CNI Security Group announces second CNI Security Technology Day

Building on its highly successful previous event, the CNI Security Group will be hosting another CNI Security Technology Day aboard the former WW2 Royal Navy escort ship HQS Wellington, which is located on the River Thames at London’s Victoria Embankment.  

The free-to-attend CNI Security Group event is being held on Wednesday 29 June from 9.30 am until 4.00 pm and will focus on fully integrated, secure and future-proofed ‘Best of Breed’, end-to-end solutions for high-security sectors/environments.

Showcasing the latest and upcoming Critical National Infrastructure (CNI)/Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) approved security technologies, the CNI Security Group event will be underpinned by 360 Vision Technology, barox, Harper Chalice, Identiv and ISM.

At the event, these leading manufacturers in the CNI sector will reveal their latest innovations in high-performance technology, including surveillance cameras, analytics, access control solutions, perimeter intrusion detection systems, industrial Ethernet switches and Physical Security Information Management software, including a variety of systems which are the only CPNI approved solutions in their class.

A number of informative and educational technology seminars covering a variety of developments in CNI technologies will run throughout the one-day event and impart invaluable security technology information for high-security/CNI end users, consultants and system designers, not to mention anyone responsible for the safety and security of utilities sites, power plants, prisons, nuclear locations, airports, stadiums and arenas.

Global security  

The CNI Security Group’s guest keynote speaker for the event will be security and intelligence specialist Philip Ingram MBE. In his address, Ingram will present on ‘The Resetting of Global Security’, revealing why it’s so important for businesses to understand the geopolitical context and inter-relationship regarding global threats, trends and risks. Included in the free-to-attend event itinerary will also be a guided tour of the HQS Wellington ship and luncheon.

“Following the success of the last ‘full house’ CNI Security Technology Day, we are delighted to once again be engaging face-to-face with customers at this CNI Security Group event,” enthused Sara Fisher, 360 Vision Technology’s sales director. “Visitors to the event will be able to view live displays of the latest integrated CNI security technologies. To help maximise delegates’ understanding of the latest technology solutions available, there will be a series of technology seminars and Q&A sessions.”

*Access the full agenda and register for the free-of-charge CNI Security Technology event online at https://www.360visiontechnology.com/cni-security-technology-day/  

**Places are strictly limited. Tickets will be allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis

Gallagher’s high security solution achieves UK cyber security standards

Security solutions manufacturer Gallagher is releasing its latest certified high security solution to market. The Gallagher UK CPNI CAPSS High Security System complies with the Cyber Assurance for Physical Security Systems (CAPSS) standard and the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) Readers and Tokens standards.

The news demonstrates Gallagher’s significant investment in delivering high security solutions for Governments operational in the Five Eyes alliance.

Passing the CAPSS evaluation provides the management teams at UK Critical National Infrastructure sites with confidence that Gallagher’s software and hardware meets the toughest cyber security requirements. The CPNI Readers and Tokens standards ensure physical access control readers and credentials are robust against both cyber and physical attacks.

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“With cyber threats growing in sophistication, cyber protection has never been more vital,” explained Richard Huison, regional manager for the UK and Europe at Gallagher. “Cyber security is an integral part of Gallagher’s physical security solutions. We’re pleased with the result from our CAPSS evaluation. It demonstrates our overriding commitment to provide security solutions which offer the highest level of protection.”

The CPNI protects national security in the UK by helping to reduce vulnerability to terrorism and other threats in our national infrastructure. Gallagher’s range of compliant solutions can be found under the CPNI Catalogue of Security Equipment (cpni.gov.uk/cse-categories).

* Visit security.gallagher.com/UK-High-Security for additional information on Gallagher’s UK CPNI CAPSS High Security System

360 Vision Technology “leads the way” in high security, CAPSS-approved cyber security

360 Vision Technology has announced that its ruggedised PTZ surveillance cameras are now the only camera product in the sector to be Cyber Assurance of Physical Security Systems (CAPSS) approved by way of the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI), as well as being ISO 27001 compliant.

In addition to advanced built-in cyber security capable of protection against the very real threats faced by surveillance system operators, 360 Vision Technology boasts an enviable track record in delivering specialist camera solutions designed to meet with specific customer and application-driven requirements.

This product engineering flexibility, coupled with high security protection, has paid real dividends, with significant sales and specification of the firm’s cameras for high-profile Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) projects.

“360 Vision has worked very hard to be ahead of the game in the vital area of system security,” said Mark Rees, managing director at 360 Vision Technology. “We recognised some time ago that robust cyber security would become a determining factor in the selection of camera technology for CNI and other high-security applications, so our team of software developers was briefed to ensure that these threats can be averted.”

Rees added: “As a UK-based surveillance camera manufacturer, we’re extremely adept at responding to customer requirements, which has resulted in some very exciting product deployments. Today, 360 Vision finds itself in an enviable position in the security camera market, whereby system designers and end users looking to fulfil product performance flexibility and high security applications are choosing the company as their ‘go to’ camera technology partner.”

Southwest Microwave awarded CPNI certification for INTREPID MicroPoint II perimeter security sensors

Southwest Microwave, the developer of integrated electronic perimeter intrusion detection systems, has recently received Government certification from the UK’s Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) for its INTREPID MicroPoint II intelligent fence-mounted perimeter intrusion detection sensor.

Focused on the protection of national security and reducing the UK’s vulnerability to terrorism or criminal threats, the CPNI provides protective security advice spanning physical, personnel and cyber/information security. Tasked with recommendation and specification of specific security measures and protocols that deter, detect or minimise the consequences of attack, CPNI employs a range of stringent professional standards to rigorously test and approve physical security equipment for the protection of Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) sites.

Certification of INTREPID MicroPoint II by CPNI qualifies the system as a reliable perimeter fence detection solution for the fortification of CNI installations.

All MicroPoint II system components, including Processor Module (PM II), Control Module (CM II), MicroPoint MC115 (standard) and MC315 (armoured) sensor cables, JB70A Lightning and Surge Protection Module and PS49 Power Supply are now itemised in CPNI’s Catalogue of Security Equipment, published to support key public and private sectors partners in the selection of equipment approved to protect essential national services and assets.

“Our INTREPID MicroPoint II fence-mounted perimeter intrusion detection system has been deployed worldwide to secure critical energy, transportation, Government and industrial sites along with many other facilities linked to CNI,” explained Martin Lomberg, Southwest Microwave’s European general manager.

“The successful accreditation of the MicroPoint II by CPNI reinforces its capabilities as an effective counter-terror solution for the highest security applications, both here in the UK and abroad.”

LOCKEN works alongside UK Power Networks to secure critical electricity supply infrastructures

LOCKEN – the developer of cable-free access control whose solution concentrates on power, intelligence and communication in one smart key – is now working with UK Power Networks to secure the latter’s electricity supply infrastructure.

LOCKEN equips more than 1,500 UK power distribution facilities with its digital access control system, enabling the power supply network to deliver maximum performance to its customers. The solution also improves Health and Safety procedures for the power group’s employees and subcontractors.

This solution allows UK Power Networks to move away from mechanical key-locking systems and make the transition to a solution built around smart keys and electronic cylinders.

The solution deployed by LOCKEN includes the company’s LPCB4 electronic high security padlocks (the most secure in the range). Only registered and accredited personnel are able to access work locations. Every lock opening or attempted opening can be tracked on the system for subsequent analysis.

Detail of a typical electricity substation

The three networks operated by UK Power Networks use more than 100,000 miles of underground cables and overhead power lines – a distance approximately equivalent to four times the circumference of the Earth.

Reliable power supplies are essential for the UK, and particularly so for Critical National Infrastructure. The decision by UK Power Networks to continue investing in the security of its network and infrastructure is a key part of achieving this reliability.

Nick Dooley, UK managing director at LOCKEN, explained: “The all-digital concept, with the energy supplied by the key, interested UK Power Networks because it allows simple, flexible, efficient access management and is supported by proven software, giving improved operational efficiency. Ultimately, that equals enhanced profitability.”

UTC Fire & Security UK receives CPNI approval for GS930 glass break detector solution

UTC Fire & Security – a business unit of the United Technologies Corporation – has just had its GS930 glass break detector approved by the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) for use in the UK’s most important security projects.

The CPNI provides protective security advice and assures a wide range of physical security products for use on Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) sites. This latest approval for the GS930 adds to the growing catalogue of security devices that have been officially tested for applications at such premises.

The GS930 is an intelligent audio glass break detector that analyses acoustic signals 80 times per second to provide accurate warning when framed glass is broken. Thanks to a patented 3×3 signal processing algorithm, no adjustment is necessary for different types and sizes of glass.

Detail of the DD669AM 20-metre ceiling mount dual technology movement sensor

It was also recently confirmed that the DD669AM 20-metre ceiling mount dual technology movement sensor had passed the CPNI test procedures. The unit combines mirror optics with 4D signal processing to provide accurate detection while increasing stability and the reduction of nuisance alarms. It incorporates range-controlled microwave technology that eliminates nuisance alarms generated by movement beyond the detection pattern.

“With these latest successes we now offer a very useful choice of intruder products which are approved for CPNI use,” said Ian Avey, pre-sales engineer at UTC Fire & Security UK.

“Having passed independent testing, these products are not just suitable for CPNI projects but also make for a great choice across the wider security segment. End users can be confident that these are highly dependable devices suitable for any application where performance is essential.”

The full range of CPNI-approved detectors from UTC now includes the GS930 glass break detector; the Aritech VV700 Seismic Sensor, the Aritech EV1116AM PIR, the Aritech VE1120AM PIR, the Aritech DD669AM Dualtech, the Guardall PQ15AM PIR and the Guardall BG9 Seismic Sensor.

*Further information is available online at: www.utcfssecurityproducts.co.uk

Affinity Water relies on Zaun’s Super10 for first single mesh SR2 fence order

Security fencing manufacturer Zaun has taken its initial order for the company’s HiSec Super10 system – believed to be the first single mesh to be certified to Security Rating 2.

Zaun will supply and install approaching 100 metres of the SR2-rated HiSec Super10 along with a series of Super10 gates for security systems integrator Reliance High-Tech on behalf of client Affinity Water.

The £50,000 contract is Zaun’s first since Super10 was certified to LPS 1175 SR2 (certificate number 1164a/01) by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) and entered into Issue 7 of the Red Book.

Affinity Water insisted on SR2 fencing to surround four enclosures at two sites to the north west of London.

Zaun will install 4 metre-high blue-coated Super10 fencing to surround a water tower and electric sub-station and a similar-sized loading bay together with single and double leaf gates at one site.

Two similar enclosures made from 3 metre-high silver powder-coated Super10 will go in at another water station nearby. Both sites will be completed by the end of March.

Security fencing manufacturer Zaun has taken its initial order for the company’s HiSec Super10 system – believed to be the first single mesh to be certified to Security Rating 2

Reliance High-Tech, of course, is a leading security solutions provider to Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) markets including the water, power generation and telecommunications sectors and, indeed, delivered the biometric smart card solution used for the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Affinity Water is the largest water-only supplier in the UK, providing millions of litres of water each day to 3.5 million people across North West London and parts of the Home Counties.

To maintain accreditation and a listing in the LPCB Red Book (www.redbooklive.com), manufacturers must regularly demonstrate to independent auditors that they’re producing products consistent with those tested. This gives the customer the guarantee that they’re receiving a secure and quality product.

Products approved by LPCB are rigorously tested for resistance to deliberate attack and play an important role in protecting people and property against physical attack, burglary, vandalism and acts of terrorism.

LPS 1175 specifically covers the approval and listing of intruder-resistant building components, strong points, security enclosures and free-standing barriers.

Reliance High-Tech achieves further growth within integrated solutions market

Reliance High-Tech has realised strong year-on-year growth by way of the company’s focus on advanced security and IT solutions specifically designed for mission-critical projects involving end users across the corporate and Government sectors.

The strategy of delivering sophisticated, IP-based solutions for high end customers has resulted in an increase in profits, sales and revenue, with a number of important contract wins contributing to this growth.

“By focusing on both technology and delivery we are winning new business,” commented Terry Sallas, managing director at Reliance High-Tech. “Our workbook has grown significantly through strong sales in core markets with new customers in addition to organic growth derived from our existing client base.”

Reliance High-Tech has proven itself particularly capable in providing solutions for the police service, the utilities, the pharmaceuticals sector and customers in the critical infrastructure space, with integration and remote monitoring as well as specialist solutions such as lone worker protection and digital interview recording all coming to the fore.

Over the past six months, the company has won significant new contracts across its core markets and also in the manufacturing, financial and water sectors, in turn delivering major security solutions for QinetiQ, Thames Water, SGN and the Metropolitan Police Service.

Last month, Reliance High-Tech also announced that it was opening an additional Business Centre in Leicester designed to be a new hub for solutions development, product testing, system demonstration and training. Terry Sallas has confirmed that further investments will follow.

Reliance High-Tech specialises in the design, delivery and management of electronic security and remote monitoring solutions

“Our performance over the last twelve months has been very strong and we’re already building on that success,” affirmed Sallas. “We’re investing in our processes, IT infrastructure and people as we focus on increased capability and, most important of all, customer satisfaction.”

Reliance High-Tech: the Partner of Choice

Reliance High-Tech’s Mission Statement is: ‘To be the partner of choice for organisations where security is mission critical’. The company works with many large organisations across the corporate sectors, the utilities, the custodial and criminal justice sectors, healthcare and higher education, in all cases providing end users with security solutions that protect people, property, information and physical assets.

The security industry has changed almost beyond recognition in recent years. The continued convergence of security with IT, the proliferation of disruptive technologies and threats that continue to evolve rapidly has seen the requirement for a new type of security integrator.

Reliance High-Tech is at the forefront of helping customers benefit from that convergence of physical and IT security solutions. Whether it’s through leveraging the power of IP systems across the corporate network or delivering integration and the management of a unified identity across physical and logical systems, Reliance High-Tech helps its customers establish a consolidated and more manageable view of their organisational assets and security provisions.

Terry Sallas: md at Reliance High-Tech

Reliance High-Tech defines the security agenda by realising a multi-dimensional approach to the subject that addresses the full spectrum of security issues for its customers, from the protection of physical and logical assets right through to the monitoring and remote management of critical systems and the protection of lone workers. This multi-dimensional approach to security is something the company refers to as ‘720Security’.

Through the development of a strong understanding of its end user customers’ unique security challenges, the company is readily able to identify the right technology for delivering security solutions that can both reduce cost and add value back to the business as well as minimising risk and optimising protection regimes.

Nicolas Staley joins Linx International Group in senior consultant role

Former Metropolitan Police Service Chief Inspector Nicolas Staley MBA CSyP FCIPD has joined Linx International Group as senior consultant to develop business opportunities both in the UK and on the international stage.

The Linx International Group is a dynamic consultancy providing a comprehensive range of security, risk management and investigation services. The operation also comprises ARC Training International and Perpetuity Training, both of whom are very well established and known for providing world class, accredited security management training programmes.

Speaking about Staley’s appointment, David Gill MSc CSyP FSyI (CEO at the Linx International Group) commented: “Nick will be a valuable addition to our consultancy and training team. He brings with him skills that will enable the group to develop additional momentum in new and existing markets and further enhance what is an already significant performance.”

Staley’s 25-year career in the Metropolitan Police Service included developing expertise in counter-terrorism, protective security, command and control, major investigations and covert operations.

Nicolas Staley MBA CSyP FCIPD

He gained extensive experience in high threat security operations within the Government Security Zone, Critical National Infrastructure operations and as a principal police counter-terrorism security co-ordinator during the 2012 London Olympics.

Having studied extensively to build an academic portfolio (culminating in him becoming a Master of Business Administration), Staley is now continuing his studies as a PhD student at the University of Leicester’s Law School.

Driving standards in the security sector

Ken Livingstone MSc FSyI, Linx International Group’s training director, added: “Nick’s industry experience combined with his academic qualifications reinforces the ethos of the group and our belief and commitment to driving up standards in the security sector.”

Staley has launched himself into his new role and is currently developing existing and new relationships with international partners in Africa, the Middle East and South East Asia’s emerging markets.

Nicolas will also be chairing some conference sessions in the Risk and Security Management Theatre at IFSEC International, which runs from 17-19 June at London’s ExCeL.

Thales secures connectivity of Highways Agency with five-year Public Services Network contract

Thales has been awarded a five-year contract to provide secure network connectivity services for the Highways Agency.

Let under the UK Government’s Public Services Network (PSN) connectivity framework, the contract will see Thales deliver a range of services to the Highways Agency including network connectivity, encryption security, Wide Area Networks, Local Area Networks and remote access services for employees.

The Thales solution will enable the Highways Agency to exploit modern, secure communications that conform to the Government’s PSN standards, improving cyber security while significantly reducing ICT costs and improving operational effectiveness.

The backbone of the Thales solution is a secure, accredited network service that will link 49 sites across the United Kingdom. That secure network will enable improved information sharing between Highways Agency sites while also supporting secure voice and improved data communications services.

Thales will manage transformation and migration of all users from their existing network to the new encrypted service. The company will also provide gateway services ensuring the data integrity and security of information while at the same time allowing Highways Agency staff to work more flexibly and efficiently.

Thales will also supply a high security Remote Access Solution (RAS) to enable users to connect securely to the Highways Agency networks from remote or home-based locations.

Reduced costs, improved security

“Thales is looking forward to working with the Highways Agency to deliver a network solution that will significantly reduce costs, improve security and enhance operational effectiveness,” explained Phil Naybour, vice-president of secure communications and information systems at Thales UK.

“Thales aims to be a leading provider of secure network and cyber security services for UK Government and Critical National Infrastructure. Securing this contract, which is one of the largest contracts awarded under PSN, helps to confirm Thales as one of the leading providers of PSN connectivity solutions where there’s a requirement for enhanced security.”

Thales will support the Highways Agency contract using project managers and engineers from its Network Operations Centre in Doncaster and its facility in Basingstoke, home to a new Cyber Security Operations Centre.

The Highways Agency is an executive agency of the Department for Transport and is responsible for operating, maintaining and improving the strategic road network in England on behalf of the Secretary of State for Transport.

Aim of the Public Services Network

The aim of the Public Services Network (PSN) is to create a single network based on industry standards and, in so doing, create a more open and competitive ICT marketplace at the heart of the UK public sector.

PSN will substantially reduce the cost of communication services across UK Government and enable new, joined-up and shared public services for the benefit of citizens.

The PSN programme uses two commercial frameworks: one for connectivity and one for services. Both the PSN connectivity and the services frameworks are now operational.

As one of the few companies to supply both PSN frameworks, Thales provides a full suite of secure network and cyber security assessment, audit and assurance capabilities.