Technological leaps in the last several decades have revolutionised biometrics. The technologies are constantly evolving, spanning facial recognition to iris scanning to fingerprints, to provide new levels of security and convenience. Biometrics are everywhere, from smartphones to border control, constantly evolving to meet the needs of our increasingly digital world. They are also more accurate and easier to use than ever. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new with biometrics?

In the complex world of physical security systems, standards can enable disparate systems to be combined to function together as a cohesive whole. Standards help to ensure that all the “pieces” fit together to create a clear, unified picture. More broadly speaking, standards also play a role in ensuring best practices are deployed in a range of security-related situations. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Which standards have had the greatest positive impact on physical security?

When a bomb detonated in the Port of Beirut, I had hundreds of employees under my care inside the blast zone. Within just two hours, I was able to determine who was impacted, understand their safety conditions, and share resources for on-the-ground support—all thanks to mobile technology. For Chief Security Officers, receiving calls like these launches a variety of protocols and necessary decision-making with the safety and security of people and assets as a top priority. And these calls are only becoming more common. Dependence on threat intelligence Mobile phones have dominated the post-COVID environment where people work from anywhere Threats ranging from natural disasters to geopolitical conflicts are becoming more frequent and complicate the responsibility organisations have in keeping their people safe. To meet these needs CSO’s are staying ahead of negative outcomes through creating a greater dependence on threat intelligence. In these times, effective, real-time risk management depends on hyper-local data from technology that is accessible, portable, and dynamic–such as cell phones. Mobile phones have revolutionised the way people live and work. They allow us all to walk around with a computer in our pocket, bringing the world to our fingertips and eliminating digital borders for over 90% of the world's population. Mobile phones have dominated the post-COVID environment where people work from anywhere and have geographically distributed teams but are also more vulnerable to threatening events. Mobile-friendly risk management platforms Mobile technology assigns workers with easy entry to data that can help keep them and their teams safe As we approach 2024, many organisations are adopting comprehensive risk management tools that empower personnel across the organisation with the intelligence and knowledge they need to stay safe wherever they are.  Mobile-friendly risk management platforms, such as Crisis24 Horizon, provide always-on awareness, on-hand threat intelligence, and immediate communications and distress signalling through location monitoring. Users receive location risk assessments and push notifications directly to their devices about nearby issues and threats no matter if they are on or off the job. While only select risk managers have complete control of the platform and all sensitive employee data is protected through encryption, the app distributes critical intel to foster a culture of shared awareness and responsibility. Thus, mobile technology empowers employees with easy access to information that can help keep them and their teams safe. Creating a culture of mobile technology adoption In the last few years, the world has proven the importance of being well-informed of risks and mitigation plans to minimise harm. However, psychological barriers tend to trump physical barriers when it comes to accessing the vast array of tools our mobile devices offer. World has proven the matter of being well-informed of risks and relief plans to minimise harm Adopting this technology and establishing a culture that enforces risk management across an organisation is a daunting challenge that demands substantial commitment from leadership to be successful. Some companies have tackled this challenge by positioning security technology as part of the organisation’s employee benefits package, such as commuter benefits and health insurance, to encourage people to take advantage of these resources and learn how to use them.   Cohesive risk management culture Technology is only as effective as the people whose actions it informs, which is why adoption and integration are so important. When a cohesive risk management culture meets a powerful technology platform, individuals are enabled to receive threat alerts and counter their impacts, letting others know when and how to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their team.  For more information on mobile technology and other security trends, check out the Global Risk Forecast, an annual report by Crisis24 that provides a comprehensive analysis of key events around the world most likely to affect operations in the coming year.

Frictionless systems provide access to a building without interfering at all with a user’s entry experience. Frictionless access means you can automatically pass through a gate without showing a credential or otherwise engaging, and with the system recognising who you are and allowing you to pass. In true frictionless access, everything works seamlessly, with unauthorised people obviously barred. But how close are we to realising frictionless access control? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Is frictionless access control a reality or an empty promise?

The company has achieved complete LED illuminator coverage by transitioning to innovative technologies for light sources in video spectral comparators. These hardware solutions cater to advanced forensic examinations of documents, banknotes, historical records, art, and collectibles. This revolutionary change enhances the accuracy of forensic investigations. Traditional light sources, which were widely used in forensic equipment for many decades before, had several disadvantages. They consumed more energy, generated heat, and required special disposal. Completely replacing them with LED illuminators, which are devoid of these imperfections, was a revolutionary step in the industry. Latest transition to LED Now, the Video Spectral Comparator Regula 4306 is fully equipped with LED illuminators The latest transition to LED has been implemented across all the company’s comparators, where traditional lamps for examinations under UV-B and UV-C were replaced by LED light sources. Now, the Video Spectral Comparator Regula 4306 is fully equipped with LED illuminators, while 99% of the light sources in other Regula comparators utilise LED technology.  These include narrowband, UV, IR and high-intensity IR light sources, which are essential for observing luminescence effects in documents and banknotes, as well as for conducting hyperspectral analysis of examined objects. This change improves the examination accuracy and efficiency, contributes to the safety of examined objects, and provides comfortable working conditions for forensic experts. Integrating LED light sources “Regula was the first forensic equipment manufacturer to begin integrating LED light sources into forensic hardware solutions back in 1998. Throughout this time, we have continued to implement LED illuminators for different light ranges as soon as they became available." "Now, we’ve reached a further milestone by equipping our devices with LED illuminators for examinations under medium- and short-wave ultraviolet light,” said Alex Lewanowicz, Director of Hardware Engineering at Regula. Intensity of the lighting LED light sources don't damage the examined documents, thanks to the absence of heat As non-destructive examination methods, lighting and filtering techniques are frequently used in forensic science to examine banknotes, as well as printed and handwritten documents, in order to determine their authenticity, detect signs of forgery, or restore faded fragments of text in historic records.  When using LED illuminators, neither the temperature nor the intensity of the lighting changes, allowing for exact reproduction of the results of previous studies. Additionally, LED light sources don't damage the examined documents, thanks to the absence of heat. This is significant when working with objects requiring careful handling. Advanced forensic equipment Using LED illuminators also contributes to environmental sustainability. They require almost no maintenance and replacement over time, thanks to their low level of overheating and their technical excellence, which streamlines the work of forensic experts and reduces operating costs. Regula’s family of advanced forensic equipment now includes four video spectral comparators, with the Video Spectral Comparator Regula 4306 serving as one of the pioneering models. Tailored to a wide range of forensic examinations, these hardware solutions are now utilised in numerous forensic laboratories around the globe.

dormakaba announces a ground-breaking innovation in sustainable property management: a new fire-tested battery backup for uninterrupted power supply (ED UPS) to door automation (ED 100/250). This innovation marks a significant step for the Scandinavian markets Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden which are the first countries to start with the launch in April and May 2024. Integrated battery backup The outstanding innovation is the integrated battery backup for a continuous power supply in the event of a power failure. The installation kit for the rechargeable lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFEPO4) has been specially developed for dormakaba's pioneering ED 100/250 automatic swing door system. Furthermore, it reduces installation costs and minimises the need for expensive cable runs to external units. Fire testing The tests, carried out by the Swedish state research institute RISE confirmed the safety and reliability of the solution To address potential safety concerns, dormakaba has conducted extensive scientific testing to showcase that the battery does not contribute to spreading fire. Under very demanding test conditions, the battery was integrated into an automatic door system on a fully equipped fire door and subjected to a worst-case scenario. The tests, carried out by the Swedish state research institute RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden), confirmed the safety and reliability of the solution. Security and sustainability "With the launch of the fire-tested battery backup, we have developed a competitive product that offers customers significant added value in terms of security and sustainability," says Magin Guardiola, Chief Innovation Officer of dormakaba. Magin Guardiola adds, "We are proud to offer this innovative solution and look forward to its positive reception in the global property management market."

Award-winning global manufacturer of intelligent access control and security solutions, ICT (Integrated Control Technology), is delighted to announce the appointment of Gaurav Mahajan as sales director for the Middle East and India. With an extensive career in the security industry spanning more than two decades, including significant sales leadership roles at Bosch, Pelco, and Optex, Gaurav brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by security integrators. Access control, CCTV, and intrusion Having worked with many conventional security systems, Gaurav has profound knowledge and expertise in Access Control, CCTV, and Intrusion system specification. Thomas Napora, VP and GM for ICT EMEA explains “Gaurav has developed a deep respect and trust in the market throughout his tenure in the Middle East. He has a proven track record of delivering high-end enterprise-level security projects for prestige customers, I look forward to supporting his growth ambitions.” Business development and sales experience Gaurav will play a pivotal role in driving channel growth, fostering strong relationships Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Gaurav said, "I am very excited to join the dynamic and growing ICT EMEA team and look forward to utilising my business development and sales pioneers experience to accelerate the adoption of ICT’s pioneering products throughout the Middle East and India.” In his capacity as Regional Sales Director, Gaurav will play a pivotal role in driving channel growth, fostering strong relationships with integrators, and providing strategic leadership to further elevate his position. Dubai-based satellite office This commitment to local support is echoed by the opening of a new Dubai-based satellite office to act as the hub for daily operations, with technical support staff to be appointed as part of an ongoing growth strategy. Thomas continues “Dubai’s Silicon Oasis is a great place to be, It's the right hub for ICT. "The market wants high-end solutions to protect very large and complex projects, and I believe our offering and experience fit perfectly here.” ICT extends a warm welcome to Gaurav Mahajan as he takes on his new role.

Mul-T-Lock, a pioneering provider of patented locking solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its "Ladies Who Locksmith" campaign, aimed at raising awareness of and celebrating women in the locksmithing industry. Despite being a male-dominated field, Mul-T-Lock recognises the invaluable contributions of women locksmiths and their growing presence in the industry. Intricacies of high-security locks The launch of "Ladies Who Locksmith" seeks to spotlight these trailblazing women, inspire others to pursue careers in locksmithing, and break down barriers in traditionally male-dominated professions. The launch of "Ladies Who Locksmith" seeks to spotlight these trailblazing women, inspire others Hazel Oakley, a locksmith at Gloucester Locksmiths with seven years of experience, shares her enthusiasm, saying: "I love being a locksmith and have gained insights into the industry over the years. Every day brings different projects, and the constant opportunity to learn the intricacies of high-security locks. Putting what I have learnt into practice to offer support and guidance to those wanting a more secure environment." Stories of women locksmiths Oakley added: “It's encouraging to see Mul-T-Lock launch this campaign and I was happy to be involved.  I think it’s really important to listen to and see the contributions of women like me.  I have always been treated as equal and would encourage more ladies to join this rewarding profession to make a real difference." The "Ladies Who Locksmith" campaign will feature inspiring stories of women locksmiths, highlight their achievements and provide resources and support for women interested in pursuing careers in locksmithing. 'Ladies Who Locksmith' campaign "We believe diversity and inclusion are essential for innovation and progress," says Claire Blakemore, Managing Director at Mul-T-Lock UK. "Through our new 'Ladies Who Locksmith' campaign, we aim to pave the way for a more inclusive, locksmithing industry where women feel empowered to thrive and succeed." Mul-T-Lock invites locksmiths, industry professionals, and enthusiasts to join the conversation. To support the "Ladies Who Locksmith" campaign, please follow Mul-T-Lock on social media and share stories of women locksmiths using the hashtag #LadiesWhoLocksmith.

Installers JTI Brandbeveiliging was contracted to help make safety a number-one priority at a pioneering food manufacturer in The Netherlands. They achieved this by choosing Hochiki Europe’s marketing pioneering fire detection system, Latitude, alongside waterproof devices from the ESP range. This comprehensive solution ensures the highest level of fire protection throughout the facility, giving the food manufacturer peace of mind and allowing them to focus on what they do best: producing delicious food.  Kervo Kervo is a specialist in the high-quality cultivation and processing of fruit in the Netherlands. Since 1980 morello cherries have been grown in the Vossen family’s orchards in Roggel, The Netherlands. The family was one of the first growers in the region to use mechanical harvesting in the ’80s, fast forward 43 years later and Kervo currently runs operations across Europe and the UK and is proud of its reputation for offering the finest quality fruit to bakeries and fresh food processors.   Fire protection systems Complexities of this project was that during food production significant amounts of steam were generated JTI Brandbeveiliging was founded in 2009 and is trusted by its customers for advice, installations, repairs, and maintenance of fire protection systems across the region. The team, led by Luciën van Eldijk was commissioned in 2022 to design and fit the fire safety system that would be integrated into Kervo's new manufacturing plant in Neer. One of the complexities of this project was that during food production, and particularly during the cleaning processes, significant amounts of steam are generated, thus causing false alarms. Latitude fire safety system Lucien explains how he and the team navigated this issue, “In food production sites like this, the machinery needs to remain clean throughout the entire process. This means there is a lot of steam and water present, which, unfortunately, can trigger false alarms." "We needed to install devices that could negate this issue, Hochiki’s waterproof call points, sounders, and sensors were the perfect solution. They worked seamlessly with the Latitude fire safety system from Hochiki.”  Fire detection devices and systems Latitude, which is BOSEC-approved, a requirement for fire detection devices and systems in The Netherlands, has a powerful network-wide cause-and-effect capability. The system can support 5000 entries, with up to 20,000 inputs and 20,000 outputs across the network.  Benefits of Latitude The new building at Kervo is a huge facility making the Latitude system the best solution The new building at Kervo is a huge facility, at over 40 metres in height it required over 2.5km of cabling and hundreds of fire detection devices to help make the building secure, making the Latitude system the best solution.   “Due to the nature of this project, there have been some technical aspects where we have needed to seek advice, but the team at Hochiki has been very helpful in working with us to create the best solution for our customer." Easy to install with high standards "We choose Hochiki products and systems because they are reliable, they are easy to install and, most importantly, meet the high standards and regulations required by the laws of The Netherlands, we would recommend Hochiki products for this reason.”  Hochiki’s analogue addressable range (ESP intelligent) together with the Latitude system are EN54 Part 13 certified and with the BOSEC certification also in place, they provide the best complete and compliant fire detection system for businesses across the Belgium region as well as bordering countries such as Luxemburg, the Netherlands, and Germany.  

RecFaces, a facial recognition software company, has announced the successful deployment of its flagship product, Id-Guard at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru. This implementation marks a significant milestone in bolstering security measures at one of South America's busiest airports, underscoring the importance of maintaining a high level of safety at public transportation hubs. Jorge Chávez International Airport Jorge Chávez International Airport serves as a vital gateway for travellers and cargo, welcoming more than 20 million international and national passengers every year. With such a high flow of people, ensuring the safety and security of passengers and airport personnel becomes crucial. Recognising this need, RecFaces collaborated with airport authorities to implement their state-of-the-art Id-Guard solution and help ensure the safety of the facility.  Enhanced security measures The solution's features enable airport authorities to prevent suspicious individuals from accessing the site The implementation of Id-Guard has significantly enhanced security measures, allowing for proactive monitoring and rapid response to potential security threats. The solution's features enable airport authorities to prevent suspicious individuals from accessing the site, thereby safeguarding the safety of passengers and staff. Highest level of security “Airport representatives felt the need for facial recognition to strengthen the security structure within the airport as a whole,” notes Maria Kazhuro, Business Development Director for the LATAM region, RecFaces. Maria Kazhuro adds, “Our goal was not only to provide the highest level of security but also to simplify work processes for security guards. We can confidently say that the installation of an ID guard has significantly improved security in the facility. Now both airport visitors and employees can be sure that they are under even greater protection than before.”  Id-Guard facial recognition The deployment of Id-Guard at the Peruvian airport demonstrates RecFaces' dedication to excellence and innovation in the field of facial recognition technology. As airports worldwide continue to prioritise security and passenger experience, RecFaces remains at the forefront of delivering advanced biometric solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the aviation industry. 

Riga Sports Arena is a municipal facility maintained by the city of Riga, Latvia. Covering a total area of 21,821 square metres, the arena accommodates 2,500 spectator seats. It houses several training halls, including a large athletics arena, a training and warm-up hall, a weightlifting hall, and a sports field. Challenge Enhance security by replacing inefficient guards with technical equipment Riga sports arena faced a significant security challenge, relying on two guards who worked only night shifts. Depending on just one person was insufficient to ensure the safety of the complex, given its substantial size. The guards struggled to effectively cover all areas, leaving the arena vulnerable to security risks. Moreover, the financial burden of employing guards strained the city’s budget. There was a need to enhance security while eliminating the human factor and optimising associated costs.  Moreover, the financial burden of employing guards strained the city’s budget The client required a professional security system that could be implemented without extensive construction work or the need to lay a substantial number of cables throughout the building. They sought an effective and easily installable system that would enhance security without compromising the integrity of the facility. Solution Cost-effective wireless solution reinforcing security for a large municipal facility Considering the building’s size and recent reconstruction work, the installation of a traditional wired security solution was deemed impractical. This option would have required several months to complete and additional renovation work after installation. Moreover, the presence of many oversized windows, each requiring protection with detectors, made cable-based solutions even more impractical. GRIFS AG proposed an Ajax wireless solution that can be quickly installed without damaging the walls, allowing for complete control and management of the system through a mobile app. To streamline control without the need for multiple hubs, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller was selected In total, 115 devices were installed throughout the building to ensure comprehensive security coverage. To streamline control without the need for multiple hubs, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller was selected. This hub can control up to 200 devices, managing 25 security groups with a total of 200 users. This feature aligns with the client’s requirements, given the installation of many devices and the need to manage security modes for separate premises, all in the Ajax app. For example, it allows keeping employees’ offices in armed mode while conducting training sessions in the main hall. GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller Given that the sports complex spans three floors and considering the need for the hub signal to pass through two reinforced concrete floors, the decision was made to enhance its communication range. To ensure stable communication between all 115 detectors and the hub, the ReX 2 Jeweller radio signal range extender was installed. This guarantees a reliable connection between all system components, ensuring seamless communication even in areas with challenging signal transmission conditions. For comprehensive security, GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller opening detectors to oversee For comprehensive security coverage, GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller opening detectors to oversee all doors. Additionally, MotionProtect Curtain Jeweller, with a narrow viewing angle and a maximum detection range of up to 15 metres, protects the large windows in corridors and sports halls. The challenge with large windows was that glass break detectors may be positioned far away from the hit spot, making it difficult to detect glass breakage. However, MotionProtect Curtain Jeweller, equipped with PIR sensors, instantly reacts to movement within its detection zone along the whole length of a window. Notably, the detector catches movement only if a person enters its field of view, allowing for protection even when a cleaner is working nearby, or a staff member is walking around. In addition, MotionProtect Jeweller detectors were installed throughout all entrance groups, major corridors, and stairwells to promptly notify the owner and the security company in case of any detected motion. Multiple HomeSiren Jeweller devices To facilitate arming and disarming of the security system for numerous employees in the sports complex, a wireless touch KeyPad Jeweller was installed. By entering a code, the device can activate the full security mode and automatically blocks itself if an incorrect code is entered multiple times. KeyPad Jeweller supports up to 99 codes, each corresponding to a separate user, making it suitable for enterprises with many employees. HomeSiren Jeweller devices were installed indoors throughout the skill to provide loud signs For rapid security response, the wireless alarm Button Jeweller was installed, enabling quick notification of the security company in case of intrusion. Furthermore, multiple HomeSiren Jeweller devices were installed indoors throughout the building to provide audible warnings in case of danger or deter potential intruders. These sirens emit loud sounds up to 105 dB to prominently signal a breach, effectively preventing unauthorised individuals and enhancing overall security. The arena management plans to automate evacuation doors using the Relay Jeweller system soon, enhancing safety and security by allowing remote door opening during emergencies. Why Ajax Cost-saving security solution. Customers can experience significant savings by opting for Ajax. The costs of the Ajax system installation were approximately equal to the expenses for security guards’ salaries per year. However, starting from the second year, the Municipality of Riga can achieve significant savings by paying only a low monthly fee for monitoring. Easily scalable future-proof system. With Ajax, the security system is easily scalable, allowing for future expansion and the implementation of additional functionality as needed. For instance, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller, already installed, supports the addition of up to 200 detectors, including MotionCam Jeweller detectors for photo verification of alarms, without requiring any system reorganisation. This enables seamless integration for enhanced security measures, ensuring the system can adapt and grow with changing security requirements and evolving customer needs. Effortless wireless installation. Ajax offers a wireless solution, eliminating the need to lay cables in walls or undergo extensive repairs. This allows for quick and efficient installation without the limitations of wired infrastructure. After implementing the Ajax security system at the sports arena, the center’s management noted its convenience and decided to install Ajax in their homes.

Wetlands, the "kidneys of the Earth", are considered one of the three major ecosystems on Earth, along with forests and oceans. Hosting a diverse range of terrestrial and aquatic plant and animal species, wetlands serve as crucial habitats for numerous bird species. Red-crowned cranes Beautiful Wetlands vs Critically Endangered Cranes The Red-crowned Crane is considered as the "God of Wetlands" and is highly sensitive to environmental changes. It is one of 14 bird species in China classified as critically endangered, with only around 2,000 wild Red-crowned Cranes remaining worldwide. Monitoring these rare bird species not only aids in their effective protection but also reflects changes in the wetland ecosystem to some extent. Red-crowned Cranes migrate between the regions of East China and Northeast China In China, during spring and autumn seasons, Red-crowned Cranes migrate between the regions of East China and Northeast China, requiring wetland management personnel to make all necessary preparations in advance every year. Recording and tracking data (e.g. time of arrival/departure, and total number) play a significant role in monitoring both the Red-crowned Cranes and the wetland ecosystem. Hence, monitoring rare bird species is essential not only for their conservation but also for understanding the changes in wetland ecological environments. Red-crowned crane captured by Dahua camera Vigilant cranes, eager for improved, smarter observation However, Red-crowned Cranes have extremely strong vigilance. Even while foraging or resting, there are often adult birds designated to be on alert, making warning calls and taking flight if any danger is detected. Therefore, it becomes challenging for monitoring personnel to observe them up close, as they need to maintain a distance of several hundred metres using binoculars to avoid disturbing the cranes. Such limitations in observation pose difficulties in monitoring the population distribution and activities of Red-crowned Cranes. To achieve efficient and intelligent monitoring while minimising human interference, many wetlands have enlisted the assistance of an intelligent "avian expert". Dahua: the guardian of cranes with smart technologies In recent years, avian intelligent recognition systems have been increasingly applied in wetland monitoring. Dahua Technology actively explores the integration of technology and wetland conservation to support the monitoring and protection of bird species across multiple wetlands. Rare bird species like the Red-crowned Crane can be automatically identified and counted By employing high-point video footage combined with avian intelligent recognition algorithms, rare bird species like the Red-crowned Crane can be automatically identified and counted. This allows monitoring personnel to discover and observe various bird species clearly and promptly without disturbing them. Additionally, techniques such as background removal and contour deformation processing help reduce the interference caused by lighting conditions and backgrounds, ensuring that the footage presents the identifying characteristics, location, and time for each bird. With this approach, comprehensive and accurate data recording and result analysis can be achieved without disturbing the Red-crowned Cranes up close. A brighter future for biodiversity using intelligent analysis In addition to population counting, vocalisations play a crucial role in bird research. By utilising voiceprint recognition, it becomes possible to track and study the population distribution of rare bird species. Many regions have established and improved databases of avian vocalisations, creating a foundation for biodiversity monitoring and analysis. These databases, combined with visual identification, are being cataloged in order to facilitate more comprehensive research and analysis, optimise timely conservation measures, and enhance dynamic and diverse science communication and education. Dahua Technology continues to empower biodiversity conservation through technology. The Dahua AI platform enables continuous algorithm training that helps reduce the development cycle of recognition algorithms for specific species. At present, Dahua has developed over 800 bird recognition algorithms, with more than 500 focused on waterfowl and migratory birds primarily inhabiting wetland environments. This extensive collection of algorithms greatly supports and contributes to biodiversity conservation efforts around the globe.