24 minute read
Skills for installers
SKILLS
Understanding FESS
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David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security reveals what an apprentice on the Fire Emergency and Security Systems Apprenticeship (FESS) programme learns. Here are some practical answers to the questions he frequently hears
The FESS apprenticeship is split into four pathways; • Fire Alarms Only • Security Systems Only • Fire & Security • Fire & Emergency Lighting
Each pathway is designed to take three years, but can be completed quicker depending on the individual learner's level of experience and prior learning. The pathways are comprised of core elements which account for around 80% (i.e. Electrical Principles, Safe Isolation, Installation Practices, Health and Safety, Operational Checks and Readings, Processes and Procedures for Maintaining Systems and Takeover) and specialist subjects/disciplines chosen by the apprentice such as wiring, programming, commissioning and standards.
Year One
The first year aims to give the apprentices the skills they need to complete simple tasks for your organisation under little to no supervision. This means when you ask them to install the first fix of a PIR, Camera, Control Panel or PSU, they can follow the process to install this to the correct recognised specification.
The key aspects taught in year one: • H&S – which is a key attribute in apprentices achieving their apprentice ECS card • Communication – aims to improve both verbal and written skills, which ensures competency when communicating with customers • Introduction to Industry & Standards –providing an overview of the sector, key bodies and inspectorates,plus the role they play in raising standards • Cabling and Installation Practices – an overview of BS7671 and compliance • Wiring – the skills to complete first and second fix, including the wiring terminology single pole, double pole, EOL, network topology and wiring infrastructures • Practical Skills – first and second fix, measuring, cutting and safe working practices.
Year Two
The second year aims to give the apprentices the skills they need to work on technical tasks independently, with little supervision. This means students should be able to install systems from start to finish, ensuring they are fully operational and compliant.
The key aspects taught in year two: • Survey and Design – designing systems using approved industry paperwork and showing compliance with standards. • Commissioning and Handover of Systems –using the approved processes and procedures for commissioning of systems, including the key components of communication • Programming – ensuring compliance with standards and that systems are fully operational and tested • Integration – basic integration options for all systems The second year aims to give the apprentices the skills they need to work on technical tasks independently, with little supervision
YOUR SKILLS QUESTIONS ANSWERED
As part of this column you can ask David questions directly about training and apprenticeships. We will aim, to publish the question and answer in the next column. If you want to participate in this, then email info@skillsforsecurity.org.uk
I am hiring someone that has some experience but no formal qualifications. Can I put them on the apprenticeship?
The short answer is yes. When we induct them into the programme, we will skill scan them to identify their skill-set and place them appropriately into the correct class on the course.
I am hiring someone that is in their mid to late 20's but has no industry experience. Can I put them on the apprenticeship?
Yes, Government funding for apprenticeships is not determined by age.
SKILLS
(continued from previous page)
• Fault Finding – the systematic process of identifying faults and rectification • Practical Skills – programming, commissioning, testing and fault finding.
The aim of the final year of training is to turn these apprentices into valuable engineers. This means that students should be able to take over systems, identify and rectify faults and noncompliances, follow technical specifications and fully commission. Year Three
The key aspects taught in year three: • Take over systems – a systematic process for taking over systems ensuring compliance with standards • Identification of non-compliances and faults –detailed learning of standards and areas of non-compliance, the process to rectify and commission • Technical specifications – detailed understanding of wiring, building cabling infrastructures and electrical principles • Practical Skills – identifications and rectification of non-compliances and fault finding
Skills for Security have a fantastic partnership with Fenix Monitoring, where our live signals go through to their ARC via a demo account. This allows learners to send signals from a protected site, check they are received, rectify faults, put systems on test, and commission.
If you would like any advice on attracting new talent, retaining staff, or upskilling your workforce, please feel to reach out to Skills for Security at info@skillsforsecurity.org.uk.
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ADPRO Swansway Group Perimeter Protection
With 24 branches located throughout the north of England and Wales, Swansway Group is one of the region’s leading motor companies. The company is a main dealer for a range of premium automotive brands including Audi, Volkswagen, Land Rover and Jaguar, and also operates two state-of-the-art accident repair centres. High-value stock inventories across all sites require 24/7 protection, and security is a vital priority. The client was looking for a cost-effective solution for its new vehicle storage facility in Crewe that would combine all surveillance data into a single system giving immediate action upon activation Following consultation with the client, the decision was taken to install the ADPRO FastTrace 2E Remotely Managed Multiservice Gateway (RMG), a Perimeter, Multi-site and Enterprise Security Solution by Honeywell/ADPRO. Installed by NU Fire & Security Ltd, the system delivers state-of-the-art remote monitoring, enabling security threats to be detected and assessed instantly and efficiently. When an intruder is identified, a high quality Quad image is transmitted within seconds in a time stamped data packet, displaying to a remote monitoring centre or mobile handset, allowing operators to see exactly what is happening and take appropriate action. The system uses infrared (IR) IP network High Definition low-light cameras which allows lowlight working and is backed by an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) backup. The ADPRO solution can also operate via 3G connection, which will allow for redundancy should the ADSL lines fail. Use the QR code for the full case study
Confirmation of H.265 licenses used in advanced IDIS video solutions
As video users globally pay closer attention to the manufacturing origins and standards-compliance of their systems, IDIS is highlighting the value of its fully licensed network cameras and recorders that feature H.265 video compression. IDIS was among the first manufacturers to deliver the benefits of H.265 compression to the market as part of its end-to-end DirectIP® solution. The company has confirmed that it has HVEC Advance and H.265 MPEG patent licenses for all its hardware, with licenses dating back to cover all installed systems. IDIS has made extensive use of the H.265 standard since 2016, leveraging it to underpin flexible monitoring solutions using dual codec (H.264/265) and hybrid codec to ensure backward compatibility with older monitoring hardware. Combined with IDIS’s own advanced compression technology, IDIS Intelligent Codec, this typically saves up to 70% on storage capacity and lowers bandwidth requirements compared to older high-definition systems that relied on H.264.
This approach means IDIS users were among the first to benefit from ultra-high-definition surveillance using 8MP and 12MP cameras, while ensuring fast incident response, smoother searches and minimized distortion when reviewing complex scenes, even from mobile devices.
For example, the new IDIS Mobile Plus app – which integrates with the enterprise-level IDIS Solution Suite VMS to allow for more flexible and remote surveillance operations – enables 4K live streaming on remote mobile devices, with high image quality in H.264/MJPEG and H.265 formats. With Mobile Plus, users can remotely access cameras and NVRs, monitor live video streams, and search recorded footage via their iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet – all enabled by advanced compression technologies. For more information on IDIS solution go to www.idisglobal.com
Open Door is an online service from PSI that provides in-depth information from a selection of market leading companies. Here are some of the highlights from the pages of Open Door.....
Texecom Cloud – Manage, configure and control your alarm portfolio
Remote maintenance - Save money by automating system maintenance – reduce engineer call outs and identify issues in advance. On-site programming - Speed up on-site programming using your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Access anywhere - Add value to customers by updating programming from anywhere in the world. Managed access - Control access and make sure the right engineers have access to the right systems. Custom branding - Own the customer experience. Add your company branding to the Texecom Connect app. (Coming soon for Gold level membership) Sign up for your free Texecom Cloud account today! - Get ready for the next wave of digital services from Texecom and join the thousands of systems already benefiting from remote cloud management and control. Visit: www.cloud2.texe.com
Unmanned train depots secured by Video Analytics
Southeastern Rail Network operates train services between London, Kent and parts of East Sussex. It is one of the busiest networks in the country, transporting 640,000 passengers each weekday on its 392 trains, which are temporarily housed in 12 depots situated around South-East England. Some of these depots are unmanned, and therefore require intelligent security solutions. Bosch Security System’s Integration Partner, Taylor Technology Systems, were tasked with upgrading the entire video surveillance system across the 12 depots.
The camera portfolio installed across the 12 depots included FLEXIDOME IP starlight 7000 VR, DINION IP starlight 7000 HD and AUTODOME IP starlight 7000 HD cameras. These cameras are all equipped with Bosch’s Intelligent Video Analytics solutions ensuring that the most relevant video data can be precisely applied to the requirements of the train depots. Visit: www.boschsecurity.com/gb/en/
Integriti update includes biometrics and real time location tracking
Access control and security system designer and manufacturer Inner Range has released the Version 21 update for its Enterprise-level system Integriti, which includes integrations with Suprema biometrics and Quuppa real time location tracking. The new integration with Suprema allows users to add thumb and face scans as access credentials, which can be used in addition to smartcards and PIN for high security with trouble-free access.
The integration with Quuppa means tagged information from the Quuppa system can be associated with Integriti entities, allowing direct control of the asset from either system. The asset could be an object, or a user associated with it.
The location of tagged assets can be made visible on Integriti’s schematic of the site, alongside all other access and security devices. Operators can access all cameras with the asset in their field of view, if fields of view are configured. Alert protocols can be set up with bespoke criteria and operators can track and view the asset instantly if an alert is triggered. Visit: www.innerrange.co.uk
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Dual technology reduces unwanted alarms
The wired Beyond detector from RISCO is ideal for private homes, remote sites, and industrial locations. The wired model can be installed using the RISCO Bus for ease of installation and supports remote services.
Dual Technology (DT) provides enhanced catch performance and pet immunity, minimising false alarms. Detection technologies such as Sway Recognition and Digital Correlation reduce false alarms in outdoor environments, such as naturally swaying shrubbery surrounding houses or facilities. Beyond's IP54 environmental rating ensures complete protection against rain and dust.
riscogroup.com/uk
PRODUCT EXTRA
Sensors and detectors
Essential for expanding the security indoors and outdoors, sensors and detectors come in lots of different variants and styles. Here are a few of the latest innovations
Wireless design ensures quick installation
The D-TECT X Dual Tech and the D-TECT Universal Dual Tech detectors from GJD are battery powered and include a Quad PIR sensor module, which reportedly provides better reliability compared to standard PIR detectors. Each sensor module needs to trigger simultaneously in order to activate, creating a higher resistance to false/unwanted alarms. They also have a built in Microwave sensor which only triggers if motion is detected. The added benefit of Microwave technology combined with the Quad PIR make the detectors ideal for use in a variety of changing weather and traffic conditions.
gjd.co.uk
Laser sensors for long range detection
Optex is rolling out the launch of its new Redscan Pro laser detection sensor which can detect intruders to a range of 50mx100m, without any ‘gaps’ or the detection reliability ‘fading’ with range. By creating rectangular as opposed to circular (fan-shaped) detection patterns, there are no unnecessary overlaps, providing coverage for virtual wall applications such as façade and fence protection, and for virtual planes to cover open areas, ceilings and roofs.
To meet the individual needs of every site, Redscan Pro features multiple zones logic. This means that for each detection zone, the sensitivity, target size and output can be configured independently, allowing the zone’s risk and location to be adapted and provide maximum capture rate with minimum nuisance alarms.
The sensor’s camera module brings visual assistance for configuration and post-alarm analysis. When an alarm is created, a file is saved with alarm log and video image. It helps security teams reviewing the alarms and checks if any action needs to be taken or if the settings need to be adjusted.
optex-europe.com/
PRODUCT UPDATE
Detector range caters for every eventuality
With a volumetric coverage pattern featuring 42 individual detection facets, each wall mount Capture model features double the number of detection points compared to previous Texecom detectors. This optical system makes the entrylevel Capture dual element detector perform to the same level as a quad PIR, and the Capture quad element detector perform higher again.
In addition to the ease of installation and various features such as flexible mounting points and adjustable terminal blocks the Capture range also comes with the option to place company information and/or logos onto the devices using a printed label from Texecom under a clip-on clear cover for additional branding.
capture.texe.com
External detection with anti-masking protection
MotionProtect Outdoor from Ajax Systems is a motion detector with a two-phase algorithm for protection against false triggering, pet immunity featuring antimasking system.
An outdoor detector is an easy target. During the day when the system is disarmed, intruders may damage the sensors or block their view to gain an advantage in trespassing at night. To prevent the cases of sabotage, Ajax has equipped the MotionProtect Outdoor with a tamper button and an anti-masking system that can remain active 24/7.
The anti-masking system in MotionProtect Outdoor calibrates automatically by analysing the surrounding area when mounting the device. Then, if an obstacle appears in the field of view of anti-masking sensors or if they are painted, the detector notices sabotage and raises the alarm. Moreover, a sensitive tamper is immediately activated if someone attempts to dismount the detector from its mount, the SmartBracket.
In addition, detectors can be installed with a hood to protect the anti-masking system from rain and snow.
ajax.systems
The combination of triple mirrors and three twin pyros in the Takex IP55 rated PIR-T series enable selectable operation modes including low position, high position, pet mode (PIRT15WE/AM), middle position (PIR-T40NAM) and high- density; from a mounting height of 2m to 6m. The triple mirror optical system features a geared mirror array allowing detection patterns to be dynamically optimised for maximum performance depending on the chosen mounting height and operation mode. Enhanced features include creep zone detection, near area cancellation, dual outputs, and lightning surge protection.
takex.com
Smoke detector extends home alarm capabilities
Extending the capabilities of the alarm system beyond security, the SMOKE-WE (2nd Generation) from Pyronix raises the alarm to the presence of smoke to protect homes and families. The wireless SMOKE-WE (2nd Generation) uses a photoelectric sensor alongside a light source and optical chamber for accurate detection. As smoke enters the optical chamber, it crosses the path of the pulsing LED light source; scattering smoke particles towards the light receptor/sensor to trigger the alarm.
The detector has a built-in 85dB local sounder and flashing LED lights; providing a clear and obvious alarm when smoke is detected.
pyronix.com/uk/products/smoke-we-2/
APPLICATION
Audenshaw School ensures security and safety
Audenshaw School in Manchester is an all-boys secondary school with approximately 1,200 students aged 11 to 16. The school was equipped with a biometric access control system; however, it had proven to be unreliable. On a mission to find a robust and reliable security system to meet safety requirements, the school engaged Certified Gallagher Channel Partner, Clarion, to replace the current access control solution.
The school required a security system and installer that would help keep people safe, reduce cyber security risks, and protect assets. It needed a solution that enabled complete site control from one central management platform, and wanted that platform to integrate with existing security and building management solutions in place.
“The system had to be easy to use, scalable, and cyber secure,” said Steve Morton, IT Manager for Audenshaw School. “We found our current system was lacking and did not meet some of these key requirements.”
Firstly, the school needed a security system that enabled rapid evacuation and lockdown: “In the event of an elevated incident, we must be able to lockdown all controlled doors at the push of a button. We also needed a lockdown feature capable of allowing key personnel on site to override the system with their ID card,” said Steve.
Gallagher Command Centre provides this functionality allowing the school to respond swiftly and accurately during emergency situations.
“The system enables us to lockdown individual zones directly via Gallagher’s mobile application, Command Centre Mobile,” said Steve.
Secondly, Audenshaw wanted the access control system to be linked to managed print services, so pupils can use the same PIN on the access control system, as they do on the school’s managed print system.
Thirdly, the school required a system that could integrate with its existing visitor management system, so that staff only had to carry a single card – the single card can be used to access doors and acts as an ID, so no excess cards or fobs are required for users.
“Not only were we able to link our managed print services and integrate our Visitor Management System, but we were also able to integrate our fire alarm system with Command Centre for maximum safety,” said Steve.
Finally, Clarion was asked to replace all hardware and software with a reliable system that could grow and adapt in line with future aspirations.
Site protection for Debenhams Ottaway law firm
Amthal has worked with law firm Debenhams Ottaway to design and install fire and security solutions for its commercial offices, and present ultimate site protection for its staff and visitors.
Having required assistance to ensure compliant fire safety and security at its main commercial offices, Debenhams Ottaway’s Facilities Management team spoke with the local business community to source Amthal and discuss design and specification requirements. Amthal worked with Debenhams Ottaway, completing a full risk assessment of its commercial offices in St Albans, to establish product requirements, right from perimeter protection through to internal fire safety procedures.
Amthal designed and installed a layered security system, integrating CCTV and door entry to maintain an active presence for the safety of all staff and visitors, alongside car park barrier services to control access on site. From a fire safety perspective, Amthal now actively services its fire doors on site, including all necessary inspections to remain compliant to latest standards.
Paul Rosenthal, Sales Director Amthal Fire & Security said: “Every law office should have a comprehensive security system to monitor their physical premises and to keep their confidential client data secure. Our aim was to fully understand the requirements, and install discreet security to work with every day activity and blend with its surroundings. This included ensuring there is sufficient capability to monitor the traffic across the site, at all times, during and after office hours.”
Trinity Fire & Security opts for cloud storage solution
VMware-based provider iland has announced that Trinity Fire & Security Systems has been using iland Secure Cloud and iland Secure Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) to host and protect the company’s workloads, marking a transition away from on-premises data centres as a means to enable future growth.
Trinity Fire & Security Systems is a provider of fire detection, fire safety, life safety and security systems. As the business grew over 20 years, delivering more contracts across a wider spectrum of industry types and sizes, Lee Angell, IT director, noted a snowball effect taking place — more customers meant more data, which in turn meant more resources needed to support the company’s data centres. From there, Lee had two options: invest even more funding and resources into expanding Trinity’s current data centre infrastructure or investigate new opportunities and technologies, particularly hosted cloud providers.
“Our current data centre was becoming more and more expensive to maintain and we were responsible for training and managing our own team,” said Angell. “As part of the business case, we factored in the staff effort required to maintain the data centre, whereas that isn’t a concern for us now. We’ve been given more flexibility. We have a small team and therefore the added agility was a good benefit for us.”
When the coronavirus pandemic hit early last year, Trinity already had its workloads migrated onto iland’s Secure Cloud infrastructure. All things considered, this made for a relatively “comfortable” experience, according to Lee. With the ability to monitor and manage a variety of workloads over a single pane of glass, and a majority of employees already equipped to work remotely, business was able to proceed uninterrupted.
Protecting a research base in Antarctica from fires
The Vernadsky Research Base, a Ukrainian Antarctic Station, is now equipped with an Ajax security system featuring FireProtect and FireProtect Plus fire detectors. The Ajax equipment was delivered at a distance of 16 thousand kilometres and protects the scientific base in Antarctica.
The previous fire system had not been upgraded for 36 years (since 1985). The old system malfunctioned and caused false alarms. Some detectors were inoperable. But finding spare parts for them (and getting them to Antarctica) was becoming more difficult.
Fire is a serious problem in the area as most of the buildings at Antarctic stations were built decades ago. These are often small wooden houses with metal panels insulated with foam. When the foam burns, it releases the deadly phosgene gas.
In addition to the Ajax hub (the security system control panel) and two sirens, ten fire detectors were delivered to Galindez Island in West Antarctica. They protect against fire, detect smoke and rapid temperature swings, and also prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
When connected to the Ajax security system via the secure Jeweller radio protocol, the detectors can operate at distances of up to 1,300 meters from the hub.
Ajax fire detectors will continue protecting even if the station loses access to the Internet or there is no one to monitor alarms. The devices can operate independently from the system control panel. Even if there will be no connection with the hub, detectors will recognise the threat, and the built-in sirens will alert the danger. The siren volume is 85 dB to wake up even those who fast asleep.
The system will also operate when the temperature in the station premises drops to +11-12°C, which happens when there are strong winds. The detector’s operating temperature ranges from 0°C to +65°C.
Finally, the autonomous operation period of the detectors is up to 4 years meaning that regular maintenance site visits will not be necessary.
APPLICATION
Video and access installation for London offices
The Corsham Street building in Shoreditch, East London has recently undergone refurbishment and modernisation. The site currently functions as a multi-occupancy space, housing a gym and multiple offices. These spaces are rented on short or long-term contracts to a variety of businesses.
As spaces within the building are leased to a variety of businesses there are a number of different entry and access group requirements. The new security system would also need to meet the proposed requirements outlined in future plans to work across five further sites. All sites will need to be managed centrally and facilitated by a Building Manager in a single location.
Prior to the refurbishment, the site had a basic intercom system which simply allowed visitors to buzz upon arrival. The main doors had a two-way audio intercom, with a simple electronic fob access option for users. Offices and store cupboards were accessible via traditional lock and key and there were minimal security cameras to monitor and manage users entering and leaving the site.
John Watts, Director of RJM Projects & Design who refurbished and assists to manage the building said: “Management of the system was a struggle before. Not knowing when doors had failed, having no ability to check access rights on fobs and lack of a data log made it challenging to use.”
The new solution was installed by Seen Services, who completely removed the old system, replacing it with Paxton10, which combines video management with access control in a single platform.
The system can be installed with Paxton’s own camera range or, as on this occasion, it can integrate with third-party IP cameras.
The building is used by a number of different organisations and subsequently has a high turnover of people using the access control system. With Paxton10 managers do not have to administer physical tokens, instead they can issue smart credentials via email and manage the system without the need for additional hardware. The free Paxton Key app means that users with a smartphone or smartwatch can use virtual tokens, which are free to issue with the system.
John Watts said: “What drew us to the system was the freedom to be able to assign virtual tokens, change permissions and access levels very easily, at the click of a button.”
Additionally, the integration of Paxton’s simple door entry system allows an improved experience for visitors to the building. The touch screen Entry panels were chosen for this project to enable companies in residence, to display digital logos and facilitate video conversations with their visitors before granting access, using the internal monitors.
The companies who rent office space in the building have found the system simple to use and have had a good experience with it since installation.
