SALTO Access Control Accessories  (17)

The UK Government has set out an ambitious ten-point plan, known as the green industrial revolution, with an aim “to forge ahead with eradicating its contribution to climate change by 2050.” This makes our government the first major economy to embrace such a legal obligation. Green recovery Acknowledging climate change and meeting net-zero is a demanding challenge especially for those affected by the pandemic. But the UK Government, with the launch of its aspiring strategy, is investing everything in its power to promote a ‘green recovery.’ Here, Reece Paprotny, Commercial Manager and Sustainability Champion at Amthal, highlights how the fire and security industry has an opportunity to use the current recovery period to explore its own sustainable journey and embrace the significance of environment, economic and social collaboration, transparency, and accountability. Employing sustainable technologies Pressure is mounting on construction to find ways to reduce emissions and help meet net-zero targets The perception is that COVID-19 presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to re-write the existing rulebook. This is riding on the significance of changing public support for more environmentally friendly living opportunities, with associated cost savings, efficiencies, and cleaner industries. Innovative sustainable technologies are the key to kickstart this route to success.  Nowhere can this be seen more than in the built environment, which currently contributes to 40% of the UK's carbon footprint. Pressure is mounting on construction to find ways to reduce emissions and help meet net-zero targets. This is through the entire life cycle of a building, to reduce their impact on the environment from planning stages, through build and demolition. Building the right environment By creating the right policy environment, incentives for innovation and infrastructure, the Government can encourage companies to seize the sustainable opportunities of new technologies and value chains linked to green sectors. They can accelerate the shift of current carbon-intensive economic and industrial structures onto greener trajectories, enabling the UK to meet global climate and development goals under the Paris Agreement on climate change and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Transparent working practices Each industry sector is expected to engage and pledge its support to achieve the significant deadlines. Every company can make a difference, even with small steps towards a sustainable future. So while elements such as safety and security represent just one component of building the right sustainable environment, it paves the way to opening up our sector to greater efficiencies, transparent working practices, and encourages collaborative use of resources. Sustainability in security The security sector has a significant opportunity to incorporate ‘going green’ into its practices In fact, the security sector has a significant opportunity to incorporate ‘going green’ into their processes, and practices. This is right from product lifecycles to more environmentally friendly work practices when it comes to maintenance and monitoring services. When integrating environmentally friendly practices, starts with the manufacturing and production of the wide variety of systems in operation for the security sector. And some certifications and guidelines can be achieved, such as the ISO 14000 which looks into eliminating hazardous materials being used which in turn will reduce carbon footprint.  Upgrading supply chain process Observing the complete supply chain and working with partners to reduce unnecessary travel, shipments, and transportation of products, can all contribute and create sustainable processes.  In the maintenance and monitoring of products, it is essential installers and security specialists consider their own environmental impacts. Simple changes such as switching company vehicles to electric options for site visits can make a significant difference to climate change and improving air quality. Presenting sustainable ways of disposing of products at the end of their natural lifecycle is key to change in our sector. This is especially in the security industry where many customers will need a complete overhaul of outdated solutions or need systems upgrading due to changing threat levels. Sustainable evolution Progress is being made, specifically in the fire and security industry, in its sustainable evolution. Businesses are trying to develop a reputation for “sustainability” or “good corporate citizenship.” And it has gone well beyond the theory to the practical, where companies recognize activities have an impact on the environment and are also reviewing the social and economic influences. Three pillars of sustainability In a recent interview, Inge Huijbrechts, the Global Senior Vice President for safety and security and Responsible Business at Radisson Hotel Groups sees her vision to combine safety, security, and sustainability. Inge focuses on three pillars, namely, Think People, Think Community, and Think Planet. Think People means that we “always care for the people in our hotels and our supply chain.” So, in outwards communications, safety and security were always part of the Think People focus area. Think Community is caring and contributing in a meaningful way to communities where we operate. Finally, Think Planet makes sure that “our footprint on the environment is as light as it can be in terms of energy, water, waste, and carbon, and making sure that we incorporate sustainability into our value proposition.” Moving forward Apprenticeship schemes are integral to ‘think people’ and have a role to play in the social impact on the security industry There are immediate actions that can be taken by companies in the security industry to support sustainable development, working right from within a company to supporting industry-wide initiatives. From a social perspective, at a foundation level, “Think People’ can see the Living Wage Foundation as an example of a commitment to a team.  This is for businesses that choose to go further and pay a real Living wage based on the cost of living, not just the Government minimum. Apprenticeship schemes are also integral to ‘think people’ and have a pivotal role to play on the social impact on the security industry.  It addresses the sector-wide issue of finding employees with the right mix of skills to collaborate and meet discerning consumer demands for increasingly smart security solutions for homes and businesses. Impact of the full lifecycle of products From an environmental view, or ‘think planet,’ we need to collectively look at all elements of our industry, with a desire to analyze the impact of ingredients used, supply chain, or manufacturing alone, and also consider the full lifecycle of our selected products from creation to end of life. As Jamie Allam, CEO Amthal summarises, “This is a long-term, sustainable investment in our people, our products, and our business based on our values.” “When put together, a social team which feels empowers and operates in environmental optimum working conditions is in a position to provide a great experience to our customers, creating an economic positive difference. It forms the basis of a sustainable sector vision for the security industry-wide to adopt.” Taking action Amthal is taking action based on the ready-made universally agreed UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Also known as Global Goals, these are at the heart of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member states. This agenda is a plan of action for people, the planet, and prosperity. By being an early adopter, we believe we can engage with customers, partners, and suppliers on these issues and generate opportunities to innovate for mutual and industry sector benefit. Together, we can contribute to building a more sustainable security sector and future, and contribute to the UK Government’s green industrial revolution.

Whenever you say the word “security” in today’s world of digitalization and technology, minds immediately jump to online security. Encryption, passwords, and website security are all common areas of concern for today’s security teams – so much so that we often pass over physical security installations entirely. But we shouldn’t, because contrary to popular belief, security doors aren’t just for banks and safes. High-security doors are deployed and used across everything from home spaces to offices, venues, communal entrances, and more – offering an extra level of safety designed to keep unwanted guests out and keep the people inside safe. In this blog, we will be uncovering some of the benefits of installing high-security doors besides the obvious – offering a high level of security. Benefits of high-security doors When you start telling someone about high-security doors, they often immediately think of thick steel doors with unbreakable locks. But modern security doors are nothing like that, with the marketplace filled with different options including ventilated louvre doors, reinforced hammer glass doors, and classic metal doors. And with each style comes a different set of benefits. 1) High-security doors keep businesses and properties safe If anything is going to put burglars off and keep your inside space safe, it’s high-security doors. High-security doors not only help keep burglars away but also saves on the cost of investing in expensive home security systems With such a wide array of options on the market, from double or triple glazing through to top-level security doors for industrial properties and homes, customers can choose the weight of their door and its finish – meaning that they have a choice between making their high-security decision obvious or concealing it for the benefit of aesthetics. This not only helps keep burglars away from your home or office space and reduces the crime rate, but also saves on the cost of investing in expensive alarms and home security systems. 2) Dual purpose benefits from top-level manufacturers Modern high-security doors from retailers like Premier SSL not only provide industrial-strength but are also classed as fire doors – meaning that they keep people inside safe on two accounts. On top of that, high-security doors no longer look like the entrance to a bank – in fact, most manufacturers now work with materials that deliver an aesthetically pleasing finish that can complement your building or inside space. This means you can benefit from everything from a wood effect finish to a decorative trim and more. 3) Cut costs in Winter and Summer Managing bills at home often mean juggling the art of keeping the house cool enough in summer and warm enough in winter. On one hand, with high-security doors which are effective fire doors and are made to measure and tailored to your home, the heat and warm air inside your home are trapped inside during the winter to keep your home cozy. This helps to cut the cost of heating and ensures your family is protected during the winter months. Mesh layered security Meanwhile, for those who opt for the mesh layered security doors or Louvre doors, in summer you can keep your home or inside space cool and filled with fresh air even while the doors are closed and secured. This ensures adequate ventilation and is a popular choice with homeowners today as it cuts the cost of bills and expensive air conditioning and helps prevent issues like mold which can occur in damp spaces with little airflow. Louvre security doors also help to retain the same level of privacy as a solid door but with a high level of airflow – making them ideal for communal areas and spaces with a high footfall. 4) Keep pets and children safe A security door is enough to deter a burglar to keep your little ones and pets safe and contained inside the house A security door is enough to deter a burglar – so is certainly more than sufficient to keep your little ones and pets safe and contained inside the house. Preventing access to dangerous situations such as being outdoors on their own and entering the kitchen on their own is a benefit that many families revel in – with a range of options including the mesh-covered security doors to retain ventilation and natural light and create more of a homely feel. 5) Feeling safe and secure in your own space This one may seem obvious but it’s one of the biggest benefits – feeling safe even when on your own. Security doors mean that you can rest easy in your own space, in complete control of the locking mechanism and the entry of anyone besides yourself. Most of the security doors recognized by modern standards can withstand ballistics and crowbar tampering – even those with ventilation breaks. On top of that, they have a certain degree of water tightness and resistance to wind, meaning that they also keep you safe from home or building damage. 6) Versatility The vast array of security doors on the market right now means that versatility is possible – in the way that doors are locked, the way that they look, and the additional features they provide. Many of the high-security doors we and other retailers offer also provide complete sound ventilation and are ideally suited to everything from a modern new build to something more traditional in its feel and aesthetics. Uses of security doors High-security doors are a popular addition to modern homes and office spaces, as well as communal spaces and venues As previously touched on, security doors are no longer just for banks and high-security institutes. High-security doors are a popular addition to modern homes and office spaces, as well as communal spaces and venues. The versatility presented by the locking mechanism and access tools means that users can select everything from an entry fob to a code and a traditional key as a means of getting inside. The Takeaway High-security doors are an increasingly popular solution for nurturing safety both in commercial spaces and private homes. With options from solid steel doors to louver doors, triple and double glazed doors, and fire doors available on the market for every space and with made to measure manufacturing options, it has never been easier to equip your home against intruders and keep your family or work team safe and comfortable. Best of all for the modern homeowner, high-security doors no longer create an eyesore – instead, reflecting the same design aesthetic focus as you might expect from an interior company.

The SolarWinds cyberattack of 2020 was cited by security experts as “one of the potentially largest penetrations of Western governments” since the Cold War. This attack put cybersecurity front and center on people’s minds again. Hacking communication protocol The attack targeted the US government and reportedly compromised the treasury and commerce departments and Homeland Security. What’s interesting about the SolarWinds attack is that it was caused by the exploitation of a hacker who injected a backdoor communications protocol.  This means that months ahead of the attack, hackers broke into SolarWinds systems and added malicious code into the company’s software development system. Later on, updates being pushed out included the malicious code, creating a backdoor communication for the hackers to use. Once a body is hacked, access can be gained to many. An explosion of network devices What has made the threat of cyberattacks much more prominent these days has been IT's growth in the last 20 years, notably cheaper and cheaper IoT devices. This has led to an explosion of network devices. IT spending has never really matched the pace of hardware and software growth Compounding this issue is that IT spending has never really matched the pace of hardware and software growth. Inevitably, leading to vulnerabilities, limited IT resources, and an increase in IoT devices get more attention from would-be hackers. Bridging the cybersecurity gap In the author’s view, this is the main reason why the cybersecurity gap is growing. This is because it inevitably boils down to counter-strike versus counter-strike. IT teams plug holes, and hackers find new ones, that is never going to stop. The companies must continue fighting cyber threats by developing new ways of protecting through in-house testing, security best practice sources, and both market and customer leads. End-user awareness One of the key battlegrounds here is the education of end-users. This is an area where the battle is being won at present, in the author’s opinion. End-users awareness of cybersecurity is increasing. It is crucial to educate end-users on what IoT devices are available, how they are configured, how to enable it effectively, and critically, how to use it correctly and safely. Physical security network A valuable product that tackles cybersecurity is, of course, Razberi Monitor™, which is new to ComNet’s portfolio. Monitor™ is a software platform that provides a top-down view of the physical security network and ecosystem. Monitor™ is a software platform that provides a top-down view of the physical security network and ecosystem It monitors and manages all the system components for cybersecurity and system health, providing secure visibility into the availability, performance, and cyber posture of servers, storage, cameras, and networked security devices. Proactive maintenance By intelligently utilizing system properties and sensor data, Razberi’s award-winning cybersecurity software prevents problems while providing a centralized location for asset and alert management. Monitor™ enables proactive maintenance by offering problem resolutions before they become more significant problems. Identifying issues before they fail and become an outage is key to system availability and, moreover, is a considerable cost saving.

SALTO Systems North America is excited to announce the appointment of Preston Grutzmacher to Vertical Business Leader - Residential and Rob Wengrzyn as Business Leader for Distribution. “As SALTO focuses more on vertical markets and expands our distribution partnerships, we have sought seasoned professionals who know the SALTO hardware and software suite of innovative electronic access control products and bring the expertise to deliver real world solutions,” said Steve Burk, SALTO North America Director of Marketing and Vertical Business. CCTV system design “We’re thrilled that Preston will be leading our residential efforts and we welcome Rob to the SALTO family. Rob has extensive security and distribution experience, and we are excited he will be leading our distribution efforts.” Prior to taking this new role, Grutzmacher served as SALTO’s distribution lead and as a Regional Sales Manager. He has previously served as a Branch Manager for security sales for Anixter and has an extensive background in access control, CCTV system design, and infrastructure design. He has a Bachelor’s in business from the University of Florida. Mechanical key management Wengrzyn joins SALTO from WESCO Distribution, where he served as General Manager “During my time with SALTO, I've helped reseller partners grow, technicians commission systems, and end-users specify various SALTO solutions. I'm passionate about helping customers deploy access control while solving the problem of mechanical key management,” said Grutzmacher. “I'm thrilled to apply my experience and enthusiasm to the new residential vertical position.” Wengrzyn joins SALTO from WESCO Distribution, where he served as General Manager. He has also been Director of learning and development for Mobile Mini, Inc., and Area Sales Manager for Datacom Products. He has held positions as Director of sales, operations, and training for Audio Video Resources and as Director of sales and employee development of Electric Supply, Inc. Advancing access systems For the last 11 years, Wengrzyn has served as an Adjunct Instructor for Grand Canyon University, Northern Arizona University, and Southern New Hampshire University, teaching leadership, marketing, and business courses. Wengrzyn is a doctoral candidate in organizational leadership with Grand Canyon University, has an MBA from Western International University, and a Bachelor’s in marketing from the University of Phoenix. “The focus that SALTO has on continuously improving and advancing access systems is unmatched. SALTO leadership allows their employees to own their role and results, and that is so refreshing in the modern business world,” said Wengrzyn. “SALTO is positioned to grow this year – and beyond – and I look forward to my new role and spreading the word and technology of SALTO.”

SALTO Systems has announced the opening of SALTO Systems Ireland, its new subsidiary in Ireland. Building upon the success of its existing long-term partnership, SALTO Systems has acquired Doorware in Ireland. New Ireland business unit The new business unit will significantly enhance SALTO’s presence in the country and demonstrates the brand’s commitment to the market, its existing and potential new partners, and customers in Ireland. Post-Brexit and post COVID-19 surveys suggest that the economy of Ireland will recover rapidly. The country's resilient economy will be among the best performing in Western Europe this year, with growth of more than 4%. Closer access to SALTO products As the only EU country with positive GDP growth, this is the perfect time to announce this new venture in Ireland As the only EU country with positive GDP growth, this is the perfect time to announce this new venture in Ireland. It will enable SALTO Systems to be closer to the market, and allow existing partners, clients, and new customers to benefit from closer access to the best of SALTO products, technology, solutions, and service. The SALTO Irish team, led by Kieran Gorey, will provide expertise and full support in planning, implementing, and managing access control, locker management, cashless payment, ticketing, and booking solutions across industries including commercial, education, retail, hospitality, and residential to the Irish specialist business partner network and its customers. Strengthening market position Kieran Gorey, the Managing Director of SALTO Systems Ireland, said “This announcement is one more jump ahead in the success story of SALTO in Ireland. Transitioning from more than 20 years of Doorware success to beginning a new era as SALTO Systems Ireland will enable us to strengthen our market position in the country.” Kieran Gorey adds, “By setting up this new subsidiary, we intend to grow our Irish business and technology partners further and see it thrive as an integral part of the SALTO family.”

Built to withstand all access control needs, the tough new SALTO Neoxx electronic padlock takes security beyond normal expectations. SALTO Systems has invested years of working with some of the best minds in the security industry, their community of security specifiers and installers, to build the most reliable and smartest electronic padlock on earth. SALTO Neoxx Padlock With exceptional attention to detail, premium materials, and all SALTO technology inside, their latest padlock, SALTO Neoxx, looks great while packing technological power. The SALTO Neoxx Padlock is a versatile locking solution that enables users to benefit from the advantages of electronic access control, where previously it was only possible to use a mechanical locking solution (i.e., perimeter or fire access gates, industrial equipment yards and residential storage areas). Smart padlocks for enhanced security Smart padlocks offer more security, easier maintenance and flexible access methods Smart padlocks offer more security, easier maintenance, flexible access methods, and a better overview of the lock’s and user’s activity. As portable as conventional padlocks, security is enhanced by removing any lock’s most vulnerable part, the mechanical key and adding the benefits of being operated with a mobile app and contactless smart key, managed by an advanced web-based access control technology platform. The SALTO Neoxx Padlock offers a unique solution, ideal for utility providers, electric power stations, telecom network services, industry applications, and more, along with property services that need an additional level of security to control specific doors, like gates or storages, without losing a piece of convenience and control. Advanced electronic access control technology These industries often require equipment and facilities on the perimeter or out in the field that, even though they are in a remote location, require the latest in electronic access control. And because they are often outdoors, the electronic solution they need has to include a product that can weather the extreme elements from rain and dust to snow. Built to withstand the most extreme weather, the Neoxx is IP68 certified for waterproof performance and high durability. Remote management of keys, locks and access rights Together, with the most complete locking platform on the market (electronic locks and cylinders, online readers, and locker locks) and SALTO core technology (SVN, BLUEnet, and JustIN Mobile system features) inside, the SALTO Neoxx padlock enables managing keys, locks, and access rights on-the-go, remotely from a single, highly visual and easy-to-use web-based interface. SALTO Neoxx G4 electronic padlock’s main features include: High-security padlock made of hardened steel with a removable shackle model option, which can be completely detached from the padlock body. Shackle: Width 11mm - Length 50mm. Security chain non-demountable model with safety chain to protect the padlock from burglary/dropping. Cover case with double-layered structure 70mm x 115mm x 32mm guarantees the ultimate protection from falls, shocks, and the most extreme environments or usage. RFID, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and NFC technologies onboard. Users can easily operate the electronic padlock with their smart card or with an iOS or Android smartphone. Compatible with SALTO Space – Data-on-Card– and the SALTO KS – Keys as a Service – cloud-based technology, it can be switched to any of SALTO’s technology platforms at any time without changing the hardware. Tested up to 130,000 operations on a standard set of batteries (4 x LR1). Monitor battery status (to optimize maintenance and battery life). Changing or removing batteries is simple and secure – users only need standard LR1 batteries and a special tool. IP68 certification: Waterproof performance and high durability. Tested against extreme temperatures: Including freezing conditions (-35ºC) and high heat (+65ºC). Fully certified according to CE, FCC, MIT, Mechatronic certification EN 16864:2018 and IK09.