The integration of both physical and IT security technologies is of increasing importance to organisations, according to the results of a recent study.

The EMEA Security Survey from Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) software platform providers VidSys gives insight into the security concerns and buying patterns of private and public agencies.

It found that organisations are facing increasingly complex security demands, with more than 35 per cent using security devices and systems from between six to ten manufacturers.

Some 49 per cent stated their security environment was composed of multiple technologies that are individually managed, and a similar figure cited theirs was run through multiple, distributed locations.

The respondents, who represent public sector, corporate enterprise and national government organisations, highlighted the adoption of integrated solutions, including PSIM software, as a sought-after method to improve collaboration and information-sharing across their security structure.

Some 55 per cent ranked the deployment of integration technologies as one of the top three items they plan to implement in the next 12-18 months. The study also found that 25 per cent plan to invest in PSIM software over the same period.

The ability to leverage both physical and IT security together to identify and manage security situations was ranked as “important” or “extremely important” by 80 per cent, while 71.5 per cent outlined a similar importance of integrating data from traditional devices and systems into a common operating solution.

However, budget restraints were found to be the biggest obstacle to moving forward with the deployment of integration technologies over the coming 18 months.

Darren Chalmers-Stevens, vice-president of EMEA operations at VidSys, said at IFSEC that focus throughout the industry is changing from being device-driven towards integrated solutions capable of meeting complex security demands, without huge expenditure, by incorporating a range of devices into one system.

He said: “Today’s organisations are dealing with increasingly complex security environments and technologies.

“For budget-conscious security leaders, PSIM inexpensively brings together disparate systems in one unified view, proactively identifying potential risks or issues for a real-time response.”

VidSys showcased its recently-released 7.0 PSIM software on the Sony booth at IFSEC 2013. The developments are designed to help public and private organisations improve emergency response times, accuracy and risk compliance.

The 7.0 version also features advanced mobile capabilities and situational reports that allow users in the field to control and manage situations from their mobile device.

Nick Buckles, G4S

Nick Buckles has quit as chief executive of G4S and will retire from the company. It has been confirmed he will be succeeded by Ashley Almanza on 1 June.

The world’s largest security company told the City that Buckles will step down at the end of May following a string of setbacks and a recent profit warning that damaged investor confidence and saw shares slump by 13 per cent in one day.

Almanza only joined G4S as chief financial officer (CFO) at the beginning of May and has been selected to succeed Buckles following a consideration of both internal and external candidates.

Buckle’s sudden departure comes only weeks before the firm’s annual meeting. He had been under mounting pressure since G4S’s high-profile failure to fulfil its Olympic contract, an issue which saw him brought before MPs to admit a “humiliating shambles” that damaged the company’s reputation.

G4S stated the initial search which ended with Almanza being appointed CFO had been designed to look for a candidate with the experience and skills to take over the role of chief executive “as part of the group’s succession planning process”.

Almanza has previously held senior executive roles at oil and gas group BG Group, most recently as executive vice-president from 2009 to 2012. He is currently a non-executive director of Schroders and Noble Corporation and a member of the Advisory Board of Oxford University Centre for Business Taxation.

Ashley Almanza, G4S

The current CFO said there was “enormous long-term potential” for the company as he seeks to take the business forward in conjunction with the “highly-experienced and capable management team” at G4S under his new role.

John Connolly, chairman of G4S, hailed the “massive contribution” that Buckles made to the group over a 28-year career. He is seen as instrumental in creating the G4S business group as it is known today.

“As CEO he [Buckles] led G4S in the creation of significant shareholder value following the merger of Securicor and Group 4 Falck – building the world’s leading security company,” he said.

Connolly added: “The board is extremely pleased to have attracted Ashley Almanza to the group. He brings a wealth of experience from working across international borders in complex businesses and we are confident he will provide strong strategic and operational leadership to the group.”

Stuart Curl, the group’s regional CFO for the UK, Ireland and Africa, has been appointed acting CFO while a search for Almanza’s replacement commences.

Alongside the exit of Buckles, G4S has also announced that Eddie Aston will take up the new role of chief operating officer on 8 July. The new senior role was actioned following a board review of the Olympic contract.

Issue 2 of SecurityNewsDesk, the newspaper for the security industry, was a huge hit at IFSEC 2013. Almost 1,000 copies were handed out on the show floor, but if you missed out on your copy there is no reason to be disappointed as a digital version of Issue 2 is now available.

SecurityNewsDesk Issue 2 includes features on:

• DVRs and NVRs
• IFSEC Preview
• Video analytics/video content analysis
• Ports and Airports
• A special focus on the Middle East market

Coming up in issue 3:

• An in-depth look at Identity cards and accessories
• IFSEC Review – A look-back at the successful 2013 instalment of the year’s leading security event
• Alarm management – Looking at the latest technologies in alarm management. Have you recently installed your product in an exciting or demanding location? Contact us
• Hospital Security – We take a look at security solutions for hospitals and its staff. Do you have a case study of a successful deployment?
• Region focus: ASEAN – A closer view on developments in Southeast Asia.

Issue 3 is now in production, with an advertising deadline of 14 June. Want to be involved? Get in touch today on 01543 250456 or email sales@securitynewsdesk.com

The SecurityNewsDesk girls handed out newspapers on the show floor at IFSEC 2013

(left to right) Patrick Dealtry, Chairman of the section, Rachel Griffin, Chair of The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, Craig Swallow, Vice Chair of the section and James Kelly, BSIA Chief Executive

The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) launched its newest section of membership at IFSEC, in recognition of the growing market for Lone Worker protection products and services.

Officially launched by Rachel Griffin, chair of personal safety charity The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, the BSIA’s Lone Worker Section represents companies operating in the lone worker protection market, all of which are accredited or working towards accreditation to lone worker standard, BS8484.

The launch event brought together professionals from across the security industry, and also featured the election and announcement of the first official Section Chairman, Patrick Dealtry. Patrick is a stalwart of the lone worker protection market, having been involved with the BSIA’s Lone Worker Industry Group – the forerunner to the section – for many years, and receiving the coveted BSIA Chairman’s Award in 2010 for services to raising standards in the security industry.

Commenting on his election, Dealtry said: “The Lone Worker market has grown rapidly in recent years thanks to the demand from customers recognising the value provided by companies offering services in this market. In addition, we recognise the growing effort among customers to satisfy the duty of care to their employees, often in very difficult circumstances. Today represents a milestone and reflects the success of BSIA companies in supplying these services. I am very pleased to have been elected Chairman and look forward to representing the interests of companies in the market with which I have been associated for over ten years.”

In special recognition of their support in establishing the new Section, all inaugural section members were presented with a certificate of appreciation by James Kelly, the BSIA’s Chief Executive.

Kelly said: “After many years of witnessing the BSIA’s Lone Worker Industry Group grow, both in influence and in numbers, I am proud to be here today to acknowledge the contribution of all involved as the group becomes an official section of membership in its own right.

“As the trade association representing the UK’s private security industry, the BSIA is ideally placed to represent this sector, which makes a significant contribution towards protecting the UK’s eight million lone workers.

“In such a dynamic, fast-growing market, the importance of quality is paramount, and I look forward to supporting the section as it continues to exert its influence in developing industry standards and codes of practice, while promoting the importance of BS8484 to security buyers and end-users.”

For more information about the BSIA’s Lone Worker Protection Section, or to download guidance on choosing a lone worker solution, visit www.bsia.co.uk/lone-worker

Milestone Systems has demonstrated continuous growth in solid financial results for 2012, citing product innovation, business strategy, employee leadership development through management training and partner program expansions as key factors.

Now in its 15th year, Milestone Systems continues to accomplish strong growth both in their home market and internationally. Milestone has recorded revenue growth of 19.5 per cent to DKK 318 M (USD 55.62 M) against DKK 266 M in 2011 (USD 46.89 M). Operating income before depreciation (EBITDA) reached DKK 52 M (USD 9 M) and net income reached DKK 12.62 M (USD 2.21 M). The number of employees grew by 13 per cent, from 310 on average in 2011 to 351 employees globally in 2012.

“Demand for IP-based video surveillance is increasing globally. With the solid results in 2012, our compounded average growth rate has been 26 per cent over the last five years. Milestone continues to grow because we go to market with the right products, and Milestone solutions are based on an open platform so they can meet the different needs of various segments. Our success is shared worldwide through strong relationships with our partners,” said Lars Thinggaard, President and CEO, Milestone Systems.

A constant focus on the business strategy, including partner, employee and leadership training, helps to sustain this positive outcome.

“We have followed our strategy and are proud of the result in 2012. Milestone attained success especially in Europe, the Middle East and the US, and we achieved very impressive growth rates in Brazil and Russia. There are good opportunities for us in Russia, and in Brazil we won some significant customers, including the Mineirao football stadium whose new IP video surveillance solution will manage the safety of 65,000 guests when Brazil hosts the FIFA World Cup in 2014,” added Thinggaard.

Growing people fosters a growing business

In 2012 Milestone invested DKK 55.3 M (USD 9.67 M) in R&D as well as additional millions in employee development and leadership training.

“One of our highest priorities in 2012 has been to continue investing in the training of our approximately 55 managers, who are now through the second wave of Milestone Leadership Academy – a development program that makes our leaders become even better at dealing with human, financial and technical issues to ensure that these support our common goals. We do it because we believe that growing people contribute to a growing business: it is essential for us to give our employees the opportunity to take leadership and influence the development of the company,” added Thinggaard.

“Moreover, world-class research and development has always been a key priority for Milestone, so we invest a substantial portion of our revenue in R&D every year. Milestone continues to grow because we consistently listen to market needs and act on the feedback. The investments support Milestone’s aim to stay competitive in the world market.”

Expectations for the future

Milestone Systems has high expectations for the future and will continue to invest in growth, and to service and support the company’s ecosystem of partners and customers in more than 100 countries. About 60 per cent of the physical security market is estimated to be using analog equipment, so there is considerable potential business that will be moving to IP networked solutions over the coming years. Therefore, Milestone has created three new business units to address a broader range of market opportunities, including Incubation and Ventures with an office in Silicon Valley, USA.

The Information Destruction Section of the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) held the premiere of its first official promotional video at IFSEC International, showcasing the vital role that professional information destruction plays in today’s society.

Failure to destroy confidential information efficiently can have far-reaching implications for both individuals and businesses, should the information fall into the wrong hands. Individuals’ credit scores can be seriously damaged, and organisations risk huge financial and reputational losses. In fact, recent research by accountancy firm KPMG revealed a surprising rise in identity fraud throughout 2012, with the cost of this crime more than doubling in value to a startling £26.3m.

Sector specific BSIA research has also revealed some startling statistics. According to a recent BSIA survey, which questioned key workers in the healthcare sector – including consultants, doctors, senior managers, facilities managers and IT managers – one in four healthcare professionals reported that their organisation had been the subject of some form of data breach.

Last year, a survey of educational professionals found that 79 per cent of respondents believed that the threat posed by lost or inadequately disposed of data had either increased or stayed the same over the previous 12 months. To add to this, only 34 per cent of schools confirmed that they were using a professional company to oversee the destruction of their confidential data.

These figures show that there is no room for complacency in any sector when it comes to information destruction, and the BSIA’s new video serves to inform decision makers of the responsibilities they have when it comes to selecting an information destruction provider.

“The importance of sourcing an information destruction company should not be underestimated in any organisation, and effective information destruction should always be high on the agenda,” said Anthony Pearlgood, chairman of the BSIA’s Information Destruction Section. “It is important that key decision makers do not make these choices lightly, and are sure to source a reputable supplier that meets the relevant standards.”

“Our brand new video not only showcases the value of our industry, shredding over 400,00 tonnes of confidential paper a year, but also explains the standards that high quality suppliers should be adhering to – all of which BSIA Information Destruction members meet,” added Pearlgood.

The new information destruction video is the second production SecurityNewsDesk has worked on with the BSIA. Get in touch to find out more about the video opportunities available from SecurityNewsDesk.

The new video can be viewed on the BSIA’s YouTube channel here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbzTlxPs9S4

To find out more about the Information Destruction Section of the BSIA, visit  http://www.bsia.co.uk/information-destruction/about-bsia-information-destruction.

Five members of the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) are celebrating after scooping prestigious IFSEC & FIREX Awards, which were presented in a glittering ceremony held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on 13 May.

Bosch Security Systems, Kings Security Systems, Guardian 24, Xtralis and MITIE won awards for their innovative solutions in the fields of CCTV camera equipment, security guarding service delivery, lone worker protection, fire product innovation and policing partnership respectively.

Among the finalists for this year’s security awards was a total of eleven BSIA member companies, each shortlisted in recognition of the people, products and technological advancements that have shaped the security industry over the past year.

Finalists also included BSIA members Integrated Design Limited, CSL Dualcom, RISCO Group, Securitas, Dedicated Micros, Connexion2 and Oysta Technology.

James Kelly, Chief Executive of the BSIA, said: “These awards bring the UK’s private security industry together for a very special celebration of achievement. The security industry prides itself on innovation and this year’s IFSEC & FIREX Awards highlight just how committed the industry is to quality service delivery and technological development.

“All of this year’s winners and finalists are to be congratulated on their achievements and should be justly proud of the contribution that they are making to our industry.”

The IFSEC & FIREX Awards take place alongside the world’s leading annual security event, IFSEC International, which is being held between 13^th and 17^th May at the NEC in Birmingham. For further information on the event please visit www.ifsec.co.uk.

For more information about the BSIA, visit www.bsia.co.uk

The winners of the IFSEC Security Industry Awards are:

Access Control Product of the Year

Genetec for the Synergis Master Controller

CCTV Camera Equipment of the Year

Bosch Security Systems for the DINION starlight HD 720p and FLEXIDOME starlight HD 720p RD

CCTV System of the Year

Raytec for the VARIO IP

Communication Product of the Year

AES Corporation for Sitelink24

Guarding Service Delivery to Customer

Kings Security Systems for its Meggitt Aircraft Breaking Systems

Intruder Alarm or Exterior Deterrent Product of the Year

Chuango Security Technology Co Ltd for the GSM / SMS RFID Touch Alarm System

Lone Worker Protection Solution of the Year

Guardian 24 for its Lone Worker solution for Android Smartphones

Physical Security Product of the Year

Burton Safes for Eurovault Atlas Grade 7

Security Project or Installation of the Year

Quadrant Security Group for Security During Sailing: Weymouth and Portland CCTV Project

UBM Live claims all the major players will be making the move to London’s ExCel when IFSEC International and FIREX International change location in 2014.

Over 75 leading brands from across the security and fire industry will be represented including: Anixter, Apollo Fire Detectors, ASSA ABLOY, Axis, BSIA, ComNet Europe, CSL DualCom, Deister Electronic, Fire Industry Association, FLIR, Genetec, Hochiki Europe, Hikvision, IDIS, IndigoVision, Ingersoll Rand, Kaba, Milestone Systems, Morse Watchmans, ONVIF, Optex, Paxton, Pelco by Schneider, RISCO, Samsung, SALTO, SSAIB, TDSi, TYCO, Winsted and many others already confirming their support for the 2014 floor plan.

“We are thrilled that we are heading into IFSEC International 2013 with outstanding support behind us for 2014 already. Celebrating its 40^th year, IFSEC will prove to be bigger and better than ever before, providing just a taste of what’s to come next year,” said Charlie Cracknell, Event Director IFSEC International.

“As the security and fire industries become more integrated, it is important that we cater for the needs of the whole buying chain. We are looking forward to showcasing the latest developments in the industry this year and are excited about relocating to London next year!”

James Kelly, CEO, British Security Industry Association, confirmed his support: “IFSEC’s new London base will serve to further enhance its attractiveness to overseas buyers as well as putting it on the doorstep of Government. We look forward to working with UBM to leverage the further opportunities that this will present.”

Additional updates for IFSEC International 2014 will see Security & Fire Installer Live, an annual installer programme launch for the first time. The programme will be a dedicated series for the installer and integrator market, with the major areas specifically addressed that this influential and important group of professionals have identified as critical to their business.

Commenting on the move to London and opportunities that surround it, Chris Pinder, External Affairs Director, National Security Inspectorate (NSI), said: “On behalf of the National Security Inspectorate may I congratulate UBM Live on recognising the increasing importance of the need to move IFSEC International and FIREX International back to London. I have no doubt that the move to London in 2014, which is fully supported by the NSI, will take both IFSEC International and FIREX International to a new level.”

The flagship trade events will once again run alongside IFSEC International and FIREX International as part of the Protection and Management Series, which are all free to attend for registered visitors. To find out more information about IFSEC International please visit www.ifsec.co.uk and www.firex.co.uk for FIREX International.

Cody Wilson demonstrating the firing capabilities of ‘Liberator’

The successful firing of a fully-functioning plastic gun made from a 3D printer has led to fears it could evade airport scanners. However, security experts claim advancements in scanning technology are capable of spotting such weapons.

Defense Distributed has made the blueprints for its ‘Liberator’ gun available online after it was shown to successfully fire without damaging either the body of the gun or the person pulling the trigger.

At a firing range south of Austin, Texas, Defense Distributed founder Cody Wilson, a 25-year-old law student at the University of Texas, made the successful shot by hand for the first time.

‘Liberator’ was made on a second-hand Stratsys Dimension SST 3D printer that cost $8,000 (£5,140) from eBay. The technology builds up layer upon layer of melted polymer to build solid plastic objects and fifteen of its 16 pieces were created inside the printer. All the necessary parts can be printed from a 3D printer – except for the metal firing pin.

With 3D printers becoming increasingly common, it creates opportunities for anyone to download the plans and print their own weapon, bypassing background checks and regulation.

In order to comply with US laws, the gun as produced has a compartment to house a block of steel so it doesn’t evade metal detectors. But there is no way to police whether the weapon is made complete with the steel, opening the possibilities that ‘Liberator’ could be invisible to metal detectors.

A security expert told SecurityNewsDesk that advancements in airport scanning technology, such as millimetre-wave imagers, mean ‘Liberator’ would show up if one was attempted to be taken onto an airplane.

Issues could arise if component parts were disguised to look like everyday items and then assembled into a viable weapon. However, there are usually at least one or two components that will be metallic, such as bullets or the metal firing pin, which would clearly set alarm bells ringing.

Smiths Detection, a leading provider of screening technologies, added: “Our eqo millimetre-wave scanner is designed to highlight any anomalous items – metallic or non-metallic — hidden beneath clothing and would show up plastic weapons or component parts.”

The US State Department ordered Defense Distributed to take down the blueprints on May 9 on the basis the plans could violate export regulations. Blueprints were downloaded over 100,000 times in the first two days they were online, however the file was served by storage service Mega and it remains unclear whether the file will be taken off the New Zealand-based firm’s servers.

Police, local councils and other agencies face a new crackdown on anti-social behaviour under Government plans outlined in the Queen’s Speech.

The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill outlined measures that would see 19 existing powers replaced with six. The focus is placed on the rights of victims and aims to speed up action in dealing with persistent anti-social behaviour.

The revamp signals the end of much-criticised Asbo’s and a new ‘Community Trigger’ means agencies will be forced to act if five households make a complaint about anti-social behaviour.

Victims and communities will also have a greater say in out-of-court sanctions for offenders through new restorative justice measures.

Home Secretary Theresa May said: “Police reform is working and crime continues to fall. We have swept away central targets, reduced bureaucracy and introduced Police and Crime Commissioners to make the police more accountable.

“Today we are delivering on our pledges to give victims of anti-social behaviour a stronger voice, further cut crime and improve the relationship between the public and police.”

The Bill is expected to receive Royal Assent by Spring 2014 and also includes measures to tackle the use of illegal firearms by gangs and groups of organised criminals. Irresponsible dog ownership and forced marriage protection are also included under the Bill.

Gloria De Piero MP, Labour’s shadow Home Office minister, criticised the launch of the new bill and stated the ‘Community Trigger’ was “not the answer” to dealing with anti-social behaviour. Data from pilots showed the trigger was activated only once in Manchester in almost a year, five times in Brighton and never activated at all in Richmond during the period.

She said: “Theresa May proposes to abolish the Asbo and replace it with the weaker IPNA. Breach of an Asbo was a criminal offence. Breach of the new IPNA will not be. We also know that too many people are still waiting too long for their anti-social behaviour complaints to be dealt with.

“The Home Secretary’s proposed community trigger is not the answer. Recommending that people have to wait until five complaints have been made before action does not reflect the misery that can be caused by anti-social behaviour.

“The Government needs to be on the side of the victims of anti-social behaviour not making it more difficult for them to get the help they need. Weakening powers and delaying action is no way to deal with such a serious issue.”