warning tech for firefighters and the presence of active assailants. For these use cases, 5G infrastructure rollouts, FR acceptance, lower cost perimeter detection and long range object and fire recognition by LiDAR and Thermal imaging will all be watched closely by investors. Should public agencies and philanthropical solution providers in the security industry cross paths, we may just yet see a successful, lifesaving impact. Cyber risk profile The ‘Digital twin’ refers to a digital replica of physical assets (physical twin), processes, people, places, systems and devices that can be used for various purposes. Your ‘Security Digital Twin’ has a similar physical and cyber risk profile, either through common threats, similar assets or both. Good news: managing your risk, protecting assets and securing your facilities in 2019 will get easier as security digital twin profiles will grow in maturity, while keeping their data sources private. This will be accelerated by the maturity of AI-based, auto-generated visualisations and image recognition, that happens to also drive the FR solutions. The 5G wireless infrastructure market is emerging as far more of a quantum leap in connectivity, like ‘wireless fiber optics’ performance, than an upgrade to 4G LTE. The 5G infrastructure market will be worth $2.86 billion by 2020 and $33.72 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 50.9%. Intelligent applications The explosion of ingested voice, video, and meta-data, the interconnectivity of devices, people and places, and the integration of intelligent applications into expanding ecosystems all require faster communications. To be more accurate, 5G rollouts will accelerate in 2019; however, current project funding will include and be impacted by future enterprise security connectivity: 5G and FWA (Fixed Wireless Access). 5G rollouts will accelerate in 2019; however, current project funding will include and be impacted by future enterprise security connectivity Quite simply put, larger solution providers are gently coaxing practitioners into seemingly ‘open systems;’ the negative discovery during an M&A process, audit or integration with a smart city’s public/private partnerships will continue to be revealed, and related industries will force reform. Autonomous things will be enabled by AI and image recognition. With few affordable rollouts of security robots and outdoor unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) that leveraged platforms popular with research and even NASA, the autonomous security robot was mostly MIA from a security practitioner’s program in 2018. Perimeter intrusion detection One platform was even accused of intimidating homeless people in a public place, at a major city. Industries mutually beneficial are often unaware of each other; this will change gradually: one major domestic airport is currently evaluating a UGV platform performing perimeter intrusion detection, runway weather conditions and potential aircraft taxiing dangers. The platform is being used largely in transportation research, yet offers significant opportunities to the security industry. Research firm Gartner estimates that 70% of today’s technology products and services can be enhanced with ‘multi-experience’-based VR/AR/MR The ‘immersive experience’ of virtually any security or threat detection is a twist on virtual/augmented/mixed reality (VR/AR/MR) with additional sensory features. Although VR/AR/MR is well underway in other industries, there are several companies with solutions like VR-based active assailant training that could provide a fighting chance for practitioners, employees, visitors, faculty and children. Research firm Gartner estimates that 70% of today’s technology products and services can be enhanced with ‘multi-experience’-based VR/AR/MR. Security ecosystem members Not necessarily MIA, but of special mention is the need of security and safety practitioners to prioritise communications systems over ‘nice to have’ expansive video surveillance systems for mass casualty threats. This will eventually improve with 5G for Enterprise solution rollouts. At the past GSX and upcoming CES Technology trade shows, a new roundup of technologies is discovered: a wider diversity of protection promise to save ASIS members on their technical security program is realised. With each of the ‘winners,’ (5G, AI, NLP, LiDAR, UAS [Unmanned Aerial Vehicles aka drones], thermal imaging, digital security twins and smart-city-friendly technologies) it is both exciting and challenging work for both security practitioners and solution providers. All things equal and with the necessary technology acceptance testing processes, this is a truly great time for security ecosystem members.

It amazes me how in a few short years security systems have gone from simple, dumb cameras witnessing events to intelligent eyes, ears, speech and touch solutions that boost situational awareness far beyond human capabilities. It seems the only senses missing from the equation now are smell and taste. And who knows, someone might be working on those in a lab somewhere right now. But what’s really fascinating to me is how the Internet of Things (IoT) has opened a world of possibilities for transforming security technology into something new yet again. With IoT we’re able to push and pull nuggets of intelligence from sources we never considered before: environmental sensors, pressure plates, door lock timers and much more. It’s helped us break through the constraining mindset that security systems are strictly single-purpose. With interconnectivity at the core, we’re starting to imagine myriad ways to apply these tools to challenges outside the realm of security. Here are just a few examples. Flood management assistance Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate remotely As recent hurricanes and floods have shown, water damage can be devastating to a community. That’s why some municipalities are using their city surveillance cameras in conjunction with water sensor to proactively address the problem. Water sensors collect data from multiple sources such as rain gutters, sewer systems and pump stations, in order to monitor fluctuations in water levels and water quality. If an alert triggers, having a network camera in proximity to visually verify the situation helps responders determine the best course of action. For instance, if multiple water detection sensors trigger alerts simultaneously or sequentially over a large area it’s probably due to natural runoff from recent rainfall. But without eyes on the scene, how can you be sure? Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate and identify the cause of a trigger remotely. It might be a fire hydrant spewing water, a water main break or even a chemical spill. With video streaming live to the command center, staff can remotely inspect the area, determine the cause of the trigger and decide whether remediation is required, thus avoiding the expense of dispatching an investigative crew to a non-event. Some municipalities are using their city surveillance cameras in conjunction with water sensor to proactively address the problem Environmental control assistance Data centers house the lifeblood of a business so it’s no wonder why companies work hard to protect them. We’re all familiar with the integration of network cameras with access control systems to visually verify who is actually using the credentials. Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate and identify the cause of a trigger remotely But there’s another aspect to protecting data centers and that’s environment control. Data centers need to maintain optimum humidity and temperature for the racks of electronics. When environmental sensors in the facility detect out-of-norm ranges technicians can remotely command a network camera to zoom in on the gauges and help them determine whether remediation might be necessary.  Coupling network cameras with other sensors in the data center can provide visual confirmation of other conditions as well. For instance, every time a data rack door-open-close sensor detects an event it can trigger the camera to pan to the location and stream video to security. Some data centers employ weight sensors at the doorway to weigh personnel and equipment as they enter the room and when they exit to ensure no additional hardware is being taken out of the facility or left inside without permission. Any discrepancy would trigger the camera to zoom in for a close-up of the individual’s face and send a visual alert and ID information to security. Roadway management and parking assistance Network cameras have long played a part in city-wide traffic management. Adding video analytics and integration with network sensors, makes those cameras that much smarter and versatile. They can detect cars driving in bike lanes or driving in the wrong direction and capture license plates of offenders. Their ability to detect anomalous traffic flow patterns can be integrated with car counting sensors, networked electronic road signs and traffic light systems to automatically redirect vehicles to alternate routes. They make great, intelligent parking lot attendants, too. Working in conjunction with weight sensors network cameras can count vehicles coming into and leaving a lot or garage and verify when the facility has reached capacity. License plate recognition and video analytics can be used to ascertain that a vehicle entering a reserved parking space doesn’t match the credentials and vehicle attributes in the database. With the addition of noise sensors and audio analytics, network cameras can improve roadway and parking facility safety by detecting and identifying specific sounds – breaking glass, car alarms, gun shots, and aggressive speech – and triggering a visual alert to first responders. Network cameras can improve roadway and parking facility safety by detecting and identifying specific sounds and triggering a visual alert to first responders Shopper experience assistance In the early days of online shopping, e-tailers designed their sites to replicate the in-store customer experience. In an ironic turn of events, today brick-and-mortar stores are trying to mirror the online shopping experience. To do so, they’re turning their security systems into adjunct sales assistance. With network video and audio system automation they can recognise and acknowledge loyal customers with personal greetings. Retailers are applying people counting video analytics to checkout activity to create rules-based consistency in customer service With heatmapping analytics they can measure how much time a customer spends in a specific department or observe how they walk through the aisles of the store. They can track shopping behaviors such as items looked at that made it into the cart or didn’t, or whether a customer actually checked out or left the merchandise behind. By capturing these shopping patterns and trends retailers can shape a more positive, more profitable customer shopping experience. For instance, integrating video analytics with point of sale systems and RFID sensors on merchandise tags can result in timely alerts to sales associates to recommend additional merchandise. This is a case of emulating how e-tailers let the customer know that other customers who bought X often also purchased items Y and Z. Or to avoid disappointing customers due to stock outages, retailers are linking weight sensors and video analytics to make sure their shelves are well-stocked and if not, quickly alert associates to what items need to be restocked. Capturing business intelligence Retailers are also using video cameras to monitor checkout queues and trigger automated announcements over the public-address system, closed system such as smartphones or other wireless communications devices that checkers are needed rather wait for a person to call for backup. IoT laid the groundwork for network security solutions to seamlessly integrate with other IP-based technologies, sensors and programs They’re applying people counting video analytics to checkout activity to create rules-based consistency in customer service. While retailers will always use their surveillance camera for loss prevention, they’re finding that integrating traditional technology in new ways can yield even bigger returns. Linking network video surveillance, video analytics, network communications system and sensors with point-of-sale systems and customer loyalty databases, retailers are capturing the business intelligence they need to get back in the game and make brick-and-mortar a greater overall experience than online shopping. A natural cross-over technology This trend towards integration has forever changed how organisations view their investment in security technology. The intelligence and versatility of a tool that can see, verify and analyse what’s happening in real-time is spurring users to tap its cross-over potential for a host of other tasks that could benefit from more astute situational awareness – everything from manufacturing and equipment maintenance to logistics, inventory control and beyond. IoT laid the groundwork for network security solutions to seamlessly integrate with other IP-based technologies, sensors and programs. How we capitalise on that connection is only limited by our imagination.

Constantly optimising deep learning algorithms yields better video analytics performance, even in complex applications such as facial recognition or in scenarios with variable lighting, angles, postures, expressions, accessories, resolution, etc. Deep learning, a form of artificial intelligence (AI), holds the potential to enable video analytics to deliver on long-promised, but not often delivered performance. Our AI series continues here with part 2. Adapting existing hardware Today, low-cost system-on-chip (SoC) camera components enable deep neural network (DNN) processing for the next generation of intelligent cameras, thus expanding the availability of AI processing to a broader market. AI software can even add learning capabilities by adapting existing hardware to AI applications AI software can even add learning capabilities by adapting existing hardware to AI applications. Today’s smartphones include cameras, gyroscopes and accelerometers to provide sufficient data to drive AI applications. Software can adapt existing hardware to transform them into AI devices capable of continuous learning in the field. Inside a video camera, real-time deep learning processing can be used to detect discarded objects, issue loitering alarms and detect people or objects entering a pre-defined field. Data capture form to appear here! Detect anomalous data Additional capabilities are applicable to demanding environments and mission-critical applications, such as the perimeter protection of airports, critical infrastructures and government buildings, border patrol, ship-tracking and traffic-monitoring (e.g. wrong-way detection, traffic-counts and monitoring roadsides for parked cars: all vital video security solutions). IoT is transforming the lowly security camera from a device that simply captures images, into an intelligent sensor that plays an integral role in gathering the kind of vital business data that can be used to improve commercial operations in areas beyond security. For example, cities are transitioning into smart cities. Deep learning enables systems to search surveillance footage, to detect anomalous data, and to shift surveillance from post-incident response to providing alerts during, or even before, an event. The ability of deep learning for video analytics is much more sophisticated and accurate Make critical decisions Deep learning can eliminate previous video analytics limitations such as dependence on a scene’s background. Deep learning is also more adept than humans at discerning subtle changes in an image. The ability of deep learning for video analytics is much more sophisticated – and accurate – than the programmed approaches previously employed to identify targets. AI is a timely solution in an age when there is more video surveillance than ever. There are too many cameras and too much recorded video for security operators to keep pace with. On top of that, people have short attention spans. AI is a technology that doesn’t get bored and can analyse more video data than humans. Systems are designed to bring the most important events and insight to users’ attention, freeing them to do what they do best: make critical decisions. Multiple camera streams AI can reduce information overload to enable humans to work with the data more efficiently The video benefits reflect the larger goal of AI to amplify human skills. AI can reduce information overload to enable humans to work with the data more efficiently. Another benefit is faster search, and new systems make searching video as easy as searching the internet. AI enables specific people or cameras to be located quickly across all the cameras at a site. Searching can be directed by a reference images or by physical descriptors such as gender or clothing colour. Consider a scenario of a child missing from a crowded shopping mall: Every second can seem like hours, and artificial intelligence and neural networks can enable a rapid search among multiple camera streams using only one photo of the child. The photo does not have to be a full-frontal passport-type photos; it could be a selfie from a party as long as the face is there. Intrusion detection scenario AI can find her and match her face from among hundreds of thousands of faces captured from video, in nearly real time. AI can also continuously analyse video streams from the surveillance cameras in its network, distinguishing human faces from non-human objects such as statues and animals. Privacy concerns are minimal as there is no ID or personal information on the photo, and the image can be erased after use. And there is no database of stored images.    In a perimeter security/intrusion detection scenario, an AI-driven video system can avoid false alarms by easily distinguishing different types of people and objects, e.g., in a region set up to detect people, a car driving by, a cat walking by, or a person’s shadow will not trigger the alarm. Part three coming soon. If you missed part one, see it here.

Security Essen 2018, held in Messe Essen, Germany, promised attendees a newly modernised trade show with a simplified layout and more interactive experience. Compared to previous years, halls were reorganised by technology area, with aisles laid out to make more direct pathways for attendees. The fair welcomed 950 exhibitors and more than 36,000 trade visitors from the global security market. Several manufacturers mentioned that footfall had been lighter than expected, but that the show had delivered on its promise to welcome more international visitors, in particular from the Middle East region. Exhibitors also grumbled about higher costs for booth space. Key security industry exhibitors Exhibitors expressed concern that the absence of key players reduced overall foot traffic Exhibitors praised the bigger aisles, which made it easier for visitors to navigate the show. However, some were unsure whether this was due to a better layout or simply because the show was missing key exhibitors. Notably absent were access control provider Dormakaba, security solutions company Honeywell, and surveillance providers Geutebruck and Dallmeier. Exhibitors expressed concern that the absence of key players reduced overall foot traffic. Security Essen hosted a particularly strong access control presence. Halls 2 and 3 were home to companies from across the access control and mechatronics spectrum. Sponsorship by EVVA covered the west entrance. The locking systems manufacturer, which celebrates its 100th anniversary next year, boasted significant floorspace. Exhibitors were pleased with the large access and locking presence, commenting that London-based IFSEC International tends to be dominated by video surveillance providers. EVVA, which celebrates its 100th anniversary next year, boasted significant floorspace Deep learning and artificial intelligence The push toward artificial intelligence (AI) in physical security continues, although the tone at Security Essen seemed to be shifting beyond hype and more toward how the technology can actually add value. For example, Hikvision’s cameras boasted more intelligence and processing power, and the company emphasised faster-paced product cycles. Customers ultimately do not buy AI – they buy benefits and solutions VIVOTEK embraced artificial intelligence as the biggest trend in the industry. The company demonstrated its latest deep learning technology for crowd detection applications. For Dahua, artificial intelligence allows users to easily search metadata in a video, including age and behaviour. Dahua demonstrated its solution for the transportation market, which is able to learn if a bus or train driver is falling asleep at the controls. However, some manufacturers chose not to focus on artificial intelligence. Representatives from Brivo and Eagle Eye Networks highlighted that customers ultimately do not buy AI – they buy benefits and solutions. Historically, video analytics were oversold and underdelivered, and the same could happen to AI if the term is overused in marketing security solutions. VIVOTEK embraced artificial intelligence as the biggest trend in the industry The German market & GDPR While the fair welcomed an increase in international visitors, many stands offered a distinctly German flavour. Exhibitors catered to German customers’ preference for data protection and high levels of privacy. Visitors were welcomed to the show by banners from Genetec, emblazoned with the slogan “Privacy matters… So, remember to forget me.” The video security provider’s stand demonstrated this concept more tangibly, via its Privacy Protector Module.  The surveillance software, which is certified with the European Privacy Seal (EuroPriSe), monitors events while automatically pixelating people and vehicles in real time. If an incident occurs, an authorised operator can securely access the unaltered video. Visitors were welcomed to the show by banners from Genetec Other companies also acknowledged issues of privacy and cybersecurity. Hikvision noted that Europe is more regulated, which limits the implementation of the company’s products compared to those used in China. Dahua emphasised that its data for the German market is stored in Frankfurt to meet demands for data protection. IDIS made a point of saying there are no backdoors to their products. The deep learning products are easy to use and 96% accurate, says the company. FLIR has developed a cybersecurity hardening document, and strives to be transparent about cyber issues, including a web landing page where customers can raise any concerns. Vanderbilt is also pushing the cloud as a way forward with its ACT365 cloud-based access and video solution. Users are not intimidated by the cloud anymore since we all use it in our personal lives, says the company. Also on the access control side, EVVA were clear on the security of their AirKey mobile access system, which uses technology based on internet banking, double encryption and high-quality hardware. As well as demonstrating its SAROS thermal camera, FLIR strived for cybersecurity concerns to be addressed by customers Taking a broader view Nedap views security as being about allowing people to focus on their daily lives and work, safe in the knowledge that security is being taken care of. At the show, Nedap launched its new slogan ‘Security for Life’, stating that “true security is when you don’t have to think about it”. Nedap’s global client program represents a long-term commitment to projects. They are having more discussions with clients about risk management through standardisation and centralised policy.Solutions – as opposed to products – were also a focus at Security Essen, as at IFSEC before it Clients remain with Nedap because they keep investing in the platform, constantly updating the code and simplifying it to improve scalability for organisations, says the company. Nedap had one of the few double-decker booths at Security Essen. Solutions – as opposed to products – were also a focus at Security Essen, as at IFSEC before it. HID Global touted their extensive use of partnerships to provide solutions. SeeTec highlighted their move away from products to a more solution-based approach. FLIR, perhaps best known as a thermal camera company, were pushing their solutions approach to markets including intelligent traffic, smart city, video management and PSIMs.  Nedap had one of the few double-decker booths at Security Essen Vertical markets in focus As vertical markets go, retail was big, and several players were offering some type of retail solution. Retail – along with banking, finance and transportation – was among Hikvision’s vertical markets of choice. Dahua's new panoramic cameras stitch together the image inside the camera instead of on the server SeeTec’s retail solution combines EAS with business intelligence and heat mapping. Dahua’s retail offerings include people counting and emotion detection, which can correlate with weather data, for example. Genetec also showcased a range of retail solutions. Technology improvements announced at Security Essen include FLIR's more robust FB6 series thermal line, Promise Technology's SMARTBOOST technology improved playback performance, and Videotec's cameras with better night performance. The extended 50m range of Optex's intrusion detection laser sensor reduces the need for cameras. Dahua's new panoramic cameras stitch together the image inside the camera instead of on the server. The Hanwha Techwin booth featured Korean flags and a “Korean at heart” motto to set the company apart Signs of the U.S. congressional ban There were signs at Security Essen of an impact of the recent U.S. ban on use of Hikvision and Dahua equipment in government installations, although both big Chinese manufacturers maintained a high profile at the German show. For example, the Hanwha Techwin booth featured Korean flags and a “Korean at heart” motto to set the company apart. Chinese camera manufacturer Uniview were keen to stress that they are not owned by Chinese government (neither is Dahua). Uniview’s all-IP camera line offers high resolution, low-light, multisensor and fisheye options, and AI software provides facial recognition, object detection, and fire and smoke detection at the edge. The company aims to increase its global presence with more international branch offerings and international factories.

More good news for exhibitors on the second day of the Global Security Exchange (GSX) in Las Vegas. Brisk attendance continued early in the day, and then slowed somewhat in the afternoon, but most comments from exhibitors were positive. Exhibitors such as Lenel were “thrilled” with the show, and noticed the steady, good traffic and lots of sales leads. Lenel’s position at the front of the hall probably helped. New developments in mobile credentialing are a big trend at GSX, and Lenel’s BlueDiamond mobile credentials are traveling on a new path, so to speak. The access control company is introducing the idea of “Pathways” as a way of automatically signaling intent to a Bluetooth-enabled smart phone to open a door. A recognisable “pathway” is programmed into the phone, based on signals from nearby readers and locks and also geolocation signals. The system recognises when a user travels along the pathway and automatically signals the correct door(s) to be opened along the way without the user having to touch his smart phone.A recognisable “pathway” is programmed into the phone, based on signals from nearby readers, locks and also geolocation signals Providing a lightweight alternative “When you trigger a pathway, it’s signalling intent to open the door,” says Greg Berry, Vice President Mobile Credentialing, Global Security Products, for United Technologies, parent company of Lenel. “Pathways are customised to a user’s needs and are the common places you are going all the time.” A user who walks the same path daily to the door of an office will find that door opens automatically. Previously using mobile credentials has been “slightly more work than using a badge,” says David Weinbach, Manager of Identity and Product Innovation for Lenel. “Now with Pathways, it’s less work than using a badge.” Specifically, a user no longer has to take out his phone and push a button to signal intent. “Rather than trying to emulate the badge, you create an experience that is better than the badge,” adds Berry. “We want to change the paradigm and turn the market on its ear.”New browser-based clients are being released with each new version of OnGuard software Other news from Lenel includes the release of more mobile and browser-based clients for OnGuard to be used for greater convenience alongside the Window-based clients. Providing a “lightweight” alternative enables some of the functionality of the Windows client in a format that is easy to access on the go. New browser-based clients are being released with each new version of OnGuard software. Cloud-hosted systems using Microsoft Azure are also among the plans for OnGuard, which ultimately will offer on-premises and cloud options. There’s not much comment from the Lenel folks about their parent company United Technologies’ plan to acquire S2 Security, which was announced days before the show. They would only say that the acquisition is waiting for regulatory approval, and that the expectation is that the two companies’ products will be complementary, given S2’s focus on the SMB (small and medium-sized business) market and Lenel’s strength at the enterprise level. The acquisition strategy is to grow both businesses. More details to come about the new combined company. Modern network infrastructure NVT Phybridge, a PoE connections company located near the back of the hall, also reported steady booth traffic on Day 2. “There are lots of customers and partners here,” said Steven Fair, Executive Vice President. “We are pleased with the quality of people, but not overwhelmed with the quantity.” FacePRO AI facial recognition is used for real-time searches of terror suspects or criminals throughout a location NVT Phybridge, which provides IP networking products for the telephony industry as well as security, is focused on networking concepts at GSX, in particular the changing requirements for network infrastructure in the age of IoT. We are pleased with the quality of people, but not overwhelmed with the quantity.” Fair uses the term “Modern LAN” to describe the new, changing requirements and in consideration of the specific networking needs of each edge device, whether cameras, sensors, or door access control devices. “Start with the edge device — what does it need from the network? What are its needs and have there been any innovations to enable you to connect to the network more economically?” asks Fair. There is also a green aspect to designing network infrastructure. Can existing equipment, such as coaxial or single twisted-pair cabling, be used, and thus save on disposal costs of the used cabling as well as lowering installation costs? Among NVT Phybridge’s offerings that can serve the changing networking needs in the IoT era is Smart Path PoE, which offers smart power, smart network access and secure connections. The CLEER family of products provides ethernet over existing coaxial cabling to enable easy transition from analogue to IP cameras. The PoLRE products supply ethernet and power to travel over a single unshielded twisted pair cable with reach over 400 metres. The products have been used recently to transition a series of cruise ships from analogue to IP video without having to replace cabling and spending only two days in dry dock for the installs. A new focus away from AI Panasonic is looking to apply AI-based capabilities to vehicle recognition in the near future, with the ability to identify vehicle characteristics Deep learning and artificial intelligence (AI) seem to be taking a lower profile at this show, perhaps signaling the end of the hype. Companies that mention AI point to specific products that use the technology and are currently available. For example, Panasonic is featuring its FacePRO AI-based facial recognition system. The system uses face images captured from video — grabbing up to 30 to 35 faces a second as video is recorded. The system saves the best of those face images, eliminating extensive duplication, as thumbnails, which are linked to the video footage where the faces appear. To find video in which a face appears, the operator merely drags-and-drops the thumbnail image and commands the system to “go fetch” video that contains that face. The system then produces a timeline showing where the face appears in the feed from each video camera on the premises, so an operator can track the movements of a suspect throughout a facility. The tool helps to simplify and shorten the workflow of locating a suspect in real-time and is affordable for a wider range of uses beyond the traditional airports or high-end applications.  The FacePRO software is offered on any Panasonic camera, and works with a separate FacePRO server that is integrated with the video recorder. The system can be added easily to existing systems and is useful for such applications as real-time searches for terror suspects or other criminals throughout a location. Panasonic is also looking to apply AI-based capabilities to vehicle recognition, too, in the near future, with the ability to identify vehicle characteristics such as color, type of vehicle and direction of travel. On the VMS side, Panasonic is transitioning its Video Insight software to a modular approach, tailoring solutions for a growing range of vertical markets, such as transportation and retail, all using “plug-ins” that enhance operation of Video Insight software. No additional license fees are involved That’s just a sampling of what I saw on Day 2 of the show. I have more to share in a final show report, including what I see tomorrow on the final (shortened) day.

As part of a new centrally controlled vehicle security system, The North West Ambulance Service has recently updated the security of its premises at its Lancashire regional headquarters using Nortech’s stainless steel bollards that house Nedap ANPR cameras. The North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) NHS Trust operates around 1,000 vehicles to provide 1.1 million emergency and non-emergency patient journeys. It was established in 2006 by the merger of ambulance trusts from Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Merseyside, Cumbria and Lancashire. The Lancashire regional HQ is based near Broughton in Preston. Securing the perimeter Nortech supplied the ANPR camera housed in a robust stainless steel bollard to protect the camera from any potential vehicle knocksThe trust needed to secure the perimeters of their premises at the Lancashire regional HQ and appointed Expert Security UK, Frank Whittle Partnerships and W. Monks Ltd to design and install the new centrally controlled vehicle security system. Expert Security UK approached Nortech in order to integrate the Nedap Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) into the system and new automatic barriers were installed to secure the perimeter and prevent unauthorised vehicles. Nortech supplied the ANPR camera housed in a robust stainless steel bollard to protect the camera from any potential vehicle knocks. As vehicles approach the new barriers, the ANPR reads the number plates and converts each valid number plate into a Wiegand ID string, which it sends to the access control panel in the same way as a standard card reader. The Wiegand number can then be checked centrally for access rights so that vehicle access can be granted or denied accordingly. Preventing unauthorised parking The barrier system is a great security measure for us and has prevented unauthorised parking"Danny Scholfield, Sales Director at Expert Security UK, commented, "We are all delighted with the final result. The system is very fast and ticks all the boxes for us. As we are already using the Net2 system here at the HQ, it is great to see the ANPR integrating into the system without complication. The barrier system is a great security measure for us and has prevented unauthorised parking." The benefits of the Nortech ANPR system is that it integrates with most access control software, avoids the need for manned gates or vehicle tags, allows automatic vehicle identification at between three and six metres and prevents unauthorised vehicle access. Nortech has supplied products and solutions to the security industry for over 25 years as an independent British company. The company uses extensive experience and expertise to create new security products to fit their clients’ needs and designs everything with the customer in mind. 

Integrity Security Group is using SmartTask’s SmartForms to gain added visibility and dramatically cut down on its administrative burden. Having adopted the employee scheduling and mobile workforce management software last year for the provision of proof of attendance, control room management and staff rostering, the company is now using its electronic data capture functionality to streamline a range of operational processes. Initially, SmartForms are being used for vacant property and mobile patrol inspections as well as daily vehicle checks, already saving more than 15 hours of admin a month. SmartTask SmartForms The SmartForms replace previous paper-based processes that were increasingly difficult to manage by the office-based admin team “We are now using the SmartTask SmartForms to help reduce administration, capture critical work data and enforce health and safety procedures,” explains James Chittil, General Manager at Integrity Security Group. “We are constantly looking at clever ways to take advantage of the software’s rich functionality, so we can continue to simplify and enhance the way we operate.” The SmartForms replace previous paper-based processes that were increasingly difficult to manage by the office-based admin team. All reporting for vacant property and mobile patrol inspections – for both scheduled patrols and alarm activations – are now completed using a SmartTask-enabled smartphone. By electronically capturing all relevant information, including photo evidence, Integrity can quickly provide customers with a status update and details of all undertaken work as well as respond to any identified issues. Vehicle checks and fleet management Meanwhile, daily vehicle checks for Integrity’s fleet of vans are now completed using a specially-developed SmartForm, so the company can instantly see if drivers are complying with this health and safety procedure. Any vehicle-related problems or damage can be raised by the driver and actioned immediately by the admin team to mitigate fleet risk. Mileage data is also captured through the software, enabling maintenance requirements to be tracked and scheduled at appropriate intervals. “The SmartForms are enabling us to dramatically reduce paperwork and remove manual processes. This is making it much simpler for both our security officers in the field and our office-based admin team to capture, collate and communicate essential operational data. This is not only helping us make better use of our valuable resources, but also enhance the service we are providing to customers,” added James Chittil. Paul Ridden, CEO of SmartTask commented: “Our experience within the security sector means we are continually developing new functionality that overcome real-world problems for our customers. This is the reason we are working in partnership with a growing number of security businesses who recognise the value they can gain and the benefits they can achieve from using the SmartTask software.” Integrity selected SmartTask to replace an outdated time and attendance system, enabling it to effectively monitor the whereabouts and welfare of staff Lone worker protection Integrity selected SmartTask to replace an outdated time and attendance system, enabling it to effectively monitor the whereabouts and welfare of staff as part of its commitment to lone worker protection. The company is also using the intelligent rostering functionality to streamline internal planning processes, while the interactive dashboard supported the launch of a dedicated, out-of-hours control room operation by providing a live view of all scheduled shifts and expected or missed check calls. SmartTask is an advanced and simple-to-use employee scheduling and mobile workforce management solution that enables security companies to better plan and manage their workers, so they are at the right place, at the right time. The cloud-based software solution combines intelligent rostering, live monitoring and integrated proof of attendance across both static and mobile teams, making it the ideal tool to improve operational control, enhance customer satisfaction, and support duty of care to staff.

Comprising a large tertiary and secondary hospital, along with three rural hospitals, Waikato DHB is a substantial healthcare operator which employs approximately 6,000 staff throughout the region. With security needs that include protecting staff from verbal and physical abuse, safely securing high-dependency patients in dementia wards, restricting unauthorised access to medication and medical equipment, and protecting high-risk facilities such as newborn intensive care units, Waikato DHB required security systems that could be applied to both high and low security areas and found the solution in Gallagher’s range of innovative security products. Serving a large geographical area of the North Island of New Zealand, the Waikato District Health Board (Waikato DHB) provides hospital and community-based health services to a population of nearly 400,000 people. Controlling access areas within hospital Gallagher’s system enables us to make changes quickly and push that information out to the card readers instantly"Gallagher’s access control system and Command Centre central management platform provide Waikato DHB with control over access in and out of areas within the hospital. With access profiles that change on a daily basis, as medical staff – predominantly nurses – move between different departments on different days, it’s vital that the system can be updated simply and efficiently. “Gallagher’s system enables us to make changes quickly and push that information out to the card readers instantly, ensuring that staff can approach doors with the confidence that they can enter or leave areas as necessary,” said David Wilson, Manager of Security and Parking for Waikato DHB. The safe and secure storage of medication and medical equipment, ranging from syringes and surgical tools, to large expensive machinery, is a legal requirement of all hospitals in New Zealand. Single access card system Gallagher’s access control solution forms a part of the security system that delivers this for Waikato DHB facilities. Utilising a single access card system where permissions can be set to allow different access ensures the efficient movement of staff, reduces the risks associated with handling keys, and provides a comprehensive audit trail that identifies access movements by employee. Utilising a single access card system where permissions can be set to allow different access ensures the efficient movement of staff Waikato DHB is proud to put people at the centre of what they do, and strives to ensure staff and patient safety at all times. A number of Waikato DHB’s wards require high-level security either for the protection of the patients – as in the case of dementia facilities – or staff. Duress buttons located throughout the hospital and its high-risk areas automatically notify security staff of the exact location where a duress alarm has been activated. Lock-down system Gallagher’s Command Centre Mobile application delivers these duress notifications directly to a guard’s mobile device – speeding up the delivery of urgent information directly to security personnel. The ability to lock-down areas of the hospital for safety reasons is paramount. “Command Centre gives us the ability to isolate areas and restrict access. This is a critical requirement for us and the reliability of that lock-down system is hugely important,” said Wilson. With so many visitors and staff coming and going from the hospital, carpark management is an important aspect of facilities administration for Waikato DHB. In choosing a solution, the DHB selected Gallagher’s Carkpark Management system - an optional licence feature. Streamlined parking processes Through an integration with Gallagher’s Command Centre security management software, staff are able to badge their access card at one of the many staff and public carparks on site, and have their parking fee deducted from their pre-paid account. The programme has in-built intelligence including the ability for staff to exit and re-enter during a set period without being recharged The programme has in-built intelligence including the ability for staff to exit and re-enter during a set period without being recharged. This system has streamlined parking processes, particularly for part-time and shift-work staff who have irregular parking requirements. According to Wilson, “One of the real strengths of this system is the reporting. By managing the pre-paid carpark system through Command Centre and linking it to staff access cards, we are able to effortlessly extract detailed reports.” Electronic Tag Boards Waikato DHB’s facilities are continually expanding and this means a large number of contractors may be present on site within a 24 hour period. By utilising another Gallagher licence feature - electronic Tag Boards - contractors can easily sign on and off of the site. A key driver for this was health and safety, “It’s really important for us to know who is on site in case of an emergency,” said Wilson. “Making this process as simple as possible for contractors is the best way to ensure it is used.” A number of other system integrations appear across the site, including CCTV. Waikato DHB’s largest hospital facility, Waikato Hospital, has over 250 CCTV cameras connected to Gallagher’s Command Centre platform. As Waikato DHB’s requirements continue to evolve, Gallagher’s systems expand alongside them. Security Ward Standard The Security Ward Standard details the minimum security equipment required for new buildings, including access control, duress alarms, and camerasTo remain at the forefront of technology, Waikato DHB has a software maintenance agreement with Gallagher, to ensure they operate the very latest software available. “Any advancement in technology will make life easier, that’s a straightforward investment for us,” said Wilson. Through Waikato DHB’s experience with Gallagher products, the team developed a ‘Security Ward Standard’. This standard details the minimum security equipment required for new buildings, including access control, duress alarms, and cameras. The Security Ward Standard has greatly reduced the time involved by Waikato DHB staff in producing specification documents and gathering approvals. “Gallagher gives us a complete and total security package that is expandable and easy to manage,” said Wilson. “We are confident that a high-standard of security is being consistently applied across our sites for the safety of our staff, patients, and visitors.”

Technology company Nedap has provided physical access control and long-range readers for vehicle identification at the new AZ Zeno medical care centre in Knokke-Heist (Belgium). AZ Zeno, which opened in April 2018, consists of a hospital with rehabilitation centre, an outpatient clinic, auditoria, public event space and a heliport. Nedap Identification System and Nedap Security Management have worked together on this extensive project.    It is AZ Zeno’s highest priority to guarantee the security of patients and employees. With Nedap’s TRANSIT long-range identification readers, emergency vehicles get swift access to the hospital’s premises. Physical access control AZ Zeno combines functionality and sustainability and respects the rural character of the local landscape With AEOS, Nedap provides the medical care centre with a complete solution for physical access control, and the system will also be used to manage staff lockers. By combining Nedap’s solutions, AZ Zeno is able to offer both patients and employees the best possible security and accessibility. AZ Zeno combines functionality and sustainability and respects the rural character of the local landscape. The link between inside and outside and between medical facilities and public spaces is almost seamless. And the centre’s sustainable design focusses on its surroundings, ecological energy and the use of reclaimed materials. Better accessibility Nedap-CEO Ruben Wegman: “We are proud that two of our business units contribute to the security of this exceptional and innovative centre and to a better accessibility for its users. The simultaneous implementation of AEOS and TRANSIT is a great example of the complementary character of Nedap’s products.” To implement the system, Nedap collaborated with partner Electro Enterprise Gullegem.

Access control system specialist Nortech has recently seen a luxury hotel in Bath update its car park by replacing its existing Nortech FeeMaster system with the latest specification. Nortech’s FeeMaster range was installed by access control system experts APT Security Systems, which is currently updating its past application of the FeeMaster system, so that staff can continue to monitor use of the hotel’s car park. APT Security Systems is the provider of vehicle access control and traffic management systems in the UK. Using its experience in designing and delivering practical and cost-effective solutions, APT installed the updated system which includes the FeeMaster Smart Entry Station, FeeMaster Smart Exit Station, and a FeeMaster Smart Console inside the building. The console allows the staff to control any misuse of the car park and ensures that there are enough parking spaces for its guests. Upgrading car parking system to latest version Nortech’s FeeMaster Smart parking management system is a flexible, simple and cost-effective way of managing car parking accessMary Lynskey, Operations Manager at APT Security Systems commented, “Nortech’s systems have been used on our projects for a number of years and as with this hotel we are currently updating the equipment at these sites to the latest versions. We have worked with Nortech for more than 20 years and are very pleased with its equipment.” She continued, “The FeeMaster range has always worked well for the hotel and they were happy to renew the system as it’s the right fit for their business. The client likes how the products work and we will always recommend Nortech to others looking to upgrade their car parking systems.” Nortech’s FeeMaster Smart parking management system is a flexible, simple and cost-effective way of managing car parking access and controlling validity periods using Mifare smart cards. This avoids the need for expensive cabling between components and minimises disruption. Functioning of the FeeMaster system The FeeMaster Smart exit station prevents unauthorised vehicles leaving a car park or entering restricted areasThe FeeMaster entry station is designed to be used to record the date and time that a vehicle enters a car park. Located at the entrance of the car park, it issues tickets to visitors as they arrive, with each ticket containing a barcode, serial number and the date and time. Dispensing the ticket triggers an ‘open’ signal to the entry barrier. The ticket is then taken to the hotel’s reception desk where the date and time is used in conjunction with the FeeMaster Smart Console. The FeeMaster Smart exit station prevents unauthorised vehicles leaving a car park or entering restricted areas. Located at the exit of the car park or the entrance to a restricted area, it validates the Mifare smart cards and exit tokens. The exit station is equipped with a barcode scanner to read exit tokens issued by the FeeMaster Smart console, as well as entry tickets issued at the entry station. Each ticket is valid for single use at the exit station during the validity period assigned to it. The exit station controller checks the details on the barcode ticket and sends an ‘open’ signal to the barrier. Encoding reusable Mifare access control cards The FeeMaster Smart Console is a compact and easy-to-install device that reads barcode tickets issued at the entry stationThe FeeMaster Smart Console is a compact and easy-to-install device that reads barcode tickets issued at the entry station, calculates the fees based on pre-programmed tariff details, and encodes reusable Mifare access control cards with validity data. If necessary, the console can print customer receipts and/or barcode exit tokens. It can also control a till drawer and can optionally provide a relay output signal which can be used by third equipment i.e. barrier control whenever a card has been encoded or an exit ticket printed. The console may also be connected to a PC so that transactions can be analysed and additional tariff management features may be used. Nortech has supplied products and solutions to the security industry for over 25 years as an independent British company. The company uses extensive experience and expertise to create new security products to fit their clients’ needs and designs everything with the customer in mind. 

Primark, the international retailer that offers Amazing Fashion at Amazing Prices, is using Traka’s dock door and intelligent management solutions to ensure maximum efficiency and safety across its warehouse and distribution centres. Primark operates from eight distribution centres. Its most recent opening was in Islip, Northamptonshire, UK covering 1.1 million sq. ft. of space – the equivalent of 17 football pitches. It has 13 miles of aisles and is a 24/7 operation powered by over 250 committed employees. A key part of Primark’s success is its efficient distribution of goods to store to meet growing customer demands. This is a complex operation involving the use of a wide range of technology.  Traka DockSafe door dock solution To ensure effective turnaround times, Traka’s multifunctional DockSafe door dock solution was installed to stop vehicles prematurely leaving Goods Out Bays, alongside intelligent key management systems. Traka supports Primark’s distribution centres with its DockSafe solution and key management systems" David Flavell, Primark’s Operations Development Manager – Supply Chain said: “Primark’s products fly off the shelves and rails, so we need to get our products from suppliers to stores as quickly and as safely as possible. Implementing the Traka DockSafe has been critical here. Not only is it simple to use, but also provides data on driver activity and bay usage, as well as increased peace of mind thanks to the prevention of driveways. It ensures the system runs like clockwork, which is great news for our colleagues whilst working hard to deliver Amazing Fashion to our customers.” DockSafe combination with iFob technology Traka’s intelligent DockSafe solution has been exclusively designed to stop vehicles prematurely leaving the Goods Out bays of a busy distribution centre. DockSafe combines Traka’s iFob technology with a unique Susie lock to create a robust protocol where a vehicle must be immobilised prior to the loading dock door being opened. Once goods are loaded, the door must be closed and the loading bay clear of forklifts or personnel, before the vehicle can be unlocked and driven away. Steve Bumphrey, UK Sales Director added: “Traka supports Primark’s distribution centres with its DockSafe solution and key management systems. With advanced features and data reporting, it ensures its people can optimise loading bay planning for long-term efficiency and productivity, in a safe and secure working environment.”

When a big security breach occurs, the phones start ringing at security companies, or so the expectation goes. The nature of security is that it takes a security breach, or even a high-profile tragedy, to convince managers of the need for security technology. When a school shooting occurs, schools take note. When terrorism strikes a soft target, other vulnerable institutions notice. Same for hospitals and airports and even nightclubs. When an event occurs, it gets attention that could translate into business for security companies of various types. But should security companies seek to capitalise on these opportunities? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Is it fair game for manufacturers or marketers to leverage recent violent incidents or terrorist attacks to promote sales of security systems or products? 

There's no doubt that the security technology buying decision is a complex one. There are several factors to consider, and no one application will have the same exact needs as another.  This is generally where security consultants come in - to help out with the security buying process and help the end-user decide on the best technology to suit their specific needs. But more specifically, what is their exact role in the security technology buying decision? Let's take a look at what our Expert Panel think.