2020 Vision Technology - Security Integrators

All ship shape at 2020 Vision

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:02:00 +0000

Specialist CCTV integrator 2020 Vision Systems have added ships to their list of specialist CCTV applications, having recently been awarded a contract to deploy on board CCTV.

The ‘classified project’ called for CCTV to be employed as part of the ship defences 2020 Vision was commissioned to implement the CCTV; installing Bosch Metal Mici ‘day night’ cameras with powerful zoom facility and thermal image cameras on board during the vessels fit out.

The ship recently completed successful sea trails.

2020 Vision qualify for another final at the 2012 IFSEC Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:49:00 +0000

2020 Vision is pleased to announce being nominated as finalists in the 2012 IFSEC Awards, with Coquet Island Puffin Cam.

2020 Vision have been selected as finalists in the Security Project or Security Installation category for their work with the RSPB in making the Coquet Island Bird Sanctuary off the North East coast not only more secure but also making the islands bird life more accessible.

Paul Morrison the islands warden said “RSPB staff are delighted they have been given this opportunity to monitor the wildlife in such detail, as well as ensuring maximum protection from egg thieves”.

Excitingly the system has been used to capture footage of a Puffin in an underground burrow feeding her young

This is the first time a puffin from the RSPB’s Coquet Island nature reserve, and within the region, has been caught on camera feeding.

Peter Houlis Managing Director said “The IFSEC Awards have been likened to the industry equivalent of the Oscars. It is extremely rewarding to be short listed finalists yet again. It is true testament to our innovative solutions and our attention to customer service.

2020 Vision is not new to awards having been finalists in the 2005 Security Excellence Awards. Winning best service company and overall winner in the North Tyneside SME Awards 2009 and IFSEC Award in 2006 for ‘Best Integrated System’ and outright winners in the 2009 Security Excellence Awards.

Business Continuity Awareness Week 2012 BCAW

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 15:54:00 +0000

Monday 19th of March sees the start of Business Continuity Awareness week. This global educational event is designed to help people understand more about business continuity management, its applications and benefits. Business continuity and resilience is becoming ever more important in today’s competitive global market. At 2020 Vision we know the importance of a well designed and implemented business continuity plan as we are fully aware of what we do is of crucial importance. Our commitment, professionalism and experience have to be second to none.

Don’t gamble with your business, ensure your organisation has a well developed and tested fall back plan in the event of a major incident or mission critical failure.

2020 Vision secures Trusts trust

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:42:00 +0000

Premier security integrator 2020 Vision Systems has won the trust of Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust; securing a contract to maintain their estate wide CCTV surveillance systems.

The Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust are one of the largest mental health and disability Trusts in England, as a result CCTV plays a major role in the security and safety of patients, staff and visitors. With a budget exceeding £300 million, employing more than 6,500 staff and serving a population of approximately 1.4 million, from over 160 sites across Northumberland, Tyne and Wear and Durham the Trust provides urgent care services, planned care and specialist health care services across an area totaling 2,200 square miles.

2020 Vision’s Peter Houlis MD said “it’s extremely gratifying to secure another major Health Trust contract; it is a sector we have considerable experience in. We are looking forward to working with the Trust and developing a mutually beneficial relationship”.

Shipshape security on board HMS Calliope

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:38:00 +0000

Security on board HMS Calliope is shipshape following a major upgrade of the CCTV surveillance systems by leading CCTV system integrator 2020 Vision.

HMS Calliope enjoys a prime location on the river Tyne nestled between The Sage and Baltic, next to the Millennium Bridge. It is the principal Royal Naval Reserve training unit for the North East of England and home base for some 100 naval reservists. Until 1968 HMS Calliope was a sea going vessel. She then came ashore and became a base, earning the nickname of a "stone frigate". Although HMS Calliope no longer sails and is shore based she is still technically classed as a ship and is a self-contained unit with a commanding officer.

Nearly 400 people currently use the base, ranging from naval reservists, naval units, university students and students from all three forces studying technology undergraduate schemes. Given the role of HMS Calliope security is a prime factor. With major building works currently being undertaken on the Jetty, including the formation of a new entrance gate, additional surveillance cameras have been deployed and a major overhaul of the existing CCTV system arrangements undertaken by 2020 Vision.

2020 Vision Systems Spot the Fraud

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:55:00 +0000

FRAUD WARNING - don’t get caught out.

Our accounts department recently received a telephone call and email requesting we submit details of all outstanding invoices appertaining to one of our clients. The person on the phone was very composed and sounded genuine. Equally the supporting email had been well designed to convey it was from a reputable large organisation. Fortunately our policies and procedures held fast and a vigilant member of our accounts team noticed the email address was not consistent with the organisations normal email format and informed the respective client’s accounts department.

The same client also received an email asking them to change our bank details to a new account, clearly an account set up by the fraudster. The email was accompanied with a very authentic looking made up 2020 Vision letter confirming the request. A telephone number and name were also included, which the client contacted. Again it was answered by a very convincing person appertaining to be someone they clearly were not. Thankfully, the client contacted us, so no actual fraud took place.

The incident is being investigated by the Police and has been forwarded to Trading Standards who advise:

This is a type fraud that we are aware of and action is being taken, please follow the advice below to minimise the risk to yourselves.

• Verify ALL changes of bank details requests via known contact details on your system or by contacting the main switchboard of the company following an internet search

• DO NOT use contact details on any letter received to alter bank account details

• Ensure that any new staff are made aware of the control process as we have heard of losses purely down to new starters in finance teams making errors

• Finance teams should be particularly aware of any requests to alter bank details which are received from their large creditors – we suggest an ‘at risk list’.

• Do not give out details over the phone unless you have verified the legitimacy of the caller.

Should you become the target of this type of Fraud log your complaint with Actionfraud

2020 Vision keeping you in the picture; you have been warned.

Newcastle University Business School: “Social media and Rioting: Organising and Responding”

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:41:00 +0000

Peter Houlis, Managing Director of security integrators 2020 Vision Systems is to present at the Newcastle University Business School’s popular ‘Digital Debate’ series, which kicks off 2012 with an event titled “Social media and Rioting: Organising and Responding” ; looking at the effects of social media in public disorder and political activism.

Introduced by Dr Savvas Papagiannidis, Senior Lecturer / DPD MSc E-Business and Information Systems, Newcastle University Business School, Peter’s presentation looks at how SME’s can prevent and minimise disruption to their business with co speaker Morgan Stephenson, General Manager, ht media, talking about the effect social media and video had on the riots.

The debate being held at Newcastle University Business School, 5 Barrack Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4SE at 8.30 on Thursday 16th of February will be Chaired by Ian Gibbons, Managing Director of Mobious

To participate in this free event please register in advance Digital Debate Registration.

For further information visit

www.ncl.ac.uk/nubs/about/events/item/digital-debate

North Shields firm wins Empire contract

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:41:00 +0000

2020 Vision, a North Tyneside based specialist security organisation, has won a lucrative contract to install an expansive CCTV system of 20 cameras to the North East’s flagship theatre.
The iconic Sunderland Empire has made the bold decision to invest in an overhaul of its existing security system in a joint partnership with Sunderland City Council.

Peter Houlis, managing director of 2020 Vision, explained: “The theatre’s previous system was out-of-date and simply not serving its purpose. The decision to invest in a new system means the historic building and some of its most valuable features will remain protected for many more years to come.

“Technology has moved on tremendously and this provides the theatre with state-of-the-art monitoring systems.”

The new CCTV system includes 20 new cameras, including 18 internal and two external cameras and is substantially bigger than the previous network.

Chris Francis, maintenance manager at the Sunderland Empire, commented: “We require a professional system that keeps our visitors, staff and building safe. That has been our priority and has included the need for cameras to all public entrances and areas and the stage door. We’re thrilled with the solution 2020 Vision has provided us.”

In the current climate, Peter Houlis believes that the contract win is positive news for region.

Peter concluded: “The previous system was installed by a national security firm based in the south. But we have the skills and expertise within the North East giving us the ability to retain investment in the area. This contract win proves that businesses can look on their own doorstep before looking beyond.”

Physical Security Information Management: an integrator's view

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:01:00 +0000

Following on from last December’s PSIM webinar organised by UBM’s Security Portfolio and Verint, Peter Houlis turns an integrator’s eye towards the subject... and what does PSIM mean for the client?

For those of you who missed December’s webinar entitled ‘PSIM: the fusion of security and business efficiency’ (hosted by UBM’s Security Portfolio and which you can view retrospectively), my input centred on exploring PSIM from the system integrator’s perspective.

Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) is a phrase often used within the security sector these days, but what is it really all about? Follow the link

http://www.info4security.com/story.asp?sectioncode=9&storycode=4128543&c=1

2020 Vision looking out for Berghaus

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:27:00 +0000

Following a successful technology ‘shoot out’ with two major national security companies specialist CCTV integrator 2020 Vision systems have secured the contract to upgrade and revamp CCTV surveillance at the HQ of leading outdoor clothing brand Berghaus.

To clinch the contract from two major companies 2020 Vision specified the use of network video cameras to supplement and replace some of the existing analogue system, which had served Berghaus well, but was dated and needed expanding to cover previously unprotected areas.

Following a camera shoot out against the analogue competition Berghaus had no qualms in awarding 2020 Vision the contract. The benefits and image quality was clear for all to see.

2020 Vision MD Peter Houlis “To secure such a prestigious brand client is testament to our abilities and commitment. It is all the more rewarding that they are an International business based in the North East.

2020 Vision was established in the North East in 1992 and specialises in security systems such as CCTV, remote site monitoring, access control and concierge services. It has provided security in a diverse range of environments such as museums, hospitals, casinos, universities, sports stadia, government offices and even a seabird island. The organisation has won a number of business and industry awards and is widely regarded as one of the leaders in its field in the UK.

2020 Vision stay on course with Durham University

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:51:00 +0000

Security systems integrator 2020 Vision Systems Limited enjoy a degree of success in winning the tender for the corrective and preventative maintenance of Durham University CCTV surveillance system.

2020 Vision’s MD Peter Houlis said “We are delighted to have retained a long term client in the face of strong competition; its testament to our customer service ethos that we have secured a further four year frame work agreement to provide the University with CCTV support services”.

Phil Coxhill of Durham University commented “the CCTV system plays a key role in our security strategy in making the University a safe and pleasant environment in which to work and study. It is essential that the system is performing to its optimum”.

Physical Security Information Management (PSIM

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:07:00 +0000

Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) is one of the current buzz phrases in the security industry, but what exactly is PSIM…. and what can it do for you?

To find out more about this fast growing subject follow the link and listen in on the recent Webinar hosted by Brian Sims Group Content Editor at UBM Live Security Portfolio.

https://vts.inxpo.com/Launch/XpoCastPreview.htmEventKey=52276&UserKey=4013351&UserType=0

The Webinar sponsored by Verint; titled PSIM: the fusion of security and business efficiency, is one of a series of interesting security related topics hosted by UBM.

Brian was joined by a panel of industry experts; Peter Weller of Verint, Brian Tuskan Microsoft Global Security, Nick Unsworth Arub Consulting and Peter Houlis MD of security integrator 2020 Vision Systems.

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:16:00 +0000

2020 Vision, a specialist North Shields-based security firm, has completed a contract to step up the safekeeping of students at a Tyneside school.

Parents, teachers and students alike at King’s School in Tynemouth can rest easy despite the arrival of the dark nights, thanks to the recent installation of a set of state-of-the-art surveillance cameras on site.

Steve Hall is Systems Sales Consultant for 2020 Vision. He said: “Having a long history of troubleshooting the security needs of various educational establishments across the North East, installation at King’s School was relatively straightforward, with the end result being the enhanced safety of the students as well as serving to protect the fantastic equipment on the premises.”

2020 Vision is an award-winning company which is recognised as one of the leaders in its field in the UK. It specialises in security systems such as CCTV, remote site monitoring, access control and concierge services. The organisation is also responsible for the installation of surveillance cameras in the Tyne Tunnel and most recently, the Sunderland Empire.

They have kitted out King’s School with a total of 12 high definition cameras, all strategically installed at the school entrance and key circulation areas throughout the building.

King’s School Facilities Manager Mr John McLeod added: “Whilst no incidents have occurred at the school to give us any concern, student safety is of paramount importance to us. As the nights draw in, the cameras give us crystal clear imagery of students leaving and arriving at the school as well as moving throughout the school.

“In addition to this, as one of the North East’s leading independent schools, we are continually adding to our stock of technologically-advanced equipment and facilities to ensure that current and future pupils have access to the best learning tools, and these cameras serve as a fantastic deterrent against any would-be vandals or thieves.

“The cameras were installed in less than a week and at little cost. With around 660 students, 90 members of staff, as well as some of the best educational equipment available to watch over, it has been an investment definitely worth making. We’re thrilled to have been able to work in partnership with a company who dominate their field in a location just a few hundred metres from our own front door.”

Podium Position for 2020 Vision’s Sponsee

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:56:00 +0000

2020 Vision are celebrating the success of their young Thundersport GB Sponsee Dan Chappell. Dan has had a tremendous second half season culminating in a podium spot earned at Mallory Park.

Dan said “I have never dropped out of the top ten which has moved me up to 8th in the championship. I am very pleased with this, I can still move up a few more places depending on the last two meetings, but with my confidence high I don't see why not”.

Peter Houlis 2020 Vision MD said “we are delighted with Dan’s achievement; he is a fine young man with a winning determination”.

PSIM Explained

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:54:00 +0000

2020 Vision MD Peter Houlis has been invited by United Business Media to take part and share his expertise in a Webinar on Physical Security Information Management Systems (PSIM). The Webinar is being chaired by UBM’s Brian Sims, Group Editor for SMT and Info4Security, examines PSIM; one of the current buzz phrases in the security industry, but what exactly is PSIM... and what can it do for you?

The Chairman and four industry guest speakers will take part in the live interactive seminar covering technology, the end user perspective, why PSIM is the way forward.

You can take part on Thursday 14th of November find out more at www.info4security.com

No Shelter in the Bus Lane as Enforcement shows good Return on Investment

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 13:43:00 +0000

The Bus lane city safety, infringement and enforcement ANPR strategy for Leeds City Partnership has proved a huge success in keeping Leeds buses running to schedule.

In the first two weeks of specialist system integrator 2020 Vision putting the system into operation 2000 offences of prohibited vehicles using the bus lanes has been recorded, resulting in the generation of £60,000 in revenue raised through the issuing of £30.00 fixed penalty charges.

The system which has been installed in accordance with the DfT and Leeds City specification document forms an important role in the management in Bus lane safety, infringement and enforcement and City’s environmental management policy.

Value of CCTV realized post UK Riots

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 09:13:00 +0000

Following the recent riots which blighted areas of London and other English cities the true value of CCTV has been endorsed.

Alarms, bolts bars and shutters failed to halt or deter looters and rioters and proved next to useless during the onslaught of rioters. However, Police say that video will be "a big part" of their investigations into events. CCTV images provided by Councils and local traders is proving highly valuable as Police officers sift through hundreds of hours of CCTV footage in an attempt to identify those who took part in looting and rioting across England last week.

Given the positive support of the Public, Police and Parliament in the recent post riot debate, now would be a good time to review your CCTV security and make sure it is working and addressing a substantial increase in risk. It is essential to ensure your system is producing clear useable images and that the quality is commensurate with your Operational Requirement.

It is good practice to follow the Home Office Police Scientific Development Branch advice on drafting an OR document. This states that, before a suitable CCTV system can be specified, it’s essential that an initial assessment is undertaken in order to determine the system scope, objectives and requirements. You should revisit your OR document regularly.

Note that these should not be confused with the technical requirements!

Initially, it’s vital to provide answers to the following questions:-

• is the system designed to deter, prevent, detect or prosecute?
• is it proactive, reactive – or both?
• is the system continually manned or unmanned, and used only after an incident is reported to provide post-incident information?
• what’s the system’s scope (i.e. prevention and detection of crime, public safety, etc)… it should be noted that this is a requirement under the Data Protection Act
• what are the areas to be covered, and what degree of coverage is required?

BS EN 50132-7:1996 entitled ‘Alarm Systems: CCTV Surveillance Systems for Use in Security Applications – Part 7: Application Guidelines’ describes fully the steps needed to produce an ‘operational requirement’ document.

Your review audit should be carried out by a security professional with a working knowledge of your industry sector

For more information on the positive impact of CCTV and the riots visit the BBC. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14525375

Security and 'The Intelligent Building'

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Intelligent cities and buildings are all about developing sustainable and supportive environments which are safe and truly responsive to the needs of their end user groups. Where does security fit in, though? Peter Houlis airs his views.

In my last article – entitled ‘CCTV and Austerity 2010: Part 2 – from A to IP’ – we looked at the compelling argument for migrating from analogue CCTV to network video, and also aired the potential cost savings and advantages to be had from using digital-based solutions.

Looking at the wider impact of new technology in the security space, though, what does the future hold?

Advances in technology for the security sector realise an exciting time for the serious systems Integrator and, importantly, an opportunity for change.

There are new developments in access control, including smart cards, improved biometrics and advanced networking capabilities.

Meantime, the transition of CCTV from an analogue to a digital offering, the introduction of intelligent scene analysis and the continued convergence of security and Information Technology provide a unique opportunity to expand the current uses and scope of such systems.

Systems have become easier to deploy and more powerful and, with the introduction of HD and megapixel camera technology, the improvement in picture quality is clearly visible for all to see, in turn providing greater coverage and far more detail for the end user than ever before.

Rising crime... and the continued fear of crime

It’s true that world events, rising crime and the continued fear of crime will ensure industry growth. There’s an increasing need for security awareness against terrorist actions and other risks and threats, and this is propelling Government agencies, managers in the travel and leisure industry, Critical National Infrastructure mandarins, corporate concerns and other high profile targets to invest heavily in new protective measures.

Further growth opportunities are forecast for systems being used to develop intelligent buildings and even intelligent cities where integrated technology is fundamental.

Intelligent buildings and cities move the boundaries on from the ‘Safe City’ concept where the emphasis is on integration and networking of security and safety systems to detect and monitor security incidents, making the information accessible to multiple responsible agencies and the emergency services, etc such that they might initiate the correct level of preventative and corrective responses.

All of which is vital in order to better manage emergency situations and other disruptive incidents and increase public safety and welfare.

Needless to say the subject of ‘The Intelligent City’ covers a vast field too big for the parameters of this article, but clearly life safety and security devices – and video surveillance in particular – will play a key part here as it’s already well recognised that CCTV and security have a major role to play in urban regeneration and making people feel safer.

Intelligent cities and buildings are all about developing sustainable and supportive environments which are safe, responsive and effective to the needs of their user groups.

As a consequence, there is now new attention being paid to multi-purpose, multifaceted systems that not only accomplish an array of specific security tasks but can also add people and employee accountability, building automation and other labour and manpower savings into the mix.

This results in a move from simple intrusion detection and standalone security systems to an integrated systems approach, developing products that can interface with a wide range of security systems solutions and IT – whether it’s through computer software, the user interface, microprocessors or other hardware – in order to ensure public safety and aid incident management and situational awareness (upon which intelligence driven management decisions can be made).

Developments in intelligent network video

At the forefront of this move is the development of intelligent network video providing ‘real-time visual intelligence’. Indeed, it’s the culmination of the benefits of network video and digital security products coupled with the convergence of information technologies that has expanded the scope of video surveillance beyond security into its application-driven operational use as a management tool to assist in Health and Safety, sustainability, productivity, personnel management and marketing.

It’s really all about enabling a given host organisation to ‘see everywhere’, providing real-time visual intelligence or post-incident analysis from which informed decisions can then be taken.

According to industry experts, the development and use of operational video surveillance will dwarf the security application as these systems will enhance business practises and add significantly to an organisation’s bottom line, further maximising the return on investment.

Currently, it’s the retail sector which is capitalising on the huge potential offered by service-based surveillance as the benefits of doing so may be readily seen.

Using video images for marketing analysis to ascertain shopping patterns and trends, tracking people to see how they move around a store or mall and which products catch the eye are distinct benefits.

Also, video may be used for staff monitoring and training: are staff presentable and adhering to corporate procedures and service levels, are they being proactive with customers, are queues building, do more tills need opening and are more staff needed on the shop floor, etc?

ANPR systems and facial recognition-based solutions are being used to target specific customers or regular visitors to drive customised advertising or generating personalised welcome signs (or summoning help or assistance in the case of disabled visitors).

On the Health and Safety front, are fire exits and escape routes clear (thus diminishing any potential for slip and fall claims) and are there any problems around the escalator?

The list goes on. In fact, the scope for surveillance here is almost as big as a person’s imagination.

What does all of this development really mean?

What, though, does all of this mean in terms of intelligent buildings?

Traditional buildings incorporate a number of mechanical and electrical services which operate independently: security and life safety devices, lifts, HVAC, lighting, IT, telephony and so on.

In some cases, those buildings may feature a degree of interoperability through a BEMS (Building Energy Management System) to provide a certain level of energy management. There might also be an integrated security system whereby devices operate on a ‘cause and effect’ or ‘What if?’ basis.

For example, if a valid card reader is presented to a door for entry a camera may be switched to record a few seconds of video images of the scene to provide a visual record of authorised entry.

Conversely, if an invalid entry is made a wholly different set of parameters may be instigated. For instance, associated cameras might be sent to presets, viewing exits and escape routes, with recorders switched into real-time record at a higher quality. Security personnel will be sent an alarm, the lifts disabled and doors electronically locked.

However, these separate and diverse systems require multiple networks on which to operate, offer limited building functionality, often result in the duplication of systems and, at the end of the day, represent individual control environments which are costly and difficult to both integrate and manage on a day-to-day basis.

Intelligent devices talking to one another

In the ‘intelligent building’ these devices all talk to each other at a high data level, bringing together access control, elevators, energy, fire, HVAC, lighting, security, video surveillance and 24/7 monitoring in one converged IT and building systems environment.

All these systems will report to a common ‘front end’ which will make informed decisions based on the information fed back to it via the various sensors and devices residing on the common infrastructure network. In turn, this allows centralised management and environmental sustainability through more efficient uses of energy, improved occupant comfort, safety and security and a greatly improved facilities management capability.

The end result? Reduced capital and operational cost for the host organisation, not to mention greater real estate effectiveness.

Traditionally, access to most building has been gained via a proximity access card. More recently, this has become a smart card which will store the holder’s security authorisation as well as HR detail (for example pay role, qualifications and job description information).

As well as providing access into and around the building, the smart card will provide controlled and auditable access to IT devices and vending machines, rest and welfare facilities.

In the very near future, carrying a card will be obsolete as authorisation/verification will be via biometrics (either fingerprint, facial recognition or retina scan), thereby removing a weakness in the system posed by the card.

As described above, the access regime will communicate with the other building systems, for example to inform the fire and intrusion detection system, lighting and HVAC that the last person has left the building.

Estimates for growth in the biometrics sphere

It’s estimated that the biometrics market will grow to be worth circa $11,000 million by 2015, with finger print identification systems generating the highest revenue (primarily driven by its adoption in national and civil identification programmes). Very soon, carrying car, office and house keys and basic passwords will be a thing of the past, to be replaced by your own unique identifier.

The video surveillance system will be the ‘eyes’ of the intelligent building, fulfilling both a security and people management role. Clever analytics in the camera will control lighting by detecting when there are people in a room or corridor. The ability to count people will be used to control HVAC based on room occupancy, setting and keeping temperatures to the optimum for comfort and energy efficiency.

The video system will also play an important part in emergency situations, first being used to detect or confirm an incident (ie the confirmation of smoke in an area following activation of the fire system, which will automatically alert the appropriate camera).

The ‘real-time’ video images will then be used to manage safe and efficient exit from the building: crowd detection in an escape route would initiate the PA system to herd people out through an alternative route. Lighting will be automatically controlled to signal and illuminate the way out. It may also trigger smoke extraction or fire extinguishing where and when the surveillance system shows it is safe to do so.

Lessons would be learned and operating procedures improved thanks to post-incident analysis of the surveillance footage.

ANPR and facial recognition would be used to direct visitors to allocated parking, to welcome them to the building and direct them to the relevant office or department.
Most access control systems contain fairly sophisticated alarm handling and management, but by integrating with the surveillance system or by using video analytics you gain the ability to not only detect and confirm intruders and track them but also to subsequently ID them post-event.

Unified front end management

The unified front end management platform in charge of the various system devices will not only control the building services but also provide standard operating procedures and ‘what to do’ instructions to operators for varying situations, escalating and or amending them as the incident changes, reducing training and manpower costs while at the same time providing uniform responses.

It will also provide incident logs and statistical reports on energy use, number of visitors and usual occupancy levels, etc: all designed to enable an organisation to improve and adapt to changing situations and, more importantly, validate and confirm adherence to regulations and Best Practice techniques.

Clearly, to achieve the truly ‘intelligent building’ will require change. Integrators will need to develop far stronger and meaningful relationships with architects, consultants and clients during the planning and design stages, and there has to be much more of a partnership approach between various trades and organisations during construction and implementation.

There is little doubt that the impact of new technology coupled with world events, rising crime (and the fear of crime), the cost of manpower and the requirement for detailed information will push this change.

We need to maximise the desire for reliable, effective, integrated and intelligent systems, and present a secure future for systems integrators who really grasp what the future is all about.

As featued on Info4Security - 28th June 2011

2011 Oscars at University of Birmingham

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 14:21:00 +0000

2020 Vision are again delighted to provide their support for the annual Birmingham University OSCARS.

Each year the University of Birmingham, Hospitality and Accommodation Service (HAS) recognises and rewards staff achievement and customer service at their annual OSCAR Awards. This years event the sixth, took place at Fusion on the Vale on Friday the 8th July.

The purpose of the OSCARS is to distinguish the individual or collective efforts of staff that go the extra mile to ensure customers needs and expectations are not only met, but often exceeded. These are the individuals and teams that ensure that HAS lives up to its vision of providing excellent services for the University community.

2020 Vision MD Peter Houlis who attended the event on behalf of the company said “good company, fine wine and delicious food made the evening a great success. We are delighted to be able to support our valued clients in acknowledging the contribution their people make to the success of such a prestigious University”.

For more information about the Oscars visit http://www.has.bham.ac.uk/HASOSCARS.shtml

UK Threat level re-assessed in July to Substantial

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:41:00 +0000

The UK Government has reassessed the current terrorism threat level in England Scotland and Wales from Severe to Substantial. In Northern Ireland it remains at Severe.

There are five levels of threat:

• critical - an attack is expected imminently
• severe - an attack is highly likely
• substantial - an attack is a strong possibility
• moderate - an attack is possible but not likely
• low - an attack is unlikely

The threat levels are set by Security Service (MI5) and the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC). Who work together to consider information gathered through intelligence in the UK and abroad and how terrorist organizations have behaved in the past.

The system of threat levels has been created to keep you informed about the level of threat the UK faces from terrorism at any given time. The system helps police and other law enforcement agencies decide how to allocate staff.

Experts predict it’s just a matter of time before the next attack. Whatever your walk of life security is probably more important today than at any point in history and we all need to take responsibility for our safety and security.

Given the substantial risk now would be a good time to review your security and make sure its working.

In order to implement a successful security strategy, it is imperative that an audit is carried out and a security management plan be developed. The plan needs to list the risks and actual and perceived threats, along with an operational requirement.

Your audit should be carried out by a security professional with a working knowledge of your industry sector

Remember to contact your local police force and speak to the ‘Counter Terrorism Security Advisor.’

Good physical security will be your first line of defence backed up by electronic security.

The security measures should be multilayered like an onionskin, and backed up by sound management policies and procedures, including staff training.

Fortunately, today’s security professionals can draw from a substantial arsenal of security options with technology, providing many cost efficient ways to improve security for everyone.

Take the no risk option and let 2020Vision review your security issues now. We have the knowledge and experience to solve your problems simply, contact us on 0191 2962662 or visit us at www.2020cctv.com

For further information visit www.homeoffice.gov.uk/counter-terrorism or http://www.nactso.gov.uk/documents

CCTV specialists use ground-breaking equipment to uncover never before private life of puffins on Coquet Island

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 09:48:00 +0000

A nationally renowned closed circuit security specialist has captured footage of a puffin feeding her young after developing a unique underground camera system.

Excitingly, this is the first time a puffin from the RSPB’s Coquet Island nature reserve, and within the region, has been caught on camera feeding.

2020 Vision, a North Shields-based CCTV systems integrator, which usually specialises in large scale, high security projects, has designed and installed a tiny camera below ground into a puffin’s nest on Coquet Island, just off the coast of Amble in Northumberland.

Video footage from the camera is being transferred via a wireless network to the Northumberland Seabird Centre, in Amble, where RSPB volunteers are on hand to help visitors discover even more about Coquet’s amazing wildlife. The footage is being watched by visitors, including bird lovers and schoolchildren.

The camera, just 30mm in diameter and 100mm in length, has been delicately placed into the puffin burrow in order to capture extraordinary footage of the puffins during the breeding season. The intimate recording of the puffin family’s behaviour underground is an exciting development for bird research.

“This is something we have never attempted before,” commented Michael Lynch of 2020 Vision. “We specialise in vast industrial projects for establishments such as prisons and universities. To create a camera so minute and specialised is a very new and exciting challenge for us. The icing on the cake is to unearth unique information about this amazing bird.”

RSPB staff are delighted they have been given this opportunity to monitor the wildlife in such detail, as well as ensuring maximum protection from egg thieves. The detailed footage is also fascinating tourists who visit Amble to witness the incredible arrival and nesting of up to 40,000 seabirds.

Michael continued: “We’re really pleased many thousands of people will now be able to view the habitats and behaviour of the great wildlife we have here in the North East through this special camera.”

Coquet Island is an RSPB reserve about one mile off the coast of Northumberland. The island is completely uninhabited, apart from wardens who protect the birds during the spring and summer months. Britain’s rarest seabird, the roseate tern, nests on Coquet Island. These rare and special birds need peace and quiet to successfully raise their young and for this reason, the public are prohibited from landing on the island.

Paul Morrison, one of the wardens on Coquet Island, commented: “2020 Vision have gone the extra mile to design a system that doesn’t disturb the birds but is capable of clearly filming in dark, enclosed spaces underground.”

Michael concluded: “To have live footage showing how the puffins interact is groundbreaking. Hopefully, the cameras will continue to reveal even more details of the secret lives of these birds.”

2020 Vision use Axis camera technology to help safeguard passengers travelling through the new Tyne Tunnel

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:36:00 +0000

The New Tyne Crossing project is one of the UK’s biggest transport infrastructure projects. A second vehicle tunnel, which opened earlier this year, has been constructed under the River Tyne in the North East and will serve all south-bound traffic. The existing Tyne Tunnel which is currently undergoing a full refurbishment, will service all north-bound traffic once it is reopened. The tunnels travel between North and South Tyneside and the existing tunnel regularly served 38,000 customers per day.

AXIS P1343 Network Cameras will be used in both the North and South-bound tunnels to detect incidents so that they can be dealt with as quickly as possible to avoid congestion and keep drivers safe. Axis cameras are also installed at the toll plaza providing surveillance of each lane and record highly detailed images of the all cars passing through the toll. These images are used to classify images and tie the vehicle type and registration plate to any fraudulent activity.

2020 Vision Systems Limited deployed the Axis cameras and also hosts the recording system which feeds images taken from the Axis cameras to the tunnel’s traffic incident management system. This system then alerts the tunnels staff when an incident such as a crash, breakdown or a fire occurs.

Peter Houlis, Managing Director, 2020 Vision Technology said: “The safety of anyone passing through the tunnels is of prime importance, so when specifying the cameras, the ability to share and access video images quickly was essential if an incident needs to be examined and dealt with immediately.

“We were keen to deploy network cameras from Axis as we felt we could offer a better all round technical solution by partnering with them. Their cameras offer high-performing video surveillance and excellent image quality.”

Phil Doyle, regional director, Northern Europe, Axis Communications said: “The AXIS P1343 provides the tunnels’ operators with the high quality images throughout the day and night.

“The camera is also robust, yet extremely easy to deploy. It simplifies the installation process and makes it easy to move the cameras if needed.”

The AXIS P1343 Network Camera delivers excellent H.264 performance in a robust design. Video quality is provided with progressive scan in multiple individual H.264 streams, as well as Motion JPEG streams. The focus assistant, remote back focus and pixel counter feature simplifies installations.

Viewing Standards of Interest - update

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:14:00 +0000

The publication in September 2010 of EN 50132-1:2010 - System requirements finally saw the completion of a full set of Standards for CCTV systems; some ten years after the first parts of the EN 50132 - Alarm systems. CCTV surveillance systems for use in security applications series were first published.

The CENELEC working group currently responsible for development of the standard is working on revisions to EN 50132-5:2001 - Alarm systems. CCTV surveillance systems for use in security applications - Video transmission, are being divided into three parts:-

· EN 50132-5-1. Video Transmission Requirements
· EN 50132-5-2. IP Video Transmission Protocols
· EN 50132-5-3. Analogue & Digital Video Interfaces

Publication for these revised standards is scheduled for late 2012. However, it is believed that responsibility for CCTV standards is to be passed to IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), who are also responsible for the development of Access Control standards.

BS EN 50132-7:1996 covers application guidelines. The above standards are supported by a raft of related standards. Further information of which can be found at www.ssaib.org or from the BSI.

Degree of Success for 2020 Vision at Newcastle University Business School

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:03:00 +0000

Six international students from Newcastle University Business School were invited by 2020 Vision to participate in a project to encourage diversity, equal opportunities and training within the organization, as part of their final year degree course.

The partnership between Newcastle University and 2020 Vision delivered excellent results to increase knowledge, communication, legislation and a review of the UK Human Resource process. These ‘life skills opportunities’ provided the students valuable experience towards their Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) qualification.

Newcastle University Project Manager, Sarah Carnegie has praised the success of the partnership and commitment from 2020 Vision stating ‘it’s a further demonstration of the level of support you have provided to the students’.

2020 Vision General Manager, Dawn McIntyre worked closely with the students throughout the project and encouraged the group to make the most of this opportunity regarding research, interviews and data processing. Dawn also worked closely with Newcastle University to ensure that a scheduled project was delivered to timescale and to agreed objectives.

Dawn praised each student stating “It was a breath of fresh air to welcome these students on board and it was a proud moment to watch them complete the group presentation. All students worked really well and delivered a fantastic presentation to the University”.

The project contents were put together by the General Manager and involved Recruitment, Interviews, Induction Day, Training & Appraisals.

Students, Zohra Agowun, Ashwini Navle, Deng Xinlei, Asset Yeshimbetov, Ting Gao and Yuan Zhou worked within these categories to look at the current 2020 Vision Human Resource system and submitted their recommendations or suggestions to improve on current management control.

Dr Fiona Whitehurst, Director of Engagement at Newcastle University commented ‘we would like to thank you for giving the students this opportunity to work within your organisation as part of their degree programme. Sarah Carnegie is delighted with the work you have done with the students and the experience of working on live projects is immensely valuable to them.’

2020 Vision Managing Director, Peter Houlis said “we are fully committed to living up to our Corporate Social Responsibilities’ CSR. This mutually beneficial relationship resulted in a win-win situation, we gained improvement in our HR policies and procedures, the students gained real life experience in dealing with real business issues”.

2020 Vision’s Peter Houlis talks about migration

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn McIntyre) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 08:55:00 +0000

The annual CCTV User Group Conference takes place this year at The Belfry Hotel, Birmingham 13th -15th of June.

Peter Houlis managing Director of 2020 Vision Systems Limited has been invited to give his presentation on migration from analogue to IP CCTV based upon his recent article, From A to IP, published in Info4Security.

The theme of the conference “Challenges or Opportunities” explores the challenges every CCTV Manager is currently facing in terms of budget restraints on the operation of their CCTV system, the potential Government Regulation of Public Area CCTV and the current consultation on a new Code of Practice and the development of standards.

Conversely the optimist will always see every challenge faced, poses an opportunity. The User Group will explore how they can influence the future approach to Public Area CCTV. As well as looking at what CCTV Managers have achieved; developing income streams and embracing new technology to reduce costs and improve performance.

In line with the theme Peter’s presentation addresses the issues of why and how might end users switch from an analogue to a network video-based surveillance solution and outlines the reasons why migration is now such a compelling argument for host businesses.

The annual CCTV User Group Conference is the opportunity for those representing or involved in CCTV operation and management to gain and develop the skills, knowledge and techniques needed to address issues that really matter to today’s Public Space surveillance professionals.

For more information about the CCTV User Group and this prestigious event visit http://www.cctvusergroup.com