In Security Magazine December 2022

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Diversity delivered

Access control should enhance the agility and flexibility of your business

Hybrid working. Better use of space. Reducing energy consumption. These are just three among many challenges facing businesses of every type and scale. In an environment where change is a constant, security which is agile and futureproof, helps to address them. These challenges are greater still for a small or medium-sized organization. When being ready to expand or pivot the use of space at any time is an advantage, flexibility is key.

Choosing the right security and access control solution makes a real difference, to both management and the workforce.

Flexible control for agility and efficiency

A modern access control solution should offer a wide range of digital locks and credentials, allowing a business to manage their workspaces

and workflows with maximum efficiency.

ASSA ABLOY’s Incedo access control solutions were designed for this purpose.

When they choose Incedo, organizations can secure almost any opening with autonomous electronic locks or in real time with online devices. They issue building users with credentials of their choice. And they manage everything from one place, via the flexible, scalable, intuitive Incedo platform.

It is easy to get started with Incedo. Businesses choose from a vast range of hardware. Doors, cabinets, gates, server racks and almost any other opening may be locked with wireless or wired devices.

Building users gain access via smartcards, mobile keys stored on their smartphone, or battery-free smart keys. Our range of credentials can be used across our vast

hardware choices. Incedo software manages this hardware and the security of users.

Installation is easy, with no complex integrations required. The entire ecosystem is modular, designed for simple adoption and easy expansion at any time and in any direction.

Incedo leaves business owners with more time to focus on their core business.

Energy-efficient devices for any application

An Incedo system can include both wired and wireless locks, all natively integrated and covering almost any application. A handful of doors or hundreds. A startup or a staff of thousands.

Incedo Cloud gives security managers the option to combine both online and offline management. For example, controlling access in real time, with online management of

secure areas. Adding autonomous offline devices enables the business to control access to areas that previously have been uneconomical due to location, environment, or cost.

Wireless locking is provided by an award-winning range of Aperio devices with built-in readers: the Aperio wireless handle, escutcheon, cylinder, security lock and server rack lock. Aperio devices secure almost any interior door, including wooden doors and glass doors.

Because Aperio locks are wireless, they are quick to install, without disrupting the fabric of the building. They consume up to 70% less power during use, than equivalent wired locks.

Also available in an Incedo system are PULSE key-operated digital cylinders. These are selfpowered using energy harvesting technology, operating without wires or batteries. They consume no power in use.

The PULSE cylinder range includes door locks, cam-locks, furniture locks and padlocks which operate outdoors in even the harshest of environments. Almost any mechanical or electromechanical cylinder can simply be switched for a PULSE device and connected to Incedo without wires or drilling.

Alongside wireless locks, Incedo can also manage hardwired, high-

security doors via ASSA ABLOY Signo readers. These upgrade doors and identity security without compatibility worries. Signo readers are powered by Seos®, a credential technology with the highest encryption and authentication standards. Each one supports almost any credential and is mobile-ready when installed — Bluetooth, NFC and Apple Wallet.

Flexible use — by smartphone, smart key or smartcard

For almost all door devices, building users can carry almost

any credential. All common RFID technologies are supported, including iCLASS® and MIFARE®. Users can also unlock with an Incedo Mobile Key stored on a smartphone. A shared Seos backbone ensures all credential types may be deployed together in the same system, which makes gradual site upgrading easier.

Incedo Mobile Keys work on a broad range of mobile devices, including phones, tablets and smart watches. These mobile credentials are simpler and safer to administer than fobs or smartcards. Mobile Keys are sent over the air to employee smartphones, removing the need to buy plastic cards or schedule time-wasting credential handover meetings. Updating, revoking or adding new access rights is practically instant.

For added convenience, a PULSE energy harvesting key is equipped with RFID authentication technology. It can be inserted into a PULSE cylinder to generate power. The same key doubles as a standard credential, able to unlock doors via a wall or inbuilt reader. For users and building managers, this is much more convenient than keeping track of two separate credentials.

Incedo Cloud, the easy way to take control

Different areas often have different security requirements. Where entrance doors or critical areas need real-time monitoring including alerts, some other areas in a building might

have lower demands for physical security. Here, autonomous devices can be installed faster and more costefficiently, with no need for network cables or wireless hubs.

Incedo Cloud has the option to combine online and autonomous management. For example, controlling access to secure areas including entrances, labs, server rooms in real time, with online management. Adding autonomous devices alongside these enables the business to control access to areas that previously have been uneconomical due to location, environment, or cost. It gives security managers even more choice and convenience.

Because Incedo is built for flexibility, switching between online and autonomous management is always seamless, for both users and administrators. The only difference is how credentials are managed: online or via updaters.

Cloud access management to reinvent a business model: Kolovna Bike Rental

In Czechia, Incedo Cloud’s remote management and instant scalability helped Kolovna to reimagine bike rental on a national scale. Kolovna aims to make cycling more widespread, not only by offering Czech customers top-quality products, services and technical

support, but also by streamlining trip logistics.

Kolovna‘s solution is to bring a secured bicycle container to popular cycling locations all over the country. Access to each container is filtered and monitored by electronic locks, so customers can safely park their own bike or rent one from the container.

This secure container solution for cycle hire is designed to increase the availability of rentals at leisure spots and to give customers peace of mind that their own equipment is safe.

Kolovna’s containers combine security with easy customer access, including unlocking via mobile keys on a smartphone. To achieve this, Kolovna needed an access control platform which could multitask without additional technologies, more software or extra staff. They chose Incedo, installing readers, a controller and door module in every container.

Incedo connects all Kolovna’s security software and hardware within one seamless system. Cloud management keeps Kolovna staff in control of their premises from anywhere. They can work in an office, at home or on the road.

Flexible access for flexible workspaces: Clockwise Clockwise is a UK and European provider of shared offices and meeting rooms in multiple cities.

How flexibly Clockwise deliver for their clients is essential to growing in such a competitive market.

This places high demands on door security and access control. Clockwise needs a broad choice of electronic devices to secure meeting rooms, private offices, communal spaces and main entrances, which may not all require the same lock type.

Because tenants come and go frequently, Clockwise facility managers need the tailoring of user access rights to be as easy as possible.

The range of Incedo-enabled devices and door hardware — managed by simple software — convinced Clockwise to choose Incedo for all their premises. Incedo now connects security software and hardware within a single, seamless ecosystem.

The diversity of Incedo-enabled devices offers Clockwise the ideal lock for every opening in their properties. Internal private office doors, “Zoom rooms” and meeting rooms — as well as communal area doors and entrance/exits — are secured with wireless devices from the Incedo range.

To learn more and download an Incedo™ Cloud solution guide Click Here

HIGH-END CAMERA TOP PERFORMANCE LENS X

THE NEW FUJINON SX800. THE BEST OF BOTH.

With the new SX800, Fujinon combines both in one for the first time: camera and lens. For long range surveillance at the highest level with 40x optical magnification and constantly sharp images. www.fujifilm.eu/fujinon. Fujinon. To see more is to know more.

SALTO Systems, a global leader in smart electronic access control solutions in the hospitality and commercial industries, is launching a groundbreaking new platform aimed at the residential market.

SALTO Homelok is set to revolutionize residential living with its all-in-one solution that integrates smart access control technology, hardware, cloud software, digital keys, a smart living ecosystem, and global service support.

“Smart home living is becoming increasingly more popular,” says Iñigo Unanue – Global Residential Lead, at SALTO Systems. “Residents want seamless access, without managing multiple keys – and property managers want a solution that is easy to manage and provides seamless resident onboarding. All want physical security and protection for assets as well as a smarter living experience. Homelok, SALTO’s residential solution, delivers all this and more, providing convenient, secure, and technology-enabled living.”

SALTO Homelok will provide smart access control solutions across the residential market, from multifamily to single-family housing, vacation rentals, and home care/assisted living establishments. SALTO Systems’ electronic locking solution is modern and easy to install and maintain, without the cost and complexity of traditional access control solutions.

SALTO Systems brings a wealth of smart building expertise, groundbreaking innovation, a unique combination of flexibility and control, and a marketleading portfolio to its residential solution, with a specific focus on the following five value propositions:

Operational efficiency

Homelok uses digital access technology, rather than mechanical keys, and can be accessed from anywhere

– allowing property management activities to be streamlined and carried out more efficiently.

An elevated experience

Homelok delivers the smart living experience by providing a convenient and digital experience for residents, enabling seamless keyless access and management capabilities for day-to-day living.

Future-proof SVN access-driven technology in the cloud Homelok utilizes cutting-edge, innovative, and reliable SALTO SVN data-on-card technology from a high-value, versatile, and globally-compatible product range that will continue to evolve into the future to support any developing access control requirements.

Enabling the Smart Living Ecosystem

Homelok delivers a core smart access solution within the Smart Building Ecosystem, by working with worldclass Technology Partners and Property Management Systems (PMS) providers. It is an open platform that can be fully integrated to meet the growing demands for connected home living as well as enable greater control and visibility across property management systems.

“We are very excited to launch SALTO Homelok to the residential and multifamily market. The platform is set to revolutionize the way we live, access our home, and go about our everyday lives. And, while security has always been a concern, data protection, privacy and secure home access are vital – now, more than ever. Homelok is the solution,” says Aznar Sethna, CSMO of SALTO Systems.

To find out more about SALTO Homelok, visit https://saltosystems.com

SALTO launches Homelok, an all-in-one smart access solution for residential living

Hanwha Techwin Europe launches TNV7011RC anti-ligature camera with wide FOV

Hanwha Techwin, a global leader in video surveillance products and solutions, has launched the TNV-7011RC, a compact and anti-ligature corner mount camera that offers a wide field-of-view (FOV) up to 3MP resolution and 30fps. The camera is the latest addition to the Wisenet T range, which is designed for challenging environments.

The TNV-7011RC offers a compact and aesthetically attractive design that fits neatly into room corners and lifts, and it is built to make it impossible for ligatures to be tied around it or for it to be easily ripped off a wall. The camera comes with Hallway View to enable operators to monitor tall and narrow spaces like corridors. It additionally features Dark IR 940nm of up to 10 metres, to help with monitoring very dark areas.

Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) in the Wisenet T series cameras captures 4 frames at different exposure levels to create a combined, clear, and vivid image even in environments with strong backlight conditions.

A range of in-built Intelligent Video Analytics support operators to quickly detect different types of incidents including tampering, motion detection, loitering, sound detection, virtual line, and enter/exit. The analytics also detects focus and defocus, ensuring clear images are relayed consistently to operators.

WiseStream II compression technology, when used with the H.265 codec, enables storage and bandwidth savings of up to 75% when compared to the use of H.264 video compression alone. It also dynamically controls encoding, balancing quality and compression according to movement in the image.

Key Features

• Maximum 3MP (2048 x 1536) resolution

• Maximum 30fps @ all resolutions (H.265/H.264/ MJPEG)

• Dark IR 940nm, 10 meters

• Built-in 2.8mm fixed lens

• Built-in microphone

• Anti-ligature design for corrections and behavioral health facilities

• Day & Night, WDR (120dB)

• Video & audio analytics, Shock detection

• microSD/SDHC/SDXC memory slot (256GB)

• Hallway view, WiseStream II support

• PoE, DC 12V, IK10+

For more information on the TNV-7011RC Click Here

Explore the potential of Paxton products with free installer training

Due to global changes in energy supply, prices of electricity and gas have risen significantly this year. Many people are looking for ways to reduce energy consumption and smart security systems can be a useful tool to achieve this.

The international security technology manufacturer, Paxton, has created an installer guide that includes tricks and tips on how their access control systems can help users save energy. Installers can now book to learn in depth about Paxton products’ energy-saving functionality in their free-of-charge training sessions.

Andy Waller, Paxton’s UK Training Manager, explains: “The key to our training is introducing our products’ features to installers, and guiding them to explore the functionality that helps their customers in real-world situations.

“Our systems can help Paxton users to save energy, and we want to help our installers relay that message.”

Powerful Triggers and Actions

Triggers and Actions is a feature of Net2 and Paxton10 that enables automated actions in a building. These can be set to help provide increased functionality of the site and allow integration of other building systems. An example could be when the last person leaves the site at the end of the day, the systems can be set to register this and turn off lights, heating or provide air conditioning control as desired. Installers get to set up Triggers and Actions during training and receive personal assistance from the Paxton trainers.

Andy said: “Triggers and Actions is a powerful, but sometimes underused feature. I often get feedback from installers saying that they are surprised by how much the systems can do.

“This is a great example of how our training raises

awareness of the full potential of the systems.”

Paxton Connect to Save Unnecessary Journeys

Another energy-saving tool that is covered in Paxton’s training is their Paxton Connect app. It enables system administrators to manage sites remotely from a smartphone or tablet. If the lights or any energy consuming appliances are left on after working hours, building managers can simply login the app and turn it off.

Andy said: “The Paxton Connect app gives system administrators the ultimate convenience in managing sites. It helps minimise unnecessary site visits to save time and fuel. Most importantly, there is no cost to use the app.”

Using Paxton Hardware

In addition to software, Paxton offers physical products that can be used to help reduce energy consumption. One is their cleverly designed Net2 Energy Saving Readers, which require a user to insert an access card and acts like a power switch. When a valid access card is inserted, the appliance turns on. When the user leaves and takes the card, it then switches off all connected devices.

Andy explains: “The energy saving readers were considered originally for controlling lights and electricity in settings like hotels. Utilising them now in different ways, they can be used to manage access to appliances and machinery, therefore can help limit energy consumption and also increase personal safety on a site.”

Sign up now for Paxton’s training sessions at www.paxton-access.com/training

More Than Access Control

Maxxess eFusion software opens up limitless possibilities, taking you beyond feature-rich, enterprise-level access control to give you all the benefits of a total security and safety management platform – without the cost or complexity.

Ready-made to integrate more than 60 leading technologies, off-the-shelf, Maxxess eFusion now lets you combine access, video, fire, intruder, visitor management, building systems, widely used databases and site-specific applications.

Hörmann OktaBlock helps to protect Edinburgh Fringe

Billed as the greatest single celebration of arts and culture on the planet, this year saw the Edinburgh Fringe mark its’ 75th anniversary attracting thousands of visitors into the City Centre. Helping to keep visitors and performers safe, Edinburgh City Council installed 12 Hörmann Oktablock mobile vehicle blockers to provide hostile vehicle mitigation whilst offering the highest standards in safety and flexibility for pedestrian access. Installed in two popular, busy festival venues, Hörmann OktaBlock was developed in response to vehicle related terrorist attacks across Europe. The announcement of the Government’s Protect Duty Bill in the Queens Speech will introduce a new duty on those responsible for publicly accessible places to protect the public from risks such as terror attacks. The Bill further highlights the need for flexible and cost-effective security solutions to address the challenges that will be faced by local authorities, event organisers and venue owners.

Designed to replace temporary concrete barriers, OktaBlock offers the highest standards in safety and flexibility, whilst being easy to deploy without the costs normally associated with fixed security bollards or blockers. Certified as a single module, OktaBlock has been designed to be unobtrusive, making it ideal for specification in public spaces, whilst its exterior can be customised to feature bespoke information. Offering a truly flexible solution to meet specific venue requirements, OktaBlock can be arranged individually, in rows or offset, and is ideal for areas where fastening into the subsurface are not possible. Due to its’

axisymmetric geometry, OktaBlock has no predefined impact side meaning that it can stop a vehicle from any direction making it ideal for the venues in George Square and at The Museum of Fire at Lauriston Place.

Impressively a single OktaBlock can stop a 7.5 tonne truck travelling at speeds of fifty kilometres per hour and is certified according to international crash standards PAS68 / IWA 14-1. OktaBlock also holds a CPNI Vehicle Attack Delay Standard (VADs) rating when used in specific configurations, which was a key element in the decision made by the City Council to specify Oktablock for use at the Fringe.

OktaBlock can be easily moved using a forklift truck or the newly available OktaMover manual handling device, making it simple to position whilst providing access for rescue vehicles as and when required. Its’ tamper-proof and non-flammable construction also mean there is no need for physical guarding before, during and after the event.

Claire Miller of Edinburgh City Council comments, “The City of Edinburgh Council were delighted to work with Hörmann for the trial installation of a number of hostile vehicle mitigation measures at this year’s summer festivals. It is with thanks to Hörmann and our key partners that we were able to bring new equipment to the city and keep our citizens, visitors, and residents safe at one of the busiest areas of Edinburgh during the festivals.”

For further information on Hörmann UK’s visit Mobile Vehicle Barriers | Hörmann

Mayflex to Distribute AVA Security the Innovative Cloud Solution from Motorola Solutions

Mayflex, the distributor of Converged IP Solutions, has signed a distribution agreement with AVA to distribute their cloud-based security solution.

The AVA brand is owned by the Motorola Solutions Company alongside Avigilon, Indigo Vision and Pelco which are also brands available to buy from Mayflex.

AVA provides a scalable, intelligent, cloud-based security system that helps you gain real-time visibility and insights from anywhere. It’s simple, smart security that safeguards your people and assets with proactive video security, on an open cloud platform.

Simon Steer, Security Director at Mayflex commented ‘AVA is a truly innovative cloud solution that we feel has huge potential due to the rapid growth of 5G and general improved internet speeds and coverage. With its advanced analytics and ease of install the AVA solution provides a serious alternative to current systems on the market and can also be integrated with legacy cameras so that you can take advantage of the revolutionary AI capabilities, via a hybrid cloud.’

Simon continued ‘The quality of the AVA cameras is

exceptional; they are packed with features and benefits that we know our installer partners will appreciate and provides our customers with the opportunity to earn re-occurring revenue. Security is at the forefront of the system with video being encrypted in transit and at rest ensuring an extremely secure end to end system. They come with built-in AI video and audio analytics, they are easy to install, use and maintain, they have cloud-native deployment and built-in storage, and they are covered by an impressive 10-year warranty.’

Simon concluded ‘Our sales and technical teams have undergone intensive training on the AVA solution, to guide our customers in choosing the right solutions for their requirements. Customers will be able to see the AVA solution in action at the newly created Mayflex MTECH demonstration suite at our HQ in Birmingham, our office in London, as well as the AVA headquarters in London.’

For more details on the range, products and features visit the Mayflex Website

Openings Studio™ software from ASSA ABLOY streamlines the specification process for a luxury Dubai development

Quality and ac™™curacy are critical to delivering luxury developments which fulfil their promise and reward investment. At Six Senses, The Palm, Dubai — a 5-star hotel and branded residences — award-winning architects Brewer Smith Brewer Group sought partners to streamline Building Information Modelling (BIM) and hardware specification. They chose ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions experts and software.

Brewer Smith Brewer Group (BSBG) is a longstanding advocate for the BIM process. In their experience, it improves productivity and fast-tracks delivery. It has helped them create a portfolio which displays industry-leading technical efficiency in both design and build.

They adopt BIM from concept stage, to coordinate information flow between designers, engineers and external contractors. The right BIM collaboration improves workflows to promote creativity and a methodical, technically astute approach to building design. It also ensures open, transparent communication for the duration of the project.

The wide-ranging expertise and knowledge of ASSA ABLOY’s specification teams made them the ideal partner to collaborate on such a prestigious project in Dubai.

A software solution to speed up project delivery

One key tool in optimizing collaboration between BSBG and ASSA ABLOY at Six Senses, The Palm, was Openings Studio™ software.

“ASSA ABLOY’s Openings Studio™ was the preferred choice due to its BIM integration with the Revit® model development and the ease of communication between

the architects and hardware specialists,” explains Adam Drawl, Senior Architect at BSBG.

Detailed door solution specifications can be delivered within Openings Studio then exported to design software when required by the project manager. Integration with Revit streamlines sharing of information and updating of hardware sets within the BIM environment.Openings Studio replaces double-handling of information and time-wasting manual implementation.

As the design progressed, Openings Studio made updating easy and prevented unwanted information loss. Data on hardware and certification requirements including fire and egress ratings were always available. The collaboration accelerated specification for a vast range of ASSA ABLOY solutions at around 3,500 openings — from steel and wooden doors to access control readers, electromechanical locks and door closers.

“Our specification teams can provide a whole suite of project support,” says Bala Vignesh at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solution EMEIA. ”Being based across Europe and the Middle East gives them in-depth knowledge on local standards and certifications — for green building or fire safety, for example.”

“The onboarding and after-care experience was excellent,” confirms Mr Drawl. “The ASSA ABLOY team was always readily available and proactive in developing the hardware sets and raising any concerns as they were occurring. Having their expertise is key.”

To learn how partnership with ASSA ABLOY’s BIM consultants has streamlined building projects of every size and type, Download Case References

One of the most versatile work utility vehicles on the market, the Carryall 500 has the power to replace pickup trucks at a fraction of the cost. With a rustproof, aircraft-grade aluminum frame, and cargo box, along with best-in-class ergonomics, the Carryall 500 is the perfect solution for your industrial and commercial jobs.

Strand Technologies welcomes new ‘Associazione’

Open sesame: Strand Technologies is now the official UK distributor for Ditec – a worldwide market leader and manufacturer of swing and sliding gate operating equipment, and traffic barrier systems.

The partnership is an “ideal fit” for Strand Tech which manufactures its own technology solutions for the safety, security and control of electro-mechanical operating systems, including automatic doors and entrances.

Ditec marks the company’s first brand introduction outside its own manufacture. Ditec products combine functionality and customisation options for gates and traffic barriers. They boast a stylish aesthetic with advanced technology for reliability and ease of use. Its entrance systems are energy efficient – enabling users to make energy savings while reducing environmental impact.

The Ditec sliding gate range provides automated systems for gates up to 3000 kg in weight. Weather resistant, they combine strength with a modern elegant design. The swing gate range moves wings up to five metres wide. An underground system is also available –concealing moving parts from view.

Ditec automatic barriers are perfect for shopping centres, hotels, residential blocks and public areas which need safe, efficient and reliable access control. They are ideal for sites with medium to high traffic volume. A wide range of accessories is available for various control needs.

Ditec, which is based near Milan, Italy, has been operating for more than 40 years and is now part of the

AssaAbloy Group.

Strand Technologies will hold extensive stock for the UK gate installer market supported by expert technical support. Details of the product range can be found here: https://www.strandtech.co.uk/ditec-range

Said Steve Marshall, Managing Director of Strand Technologies: “Ditec ideally complements Strand Technologies existing range of control and diagnostic systems and reinforces our position within the door and entrances market. The introduction of Ditec to the UK brings something fresh and exciting; combining superb technology with exquisite design and durability.”

Alessandro Gozzi, Ditec’s Sales Manager for Western Europe said: “It was clear from the start that our two companies share the same values and work commitments. The team at Strand Technologies has extensive knowledge and skills and we are delighted that they have become our distribution partner in UK.”

Strand Technologies develops and manufactures technology-based solutions for safety, security and control of electro-mechanical operating systems. Established in April 2021 and based in Walsall, in the West Midlands, Strand Technologies aims to assist in the delivery of safety – including fire, natural ventilation and safeguarding requirements, security and reduction of energy costs.

For more information on Strand Technologies please visit: www.strandtech.co.uk

OPTEX launch new FlipX Advanced sensors for high-security environments

Following

of its new Grade 3 FlipX Advanced series.

OPTEX FlipX sensors feature a bespoke pyroelectric sensor for increased performance that adapts to the human shape, and a unique lens that can be ‘flipped’ to provide both wide and narrow detection in a single sensor. By simply rotating the lens through 180°, the sensor can be used to protect narrow or long areas such as a corridor or warehouse aisles up to 24m, or a wide, open area like a lobby or a high-value retail store to 15m at 85°.

In addition, to provide a higher level of security, the Advanced models feature intelligent IR-Antimasking, which protects both the PIR and microwave sensors, generating an alert if they are covered. It’s also equipped with additional algorithms to ensure stable detection and to reduce ‘false’ alarms. Double conductive shielding means nuisance alarms caused by changes of light, temperature or Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) can be avoided. FlipX Advanced sensors also feature a ‘super high PIR sensitivity’ mode, which when set, enables the sensors to maintain stable and highly reliable detection even when the temperature difference between the human and the environment is very small, this ensures greater catch performance for high-security, high-risk sites where missed alarms are unacceptable.

Masaya Kida, Managing Director for OPTEX EMEA, says the cutting-edge technology behind FlipX Advanced make it ideal for high-security indoor environments: “The ‘flipped’ lens is a time-saving and cost-effective

solution that provides installers with two sensors in one to provide both wide and narrow detection within any high-security environments, including banks, high-value retail, logistics and high-end residential applications.

“As Grade 3 sensors, FlipX Advanced can be seamlessly integrated with intruder alarm and control systems. Our advanced pyro sensor, designed following significant research and investment into our customer needs, ensures highly accurate and reliable indoor detection performance, to ensure any attempt of intrusion, unauthorised access or theft can be identified quickly and accurately to protect people, property and valuable assets.”

The sensors feature a sleek and compact design, with flexible mounting height options (between 2-3m) meaning they seamlessly blend into building aesthetics, as well as buildings with higher ceilings.

For quick and simple installation, FlipX Advanced has an easy viewable LED, terminal block for easy wiring and EOL plug-in resistor socket.

FlipX Advanced is available as a PIR model – FLX-A-AM – and for more challenging indoor environments as a dual-technology (PIR and microwave) model – FLX-A-DAM. The latter is equipped with OPTEX’s robust Tough MOD 2 microwave module, ensuring the durability of the sensor in challenging environments, particularly humid climates, and higher levels of capture performance by tailoring the microwave to the PIR detection area.

Following the launch, OPTEX plans to release further models in the FlipX series in early 2023

the successful EMEA roll out of its FlipX Standard indoor sensors in September, OPTEX, the leading global sensor manufacturer, has announced the launch

Security

Genetec releases 2022 State of Physical Security Report

Cybersecurity concerns are on the rise; Data from physical security technology seen as ‘mission-critical’ tool for business operations; Industry embraces hybrid cloud infrastructure and unified solutions.

Genetec Inc. (“Genetec”), a leading technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, today shared the results of its 2022 State of Physical Security report. Based on insights from over 3,700 physical security leaders worldwide (including end users and systems integrators/installers/providers), the report looks at the security strategies organisations are putting in place to effectively navigate the realities of a changing landscape.

The future of security is hybrid: 54% of end user respondents indicated that their organisation’s target vision for security deployment is a blend of on-premises and cloud-based solutions. A hybrid approach enables organisations to optimise their existing on-premises investments while leveraging cloud options to save cost, increase security and efficiency, and enable remote access to systems and sensors.

Cybersecurity concerns are rising: The convergence of information technology (IT) and security is inspiring new approaches to implementing and managing a strong cyber security strategy. 64% of IT respondents and 54% of security respondents indicated that cybersecurity tools are a top focus this year.

Use of physical security for business operations: The survey showed that almost two thirds (63%) of all respondents and 7 in every 10 organisations with over 10,000 employees described physical security and related data as “mission-critical”. Over the last few years, physical security has become a strategic asset to cope with a variety of challenges that go beyond

just mitigating risk and is now playing a much more significant role in organisations’ digital transformation.

Physical security gets unified: Most respondents (64%) reported that they run both video surveillance and access control in their physical security deployments. Of those, 77% indicated that their organisation had implemented either integration between video surveillance and access control systems from different vendors, or a unified video surveillance and access control solution from one manufacturer.

“Every organisation wants to get their hands on the latest technology. However, faced with budget constraints, talent shortages, and ever-changing priorities, security leaders are required to do more with less,” says Pervez Siddiqui, Vice-President of Offerings and Transformation at Genetec. “A unified security platform gives organisations a path to modernise their ageing systems while leveraging their existing infrastructure. And they can do this without expensive and complex custom development.”

Survey methodology

Genetec Inc. surveyed physical security professionals from August 25 to September 21, 2022. Following a review of submissions, 3,711 respondents were included in the sample for analysis. Survey samples were run across all regions including North America, Central America, Caribbean, South America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, East Asia, Southern Asia, SouthEastern Asia, Central Asia, Western Asia, and AustraliaNew Zealand.

To download a full copy of the report, please go to https://www.genetec.com/a/physical-security-report

Chubb celebrates 40+ year partnership

delivering security solutions to Irish multinational fast-fashion retailer

Chubb, a leading provider of security and fire safety solutions boasts an impressive 40+ year partnership with Ireland’s largest discount fashion retailer, delivering expert security systems designed to minimise loss prevention.

Founded in 1969, this Irish fast-fashion retailer operates more than 380 stores worldwide, providing quality fashion products at affordable prices. One major challenge the retailer faces is managing loss prevention, as none of its products are tagged so its stores are an easy target for petty theft.

In-store security is an essential part of the retailer’s loss prevention strategy, but this is not enough alone. The retailer needs a robust security solution capable of not only identifying potential incidents before they happen but alerting staff to allow timely intervention.

Chubb has been delivering expert security solutions to the retailer since the early 1980s. Today, this consists of providing a combination of CCTV surveillance, access control and alarm monitoring for all 37 stores in Ireland, all 188 stores in the UK, as well as a large number of stores across Europe in locations including Austria, Belgium, France, Holland, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain.

Chubb’s involvement starts at the design stage and continues right through to the delivery and installation

of the security systems. A new store will first require Chubb to assess the floor plan, which will indicate where the tills are, where products will be situated and the types of products in each area. Chubb then marks up the floorplan drawing by placing the cameras at the prime locations where coverage is needed. The positioning of the cameras is vital as the retailer’s in-store security relies on them to help minimise loss prevention. To give you an idea of the scale, an average store will have around 200 cameras.

Once complete, the marked-up floor plan is approved by the consultant who signs off the design, then goes to the electrical contractor who marks-up the containment and cabling around the design. Chubb supplies all the cabling required for the installation and then fits all the cameras, which are commissioned in-store.

Tony Clifford, General Manager for Chubb Fire & Security in Ireland, said: “This is just one example of our long-standing security contracts with retailers, where Chubb is treated not just as a supplier, but a partner. Our portfolio of stores with this fast fashion retailer keeps growing in size and diversity.”

To find out more about Chubb’s security solutions visit: www.chubbfiresecurity.com/en/uk/products/security

From AI to ESG

Key security-technology trends of 2023 by Johan Paulsson, Chief Technology Officer, Axis Communications

Technology is pervasive in every aspect of our personal and work lives. Every new technological development and every upgrade brings new benefits, makes the tools we rely on more effective, and creates stronger, more efficient services. But as technology’s integration into society deepens, awareness of its implications is becoming more heightened.

Ours is an industry making use of increasingly intelligent systems with technology inherently involved in collecting sensitive data. It is also an industry that is as impacted by geopolitical issues affecting international trade as any other

sector. Security innovations will absolutely create a smarter, safer world, but in 2023 we will need to evolve to keep pace with these trends - all while moving fast to exploit new technological opportunities.

A move towards actionable insights “From analytics to action” will become a mantra for 2023. AI and machine learning may have aided the development of advanced analytics in recent years, but the focus moving forward will be on exploiting the actionable insights they deliver.

The huge increase in data being generated by surveillance cameras and sensors is a key driver for this transition. It is impossible for

human operators to interpret the nuances of large data sets and act quickly enough, but analytics and AI functionality can now recommend, prompt, and even start to automatically take real-time actions which support safety, security, and operational efficiency in every key vertical.

Analytics can support new methods of post-incident forensic analysis using, for example, assisted search to automatically find desired video among massive silos of camera data. New techniques will also be used to predict outcomes, using sensors to propose preventative maintenance actions to minimise potential industrial outages before

failure occurs.

The rise of case-defined hybrid architectures

Advanced analytics can run directly within surveillance cameras on the edge of the network. After-the-fact analysis, though, is a job for on-site servers or the cloud. Building the ultimate data analysis solution demands a hybrid computing architecture - and one which meets a customer’s requirements precisely.

There is no perfect off-the-shelf configuration. Each business must assess its specific use case and define the hybrid solution that will meet its needs. This process is complicated by localised requirements around data privacy and retention, which can force the use of on-premises storage over the convenience of the cloud, but architecture refinements are an essential part of any 2023 technology strategy. Businesses must maintain the flexibility to create the hybrid architecture best suited to their

specific needs - architecture which can change as demand and future trends dictate.

Exploiting functions beyond security Security hardware can present an opportunity to do more. Cameras themselves are powerful sensors capturing both quality video information and, thanks to advanced analytics, metadata which makes them useful in new and novel ways.

Camera metadata can be combined with input from other sensors – monitoring temperature, noise, air and water quality, vibration, weather, and more – to create an advanced sensory network and enable data-driven decisions. While we’re beginning to see this kind of multi-sensor monitoring appearing in industrial and data centre environments, the eventual use cases are limited only by our imaginations - and platform-agnostic data streams enable bespoke applications for any use.

The emergence of cybersecurity sub-trends

In the video surveillance sector, ensuring the authenticity and privacy of every data stream as it moves from camera to cloud to server is essential to maintain trust in its value. Cybersecurity is as vital today as it has always been, but 2023 will see a more proactive approach by technology vendors in identifying vulnerabilities, with bug bounty programs becoming even more commonplace to incentivise external parties to take a white hat approach.

Customers will also increasingly expect transparency regarding the cybersecurity of security solutions, with a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) becoming standard in assessing software security and risk management.

Sustainability always, climate change at the forefront Aside from cybersecurity, the requirement for organisations to measure and improve their

environmental, societal, and business governance practices remains essential - and all of these aspects will come under increasing scrutiny from customers of security and safety solutions.

Given the extreme conditions of the past year, expect a more acute focus specifically on addressing climate change in 2023. While organisations might make great efforts to reduce emissions from their own operations, these can be undermined if their upstream and downstream value chains are not aligned with the same targets.

Tech companies will also be expected to demonstrate more clearly the ways their products and services support the sustainability goals of their own customers, creating novel and intelligent efficiencies that also help those organisations reduce emissions.

An increased regulatory focus

The compliance goalposts move regularly, and often with great speed.

Each new regulation ratified brings a different aspect of software or hardware into focus. The European Commission’s proposed AI Act[1], for example, aims to assign specific risk categories to uses of AI, and will no doubt be the subject of much debate before it becomes law.

But whether in relation to AI, demands surrounding cybersecurity, data privacy, the influence of ‘big tech’, or tech sovereignty, it’s clear that technology companies in the security sector will increasingly need to adhere to more stringent regulations.

Key targets for 2023 2023 is not a year of great upheaval - it’s one of realignment. Our sector’s greatest opportunity continues to come from focusing on commercial success in tandem with our responsibility to address the critical issues facing the planet and its population. By working together towards a common goal, the combination of human inventiveness,

advances in technology, and ethical business practices can be combined to make the world a better place.

Johan Paulsson, Chief Technology Officer, Axis Communications

Johan Paulsson is an old hand in the Swedish tech scene, having been COO and head of R&D at Ericsson Mobile, and COO at Anoto. He joined Axis in 2008 and as CTO has overall responsibility for not just its current crop of products, but thinking about what the future might hold, too.

Johan got his start with a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Lund in Sweden –and loves the city so much that he never left. He is also a member of the board at poLight, a Norwegian company working to replicate the human eye lens.

For more information about Axis, please visit www.axis.com

Learn more about Axis’ trends for 2023 and Click Here

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R

Major milestones

anniversary

roll

supported

ecognizing the company’s rapid rate of innovation and growth since it became independent from Panasonic in 2019, i-PRO Co., Ltd., a global leader in professional security solutions for surveillance systems specializing in edge-AI powered cameras, public safety and medical devices, celebrates key milestones and achievements that will shape the future of the security industry.Established in October 2019, as a spin-off from Panasonic’s Security Systems Business Division, today, i-PRO is in a unique position in the security market, combining the drive and innovative spirit of a start-up company together with the rich heritage and skillset acquired through over 60 years of innovation with Panasonic. Focused on growing the business with new technologies, supported by a new vision and a new strategy, i-PRO EMEA offices

celebrate their 1st anniversary as an independent company.

Democratization of AI i-PRO’s mission is to make AI capabilities universally available across the surveillance market.

Over the last year, the company has introduced over 100 new cameras equipped with AI, (including an award-winning multi-sensor camera) making i-PRO one of the

and focuses on future growth with rapid

out of innovative technologies,

by new vision and strategy

most innovative companies in the security market.

AI cameras are not all created equal: i-PRO’s AI implementation is different from other products on the market. Using powerful Ambarella chips, i-PRO cameras have incredible AI-power at their disposal which enables them to run multiple analytics simultaneously. Edge processing, especially with AI-based object detection and attribute data, unburdens backend servers, whether they are local or in the cloud, and enables a system to scale without significant additional costs.

According to Novaira Insights, AI deep learning will represent 58% of the worldwide surveillance camera market by 2026. We believe that the ability to analyze data, count people, recognize license plates, identify vehicles, colors, etc. should be a standard offering on cameras.

“With AI-enabled cameras, customers can meet today’s needs while future-proofing their installations, without incurring significant costs,” said Norio Hitsuishi, Global Head of Product

Management at i-PRO. “But more importantly, AI enhances real-time situational awareness and enables security to become proactive rather than reactive.”

Cybersecurity

IoT and smart devices, including AI-based cameras with power on the edge, can be vulnerable to cyber-attacks that could put an entire organization’s network at

risk. Having achieved the highest level of cyber-security certification with up to FIPS 140-2 level 3 compliance, i-PRO’s solutions are NDAA compliant, trustworthy and cybersecure.

“As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, it’s imperative to educate ourselves, systems integrators, and end users on best practices and what to look for when specifying a resilient system. Cybersecurity is a global matter and i-PRO aims to be the leader in open AI-edge computing through powerful NDAA compliant and cyber secure hardware, to provide metadata integrity,” said Gerard

Figols, President, i-PRO EMEA B.V.

Supply chain strategy

Despite rapid inflation and industry component shortages, i-PRO has also been committed to maintaining competitive prices. The company also introduced a Quick Delivery Service with a two-to-three-day delivery timeframe for key models to ensure that its partners can realize their project requirements in a timely manner. Lead times for i-PRO orders have been far less than other manufacturers thanks to the company having its own factory and managing component stock efficiently.

“Thanks to our own

manufacturing facilities and our close partnership with key suppliers, we have been able to manufacture and deliver products reliably and in a timely fashion. This underlines i-PRO’s commitment to be a flexible and agile manufacturer for our customers, and positions us as the trusted next generation partner for the security industry,” said Figols.

Sharing knowledge to spread innovation

The AI segment of the surveillance camera market is growing fast and so is i-PRO’s camera lineup. To provide its stakeholders with trusted and dynamic ways to access information and resources. i-PRO is putting in place a number of tools and initiatives to ensure a seamless experience for its partners and clients. This includes the launch of the new i-PRO Active Learning platform to get access to on-demand courses on i-PRO’s latest products and technologies, as well as documentation and technical support. “In this fast-moving market our prime objective is to help partners grow and stay on top of their game to ensure mutual knowledge and growth” says Gerard Figols.

Link to the webinar Click Here

Gerard Figols

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HDD Outlook 2023

The trends set to emerge

There is no doubt that hard disk drives (HDDs) are still proving to be an important data storage medium. A few years ago, numerous industry analysts were of the opinion that HDDs would be completely replaced by solid state drives (SSDs), with a large proportion of them predicting that this would have occurred by 2020. It is now 2023 and very much clear to everyone that is yet to be the case, nor will it be in the foreseeable future. The high overall capacities and low cost per capacity unit mean that HDDs remain an attractive option for a broad range of

different tasks.

The total amount of data generated and then stored has grown exponentially over the course of the last decade, going way beyond what anybody could have envisaged in the past. Furthermore, it is continuing to rise. Relying solely on SDDs would simply not be possible. Firstly, the quantities of SDDs that are being produced just would not be able to keep up with demands. Secondly, they are not economical enough to address many of the more cost sensitive applications where large-scale data storage is required.

HDD technological innovations Ongoing engineering developments are helping to keep HDDs competitive. The introduction of helium-filled solutions, for example, has been pivotal. Having the disks situated in an enclosure filled with helium (which is a light, homogeneous gas), rather than in air, leads to less friction when the disks rotate. Consequently, turbulence issues are mitigated, and the thickness of the disks can be significantly reduced. The ability to pack in more of such thinner disk platters translates into increased storage capacity. Within the last

12 months, Toshiba has introduced the groundbreaking MG10 series 10 platter HDDs. These 3.5” form factor drives have capacities reaching the 20TB mark. Enhancements in relation to the read and write heads have also contributed. HDD storage density increases of 2TB per year have now become possible - so solutions with 22TB and 24TB capacities are set to arrive in the near future.

Dynamics currently defining the storage media market

Alongside the technological advances just described, there are several key underlying influences that are having a bearing on the global data storage business. Here are some of the most prominent:

• In relation to client/PC and boot drives, HDDs have admittedly been replaced by SSDs on a substantial scale. In particular, the compact M.2 form factor with NVM-e interface has become well established in portable computing equipment and smartphone handsets. It must be acknowledged though that suitable SSDs are still about 4x

as expensive per capacity unit as HDDs (with a 500GB SSD having the price tag equivalent to a 2TB HDD). It is for this reason that inexpensive PC systems with higher memory requirements are still featuring HDDs.

• Greater emphasis on online storage is something that has been witnessed for several years now. Modern society is accessing an ever-expanding variety of cloud-based platforms and doing so increasingly frequently. This can be for streaming entertainment content (like music or films), as well as e-commerce, gaming and social media activities. The greater prevalence of telecommuting is another factor here. All the data needed for such purposes is contained within large data centers, which mainly use HDDs as their storage media. The optimization of the processing speed plays an increasingly important role. Although individual HDDs are rather slow when compared to SSDs, the interconnection of large numbers of hard drives disks means that relatively high speeds

can be achieved. While previously storage solutions typically consisted of arrays with up to 24 HDDs integrated into one housing and managed by a host computer, today configurations with 60 or more disks in one unit are starting to be witnessed - enabling much larger amounts of data to be dealt with. The challenge here, however, is scaling the aggregate processing speed. With 24 hard disks, each of which can transfer data at approximately 280MB/s, the 8GB/s capabilities of the adapter card with 8x PCI-Express Gen3 host interface lanes are sufficient for the theoretical 24x 280MB/s = 6.7GB/s to the host system and into the network. But with the prospect of as many as 60 disks being involved, almost 17GB/s overall performance is made available - provided that the bottleneck can be overcome. With the introduction of PCIExpress Gen4 technology, almost 16GB/s can be attained across the 8 interface lanes. For further increases, adapter cards with 16x PCI-Express Gen4 lanes are now becoming available. They have

a limit of approximately 31GB/s, which is more than enough, even for configurations where 100 HDD have been incorporated into the system.

• Making data center operations more sustainable and reliable are areas where HDDs have major roles to play. There are growing concerns about the effects that such facilities are having on the environment; due to the huge quantities of power they consume. Toshiba has conducted comprehensive testing on the high-density JBOD solutions of OEM partners (based on arrays of our enterprise-grade 18TB HDDs), to validate the strength of their green credentials. The tests show that data center sites can implement HDD technology that will allow the needs for greater data storage resources to be met while still retaining the levels of energy efficiency that this sector’s ambitious roadmaps stipulate. It should also be mentioned that inclusion of temperature sensing mechanisms in enterprise HDDs means that conditions can be better controlled, and greater HDD longevity thus brought about.

• With regard to surveillancerelated data storage, deployments now comprised of much greater numbers of cameras with higher resolution functionality. To cope with all of these high-resolution video streams, next generation HDD solutions are needed. Given that 24/7 operation is generally mandated, even in harsh working conditions, these must be robust enough for reliable operation to always be assured. As well as being able to purchase reliable, performance optimized solutions, another of the main priorities for customers in this sector is that the associated total cost of ownership (TCO) can be kept to an absolute minimum. Since they successfully possess these attributes, the Toshiba S300 and S300 Pro series have both shown their effectiveness in a surveillance application context - seeing widespread customer uptake worldwide. They are designed to accommodate up to 64 HD video stream inputs and have a 0°C to 70°C operational temperature range. Curbing system energy consumption here will also be essential, from both an operational

expense and a sustainability perspective. As our S300 drives spin at a 5400 - 5700 RPM speed, the amount of energy consumed during recording is markedly reduced. The lower friction exhibited by the helium-filled MG series enterprise drives aimed at high end AI-driven surveillance analysis workloads permits them to run energy efficiently at 7200 RPM speeds.

Fuelled by the increasing demand just outlined, as well as the engineering advances being announced, HDD’s momentum is certainly not being slowed down. This is why Toshiba continues to make further investments in heightening production capacity. We have continued to work closely with data center equipment vendors, surveillance systems integrators, and computing OEMs to bring highly effective new solutions to market that provide real differentiation.

You can learn more about Toshiba HDD technology and their portfolio at www.toshiba-storage.com

Accelerating activities

Next step in cybersecurity for connected alarm systems

Alarm systems are essential for the economic success of almost all sectors of European markets. Rapid technological developments and policy developments have brought new challenges for alarm systems and the alarms systems’ market. One of these challenges is the cyber security of the connected alarm systems. Euralarm members are involved in these challenges via the CENELEC Technical Committee 79 (TC 79).

Within Europe the CENELEC Technical Committee 79 (TC 79) is developing and maintaining standards for detection, alarm and monitoring systems for protection of persons and property, and for elements used in these systems. The scope includes in particular intruder and hold-up alarm systems, access control systems, periphery protection systems, combined alarm - fire alarm systems, social alarm systems, Video

Surveillance systems (formally known as CCTV systems), other monitoring and surveillance systems related to security applications, as well as associated and dedicated transmission and communication systems. Its standard publications also include the services aspects, such as planning and design, engineering, installation and handover.

Cyber security of connected alarm systems

Within TC 79 one specific Working Group (WG17) focusses on the cyber security aspects of the connected alarm systems. The Working Group was originally set up in 2018 by TC79 as an ad-hoc group to address the growing concerns of cybersecurity in connected alarm systems. The scope of the activities includes all functional elements of alarm systems as mentioned above. The objectives of the Working Group are to research

and collate the existing initiatives in the field of cyber security as well as develop best practice guidance related to this topic. The know-how is shared with members of TC79. Apart from the research the Working Group has already developed a set of security policies based on best practices for adoption within the connected alarm systems. Also, a cyber task group has been set up to report on important developments from cyber related regulation impacting on alarm systems.

Alarm systems

Alarm systems consists generally of devices that are located locally within supervised premises. The devices communicate together using dedicated or shared local interconnections. The system itself communicates away from the local site via a gateway, often controlled by a fire wall. For the communication, a public data communication system is

often used, such as a cloud system. Many legacy systems still use analogue connectivity, e.g., PSTN or other landline (non IP) technology.

The data storage and the processing may be hosted remotely or can be shared as a cloud resource. The operations, maintenance and 3rd party services are undertaken at a remote location.

Research & findings

Based on the comprehensive research of European and global initiatives, standards, and best practices the TC79 WG17 developed a database citing over four hundred standards relating to many facets of cybersecurity. The database now covers both vertical markets, such as cybersecurity aspects of power plants and automotive as well as horizontal markets such as IT systems, ICAS. Some of the

standards and best practices cover principles, such as management systems and procedures while others cover techniques, such as encryption and technical functions. The Working Group decided to focus on linking the relevant standards to threats and defenses.

Accelerating activities

Another finding of the Working Group is that the EU led activities are accelerating. Two examples of this acceleration can be found in the EU Cyber Security Act and ENISA’s Cyber Security Certification Schemes. The Working Group also noted that the Joint Technical Committee 13 (JTC13) of CEN and CENELEC develops ‘homegrown’ ENs, where gaps exist, in support to EU regulations (RED, eIDAS, GDPR, NIS, etc.). These gaps need to be avoided for presumption of conformity to these regulations.

The basis for this is laid among others by the IEC 62443 (Cyber security for Industrial Automation and Control Systems), the ISO 2700x family of standards helping organizations to keep information assets secure and ETSI 303645 the globally applicable standard for consumer IoT cyber security. Figure 1 shows the strategy for cyber security for industrial automation and control systems according to IEC 62443.

Holistic process

Based on the research and findings the Working Group concluded that cyber security is a holistic process. It also published ‘Reference Standards and Guidance on Best Practice Cyber Security for Alarm Systems’. This best practice document, of which the second edition was released last June, provides a summary of cyber security topics and standards that

Figure 1: Strategy for cyber security for industrial automation and control systems

Figure 2: Taxonomy pillars

are relevant to alarm systems.

With over sixty pages in the guide, the Working Group felt the need to simplify the document for each of the audiences. Among these are manufacturers, designers, integrators, and MARC’s. To simplify the document the Working Group used the Taxonomy pillars that were presented in the brochure ‘Cybersecurity – Threat or Opportunity’ that Euralarm and CoESS published in 2019 (see fig. 2).

For each of these Taxonomy pillar flow diagrams are being developed

Dedicated Cyber task group Also, a dedicated Cyber task group was created within the Working Group. This task group shares key cyber related issues impacting alarm systems, such as RED Essential Requirements impacting alarm systems and certification schemes developed by ENISA as part of the Cyber Security Act. Apart from the new task group, there is also close contact with JTC13 to consider the impact of their work and to provide input for as well as receive input from this committee to streamline the activities.

BSIA Cyber Security Product Assurance Group

Within the BSIA the activities of the

Working Group on cyber security aspects of connected alarm systems have led to the launch of the Cyber Security Product Assurance Group (CySPAG). The group is made up of member companies and other stakeholders from a range of industry sub-sectors and subject matter experts who are focused on reducing the risk of product and service-related cybercrime. This interest group is actively engaged in developing industry codes of practice, guidance, certification schemes, and education to support product manufacturers, specifiers, and installers with managing their cybersecurity risks. The group endeavors to take a practical approach and recognize that there is a combined stakeholder effort in providing a cyber secure solution, i.e., it takes some effort from the manufacturers, designers, installers working in collaboration along with ongoing support and maintenance to provide a cyber secure solution.

End users also play a huge part in cybersecurity and must be made aware of their role in keeping their system secure, not only in practically managing cyber impacts on their installed system, but also in making an informed choice when selecting an appropriate company to supply, install and maintain their connected

security system.

The cybersecurity landscape of risks and threats is continually evolving; therefore, the challenge is to support innovation in our industry while preventing the introduction of unacceptable risks. CySPAG’s core focus is to evaluate the cyber security landscape and develop ways in which these risks and threats can be mitigated. Likewise, initiatives are started in other European countries as well. Euralarm supports these initiatives and contributes where possible.

Euralarm represents the electronic fire and security industry, providing leadership and expertise for industry, market, policy makers and standards bodies. Our members make society safer and secure through systems and services for fire detection and extinguishing, intrusion detection, access control, video monitoring, alarm transmission and alarm receiving centres. Founded in 1970, Euralarm represents over 5000 companies within the fire safety and security industry valued at 67 billion Euros. Euralarm Members are national associations and individual companies from across Europe.

For further information please visit www.euralarm.org

Doing more with less

Making your campus security smarter

by Peter Greener, Key Account Manager,

Northern Europe, Milestone Systems

More than ever, educational institutions are under pressure to keep students safe - but those responsible for campus security are subject to the same strains on budgets seen across departments. Yet by embracing open platform technology, campus security systems can easily provide added levels of security, while offering valuable new campus management functions - delivering greater insights into how facilities are used and revealing operational efficiencies –often using legacy equipment.

Security is a must-have, not a nice-to-have Educational institutions exist to help students fulfil their potential. This task is impossible if they don’t feel secure on campus, so effective campus security is as important to the learning experience as the teaching and faculty. It’s also an increasing concern for students, parents, teachers and support staff, alike.

A simple Google search for campus safety brings up rankings of the best and worst places to live as a student, based on crime

rates and a university’s investment in security infrastructure. These considerations are becoming more of a deciding factor when students (and their parents) are choosing where to invest in their higher education, for good reason: across 16 UK campuses, 133,920 crimes were reported between May 2021 and April 2022, ranging from 44,322 violent and sexual offences, to 25,701 antisocial incidents.

This reveals the challenge for campus security teams: while they are grappling with higher student expectations and combatting a range

of different crimes, they are doing so with often aging infrastructure and limited budgets.

Injecting innovation into your security infrastructure

Relying on legacy security system infrastructure doesn’t have to limit the options available to those responsible for their campuses, however, if they have an open platform video management system (VMS).

VMS technology was originally developed to control all the cameras on a security network and to allow operators to capture, review and search video footage. A VMS can provide a single view of all the devices on campus (or even across multiple campuses) so security teams can be more effective, their situational awareness improved and their ability to manage incidents enhanced.

While its roots lie in video, a VMS now integrates with other security systems such as access control and intrusion detection. And, as the Internet of Things (IoT) establishes itself further across the workplace, devices that control lighting, heating

and ventilation and other building functions can be managed from a VMS.

Making systems smarter and work harder

What’s more, the emergence of AI (artificial intelligence) ‘at the edge’ in video cameras, or built into a VMS, means security systems are now intelligent. A system using AI-powered ‘video analytics’ is able to notify operators if a defined event is detected on camera, for example, such as an individual spotted in a restricted area, or a lecture theatre that has become overcrowded.

Of course, adding intelligence to a campus security system is particularly useful at a time when budgets are being squeezed yet security expectations keep rising, because video analytics allow stretched resources to be deployed to meet real, not imagined needs.

Analytics allow operators to understand precisely where and when anti-social behaviour on their campuses occurs, meaning guards can be deployed to those areas in particular, instead of undertaking broader routes. With AI working

in the background to monitor for suspicious behaviour or events, operators can focus on more valuable tasks, knowing that anything important will be picked up by the system and alerted to.

Remaining open to innovation

To gain this functionality, however, and to avoid ending up down a technology dead end, an open platform VMS is essential. An open platform VMS like Milestone’s XProtect solution is guaranteed to operate with a vast range of devices from different manufacturers.

XProtect is constantly revised as new cameras and other devices are brought to market, so it not only ensures backwards compatibility with legacy equipment, but allows new devices that bring added functionality to be added to the same system with ease. This allows educational establishments to modernise and standardise their systems over time while meeting budget constraints.

By using an open platform VMS, managers are free to choose whatever devices and functionality best suits their campuses’ needs.

Compare this with a so-called ‘closed system’ that locks users into choosing from a limited list of equipment from only certain manufacturers, limiting access to many new and innovative technologies.

For Paul Greenlees, [deputy head of security] at Manchester University, open platform technology was important for this precise reason. “Manchester University invested in Milestone XProtect, an open system that supports multiple integrations. This allows us to futureproof to emerging needs as well as add devices and functionality as we go along”, says Paul.

Beyond security and towards a wider video of the campus

One of the trends in video technology that campus managers are increasingly embracing is the ability to leverage the added value that their security system can provide. By effectively treating a video camera as another IoT sensor, analytics can be focused on the data that cameras generate to reveal deep insights into how an estate is used, when, and by whom. This means the security

system is no longer just keeping people, property and assets safe, but helping operators understand better how they interact.

Such a transformation is underway at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU), one of the largest universities in the UK with around 31,000 students based in two campuses across Sheffield. One campus is based in the city centre while another is 1.5 miles away in southwest Sheffield.

The team decided to upgrade to a new Internet Protocol (IP) security system and consolidate the many signals coming in from alarms, cameras, and intercoms, into an open platform system. This enabled SHU to still use its existing cameras, applications, and fibre network, but gave additional functionality, plus the flexibility to experiment with new devices and integrations.

One such integration was a new LPR (license plate recognition) module that has automated a barrier along a service road. Recognised vehicles are automatically granted access, so operators are not constantly interrupted by requests for access. Further integrations

being explored include incorporating access control functions to allow automated and scheduled door locking and building alarm activation, functions that currently manual tasks.

Fit for the future

At a time when budgets and being squeezed but expectations are growing, adopting an open platform for security technology allows those responsible for their campuses to not only give new life to their systems, but plan for the future.

For, as new technological innovations are made available and added into a system with ease, so the whole campus estate is upgraded, with new insights unearthed and greater efficiencies made possible.

In doing so, smart campuses based around an open platform security system are moving beyond security alone, to gain a bigger picture of their operations – revealing aspects that were previously hidden from view.

For further information please visit www.milestonesys.com

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Positive shift

Why diversity and attracting talent matters for the fire and security industry

This year Euralarm started a new initiative focusing on diversity and attracting new talent. The importance of the initiative is underlined by the rapid engineer retention and the lack of competent and qualified engineers. This article details the Euralarm initiative and reviews several activities undertaken by Euralarm and its members.

Long and rich history

The fire and security industries are industries with a long and rich history. The origins of the fire industry could be traced back to Nero, the Roman emperor who directed that the city should be rebuilt using passive fire prevention methods and non-combustible materials after a catastrophic fire destroyed nearly half of the city. And as far as the security industry is

concerned one could state that the history is almost as old as the fire safety industry with emperors, kings and the like hiring private security guards to protect their families and property.

Major changes in the industry always occurred with the advent of new technology. The invention of electricity, the rise of the computer and further digitization: they all had a big impact on the fire and security industry. And when we focus on the past 50 years, it is clear that the industry has continued to accelerate.

Positive shift necessary

What has not really changed over the past 50 years, however, is the composition of the workforce. The industry is still recognised as a maledominated field although in recent years there has been a positive shift in the number of women working

in the industry. A necessary shift because companies are more and more seeking approachable, friendly and well-presented officers, with advanced conflict resolution skills, as well as an increasing number of talented women across different functions, including science and engineering. With this change, the industry is diversifying, and the need for women officers is growing.

European agenda

Over the years, gender equality has moved up the political agendas of the EU and of many other countries around the world. It is prioritised as Goal 5 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). In the EU, progress has been made in terms of gender balance in decision making, although improvements have been slower in areas related to the labour market.

At European level, the number of women Doctoral graduates, for instance has continued to grow gradually over recent years. However, horizontal gender segregation persists in certain fields of education, with women Doctoral graduates in the EU still overrepresented in the field of Education and under-represented in the broad fields of ICT and Engineering, Manufacturing & Construction, and several narrow fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Attracting young talent

With the baby boomers approaching their retirement date and the aging of the industry becoming more and more apparent, it becomes increasingly important that the European youth is attracted to our industry to build a more inclusive, diversified, greener and digital future. And with 2022 being the Year of the Youth, things seem to fall in place.

Year of the Youth

The European Year of Youth pursued four objectives:

• Renewing the positive perspectives for young people, with a particular focus on the negative effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on them, while highlighting how the green and digital transitions and other Union

policies offer opportunities for young people and for the society at large;

• Supporting young people, including through youth work, especially young people with fewer opportunities, from disadvantaged and diverse backgrounds or belonging to vulnerable and marginalised groups, to acquire relevant knowledge and competences and thus become active and engaged citizens, inspired by a European sense of belonging;

• Supporting young people to acquire a better understanding of, and actively promoting the various opportunities available to them, be it from the EU, national, regional or local level, to support their personal, social, economic and professional development;

• Mainstreaming youth policy across all relevant Union policy fields in line with the EU Youth Strategy 2019 – 2027 to encourage that a youth perspective is brought into policy-making at all levels.

Crucial for the industry

When asked why attracting talent is crucial for our industry, David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security answers: “As the industry continues to grow and technology develops, attracting new talent into the sector is key to sustainability

and improving the quality of working standards. The UK and Europe have struggled of late with engineer retention, lack of competent and qualified engineers and attracting talent where “unattractive” work is the norm, for example, travel, outside work etc. Of late, there has been a shift in the sector where more and more installers are seeing the benefit of growing their own talent as a model that will provide sustainability for both the sector and their businesses. Over the last three years, we have seen the level of apprentice recruitment in the sector more than quadruple. This is the industry responding to the inevitable skills crisis where there is a reported shortage of around 30,000 engineers needed across the UK. With current levels of recruited apprentices, it will take over 25 years to resolve that skills shortage. We need to recruit and attract ten times the current level of recruited apprentices to resolve the crisis in as little as three years.”

On the importance of attracting new talent, Chief Technical Officer Cristina Rivas Saiz of Euralarm industry member and leader in monitored security Verisure adds: “For us to remain at the cutting-edge of our industry, we must have diversity of thought, perspective and culture. That enables us to continue to deliver the next step-change

technology to protect our customers even more effectively. At Verisure, we have a wide range of programs and campaigns centrally and across our countries that support diversity in technology and engineering. For example, our International Graduate Tech Programs help recent graduates in technology live an exciting first work experience, working in different technology teams at our offices. In one of our key locations, Sweden, we are participating in the initiative “Pink Programming” - a volunteerdriven organisation dedicated to inspiring women, transgender and nonbinary people to work in technology. Further, our team in the UK is proud to support the Technicians: We Make the Difference campaign from the Gatsby Charitable Foundation in partnership with the world-famous Science Museum in London. This fantastic initiative, aimed at inspiring children aged 11-16, shows the crucial and exciting roles technicians play across society and the different paths available to becoming one.

We are committed to continuing and extending these programs so that we can inspire even more people to work in technology – irrespective of their age or gender.”

A lot to offer “Attracting young people and young talent is an absolute necessity for

our industry”, says Patrick Van Liempt, Secretary General of the Belgian security association ALIA Security. “In Belgium we are trying to attract new talent for the security industry because of the shortage of personnel and the rapidly developing market. “Although many people still think that security is part of the electrical installation, our industry no longer needs only electrical engineers. In fact, we are increasingly looking for other types of personnel as our systems are increasingly integrated with IT systems. Our business remains a business that requires special skills and knowledge, of course. But it’s not just electrical engineers who have those skills and knowledge anymore. Nowadays, our systems are often installed in two steps: first the cabling and installation of components and then the connecting, centralisation, integration and putting the system into service. And after that and most important, security systems need to be maintained and serviced. Therefore, we need people with a technical background and IT knowledge. Diversity and inclusion is the perfect foundation for finding the people that our industry needs. And we have a lot to offer: the latest technology, high-end applications, a lot of variety in the job and above all: interesting social contact.”

Turn initiatives into action

There are already many amazing initiatives across the sector that focus on the industry’s diversity and inclusion. Initiatives like WorldSkills is just one example of that. “However, the approach is fragmented and not driven by a central body or resource and therefore, the positivity is quite often not shared widely enough”, according to David Scott. “For example, Skills for Security run both electronic security systems and automatic fire detection and alarm systems while WorldSkills UK competition aims to shine a positive light on the sector and promote it to school children across the UK as a career of choice. But what children want when leaving school is a guaranteed career, with good pay and strong career progression. Therefore, we really need to join forces with those with job availability and school children making career choices so that those attending the event are able to secure full-time employment in what is an amazing sector. Those that choose a career in this sector are often amazed at the diversity and skill set that is developed. I believe that being able to share the diversity of the sector more widely will attract much more diverse talent to the sector.”

For further information please visit www.euralarm.org

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