Mul-T-Lock completes security upgrade project at Bristol University

As part of an ongoing complete security upgrade throughout the campus, Bristol University has benefited from Mul-T-lock’s MTL600 master key suites, designed and installed by Guardian Security Systems.

Bristol University is one of the most popular and successful universities in the UK and currently ranked 62nd in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2022.

Mul-T-Lock has worked closely with Guardian Security Systems, supplying high-security MTL600 suites to over 20 buildings across the university campus, all of them operated on a master key suite basis.

Antony Blundal, security services manager (systems) at Bristol University, explained: “University premises present a number of security challenges due to the open nature of the campus sites. There are different access requirements across all the facilities to consider. Working closely with Guardian Security Systems and Mul-T-Lock, we developed a specification using MTL600, which is flexible and remains cost-effective. The master key operation is invaluable to keep maintenance to a minimum, while the patent protection allows us better control of how many key copies are in existence.”

Patent protected until 2032, MTL600 presents a superior locking solution, with a combination of several technological elements involved to create strong resistance against different types of lock manipulation.

The high-security solution is available in various formats to allow Guardian Security Systems to create master keying systems with different locking products across campus, including a wide range of cylinders, padlocks and locks, in turn delivering the necessary protection and maximum convenience.

Precision engineering

Ken Ham of Guardian Security Systems commented: “MTL600 uses the latest design technology and highly automated production techniques to deliver precision engineering with unparalleled performance. This is why it was particularly suitable for Bristol University, who we worked with to design, build and maintain the master key suites across campus to ensure high-quality security, while also providing necessary access for staff and students.”

Ian Thresher, regional sales manager at Mul-T-Lock, responded: “The changing nature of the university ‘ecosystem’ in the UK, with significant developments such as rising tuition fees, has many implications, among them consequences for the safety and security of students, staff and the public.”

Thresher continued: “The legal and reputational issues arising from any failure to protect and secure people, physical assets and information data are also increasingly severe. Hence, it’s integral for companies such as Mul-T-Lock and Guardian Security Systems to work closely with universities in order to understand bespoke security requirements and install the best solutions.”

*For more information on Mul-T-Lock’s range of patented master key suites visit www.mul-t-lock.co.uk

Abloy UK delivers hybrid Incedo training course for Advanced Overwatch

Abloy UK has created a new hybrid style of training that blends in-person seminars with online courses in order to help organisations learn more about its Incedo ecosystem. Coleraine-based Advanced Overwatch, the installer of a range of security systems, wanted to understand more about Abloy’s Incedo solution and, as such, has now become the first organisation to receive the new style of training.

Incedo is a flexible security ecosystem that combines ASSA ABLOY’s range of wireless locks and other access hardware with flexible software, multiple management options and the ability to scale on demand in any direction.

Incedo connects security software and hardware within a single, seamless platform with the ability to have complete remote control of a premises and manage the ever-changing movement of people across multiple sites. Incedo Mobile Keys also offer secure mobile access, simplified management and user convenience and efficiency.

Subjects covered

The training covers topics such as how Incedo products meet the increasing demands of the market and the benefits of access control, what the most common hardware components are in the Incedo range and also what the system architecture looks like.

Delegates also learn how to integrate Abloy’s wireless access control range, how to configure and commission using Incedo Lite software and how Abloy can support companies when it comes to winning more business.

Hands-on configuration

Hands-on configuration was delivered at the Advanced Overwatch offices by Derek White, access control sales manager at Abloy UK, to the company’s access control engineering team.

Expert technical support was provided by Ian Miller (the manager of Abloy’s new Digital Access Solutions Academy) and David Thompson via video link from Abloy’s head office at Willenhall.

Patrick Logue, managing director at Advanced Overwatch, said: “As a company that lives and breathes compliance, we specify and install Abloy solutions to deliver and exceed client expectations. Incedo training is the latest in a series of partner programmes undertaken with Abloy. The Incedo training course was exceptional. The hybrid blend of in-person and online training was an optimal mix.”

Baba Devani appointed CEO at The SmartWater Group

Risk management and crime deterrent solutions developer The SmartWater Group has announced the appointment of Baba Devani as CEO. Devani becomes the first externally appointed CEO in The SmartWater Group’s near 30-year history.

The SmartWater Group comprises a broad portfolio of integrated security solutions that enable customers to predict, prevent and detect criminal activities. In addition to the traceable forensic marking liquid for which the company first became known, its capabilities span real-time crime analysis, rapidly deployable video surveillance and solutions for access control and intruder detection.

With operations in the UK and Europe, the Group services hundreds of clients in sectors spanning critical infrastructure, construction, retail, leisure and hospitality, transportation and industry.

Backed by The SmartWater Group’s majority shareholder Freshstream and a refreshed senior leadership team, Devani will be responsible for driving the continued strategic growth and geographical expansion of the business.

Baba Devani

Critical business services

Previously the CEO of Survitec Marine, a global leader in critical safety equipment, Devani brings more than 25 years’ experience in critical business services and has held leadership positions at organisations including Berendsen, British Airways and Babcock International.

Devani commented: “I was immediately drawn to The SmartWater Group because of its excellent reputation and the unparalleled levels of knowledge and customer focus that exist within the business. I’m passionate about leading a business whose growth is achieved through providing peace of mind to our customers and communities.”

Andrew Tyler, chairman of The SmartWater Group, added: “We’re very much looking forward to seeing how Baba seizes upon the opportunities that lie ahead to expand our geographic reach, further develop our offer and serve our customers even better and faster.”

Comelit-PAC appoints Peter Kernachan in technical trainer’s role

Comelit-PAC has appointed Peter Kernachan to champion training in its Manchester office, facilitating new opportunities for customers to build on their knowledge of Comelit-PAC products and services.

Kernachan is evolving his role in the team at what is an exciting time for Comelit-PAC, which now stands as an all-encompassing provider of door entry, IP access control, CCTV and compliant fire safety systems.

Importantly, Kernachan has built up a significant product knowledge since joining the PAC company in 2013 after having worked for 29 years in the electronics servicing industry. He can now apply his knowledge to Comelit-PAC and the development of new training opportunities.

Peter Kernachan

Investment in the future

Kernachan informed Security Matters: “Training is an investment in the future of not only our own business, but also those of our customers. As a company, Comelit-PAC is committed to establishing a way forward and forming partnerships, while also recognising the time pressures faced in today’s market.  It will be my duty to be involved in the opportunity to create a portfolio of courses designed to support growth.”

Further, Kernachan observed: “Each of our products and services offers unique features and possibilities for different market sectors. My role is designed to ensure courses can be developed and tailored to suit different requirements dependent on projects. It’s also about making sure that our sales and technical team members are ready to offer advice for every stage of a works schedule.”

Step forward

Steve Riley, division director at Comelit-PAC, noted: “I’m pleased to see Peter’s role evolve to support our training opportunities. The skills acquired from his previous position within the company will allow him to curate courses that are individually designed to support and meet the needs of our customers, both new and existing.”

Riley concluded: “This is yet another step forward in Comelit-PAC’s continuous development as a company. Our objective is to be ‘With you always’ for our customers. I’m sure Peter will make a significant contribution to our future business development.”

*For more information on Comelit-PAC and its product range visit: www.comelitgroup.com

Mul-T-Lock’s access control solution scores at Headingley Stadium

Mul-T-Lock’s high-security MTL500 patented cylinder system has been installed by MB Locks across hospitality suites and stands at Headingley Stadium as part of Yorkshire County Cricket Club’s investment programme designed to achieve strict Test Match cricket and Super League rugby dual criteria.

Headingley Stadium is a double-faced sports stadium that works seamlessly for both Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the rugby league club Leeds Rhinos. 

The jointly-owned stadium is undergoing a significant £50 million investment programme over a 20-year period, which itself involves architects and designers co-ordinating over security requirements at the location.

From the initial design process, Mul-T-Lock has worked in partnership with EM-B – part of the MB Group – in the role of technical design consultant for door hardware, checking on compliance across the premises with a keen focus on hospitality and stand security in order to bring the project together.

© Matthew Merrick Photography

To date, over 250 MTL500 cylinders have been installed on a master key suite, providing high-security protection and flexibility to accommodate the different access control requirements across the stadium complex.

Meeting the standards

Rob Oates, commercial director at Headingley Stadium, explained: “We continue to invest a significant amount of money to ensure that Headingley Stadium meets the strict criteria for both Test Match cricket and Super League rugby. We need to ensure every level of detail is commissioned to be as secure as possible both now and into the future, with no compromise when it comes to aesthetics and finishing styles.”

Oates continued: “Together with Mul-T-Lock, MB Locks demonstrated the advantages of MTL500. I’m particularly impressed with the flexibility of the master key system and its ability to incorporate all of our key access requirements. The MTL500 master key suite is now installed in the stadium’s hospitality areas and stands. Pleasingly, there has been minimal disruption to the dual ground operations.”

Mul-T-Lock’s MTL500 is the first cylinder in the UK to be supported by a key authorisation magnetic strip card. This card must be presented to a registered MTL500 locksmith before any additional keys can be supplied to ensure very tight control when it comes to key duplication.

Unique challenge

Philip Goldberg, managing director of MB Locks, informed Security Matters: “Headingley Stadium presents something of a unique challenge, as both the Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club and Yorkshire County Cricket Club have very different needs and requirements for the project in terms of security, accessibility and aesthetics. We worked on both sides of the stand including boxes, changing rooms, hospitality areas and concourses.”

Goldberg continued: “The benefit of working with Mul-T-Lock is our long-standing relationship, meaning that the specification could be quickly translated by the technical and sales team to design a master key suite, using MTL500 as a protective opportunity to meet the requirements. This solution can provide the ultimate in security, delivering a high-quality access control system with a huge number of usable combinations.”

Lee Mitchell, Mul-T-Lock’s regional sales manager, stated: “The specification for Headingley Stadium, and notably so for the hospitality areas, was exceptionally high. There had to be very high levels of security and access control for corporate and players’ entrances.”

Mitchell added: “Mul-T-Lock worked with EM-B Locks to deliver a tailor-made solution that could accommodate the different access requirements, all without compromising on aesthetics or security. The solution operates from the high-protection MTL500 master key system to offer strict levels of patent protection throughout the dual stadium premises.”

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions unveils new website

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK and Ireland has unveiled its new website, which boasts a fresh design, updated content and a streamlined experience for users of the platform.

The easy navigation makes it simple for users to find an access control solution that’s right for their organisation and project, with support and advice just a few clicks away. Users are able to quickly find the information they need, with dedicated areas for ‘solutions’, ‘services’ and ‘stories’.

Alongside a general overview of the products available from Opening Solutions, there are solutions recommended for different situations, such as fire safety and inclusive design. The website also features industry-specific information for sectors including healthcare, education and transport.

Comprehensive range

Kevin Campbell, sales director at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK and Ireland Door Group, said: “Opening Solutions has the most complete and comprehensive range of doors and ironmongery available to the construction sector, and our new website has been designed to showcase the solutions available. It’s not just doors we offer, though. As a global leader in access solutions, we provide the most comprehensive range of door products including mechanical and electromechanical locks, master key systems, architectural hardware, door controls, door sealing systems, access control solutions and more.”

Campbell added: “We work closely with clients, architects and contractors to provide tailored door set solutions based on individual project requirements. We want our website to be the first stage of the customer journey, opening the door for us to work together and assist in any way needed.”

Complete service

ASSA ABLOY Openings Solutions offers a complete service from specification, consultation and product and standards training right through to the supply and installation of products and an aftercare service encompassing fire door inspections, maintenance and repair functions, all of which can be seamlessly connected to support the golden thread ethos through the BIM application, namely the Openings Studio.

*For more information visit the new website at www.assaabloy.com/uk/en

Abloy UK introduces Digital Access Solutions Academy

Abloy UK has launched its Digital Access Solutions Academy: a purpose-built facility designed to showcase the company’s extensive range of products, with a particular focus on new digital solutions and ecosystems.

The new Digital Access Solutions Academy is a very important and exciting milestone in the ongoing development of the comprehensive training and Continuing Professional Development offer from Abloy UK.

Education has been a critical focus at Abloy UK since it first launched the Abloy Academy back in 2008. The latter is now widely regarded as a Centre of Excellence for education within the industry.

The company recognised there was a need to create a new area of the Academy for its growing customer base in order to focus specifically on Abloy’s expanding range of digital access solutions.

Ian Miller, manager of the Digital Access Solutions Academy at Abloy UK, explained: “The first focus of training at the new facility centres around our Incedo access control product range, and is aimed squarely at security engineers and sales teams.”

He continued: “I truly believe people learn best by doing something, so the training is designed to be hands on and shows trainees how to specify and install access control solutions as well as support customers.”

Miller concluded: “Digital access solutions is a relatively new area for Abloy UK. My ultimate goal is to have a variety of training courses on our whole portfolio, equally benefiting our customers and Abloy UK.”

*Further information about the Digital Access Solutions Academy is available online at https://bit.ly/3vcWiaZ

**Detail on products and services available from Abloy UK can be accessed at www.abloy.co.uk

Abloy UK presents advanced security solutions at Connected North 2022

Abloy UK is presenting its new CIPE Manager – itself a user-friendly, cloud-based management system – at Connected North 2022, as well as showcasing its range of innovative electromechanical locking and digital access solutions that are ideal for protecting ISP equipment and remote sites.

CIPE Manager allows Internet Service Providers and communications companies to manage all of their keys, locks and access rights from any location on a single management system, which can connect with every locking solution in Abloy’s digital portfolio with a secure and easy-to-use mapping and reporting interface.

These include the keyless Abloy BEAT Bluetooth padlock, the electromechanical PROTEC2 CLIQ system and ASSA ABLOY PULSE, as well as the high-security mechanical Abloy master key systems.

This range of electromechanical, mechanical and digital access solutions can be combined in a variety of ways to meet virtually any requirements, providing flexible, scalable, compliant and robust security in a range of applications from network cabinets through to remote sites, server cabinets and Data Centres.

Access control

PROTEC2 CLIQ is an easy-to-use access control system that’s trusted by many critical infrastructure organisations around the world, including the major telecoms and Internet Service Providers. It enables remote key management and provides comprehensive audit trails on locks and padlocks, which fulfils the demands of regulators. It also has the facility to electronically remove lost or stolen keys from the system, meaning that security can still be confidently controlled in circumstances where a key has been misplaced.

BEAT is a new keyless padlock that combines three main components: a digital key, a mobile application and a ‘Super Weatherproof’ IP68-rated, heavy-duty Bluetooth padlock. It’s designed for the protection of critical infrastructure and industrial sites, and physically secures property while offering customers improved operational efficiency, in turn easing logistics and reducing costs.

ASSA ABLOY PULSE is an intelligent, energy harvesting, future-proof solution that doesn’t need batteries or cables. This wireless access system combines the flexibility of electronic locking with the familiarity of mechanical security and requires no power supply as it self-charges with every use. Each user carries one programmable key giving them access to a specific allocation of locks and doors.

SMARTair is an access control system which uses electronic locks to provide advanced, user-friendly, compliant access management with multiple credential options. With intuitive management software, facility managers control, identify and update exactly who can open every door, with an instant overview of their site’s security status.

The user-friendly interface is accessible from almost any standard PC, tablet or smart phone, while the Openow mobile solution has the capability to send, revoke and update virtual keys over the air in seconds.

Clear overview

Steve Wintle, head of CI at Abloy UK, explained: “CIPE Manager includes a highly visual map-based user interface that provides a clear overview of the variety of locking points, connecting mechanical, electromechanical and keyless locking solutions into the same system.”

He continued: “Access rights can be updated and access permissions granted and revoked remotely from any location with most mobile devices or desktop computers by using the browser-based user interface.”

In conclusion, Wintle noted: “CIPE Manager provides digital convenience, control and security that simplifies the management of daily processes, adding operational efficiency and complete situational awareness.”

*To be held at Manchester Central on Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 April, Connected North is the UK’s leading connectivity conference and exhibition, covering full-fibre and 5G roll-outs, the digital economy, smart cities and digital infrastructure development, digital inclusion and, of course, the evolving enterprise ICT landscape

TDSi set to showcase latest hardware and software at The Security Event

Integrated security solutions manufacturer TDSi will be showcasing its latest security hardware and software systems on Stand C40 in Hall 3 when The Security Event runs at the NEC in Birmingham from 5-7 April 2022.

The Poole-based business will be showcasing its latest products with a keen focus on the GARDiS range of integrated software and hardware access control solutions, complete with the latest software updates and features, alongside the company’s contact-free Bluetooth Low Energy/mobile credentials authentication readers and an introduction to the eagerly awaited GARDiS apps.

John Davies, managing director at TDSi, commented: “We’re excited to unveil our line-up for TDSi’s forthcoming appearance at The Security Event 2022. We have a number of new products to show visitors, including the latest enhancements to our GARDiS software platform which now includes integration with the Milestone XProtect Plugin and HikVision’s HikCentral Professional Series.”

Davies added: “Visitors to the NEC will also be able to enjoy demonstrations of a range of new features in GARDiS itself, including Bluetooth reader integration, improved site maps and bespoke badge printing options. We will be offering regular presentations throughout each of the three days to highlight our solutions in action.”

TDSi will be exhibiting at The Security Event 2022

TDSi will also be showcasing its new Bluetooth Low Energy readers, which enable security operators to use the considerable benefits of mobile device authentication. High levels of cyber security are built-in, so too flexibility in issuing security tokens and prohibiting access, along with the inherent safety advantages of using this ‘touchless’ technology.

The company’s stand will also be featuring a first chance to see the new GARDiS app. “One of the benefits of our newly enhanced hybrid working schedules,” continued Davies, “has been the increased acceleration of our software development. The GARDiS apps will appeal to our customers and installation partners. Available for both the Android and Apple iOS platforms, these apps will add even further flexibility to the operation and installation of the GARDiS ecosystem.”

As well as demonstrating products, TDSi’s expert team will be on hand to help installers and system end users match its systems to their projects and daily security requirements.

Davies concluded: “The disruptions to live events over the last few years have really highlighted the benefits to be realised from in-person meetings. The Security Event 2022 is a great opportunity to meet our team and discuss solution needs, but equally so it’s an excellent opportunity for our team to gather feedback and insights which will drive the rapid and ongoing developments of our software and hardware. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the NEC in April.”

*For more details on The Security Event and visitor registration visit www.thesecurityevent.co.uk

**For more information on TDSi and its products access the company’s website at www.tdsi.co.uk

Traka’s new team embraces ‘evolution for growth’

Intelligent asset management systems developer Traka is focusing on significant team investment to ensure that the business is ready for an ‘evolution for growth’ in a post-pandemic commercial environment.

Traka UK’s managing director Steve Bumphrey has orchestrated a number of internal promotions, duly highlighting the importance of the team. These include the promotion of Tom Smith to the role of UK sales manager and Wayne Kynaston taking over as major accounts manager.

In recognition of the key areas that require commitment from Traka, Ben Farrar has been moved to focus on healthcare trusts and partnerships in order to ensure the sector receives a dedicated service from a supplier that can make a significant difference to the empirical work of the NHS.

Steve Bumphrey

“Whisper it quietly,” said Bumphrey, “but there are signs that the Coronavirus clouds are starting to lift. While 2021 was the year in which we all adapted to the ‘new normal’, 2022 is when we develop and grow to meet ever-evolving customer experience requirements.”

Bumphrey continued: “We need to set a north star to guide aspirations for customer experience. This is with specific targets set across all of our team members to ensure that we’re well positioned to meet the needs of intelligent management solutions. We must also be best placed to inject innovation and show support for our clients, right from initial design through to project completion as and when required.”

Professional services team 

Traka has also made several changes to its professional services team, including the provision of dedicated roles in project management with a newly-created position of senior project manager supported by the new field service manager to afford additional support for customers.  

Extra technical and sales support posts have also been recruited to provide total support to customers for their ongoing work programmes. Dedicated installation engineers are in place to meet increasing demand.

“This is an exciting time for Traka as we look to embrace the future,” enthused Bumphrey. “Our aim is to add to our resources and provide our customers with a complete intelligent management solution backed up by tailored technical and sales support.”

In conclusion, Bumphrey noted: “Together we are stronger in the market and our customers will benefit from our heavy investment in all areas of the business. We’re focusing on individual market development to present enhanced service offerings and increased support in delivering innovative new security technology products.”

*Further detail is available to view on the Traka website at www.traka.com