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

OPTEX set to bring live and interactive product showcases to The Security Event

OPTEX’s UK team will be exhibiting at The Security Event in Birmingham from 5-7 April in order to showcase a range of leading solutions for creating an effective multi-layered security system, as well as demonstrating how the company’s award-winning Intelligent Visual Monitoring solution can play an integral role in protecting commercial and residential premises.

The team will be present on Stand B30 in Hall 3 at the NEC to explain how different technologies can be used to provide highly accurate and highly reliable intrusion detection based on layers of protection. This protection is suitable for a whole range of applications, from residential and home security through to Data Centres and industrial facilities and on again to large-scale entertainment facilities.

An area of Stand B30 will be dedicated to the multi-layered approach for commercial and high-security sites. This will include OPTEX’s fibre optic sensors for fenced and buried perimeter applications, in addition to the Redwall long range volumetric sensors for approach detection.

Further, OPTEX will demonstrate the new functionalities and intelligence recently added to its long-range LiDARs, including dynamic event filtering, which allows for alerts to be configured in order to meet specific detection criteria or logic.

Live demonstrations

Throughout The Security Event, OPTEX is going to be running live demonstrations of its Intelligent Visual Monitoring. This brings together all components of a given security set-up to create a visually verified solution that can be professionally monitored by trained operates at any participating Alarm Receiving Centre, thereby creating a highly reliable security solution that eliminates false alarms.

“The 2021 edition of The Security Event was very successful and we expect even more visitors this year,” explained Mathew Oakley, OPTEX UK’s sales manager. “For that reason, we have allocated more space on our stand to facilitate additional demonstrations and pods.” 

Oakley continued: “Many people in the industry know us for specific products being under the OPTEX or REDWALL brand, but very few know the breadth or our full portfolio from indoor Grade 2 and Grade 3 PIRs through to Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure-approved fibre optic products. We can cater for all intrusion detection needs.”

In conclusion, Oakley informed Security Matters: “We’re looking forward to catching up with our customers and engaging with anyone who’s interested in perimeter protection and intrusion detection systems.”

*OPTEX will be exhibiting on Stand B30 in Hall 3 at The Security Event, which runs from 5-7 April at the NEC in Birmingham

Gallagher named first manufacturer to achieve CAPSS 2021 standard

Security technology developer Gallagher has become “the first manufacturer to achieve the Cyber Assurance for Physical Security Systems (CAPSS) 2021 standard” with its Command Centre software and High Security Controller 6000 product. Gallagher is delivering high-security solutions for Governments in the Five Eyes alliance, along with providing confidence for the management teams at Critical National Infrastructure sites that its software and hardware meets the toughest of cyber security-focused requirements.

Richard Huison, regional general manager for the UK and Europe at Gallagher, informed Security Matters: “Meeting this standard proves to ourselves, our channel partners, our customers and Her Majesty’s Government that we are at the top of our game.”

Gallagher has been focusing on the CAPSS 2021 standard

Huison continued: “Along with other manufacturers, Gallagher was part of the market research conducted by the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) to establish how new technology would influence the latest 2021 standard. Obsolescence occurs fairly quickly based on an ever-changing environment. On that basis, the standards must evolve.”

National security

The CPNI focuses on national security in the UK by helping to reduce vulnerability to terrorism and other threats posed to the national infrastructure. 

Gallagher’s Command Centre and High Security Controller 6000 had already passed the CAPSS 2015 standard testing procedure and was included in the CPNI’s Catalogue of Security Equipment (CSE). The CSE is designed to help organisations choose appropriate physical security equipment to protect the assets for which they are directly responsible.

“To be listed in the CSE provides assurance for all customers, not just our high-security and critical infrastructure customers,” stated Huison. “Gallagher is the only manufacturer that sits across multiple categories in the CSE, providing assurance across the various components that make up the Gallagher system,”

Within the CSE, Gallagher sits across the Access Control Equipment, CAPSS Approved and Detection and Tracking Systems categories. Gallagher’s Z10 Tension Sensor was added for the first time last year, while its Command Centre and High Security Controller 6000 were tested to the CAPSS 2021 v1.1 standard and added this month.

Cyber protection

“As we’ve seen in the news recently, with cyber threats growing in sophistication, it follows that cyber protection has never been more important,” explained Daniel McVeagh, value stream lead at Gallagher. “Cyber security is an essential part of Gallagher’s physical security solutions. Achieving the CAPSS 2021 standard provides our customers in the UK with confidence that their Gallagher system will not be the weakest link in protecting against a cyber attack.”

Gallagher has a proven track record and reputation when it comes to the delivery of high security solutions around the globe, meeting some of the world’s most stringent physical and cyber security-related Government standards.

McVeagh concluded: “We’re committed to delivering solutions that meet Government compliance standards, not just in the UK, but around the world, and particularly so across the Five Eyes nations.”

Genetec unveils Streamvault Edge to simplify migration of existing security equipment to hybrid cloud architecture

Genetec – the technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations and business intelligence solutions – is set to unveil Streamvault Edge. The Edge is a new line of connected appliances that enables the easy transition to a hybrid cloud infrastructure.

Ideally suited to multi-site operations such as banking, retail or businesses with remote or unmanned sites, Streamvault Edge enables organisations to modernise their security infrastructure, while at the same time leveraging existing legacy sensor infrastructure.

The Edge enables the gradual migration of security systems to a hybrid architecture without disrupting operations. The appliance is also a low maintenance, easy-to-install edge device that makes the commissioning, deployment and management of connected remote sites both simple and straightforward without the need for specialised IT expertise.

On initial launch, Streamvault Edge will focus on delivering a hybrid cloud architecture for enterprise-grade video surveillance, with more security and IoT devices to be supported in the coming months.

Edge platform strategy

“This is just the beginning of a new edge platform strategy and a more efficient way of delivering our solutions to customers,” said Christian Morin, vice-president of product engineering and chief security officer at Genetec. “We’re starting with video, but Streamvault Edge will soon evolve to power a broader range of capabilities from access control to advanced operations technologies.”

A connected Linux-based appliance, Streamvault Edge has little to no impact on IT resources and can be easily installed and configured by non-specialised technicians. It offers the simplicity of the cloud for easy connectivity, configuration/deployment, scalability, maintenance and updates, regardless of where sensor data is archived.

For systems integrators, Streamvault Edge offers an ideal solution to help modernise existing installations and extend the useful life of legacy equipment, while future-proofing new infrastructure.

*Further information on Streamvault Edge is available online

barox set to showcase high-performance, cyber-secure PoE Ethernet switches at The Security Event 2022

barox Kommunikation AG, the global manufacturer of professional standard switches, media converters and IP extenders specifically designed for video applications, will be exhibiting at The Security Event 2022, which runs from 5-7 April at the NEC in Birmingham.

To promote the ease and depth of integration with third party VMS control, barox will be displaying a selection of its latest Ethernet Switch range on the Advancis stand (Hall 3 Stand F50). Demonstrating depth of systems integration, barox – itself an Advancis Premium Partner – will be showing switch integration with Advancis WinGuard PSIM software control, in addition to other solutions from Nedap, Cruatech and Zenitel.

The barox display will reveal how the company’s new range of managed and unmanaged industrial media converters caters for the demands of video and PoE heavy applications and features extensive cyber security functions that protect both the switch and network traffic.

With extensive management options, even the most complex of network requirements can be met. Advanced barox managed switch capabilities include active camera and PoE monitoring and active integration via switch modules for easy integration to popular VMS control.

PoE management

Supporting more simple, quicker and lower-cost installations, the barox RY-XX Series allows IP cameras to be fed robust PoE power via the data cable. Advanced PoE management allows installers to configure port settings for functionality such as connection, speed flow and auto-negotiation status, as well as power delay, and non-stop PoE with soft re-boot.

“We’re looking forward to meeting visitors to the show who would like to learn more about industrial managed and unmanaged media converters with the power to support the latest PoE heavy applications,” explained Rudolf Rohr, barox co-founder and managing partner.”

Rohr continued: “With the demand for increasingly more powerful PoE devices, such as dome cameras and all-in-one PTZ units, the barox range supports 802.3bt, with robust PoE power up to 90 W. In addition, for peace of mind, all barox Ethernet switches are designed to meet the specific operational and performance demands of CCTV surveillance, employing innovations that guarantee greater customer security and, for the installer, easy set-up and integration into leading VMS control software.”

*Further information is available online at www.barox.uk

Gallagher introduces voice-operated risk assessment app

Insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting firm Gallagher has introduced RiskTalk: a user-friendly, voice-operated risk assessment app designed to help UK businesses cut down on the time and expense of undertaking workplace safety assessments and benefit from increased reporting reliability.

The Health and Safety app helps businesses to perform fast and efficient risk assessments and manage the risks posed on site to the health, safety and welfare of their employees and visitors to their premises.

The app allows end users to record observations and report hazards by simply speaking into their phone or a tablet device, thereby removing the need for completing lengthy paperwork. Through a set of prescribed questions, RiskTalk guides users through the process of assessing and identifying risks present in the work environment and detailing how they will control them.

RiskTalk has been introduced by Gallagher for workplace Health and Safety assessments

RiskTalk also makes the process much easier for managers to review risk assessments. Users can take photos in-app and send recorded voice memos straight to a cloud storage system, with managers able to approve assessments by using a voice sign-off feature. 

Reports can be generated via the app, thereby avoiding the need for a lengthy data entry process which can then be converted to PDF files if hard copies are required. In-built speech recognition technology can understand and process recordings in 220 languages, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users.

All entries are time, date and author stamped – making it easy (in the case of a Health and Safety-related incident) to locate risk assessments and prove that they were completed in full prior to the event occurring.

The app works offline, allowing users to conduct risk assessments and store data while working in areas with limited or no network coverage.

Time commitment

Undertaking risk assessments is a significant time commitment for businesses. Research commissioned by Gallagher and conducted last month among 200 UK firms found that one-in-two companies (ie 49%) are concerned they’re not carrying out risk assessments thoroughly enough to protect their organisation, employees and clients, which potentially leaves them without a strong defence in the event of legal actions, insurance claims and Health and Safety Executive enforcement action.

Cost was highlighted as another frustration among businesses regarding the completion of risk assessments. Over two-fifths of firms (ie 45%) feel that completing risk assessments is an expensive process, costing their business an average of £1,500 per annum. This could be due to paying wages for employees undertaking assessments or for contractors who need to be paid to conduct them.

Neil Hodgson, managing director of risk management at Gallagher, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing this innovative risk assessment tool to UK businesses. It’s easy to use, makes the process of undertaking risk assessments quicker and more reliable and businesses will benefit from increased peace of mind that, in the event of an incident, they’re more likely to have a robust defence. This is particularly important when you take into account the fact that 50% of UK firms are unsure as to whether they’re completing the risk assessment process correctly.”

Hodgson added: “Evidence of risk assessments carried out and the steps taken to mitigate any identified risks can be crucial in the defence of an insurance claim for personal injury or illness, or intervention by the Health and Safety Executive or another regulatory authority. Penalties can be significant. Over £250 million worth of fines have been paid by businesses across all industries to the Health and Safety Executive over the last five years alone for non-compliance with regulations, with the average fine costing £135,000.”

*For further information visit https://www.ajg.com/uk/risktalk/

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

NSI outlines partnership with Nineteen Group for The Security Event 2022

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) is once again an official Event Partner of The Security Event and NSI experts are preparing to share important standards updates with professional installers and integrators throughout the show, which takes place from 5-7 April at the NEC in Birmingham.

The Security Event brings together over 200 exhibitors, providing an ideal opportunity for the industry to connect in person and keep up-to-date with the very latest technologies, products, services and insights.

NSI CEO Richard Jenkins commented: “We are delighted to be partnering with The Security Event again in what promises to be a lively and informative three days where visitors can experience innovative technology, learn from educational content, share insights and network.”

The National Security Inspectorate is once again taking part in The Security Event at the NEC

Jenkins continued: “Significant changes are taking place within the UK’s security sector, from the digital All-IP migration through to revisions in visual alarm confirmation and the ever-evolving cyber security environment. Whether installers are looking to take their first steps into gaining third party certification or wish to meet our team for expert guidance on the current standards, all are invited to visit our stand.”

Further, Jenkins affirmed: “Buyers of security and fire safety services are also actively encouraged to come and learn more about the importance of choosing NSI approved companies and the reassurance provided by the ongoing audit programme to which they would then commit.”

The NSI team will be on Stand L20 in Hall 3.

Fire and Security Installer Theatre

The NSI has been heavily involved in formulating the conference programme for the Fire and Security Installer Theatre and, indeed, some of the organisation’s representatives will be delivering a series of engaging sessions.

‘BS 8418:2021 for Detector-Activated Surveillance Systems – The Game-Changer for Police Response’ (Matthew Holliday, director of approval schemes, NSI). Tuesday 5 April. 2.00 pm

This presentation will highlight key drivers behind the latest edition of BS 8418, the standard for monitored CCTV systems capable of summoning a police response

‘Cyber Security – Are Security Systems Affected?’ (Matthew Holliday, director of approval schemes, NSI). Wednesday 6 April. 11.15 am

This will be a thought-provoking session on the need for cyber security in the security and fire sectors, considering not only the installing/maintaining organisation, but also products and touch points with the customer.

‘Fire Risk Assessment and Evacuation Alert Systems – A Certification Body’s Perspective on Demonstrating Competence’ (John Davidson, approval schemes manager for systems, NSI). Thursday 7 April. Noon

Following the publication of Dame Judith’s Hackitt’s ‘Building a Safer Future’ report and the ongoing Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry, there has been a hugely increased focus on the competency of contractors, and particularly so those contractors whose work could affect the fire integrity of – or life safety within – a given building. This session focuses on how third party certification can help to demonstrate competency.

*Find out more about The Security Event and its co-located events

**Register online for free tickets to attend The Security Event 2022 at https://rfg.circdata.com/publish/TSSES22/?source=TSENSI

Reliance High-Tech signposts Technology Day at Mercedes-Benz World

Reliance High-Tech, the independent security technology integrator, has announced details of its next Technology Day, which takes place on Thursday 24 March at Mercedes-Benz World in Weybridge.

Delivering a series of presentations alongside a specially chosen group of technology partners, Reliance High-Tech representatives will look at how the cloud is impacting and influencing the development of next generation security and access control solutions and also evaluating how such developments should align tightly with IT security strategies.

This ‘ticket only’ Technology Day will offer end users, consultants, IT and facilities managers alike an opportunity to hear from a diverse array of leading security industry experts about the latest technology developments and how these are influencing the future of electronic security.

Mercedes-Benz World in Weybridge

Senior personnel from industry-leading technology giants Brivo, Eagle Eye, Milestone, Commend and Mobotix will present on a range of topics in a number of executive briefings, duly covering a variety of issues such as the future of Access Control-as-a-Service, how hybrid solutions are enhancing integration, the evolution of surveillance camera technology, how analytics can perform efficiently in the cloud and the growth of Video Surveillance-as-a-Service.

There will also be day-long exhibition on site where delegates can be hands-on with technology from additional partner companies such as BCD Video, Tiger Bridge Technologies and Thinking Software, all of whom will show how their solutions can work in tandem to present the ideal security solution.

Design and implementation

“We are living in an exciting time due to the way in which the cloud, the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence are affecting security technology design and implementation,” commented Jas Murva, head of business development at Reliance High-Tech. “As more of this intelligence is used at the edge and on devices such as surveillance cameras, there remains a degree of confusion about how it can allow resources to be pulled to a central point, reduce energy consumption, facilitate connected thinking between devices and increase the potential power of analytics. This, and many other subjects, will be covered during our Technology Day, which will demystify the evolution of next generation cloud-based security solutions.”

Delegates can choose to attend either a morning or afternoon session, both of which will include the same speakers and content. Luncheon, coffee and other refreshments will be provided and attendees will also have the opportunity to network with the guest experts and peers. 

Reliance High-Tech has also arranged for full delegate access to Mercedes-Benz World and a session that will push delegates’ virtual racing skills to the limit on ultra-realistic racing simulators that capture the excitement, speed and driving demands of real Formula One racing.

Importance of the cloud

Alistair Enser, CEO at Reliance High-Tech, observed: “I’m delighted that we have been able to work with our esteemed technology partners on our first Technology Day focused around the subject of cloud ‘security’. We aim to enlighten people about the importance of the cloud, demystify some of the myths, explain the facts about it, look at why it’s important to embrace its benefits and also outline the roadmap ahead.”

Enser continued: “As an award-winning integrator, we invest almost £1 million internally every year on specialist IT technology and skills and have direct experience of designing and installing the latest products and services available on the market. I would urge any end users, consultants or facilities managers who want to better understand the future of security technology to attend this event. I look forward to welcoming our guests attending Mercedes-Benz World on Thursday 24 March.”

*Delegate numbers for this event will be strictly limited and entrance will be by pre-registered ticket only. For details of the full agenda and the speaker list, and to register your interest, send an e-mail to info@reliancehightech.co.uk

SALTO’s Neoxx electronic padlocks maintain company’s position at cutting edge of access control ecosystem

SALTO’s Neoxx electronic padlock is a versatile locking solution that enables end users to benefit from the advantages of electronic access control where previously it was only possible to use a mechanical locking solution (ie for perimeter or fire access gates, at industrial equipment yards and for residential storage areas).

Smart padlocks offer more security, easier maintenance, flexible access methods and a better overview of lock and end user activity. As portable as conventional padlocks, security is enhanced by removing any lock’s most vulnerable part – ie the mechanical key – and adding the benefits of being operated with a mobile app and contactless smart key managed by an advanced web-based access control technology platform.

The SALTO Neoxx solution is ideal for electric power stations, telecom network services, industry applications and property services that need an additional level of security to control specific doors, like gates or storage areas, without losing a piece of convenience and control.

These industries often require equipment and facilities on the perimeter or out in the field that, even though they’re in a remote location, require the latest in electronic access control. In addition, because they are often outdoors, the electronic solution they need has to include a product that can weather the extreme elements from rain and dust through to snow.

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Together with “the most complete locking platform on the market” (encompassing electronic locks and cylinders, online readers and locker locks) and SALTO’s core technology (ie SVN, BLUEnet and the JustIN Mobile system features) at its heart, the SALTO Neoxx padlock enables the management of keys, locks and access rights ‘on-the-go’, remotely from a single, highly visual and easy-to-use web-based interface.

Main features outlined

*High-security padlock made of hardened steel with a removable shackle model option which can be completely detached from the padlock body

*Shackle: Width 11 mm, Length 50 mm

*Security chain non-demountable model with safety chain to protect the padlock from burglary/dropping

*Cover case with double-layered structure 70 mm x 115 mm x 32 mm “guarantees the ultimate protection” from falls, shocks and the most extreme environments or usage

*RFID, Bluetooth Low Energy and NFC technologies onboard. Users can easily operate the electronic padlock with their smart card or with an iOS or Android smart phone

*Compatible with SALTO Space – Data-on-Card – and the SALTO KS – Keys as a Service – cloud-based technology, it can be switched to any of SALTO’s technology platforms at any time without changing the hardware

*Tested up to 130,000 operations on a standard set of batteries (4 x LR1).

Monitor battery status (to optimise maintenance and battery life). Changing or removing batteries is simple and secure – the end user only needs standard LR1 batteries and a special tool

*IP68 rating: Waterproof performance and high durability

*Tested against extreme temperatures including freezing conditions (-35ºC) and high heat (+65ºC)

*Fully certified according to CE, FCC, MIT, Mechatronic certification EN 16864:2018 and IK09