Morse Watchmans - Experts & Thought Leaders

There are two truisms of K-12 schools that exist currently; first, safety and security are core objectives, and second, school budgets are tight. K-12 schools have traditionally been perceived as safe havens where children can learn and develop as they begin their life journeys. Violence, vandalism, and theft Unfortunately, K-12 schools are increasingly being subjected to violence, vandalism, and theft. Teachers are expressing growing concerns about their safety as they intervene in physical conflicts within schools while also encountering students carrying firearms or other weapons on school premises. Even more sobering, more than 352,000 students in the U.S. have experienced gun violence at school in the past 23 years. Schools on tight budgets With pandemic aid coming to an end, school districts are having to do more with less Further compounding the situation, schools and their administrators are on tight budgets. Pandemic relief funding has kept many school initiatives afloat over the past few years, but in the rush to spend on new high-tech solutions, many of the basics were left behind. With pandemic aid coming to an end, school districts are having to do more with less. Need for cost-effective security solutions These two truisms offer more questions than answers for superintendents, principals, teachers, board members, and parents. What school security solutions can we deploy that actively combat rising violence? How can we cost-effectively implement such tools? We want to improve school security and efficiency at the same time, but how? Key Control in a K-12 environment Key control systems are an integral piece of the larger security puzzle helping schools of all sizes manage security At their most basic level, school key control systems are designed to securely protect keys in an electronic key cabinet. At their most complex, key control systems are an integral piece of the larger security puzzle helping schools of all sizes manage security and operations effectively during times of both emergencies and daily operations. Authorized access In a traditional school key control system, keys are securely stored within individual compartments with each key uniquely assigned and tracked. Authorized users gain access to specific keys by providing their credentials, such as a PIN or biometric authentication, which permits them to remove a key from its designated compartment. This enables schools to effectively manage and track access to various areas throughout a building and/or campus, thus minimizing the risk of unauthorized entry or loss of keys. Integrated software A user-friendly interface allows administrators to manage and configure access permissions Integrated software further enhances the functionality of the key control system. A user-friendly interface allows administrators to manage and configure access permissions, generate detailed reports, and receive notifications about key-related activities. Additionally, the software can be integrated with other security systems, such as access control or video surveillance, creating a holistic security solution for schools. Key Control reduces security expenses What’s more, key control systems are a cost-effective solution that proactively reduces a school’s security spend. By reducing the possibility of lost keys and limiting access to master keys to authorized individuals, school districts can save thousands in unforeseen re-keying costs. School asset manager solutions integrated with a key control system likewise safeguard critical assets ranging from laptops to sensitive files, reducing the opportunity for theft and improving compliance. Key access control systems for schools also improve campus security for a lower cost than that of armed security guards and contracted off-duty police. Key Control improves school security By utilizing a centralized key control system, schools can ensure that emergency keys are securely housed A key control system in schools offers significant security benefits, particularly when it comes to emergencies such as active shooter events. By utilizing a centralized key control system, schools can ensure that emergency keys are securely housed and readily accessible to local first responders.  Rapid first responder key accessibility Responding officers can swiftly retrieve the required keys, such as those for locked classrooms or secured areas, enabling them to enter and address the situation promptly. Rapid first responder key accessibility significantly improves response times and effectiveness during critical incidents and gives parents peace of mind, knowing that their children's school is equipped with robust security measures to handle emergencies efficiently. Emergency Key Grab (EKG) kit Morse Watchmans has designed a new solution exclusively designed for K-12 Schools called the Emergency Key Grab (EKG) kit. The new EKG kit is designed to provide first responders with easy access to keys in the event of a lockdown or emergency. The Morse Watchmans EKG kit contains: A 1-module or greater KeyWatcher Touch System. Color-coded SmartKeys and KeyRing with Hubs. Unique KeyWatcher System First Response KeyRing Identification Label. Educational Materials: Implementing Key Control in K-12 Schools Tip Sheet and K-12 Schools Key Control Playbook Hardcopies. One-on-one Educational Training from Morse Watchmans. Template and Guidelines for Writing a K-12 School District Key Control Policy. The EKG can save a life!  Enhances general security protocols These systems enable schools to centralize key management, ensuring that keys are always properly secured In addition to facilitating emergency response, a key control system in K-12 schools enhances general security protocols. These systems enable schools to centralize key management, ensuring that keys are always properly secured and accounted for, and only accessible by authorized personnel. This comprehensive key management solution can significantly reduce the likelihood of security breaches, vandalism, and theft at K-12 schools. Real-time visibility and monitoring Furthermore, the system provides administrators with real-time visibility and monitoring capabilities, allowing them to track who has accessed keys, when, and for what purpose. This helps schools better comply with regulatory requirements such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) which requires schools to closely control access to private medical and academic files. Enforcing employee accountability effectively strengthens security measures and fosters a safer environment for students, faculty, and staff. Key Control improves school operations By providing a streamlined process for accessing keys, maintenance teams can promptly respond Beyond enhancing security, a key control and asset management system can significantly improve the efficiency of school maintenance teams. With a centralized key control system, maintenance personnel can quickly access the keys necessary for completing their required tasks, eliminating time-consuming searches for the right key or reliance on multiple key copies. By providing a streamlined process for accessing keys, maintenance teams can promptly respond to maintenance requests while ensuring that doors are secured and unlocked as needed, thus minimizing disruptions to the school's operations. Flexibility of localised access Key control systems additionally provide the flexibility of localized access for contracted workers. Contractors, such as HVAC repairmen or IT technicians, can receive access to individual keys with location-specific access granted only for areas they need to work over specific periods. The school key control software keeps a record of their key usage, allowing administrators to track a worker’s activities and ensure accountability. This granular level of key control allows school administrators to grant temporary access to contracted workers while maintaining overall security. System benefits Fleet management software for schools provides a clear record of who has used a specific vehicle key Key control systems also offer significant benefits for the management of a school’s fleet of vehicles, such as buses and other vehicles. With school bus fleet management software integrated into a key control system, administrators can effectively track and control the usage of school buses district-wide. Administrators can retrieve data on the status of any bus, shuttle, or other vehicle at any time.  Fleet management software for schools provides a clear record of who has used a specific vehicle key, enabling administrators to monitor vehicle availability, maintenance schedules, and overall fleet utilization. Reliable and cost-effective solution By deploying Morse Watchmans' key control and asset management systems, schools can effectively address security concerns, optimize operations, and make efficient use of resources. Its proven implementation of key control systems in K -12 environments offers schools a reliable and cost-effective solution that promotes a safe and efficient educational environment.

Morse Watchmans, the industry pioneer in key control and asset management systems, is highlighting its flagship KeyWatcher Touch and full suite of electronic key and asset management solutions at GSX 2025 in New Orleans. Attendees can visit Booth #3713 to explore how Morse Watchmans technologies help organizations secure keys, protect assets, and strengthen operational accountability. “KeyWatcher Touch continues to set the standard in key management, providing organizations with systems that deliver complete confidence and control over key and asset management,” said Tim Purpura, VP of Global Sales and Marketing, Morse Watchmans. Lineup of key management solutions Featured at the booth will be KeyWatcher Touch, a modular and easy-to-scale key control cabinet “At GSX, we’ll showcase our lineup of key management solutions and help attendees to see firsthand how they deliver ROI, accountability, and increased efficiency,” concluded Tim Purpura. Featured at the booth will be KeyWatcher Touch, a modular and easy-to-scale key control cabinet with a touch-screen interface and real-time reporting capabilities. It delivers automated key tracking, detailed audit trails, and integration options with access control and other business systems. When networked, KeyAnywhere enables key returns at any KeyWatcher across the enterprise, while KeyFind can pinpoint a specific key and determine who has checked it out. KeyWatcher is an indispensable platform, allowing management of critical keys for small, medium and enterprise-scale businesses across all vertical markets. Additional products In addition to the KeyWatcher Touch, visitors can explore: SmartKey Electronic Locker Systems: Designed to secure, track, and control access to larger assets, these lockers can integrate across business systems, including access control. This enhances visibility, reduces risk, and improves asset tracking and reporting. KeyBank Touch Key Access Control System: Simplified key management system with a 7-inch touch screen interface and a capacity of up to 18,000 keys and 10,000 users per site. Emergency Key Grab (EKG) System: A trusted solution for ensuring rapid, secure access to facility keys during emergencies or lockdown situations. The color-coded system enables access by only authorized emergency personnel using a unique PIN code or other secure credentials to retrieve keys quickly, resulting in faster response times. Visit GSX Booth #3713 to speak with a Morse Watchmans specialist on how key management systems deliver compliance, efficiency, accountability, and peace of mind across industries.

Secutech Vietnam returns to the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), reaffirming its position as a cornerstone event for Vietnam’s security and fire safety sectors. Running 14 – 16 August, 480 exhibiting brands from 17 countries and regions are showcasing the latest innovations across 13,000 sqm, including five featured pavilions and three specialized zones. Meanwhile, the show’s fringe program presents insights and cutting-edge solutions linked directly to Vietnam’s future economic ambitions. Latest integrated video surveillance Secutech Vietnam cements its pivotal role in driving emerging growth industries Backed by strong government support, and with some 15,600 trade visitors expected to attend, Secutech Vietnam cements its pivotal role in driving emerging growth industries, while maintaining its core focus on security and fire safety. The show brings together a diverse group of exhibitors presenting the latest integrated video surveillance, intelligent key and asset control, fire detection and suppression, personal protective equipment, and cutting-edge unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and robotics for disaster prevention. Goals in smart manufacturing Ms. Regina Tsai, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd – Taiwan Branch, explained: “These innovations are perfectly aligned with Vietnam’s strategic goals in smart manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and enhanced urban safety – sectors that are pivotal to the country’s future development." "This is proven by the fact we have outstanding exhibitor participation for the second year in a row, thanks in no small part to strong support by major government bodies such as the Vietnam Fire and Rescue Police Department and the Ministry of Public Security." Vietnam’s key public sectors Two display areas, namely the Fire Truck Display Area and the Police Equipment Zone, spotlight applications Tsai added: "Their attendance underscores the strategic significance of the fair as a platform for advancing national safety and technological growth.” Two display areas, namely the Fire Truck Display Area and the Police Equipment Zone, spotlight applications for some of Vietnam’s key public sectors, while the show’s pavilions and zones give buyers convenient access to several of the industry’s most well-known international suppliers. Featured pavilions and zones Japan Pavilion Korea Pavilion MIT (Made in Taiwan) Innovation Zone Singapore Pavilion UL Solutions Pavilion Special zones include: Disaster Prevention Zone Occupational Safety / PPE Zone Urban Safety Zone The show’s VIP business matching service and buyer delegations are set to increase opportunities for innovation exchange, which is a topic also brought to the fore at several of the show’s fringe events. Integral to Vietnam’s economic initiatives and growth strategy Smart Factory & Automation Seminar focuses on industrial efficiency, a priority for Vietnam’s Industry 4.0 initiative The Smart Factory & Automation Seminar focuses on driving industrial efficiency, a key priority for Vietnam’s Industry 4.0 initiative, which aims to make Vietnam one of the leading smart manufacturing and innovation hubs in Asia. This one-day seminar, co-organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Automation Association (HAuA), brings together industry experts who share practical solutions, case studies, and strategies for integrating automation, electronics, security, and fire safety technologies into smart factories.  Confirmed speakers include representatives from Advantech, ESTEC Digital, Honeywell, KGS Fire & Security Singapore, M.Tech, NORD Gear, rexroth A Bosch Company, Schmersal Vietnam, TNT Technologies, and VdS. Vietnam’s Digital Infrastructure Strategy Meanwhile, the ICT & Smart Building Infrastructure Forum 2025, jointly arranged with the Ho Chi Minh Computer Association (HCA), addresses the convergence of smart building, security, automation, and ICT technologies, which aligns directly with Vietnam’s Digital Infrastructure Strategy. ICT & Smart Building Infrastructure Forum 2025, jointly arranged with the HCA, handles the convergence of Security This forum presents real-world applications demonstrating how security and fire system integrators, building management system providers, ICT vendors, and telecom operators collaborate to deliver integrated digital infrastructure. Speakers from 3ONEDATA, CAD, Dahua Technology, Hanwha Vision, KEENFINITY, Phuc Binh, Seagate Technology, Silver Sea, VNG Corporation, and VNPT will share expert insights on infrastructure intelligence, a key driver supporting Vietnam’s digital economy vision, which aims for the digital economy to account for 30% of GDP by 2030. Vietnam’s government-backed Industry 4.0 initiative Secutech Vietnam 2025’s Tech Stage further facilitates discussions on the key technologies aligned with Vietnam’s government-backed Industry 4.0 initiative, Digital Infrastructure Strategy, and digital economy goals. The stage is split into three sessions: 1. Security Session This session will showcase advanced security technologies that are essential for the growth of smart infrastructure across Vietnam. It features AI-powered video management, integrated enterprise security platforms, intelligent access and key management, as well as electric perimeter security solutions designed to enhance safety and operational efficiency. The following companies will share their unique insights: 3S System Technology, ASIS Technologies, AxxonSoft Asia, Morse Watchmans, Shanghai Gato IT, Servo Dynamics, and VIVOTEK. 2. Smart Fire Technology Session Focused on intelligent fire safety solutions for both urban and industrial environments, this session highlights technologies such as fire pumps, linear heat detection systems, modular fire and life safety platforms, and smoke/heat exhaust fans. These innovations aim to deliver early fire detection, effective emergency ventilation, and enhanced compliance with Vietnam’s safety regulations. Featured companies include: KGS Fire & Security Singapore, LGM Products, NM FIRE (S), and Phương Linh Group. 3. PPE/Disaster Prevention Session With an emphasis on the latest safety and disaster readiness products, this session is set to feature explosion-proof firefighting robots, high-endurance UAVs for surveillance and emergency response, emergency escape equipment, and premium safety footwear designed to improve workplace safety and rapid disaster response. The following companies will participate: Beijing Topsky Intelligent Equipment Group, Durasafe, Mallcom India, and VTFCTech. Held concurrently with Secutech Vietnam 2025, Fire & Safety Vietnam highlights innovations in fire prevention, rescue, and industrial safety, with SMABuilding spotlighting advancements in building automation, IoT integration, and energy efficiency. Together, these dedicated events broaden the scope of the platform, offering specialized solutions for safety, security, and smart building professionals.

Headlines of violence in our schools are a reminder of the need to keep educational institutions safe. In fact, if there is a positive aspect to the constant bombardment of headlines, it is that it keeps our attention perpetually focused on how to improve school security. But what is the role of physical security systems? As the new school year begins, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Are schools safer because of physical security systems? Why or why not? 

The role of the integrator/installer in the physical security marketplace is shifting as technologies evolve and applications expand. Integrators are being faced with a need to augment their expertise both in a wider range of systems and deeper into the specifics of each increasingly complex technology. At the end of the day, it falls to the integrator/installer to ensure a system performs as promised, however much a consultant or even a manufacturer might be involved in the process. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How is the role of the security installer/integrator changing?

Sharing data between security and building management devices can provide a route to maximize building usage and minimize costs. In today's Internet of Things (IoT) environment, tying together a variety of systems is easier than ever. For an update, we asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the benefits of integrating security technology with building management systems (BMS)?