In the world of cybersecurity, ethical hacking proactively identifies security vulnerabilities before malicious actors (i.e., unethical hackers) can exploit them. By simulating real-world attacks, organisations can strengthen defences, protect sensitive data, and maintain public trust. In the physical security world, ethical hacking can transform cybersecurity of security systems from a reactive struggle into a strategic safeguard. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the role of ethical hacking as it relates to physical security?

Next-generation (Next-Gen) technologies are products, services, or infrastructures that represent a significant leap forward rather than a small, incremental update. In the physical security industry, NextGen products are those that enable disruptive change, breakthrough performance, and a fundamental change that renders previous products obsolete. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the next generation of physical security solutions, and how will they change the industry?

Emphasising proactive rather than reactive security shifts the focus from dealing with crises and damage control to prevention. Advantages of a proactive approach include cost efficiency, better business continuity, and fewer crises that draw attention away from strategic improvements. Staying ahead of threats is a core mission of the security department, and technology has evolved to enable security professionals to deliver on that mission better than ever. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive, and what is the benefit?

Multiple technology trends are transforming the physical access control market. There is a fundamental shift away from physical cards and keys toward digital identities — mobile credentials, digital wallets, biometrics, and cloud-native access platforms. These next generation access solutions are radically reshaping how buildings operate, protect staff, and perform functionally. At the same time, AI and analytics solutions are being layered onto these physical access control systems to support predictive threat detection and behavioural insights. Access data itself is becoming an asset for sustainability, space optimisation, and smart building initiatives. Risk, impact operations and experience The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues. The survey cites improving user convenience as a priority for nearly half of organisations, while 41% are focused on simplifying administration, and 28% struggle with system integration. These are not theoretical challenges, they are day‑to‑day friction points that add cost, increase risk, impact operations and experience, and, of course, must be addressed. HID Global’s commercial focus HID Global’s commercial focus is to help organisations digitise their access control — with mobile identities, biometrics, and cloud platforms — and then to use the data to deliver more value. “We are turning access control from an operational cost into a software-driven asset that improves efficiency, supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and even creates new revenue opportunities,” says Steven Commander, HID Global’s Head of Consultant Relations. The impact of digital transformation Digital transformation is the method of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials Digital transformation is in the process of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials to a software-driven, integrated experience. The transformation strengthens security while also improving user convenience — transforming the “pavement to the desk” journey. HID enables this shift through mobile credentials, biometrics, cloud-native platforms, and solutions that allow third-party applications to run on door hardware. “This helps customers turn access data into operational and commercial outcomes, while also improving the overall user experience,” says Commander.  Digital transformation in access control is not focused on chasing the latest trends. Rather, transformation is about turning software, data and integration into outcomes that matter to customers, says HID. “Security becomes stronger and more adaptive,” says Commander. “Operations become simpler and more cost‑effective. Experiences become seamless and consistent. Sustainability moves from ambition to action. And the financial case becomes clearer as efficiencies are banked and new value streams emerge.” The challenge of futureproofing with long lifecycles Given that physical security technologies will be in place for 15 to 20 years, it is important to plan for how systems can evolve over time. Considering how rapidly security threats, compliance standards, and user expectations change, 15 to 20 years is a long time. The decisions made at the beginning of a system’s lifecycle can either limit flexibility later (which will be costly) or enable long-term adaptability. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important Choosing products and platforms that are open, interoperable, and designed for updates can enable future-proof projects. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important.  In addition, systems built on open controller platforms — such as Mercury — enable organisations to switch software providers or expand functionality without replacing core door hardware. Architectural openness is key to system lifecycles and maximising the return on investment (ROI) from a chosen solution. Digital credentials and mobile access Flexibility and upgradeability should also be top of mind when it comes to endpoints like access control readers. While RFID cards are still commonplace, there is a clear trend toward digital credentials and mobile access. Readers that support both allow organisations to transition at their own pace, without committing to a full system overhaul. A long system lifecycle does not mean technology should remain static. Security, particularly cybersecurity, demands more frequent updates. Technologies that support firmware upgrades in the field extend the value of a deployment while helping organisations keep pace with emerging threats. In that sense, lifecycle thinking is not just about longevity — it’s about maintaining resilience and readiness over time. Applying biometrics and mobile identities Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction. Many organisations are now deploying biometrics to support fast, seamless access journeys, with adoption already around 39% in access control according to HID’s recent research.  In addition, 80% of organisations surveyed expect to deploy mobile identities within the next five years. Full technology integration enables tap‑to‑access without opening an app; the user journey becomes faster, safer, and more convenient. “It is where the industry is headed and we are at the vanguard of this,” says Commander.    Ongoing challenge of cybersecurity At HID Global, cybersecurity is embedded into everything, from corporate processes and development practices to the solutions they bring to market. “Our approach ensures that customers can strengthen their overall security posture, not only by deploying secure products but by benefitting from HID’s commitment to the highest industry standards,” says Commander. HID holds multiple globally recognised certifications, including ISO 27001, ISO 14298, SOC Type 2 and CSA STAR, which demonstrate their robust information security and cloud security practices. In addition, HID’s SEOS® secure chipset is independently SEAL-certified, providing one of the most advanced levels of protection available on the market today. “Ultimately, this means organisations are not just purchasing isolated secure products; they are implementing solutions developed and delivered within a comprehensive, cybersecure framework,” says Commander. “When deployed according to best practices, HID solutions enable customers to achieve the highest levels of resilience against evolving physical and cyber threats.” Developing green and sustainable solutions A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards Digital credentials align with the sustainable solutions that everyone wants. A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards. Over 550 million access cards are sold annually. This creates 2,700 tons of plastic waste and 11,400 tons of carbon, based on a PVC card weighing 5 grams.  Therefore, digital credentials self-evidently reduce the reliance on plastic cards (helping reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% according to HID’s research), while leveraging access control system data supports energy optimisation by shutting down or reducing systems in unused spaces. Energy use and CO₂ emissions can be cut dramatically, showing how access systems can contribute to sustainability goals and green building certification. What is the latest in smart buildings? Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services. Real-time access data enables new services such as automated room bookings, HVAC control, lift/elevator calling, e-bike hiring, and so on. Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services The financial upside is clear; smart, digitally transformed buildings can deliver around 8% higher yields per square foot versus traditional office space. Operational savings accrue from reduced administration, the removal of card production and shipping, and lighter IT support. This creates a value cycle — better experiences drive adoption, adoption fuels monetisation, and monetisation funds further improvements. Achieving technology impact in the real world One standout project is One Bangkok – a $3.9 billion mixed used development in Thailand – which demonstrates the scale of what can be achieved when access control data is used for optimisation, particularly when it comes to monitoring facilities usage and occupier behaviours. By switching lights off or lowering the temperature in unused rooms, for example, the One Bangkok building demonstrates this potential with a 22% reduction in energy consumption, saving 17,000 MWh and 9,000 tons of CO₂ annually.  Sustainability is a key factor in contributing to how properties are valued. And sustainability extends far beyond digital credentials having a lower environmental impact than plastic cards.  Buildings with recognised sustainability certifications often command rental premiums of around 6%, and three‑quarters of security decision‑makers now consider environmental impact in their procurement assessments.

Shenzhen Houlong Technology Co., Ltd. (Houlong Security), a Chinese manufacturer of security inspection equipment, has expanded its multi-zone walk-through metal detector line for the Central Asian market. The range now spans 5 to 33 detection zones, from the JT-SP and JT-600 for factory and office entrances to the 18-zone JT-1800B and 33-zone JT-3300 for airports, customs facilities and critical infrastructure. Every detection zone has independent sensitivity adjustment, which allows operators to suppress false alarms from shoes and belts without weakening detection across the rest of the body. Handheld metal detectors "Buyers used to compare only price and zone count," said Paul, sales manager at Houlong Security. "What actually decides screening speed is how precisely the gate tells your operator where the metal is. That is why each zone in our multi-zone gates can be tuned separately." The company exhibited at KSS 2026 in Astana, Kazakhstan, and is recruiting regional distributors across Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America. Its product range covers X-ray baggage scanners, walk-through and handheld metal detectors, security turnstiles, food inspection systems and under-vehicle surveillance mirrors, with OEM and ODM production available.

Ranger Fire and Security has become one of the first businesses in the fire and security industry to offer fully equalised private medical insurance (PMI) and life assurance benefits. It means that every employee across Ranger, regardless of role, seniority or which business within the Group they work for, will now receive the same wide-ranging and comprehensive package of workplace benefits. The move, which forms part of a wider set of workplace initiatives, breaks from an industry standard in which enhanced benefits are typically reserved for more senior or office-based staff. Comprehensive package of workplace benefits At Ranger, the same package is now being made available to engineers in the field, apprentices, administrators and leadership alike, helping recognise the crucial role they play in the business, and boosting the acquisition and retention of talent.  Mark Bridges, CEO of Ranger Fire and Security, said: “When we launched Ranger, our mission was to bring together outstanding local hero businesses, combining the expertise and talent of teams across the UK and Ireland to create a truly national platform capable of meeting every fire and security service need.” Buying additional holiday “Now, we’re focused on retaining and nurturing that expertise and talent, and our decision to provide every employee with the same workplace benefits underlines that commitment, as well as acknowledging the value that every single employee brings to the Group.” “Our engineers are the backbone of this business, and the idea that they should have a different standard of cover to anyone else never sat well with us. We are proud to be one of the first in our sector to put that right.” The enhanced package, available to all employees across the UK and Ireland, includes private medical insurance, life assurance cover, an employee assistance programme (EAP), a scheme for buying additional holiday, an employee referral scheme and other voluntary salary sacrifice schemes. It means that all members of Ranger’s now 550-strong workforce have access to PMI, compared to a national average of 13% of workers. Fire and security sector Alongside the benefits package, Ranger is also providing every company within the Group with access to a full in-house HR function - something that is rare in the fire and security sector, where many businesses operate at a size that makes a dedicated HR function difficult to justify or implement. It means Managing Directors and leaders within the Group, who may have handled people matters directly, are freed to focus on running their businesses and serving customers. For employees, it means professional HR support, clear processes and consistent standards wherever they sit in the group. Competitive labour market The changes are already influencing Ranger acquisition and retention of employees in a competitive labour market. Since the new package was introduced, multiple new hires have joined through the company’s employee referral scheme – which offers current employees a £1,000 bonus for successfully recommending an engineer and £500 for office staff. Several former engineers have also returned to the business in new roles, reflecting the strength of Ranger’s employee offer in a sector where enhanced workplace benefits are not always available consistently across the workforce. Bridges added: “We said we would invest in our people, and this is us putting this into action. A market-leading benefits package, a proper HR function available for every business in the Group and clear pathways for progression are already making a difference to how we attract, retain and grow – something that is good for our teams, our customers and the long-term strength of the business.”

Chubbsafes, part of Gunnebo Safe Storage, has launched a new technical discussion guide examining when certified storage should be reviewed based on the value of jewellery and precious metals. Developed for jewellery retailers, manufacturers, bullion dealers and security professionals, When Asset Values Rise, Should Storage Be Reviewed? explores the relationship between certified storage, declared asset values and physical security. It considers the technical factors influencing safe storage, from recognised testing standards and installation through to operational procedures and insurer expectations. Recognised testing standards The publication highlights how businesses routinely review financial performance, insurance and operational risk while physical storage can remain unchanged for many years. As inventory values increase, reviewing whether certified protection continues to align with the value of the assets being stored forms an essential part of wider security planning. Says Mark Brookes, Global Product & Standards Director at Gunnebo Safe Storage: “Certified storage is specified against a defined level of risk and asset value. When businesses expand, inventory profiles change or insurance requirements are updated, reviewing the original specification helps ensure the level of protection remains appropriate for the assets being secured.” Latest power tools "Independent certification provides an objective benchmark for these discussions. It allows business owners, insurers and security professionals to assess physical protection against recognised performance standards, giving everyone a common point of reference when reviewing storage arrangements." The guide examines how independently certified storage supports the protection of jewellery, precious metals and other high value assets. It explains the role of EN 1143-1 certification, the introduction of T2 testing against latest power tools and the importance of matching certified protection to declared asset values. Influencing physical security It explores the wider factors influencing physical security, including installation, access control, inventory management, alarm integration and operational procedures. Together, these elements determine how certified storage performs within the day-to-day operation of a jewellery business. Mark concludes: “The discussion guide has been developed to support informed conversations between business owners, insurers, security consultants and physical security specialists responsible for protecting high value assets. By bringing together recognised standards and current industry considerations, it provides a technical reference for reviewing certified storage as part of ongoing business risk management.”

His Excellency Mr Hiroshi Suzuki toured the fire detection manufacturer's Gillingham headquarters as part of his visit to Medway Hochiki Europe welcomed His Excellency Mr Hiroshi Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan to the United Kingdom, to its Gillingham headquarters on Thursday 24 September 2026. The Ambassador was spending the day in Medway meeting local businesses and celebrating the area's long-standing links with Japan. He was joined by the Mayor of Medway, Naushabah Khan MP and a delegation of Medway guests. Complete fire detection system The visit opened with an introduction to Hochiki's global business and European operations, given by Yuji Hayashi, Finance and Administration Director. Guests then toured the Gillingham site. The Ambassador and his First Secretary were guided in Japanese by the Hochiki team. The tour began in the training room, where guests saw a complete fire detection system with the devices Hochiki designs and manufactures highlighted. It then moved on to the production facility. During the tour, Darren Pugh, Director of Manufacturing, briefed the group on Hochiki's plans to extend its Gillingham site. Hochiki was founded in Japan in 1918 and has specialised in fire detection for more than a century. The Hochiki Group now has a global turnover of more than £400 million and more than 2,000 employees. It has six manufacturing plants, 38 sales offices and 14 subsidiaries, with manufacturing in the UK, Europe, Japan and the USA. Ongoing growth strategy Hochiki Europe has been based in Gillingham for more than 30 years. From here it supplies customers across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Caribbean. In September 2023 the company opened Apex House, a logistics facility in Chatham, which increased its warehousing capacity from 480 to 2,450 pallets. As part of the ongoing growth strategy, they are in the final stages of preparing a planning application for the expansion of the Gillingham facility and expect to submit to Medway Council in the coming weeks. The visit also reflected a connection between Gillingham and Japan that goes back more than 400 years. William Adams was born in Gillingham and reached Japan in 1600, becoming the first Englishman to do so. He went on to serve as an adviser to the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. The Medway Japan Friendship Association, whose members joined the visit, has long championed that shared history. Expansion of the Gillingham facility Katie Walker, Global HR Director at Hochiki Europe said: “It was a privilege to welcome Ambassador Suzuki to Gillingham alongside the Mayor and our partners from Medway Council. Hochiki has called Medway home for more than 30 year and our success here reflects the skill, commitment and pride of our local team. It was particularly special to share that with the Ambassador and to recognise the people who contribute so much to our business and our community, in a town with such a special place in the history between Britain and Japan. We value the support we receive from Medway Council and look forward to continuing to invest in our people and grow our presence here.” Following the tour, Ambassador Suzuki reflected "Hochiki is a fine example of the partnership between Japan and the United Kingdom. It is a Japanese company with more than a century of history, now manufacturing here in Medway and employing local people. Gillingham holds a special place in the story of our two countries as the birthplace of William Adams and it is a pleasure to see that connection continue through businesses like Hochiki. I would like to thank the Hochiki team and our friends in Medway for their warm welcome." Preparing a planning application From Hochiki, the Ambassador went on to MidKent College as he continued his tour of Medway. The full delegation included First Secretary Ms Junko Nakaji; The Worshipful the Mayor of Medway, Councillor Douglas Hamandishe; Councillor Vince Maple, Leader of Medway Council; Naushabah Khan MP, Member of Parliament for Gillingham and Rainham; Councillor Nina Gurung, Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and Leisure; Councillor Harinder Mahil, Portfolio Holder for Economic and Social Regeneration and Inward Investment; and Nicolas Maclean, Honorary Life Member of the Medway Japan Friendship Association.

Atyrau, one of Kazakhstan’s key regional cities, has been steadily advancing its urban development while facing growing demands on its road and traffic infrastructure. As vehicle volume increased and urban mobility became more complex, the city needed a smarter, more efficient way to manage traffic flow, improve road safety, and support the daily movement of residents, commuters, and pedestrians. In response, Dahua Technology delivered an intelligent signal control solution designed to enhance city infrastructure, improve mobility, and contribute to a safer and more sustainable urban environment. Critical traffic management Located in western Kazakhstan, Atyrau plays an important role as a regional economic and transportation hub. With continuous urban growth, the city’s roads have become increasingly busy, especially during peak hours. However, parts of the region’s road infrastructure remained insufficient, with some major roads lacking adequate traffic signs and signal lights. This created challenges for both vehicles and pedestrians, making traffic management more difficult and increasing safety risks across key intersections. Before the project, Atyrau faced several critical traffic management pain points Before the project, Atyrau faced several critical traffic management pain points. Congestion during peak hours had become increasingly prominent, requiring a cost-effective and flexible signal control system that could adapt to different road scenarios. In addition, unclear traffic lights and gaps in traffic management contributed to disorderly traffic conditions, including a serious chain collision involving nearly 100 vehicles in 2025. Increasing maintenance difficulty The city also needed a solution that would be easy to deploy and maintain. Many mainstream signal control systems are technically complex, which can increase maintenance difficulty and operational costs. For a growing city like Atyrau, the government required a practical system that could be quickly deployed, remotely commissioned, and adjusted with minimal disruption to citizens’ daily lives. To address these challenges, Dahua provided an intelligent traffic signal control solution combining signal controllers, signal lights, and traffic flow cameras. The system uses AI-powered traffic flow analysis to predict and manage traffic conditions with high detection accuracy, even in complex road environments. By synchronising traffic flow data in real time across multiple intersections, the system can dynamically adjust signal timing and generate optimised timing plans. Adaptive control capability A key advantage of Dahua’s solution is its simple deployment and adaptive control capability A key advantage of Dahua’s solution is its simple deployment and adaptive control capability. The system is designed to be easy to install, debug, maintain, and optimise, allowing traffic control strategies to be adjusted within seconds. This flexibility helps traffic departments respond more effectively to changing road conditions while reducing the burden on traffic enforcement and management teams. Dahua also provided professional traffic signal services, including green wave optimisation and traffic management support. Through its expert team and technical assistance, Dahua helped launch the first signal control demonstration project in the Eurasia region, strengthening local smart transportation capabilities and expanding the ecosystem of technical cooperation. The project also established a replicable model for medium-sized cities across Central Asia and other emerging markets, demonstrating how AI-powered urban mobility solutions can improve transportation efficiency, road safety, and sustainability with practical investment efficiency. Key adaptive intersections Following the deployment of the AI-driven intelligent traffic signal control system, Atyrau achieved significant improvements in urban mobility efficiency and traffic operations. Based on preliminary operational observations and traffic flow analysis at key adaptive intersections, peak-hour traffic efficiency increased by more than 15%, while average vehicle delay time was reduced by approximately 20%. The adaptive signal optimisation capability also improved traffic throughput across major corridors by an estimated 12–18%, helping reduce congestion during busy periods. Atyrau achieved significant improvements in urban mobility efficiency and traffic operations By enabling real-time traffic analytics and dynamic signal coordination, the project reduced unnecessary vehicle idling time by an estimated 18%, contributing to lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Operationally, the intelligent traffic management framework reduced manual traffic intervention requirements by approximately 30%, allowing local traffic authorities to respond more efficiently to changing road conditions through data-driven decision-making. Greener urban environment Beyond traffic efficiency, the project brings wider value to the city and its residents. Smoother traffic flow helps reduce unnecessary idling and emissions, contributing to a greener urban environment. Safer and more orderly intersections improve mobility for drivers and pedestrians, while intelligent infrastructure supports the city’s long-term vision of digital transformation. By combining AI, real-time data, and adaptive signal control, Dahua’s solution helps Atyrau move toward a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future.

TECOM Group has enhanced security and accessibility across several of its flagship developments in Dubai, including Dubai Media City, with the installation of advanced Gunnebo Entrance Control solutions. Since its establishment in 1999, TECOM has shaped Dubai’s landscape as a hub for business and innovation. Its ten business districts, including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai Design District (d3), are home to nearly 12,000 companies employing more than 124,000 people. Entrance control solution Developments like Dubai Media City welcome thousands of people every day, serving as both workplaces and collaborative hubs where ideas and intellectual property are shared. This made it essential for TECOM to implement an entrance control solution capable of maintaining robust security while preserving the smooth flow of people and the open, professional atmosphere expected across its developments. Following a competitive tender, Gunnebo Entrance Control was appointed to combine advanced entrance control, seamless integration with wider access control systems and a sleek design suited to modern commercial environments. More than 40 SpeedStile FLs gates were installed across several buildings, chosen for their performance, adaptability and ability to support high volumes of daily movement without compromising the visitor experience. Access control technology The SpeedStile FLs features a slim, contemporary appearance designed to complement modern commercial spaces. Beyond aesthetics, it incorporates advanced single-person detection systems, monitoring tailgating, piggybacking and unauthorised attempts to access secure areas. Audible alerts assist on-site teams, while third-party integration ensures compatibility with existing access control technology, including group movement through card stacking capabilities. For TECOM, this blend of security technology and design has delivered both reassurance and efficiency. By implementing SpeedStile FLs across its developments, the Group has strengthened security while preserving the collaborative and welcoming environment that defines its business communities. Fadi Yakoub concluded: “TECOM communities attract some of the world’s biggest names alongside dynamic start-ups, making them vital contributors to the region’s knowledge and creative economy. We are proud of our long-term partnership to deliver seamless entrance control solutions across their developments. The SpeedStile FLs provides flexible, reliable management of people flow, while also creating a welcoming and professional first impression for business communities.”

The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn is one of the four Inns of Court and operates as an active and thriving society of lawyers, sprawling across 11 acres in central London and dating as far back as 1422. The title of “Lincoln’s Inn” refers both to the Society and the location, which houses the Society’s own facilities, numerous barristers’ chambers and several solicitors’ offices. The Inns of Court originally provided accommodation for law students who learned their craft by attending court. Different levels of security Today, the Inns exist to aid students in pursuing the legal profession and serve as landlord, custodian of historic buildings, banqueting and events venue, and tourist attraction. To fulfill these many functions, Lincoln’s Inn required security that would meet their own high standards while protecting buildings that had been in continuous operation for centuries. As the Inn not only provides services to law students, but also operates as an attraction and a hosting venue, many different levels of security need to be in place for a variety of users—full-time employees, temporary contractors, event staff, students, and others. For this reason, it was essential that Lincoln’s Inn have a comprehensive system to track and monitor their many keys for the extensive venue. Improving key control For some time, keys at Lincoln’s Inn were managed manually through an analogue system, with staff retrieving keys from an open cabinet and recording key usage with pen and paper. However, because at times manual recordkeeping can be less than diligent, this allowed for confusion as to who had what keys when, and made it possible for keys to be stashed away or used by unauthorized persons. With the variety and quantity of people moving throughout Lincoln’s Inn on any given day, a more secure solution was needed. To update and improve key control, Chief Porter Nicholas Bracey turned to the KeyWatcher Touch key control system by Morse Watchmans. Key storage and management “KeyWatcher Touch provides us with a fully secure means of key storage and management. We considered a number of products on the market and found the Morse Watchmans solution to be the most flexible and easy to use system,” said Mr. Bracey. “The high quality and ease of scalability were two of the top features we required, and the KeyWatcher Touch was a perfect fit for our key control needs.” Lincoln’s Inn installed two KeyWatcher Touch units configured for a total of 192 keys or keyrings in January 2016, and the system has been in daily use since the installation. It utilizes the Inn’s IT network and is fully integrated with the PCs in the security office and the office of the Chief Porter in order to provide maximum flexibility and ease of use. Providing maximum flexibility Tracking keys as they were removed and returned was a top concern, so the ability of the KeyWatcher to record who has removed what key and when was exceptionally important. “The keys are always secure, rather than being openly accessible to staff. There is no longer paperwork to be managed for logging, it is all taken care of with the KeyWatcher software,” continued Mr. Bracey. “Audits and reports are fast and accurate, and it has led to our staff becoming more responsible overall.” KeyWatcher Touch has provided Lincoln’s Inn with the functionality and security it requires to easily manage its 192 keys, while also providing an easily accessible audit trail. In addition, the system has proven hardy and resilient in daily use over two years. “We have had continuity with Morse Watchmans since day one,” finished Mr. Bracey. “Demonstrations of function, installation, and training were all handled almost entirely by the same representative, in addition to subsequent orders. The continuously exceptional service has ensured that we were getting exactly the product that would best serve Lincoln’s Inn and provide us with the security we need.” KeyWatcher Touch Features: Email and SMS Notifications Scheduled Reports via Email or SMS Centralised User Database Scalable, Modular Design

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that TEPCO Power Grid has deployed Genetec™ Security Center as the foundation for a next-generation physical security platform that supports its broader digital transformation strategy and scales with its growing operational requirements. The platform will centralise management of more than 30,000 cameras and support future innovation across the TEPCO Power Grid network of 1,600 substations and service centers. TEPCO Power Grid manages and operates the transmission and distribution network that delivers electricity from power plants to homes and businesses across the Tokyo metropolitan area. The company is using advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency, strengthen disaster response, and modernise critical infrastructure. Modernising critical infrastructure As its camera network expanded over the years, TEPCO Power Grid needed a platform capable of supporting large-scale camera management, integrating with image analysis technologies, and expanding access to video across a broader range of devices. After evaluating several options, the company selected Genetec Security Center for its functionality, scalability, proven track record, and customisation capabilities through its software development kit. “The response from users has been very positive, and we're already seeing new ideas emerge for how the system can be used across the organisation. Beyond supporting our current operations, we see an opportunity to leverage accumulated video data alongside AI technologies to support future operational and technology initiatives, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Genetec,” said Tomoyuki Soma, Group Manager, System Development General Affairs Group, System Development Center, DX Promotion Department, TEPCO Power Grid. Improving operational efficiency TEPCO Power Grid selected Security Center for its scalability and open architecture. The platforms broad camera support allowed the company to bring together camera models from multiple manufacturers into a unified environment, helping preserve existing hardware investments while giving teams room to evolve. The Security Center software development kit also enables the company to customise the system and integrate additional technologies as requirements evolve. Security Center gives TEPCO Power Grid a unified view of its camera network while allowing teams across the region to support sites in their respective areas. Activities such as adding cameras and updating maps, which were previously managed centrally, can now be performed by individual workplaces, helping improve operational efficiency. Digital transformation strategy Authorised personnel can also use the Security Center web app to view video from computers and mobile devices. During an incident or emergency, managers and field teams can remotely assess the situation and coordinate their response. The platform also helps teams identify camera malfunctions across the network, making it easier to locate and address issues TEPCO’s 1,600 geographically dispersed sites. In addition to video management, the company sees potential opportunities to leverage accumulated video data and integrate emerging technologies as operational requirements evolve. The company is also evaluating additional capabilities available within the Security Center platform as part of its longer-term digital transformation strategy.