Tony Porter

Tavcom Training, one of the world’s pioneering provider of accredited security systems training courses and part of the Linx International Group, announced the addition of two one-day CCTV courses to its extensive online learning platform. The CCTV Control Room Refresher and CCTV Legislation courses are available now, with the option of accredited (BTEC) and non-accredited certificates, as well as CPD points available. The CCTV Control Room Refresher Course is essential for security practitioners that have completed the SIA training and want to keep up-to-date with the ever-changing issues affecting public space surveillance. Surveillance camera codes The course provides insight into the latest surveillance and patrolling techniques, new control room technology, incident and emergency handling, communications, ANPR, evidence sharing, as well as surveillance camera codes of practice and operational procedures, data protection, privacy and legislation. The CCTV Legislation course provides expert information and guidance surrounding data protection and privacy, including the GDPR and dealing with subject access requests, the freedom of information and human rights act, CCTV codes of practice, SIA regulations and licensing laws. The course also covers issues relating to the gathering of evidence, digital archiving and audit trails. Facial recognition technology Andrew Saywell, Business Development Manager for Tavcom Training says: “These two courses are ideal for every security practitioner involved in the use of CCTV. Not only is it important to keep pace with the application of the latest control room technology and surveillance techniques, it is essential to have an up-to-date working knowledge of what is and isn’t permissible from a legal perspective.” As the technology evolves, so to must the regulation and legislation" Andrew adds: “As the technology evolves, so to must the regulation and legislation. This was evident in the introduction of GDPR to govern data protection and, in his last month as Surveillance Camera Commissioner, Tony Porter, has shone a light on the governance surrounding the use of facial recognition technology.” Online learning platform The two courses are delivered through Tavcom Training’s bespoke online learning platform combine presentations, video and audio, to deliver an engaging, rewarding and productive learning experience. Each can be completed in one day, or at the learners own place, with online tutor support available. Learners can elect to have their training recognized with an accredited BTEC Level 2 Certificate for the CCTV Refresher course, and a BTEC Level 3 Certificate for the CCTV legislation course, or choose to receive the internationally recognized Tavcom Certificate if they choose to opt for the non-accredited route. CPD points are available to all learners on completion of the training. Courses cost £225+VAT accredited and £125 (excl.VAT) non-accredited. These courses can also be completed at Tavcom Training’s state-of-the-art training center in Bishop’s Waltham, Hampshire.

Global MSC Security has announced that its Security Conference & Exhibition will take place as a live, virtual event on 10th November 2020, with keynote presentations from the Surveillance Camera Commissioner, Tony Porter QPM LLB and Philip Ingram MBE. The free-to-attend event will take place from 2 pm until 3.30 pm from a bespoke streaming studio with the presenters in attendance and the audience joining remotely; it is sponsored by Genetec and Pelco, and supported by the International Security Journal. Tony Porter will use one of his final public appearances as the Surveillance Camera Commissioner to discuss a recent Court of Appeal case and its implications for the use of facial recognition technology. Video analytics Joining Tony Porter will be Philip Ingram MBE, who will use his experience as a former Colonel with British military intelligence and a chemical weapons expert, to provide insight into the Salisbury Novichok poisoning which took place in 2018. He will consider how video analytics (including facial recognition) can be utilised in investigations and applied in a strategic way to mitigate the impact of such incidents. The audience will also have the ability to pose questions to the presenters and sponsors during an interactive panel session towards the end of the program. In addition to this virtual presentation, Global MSC Security has also confirmed that its annual conference & exhibition, charity gala dinner and the prestigious Gordon McLanaghan Award for Security Innovation, will return to the Bristol Hotel in Bristol on 15th and 16th March 2021, expanding on the ‘virtual’ topic of the use of Artificial Intelligence and Analytics in Video Surveillance. Amongst others, Philip Ingram will provide more in-depth analysis of the topic he will cover during the on-line event. 2020 conference and exhibition rescheduled The Managing Director of Global MSC Security, Derek Maltby states: “Our annual event attracts more than 150 attendees, and we pride ourselves on it being an intimate educational event with lots of networking opportunities. Rather than limit numbers and compromise on the quality of the event, in light of current essential social distancing measures, we have decided to run our first live virtual conference and reschedule our 2020 conference and exhibition to March 2021.” Earlier in the year 2019, Global MSC Security announced Meningitis Now as its nominated charity for 2020 and the company announced that its fundraising support will continue into 2021. A new prospectus has been launched highlighting sponsorship and exhibition opportunities for 2021.

MOBOTIX has been awarded ‘Secure by Default’ certification in the UK.  The certification for the new MOBOTIX 7 platform includes the new IP video system M73, launched at the MOBOTIX Global Partner Conference in October 2019, as well as the Mx6 product line. This highlights MOBOTIX’ ongoing focus on cyber security and privacy protection. MOBOTIX has been approved based on the 12 Guiding Principles of the Surveillance Camera Commissioner. The company is now globally enabled to use the official ‘Secure by Default’ logo. Cyber-Secure surveillance camera products Many congratulations to MOBOTIX AG in self-certifying their products as ‘secure by default’" Self-certification allows manufacturers of surveillance camera devices and components to clearly demonstrate that their products meet requirements that ensure they are secure by default. The requirements are an important step forward in providing the best possible assurance for stakeholders that products aren’t vulnerable to cyberattacks. “Many congratulations to MOBOTIX AG in self-certifying their products as ‘secure by default’” highlights Tony Porter, Surveillance Camera Commissioner. “The certification mark demonstrates to customers and stakeholders alike that the products listed on my website meet the new minimum requirements I expect in terms of cyber-secure surveillance camera products. It’s great that we have a number of proactive manufacturers like MOBOTIX AG leading the way toward a common goal to develop products that to mitigate potential cyber-threats.” Surveillance camera systems Several high profile and well publicised compromises of systems were left in an unacceptable security configuration. Some of these compromises also showed the root cause of cyberattacks was down to poor design and manufacturing. Driven by the need to ensure the UK’s resilience against this and other forms of cyber security vulnerability Driven by the need to ensure the UK’s resilience against this and other forms of cyber security vulnerability, as well as to provide the best possible assurance to stakeholders, the requirements are an important step forward for manufacturers, installers and users alike. Secure by Default highlights the conformity to the 12 Guiding Principles as part of the surveillance camera Code of Practice as well as the development and use of surveillance camera systems, of which MOBOTIX applies conform. Developing solutions and strategy Phillip Antoniou, Vice President Sales Europe South/West & MEAPAC of MOBOTIX underlines “We’re very proud to achieve the ‘Secure by Default’ certification, this demonstrates the commitment that we as MOBOTIX have towards Cyber Security. We recognize the existing and increasing concerns and as such will be further developing our solutions and strategy to address this.” Recently, MOBOTIX has launched a free of charge Cactus Patch with latest firmware updates. With this continuous support, a stable and secure video system is sustained.

Axis Communications, one of the market pioneers of network video technology, has received two accolades from security authorities in the form of Cyber Essentials Plus, a scheme operated by the National Cyber Security Center, and Secure by Default self-certification, organized by the Surveillance Camera Commissioner, Tony Porter. The awards demonstrate Axis’ commitment to cybersecurity and its dedication to mitigating cyber risks within the products and services it provides. The UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner (SCC) launched earlier in 2019, a voluntary set of minimum requirements to ensure that surveillance cameras and components are manufactured in a way that is secure by design and secure by default. This is a key element of UK government policy on technological innovation having announced a £70m investment in making the UK a world leader in eliminating cyber threats to businesses and consumers by developing more resilient IT hardware, with security and protection designed directly into the hardware and chips. contribution against cybersecurity attacks Security must be at the heart of our shared ambition for a smarter, safer world" Tony Porter, Surveillance Camera Commissioner for England and Wales said, “Congratulations to Axis Communications in self-certifying their products as ‘secure by default’. It has been an enlightening and positive experience working with manufacturers toward a common goal and it’s a genuine first and further requirements will follow over the next couple of years. The certification mark demonstrates to customers and stakeholders alike that the products listed on my website meet the new minimum requirements I expect in terms of cyber-secure surveillance camera products. This is exactly the leadership I expect from a company like Axis.” Axis’ full range of camera products have been certified including Companion Series, M Series, P Series, Q Series and F Series and will mean that Axis’ products make a significant contribution to improving the UK’s resilience against cybersecurity attacks via video surveillance systems. The requirements of the scheme are an important step forward for manufacturers, installers and users alike in providing the best possible assurance for stakeholders that products aren’t vulnerable to cyberattacks. Steven Kenny, Industry Liaison, Architecture & Engineering at Axis Communications, commented, “Security must be at the heart of our shared ambition for a smarter, safer world. It is imperative that every project is approached strategically within specific security standards and frameworks, and implemented with a Secure by Default philosophy. Axis played a part in the development of the new security requirement for surveillance cameras and we welcome it, and also look forward to working with the Surveillance Camera Commissioner to take this to the next level in the future.”

Informa Markets is delighted to announce further growth for the 2019 edition of IFSEC International, FIREX International, Safety & Health Expo and Facilities Show. The shows demonstrated notable visitor growth, representing 39,188 unique visitors – including thousands of international visitors from 128 countries – boasting an overall combined budget of £45.7 billion. Visitors from 117 different countries IFSEC International welcomed a total of 34,756 visitors, seeing growth in high-quality visitors representing 117 different countries and a combined annual purchasing budget of £23 billion showing the potential scale of investment the visitors were in a position to make. IFSEC also saw a substantial increase in visitors coming in from neighbouring shows – FIREX International, Facilities Show and Safety & Health Expo – and engaging with exhibitors. IFSEC’s growth was also demonstrated in a greater increase of distributors and channel partnershipsThis year saw a huge volume of installers and integrators attending the exhibition, a significantly higher number than any other UK event. In particular, IFSEC attracted thousands of installers from London and the South of England, with a combined spending power of over £470 million to spend on new products. Representation from large installation companies and TFMs this year included Pointer, Kings, Banham, Mitie, Frontline, Secom, Magnum and Trinity. Growth in construction security sector IFSEC’s growth was also demonstrated in a greater increase of distributors and channel partnerships, with the diverse range of international visitors allowing exhibitors to establish buying chains in a number of new territories, in particular the UK, Italy, Spain, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Israel, the Nordic countries, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and more. The growth in security end users could be particularly felt in the construction and real estate sectors, with representation from Kier, Costain, Ballymore and Mace – among others – as well as critical national infrastructure and government organizations such as Arriva Rail, Dubai Police, UK Power Networks, the United Nations, the Ministry of Defense. These numbers are particularly encouraging for next year’s co-location with Counter Terror Expo. Surveillance Camera Day This is a goal we’ve worked hard to meet, and we’re thrilled to see it reflected in this year’s results"The positive response to IFSEC International was driven by a number of key highlights, in particular the first ever Surveillance Camera Day, launched by Tony Porter, the UK’s Surveillance Camera Commissioner. This centred on a new minimum requirement for surveillance cameras – Secure by Design – which was introduced and discussed by Porter across several well-attended keynote sessions. Simon Young, Exhibition Director commented, “IFSEC International 2019 was another huge success. It’s encouraging to see the security market shift in a direction that better signifies the complementary relationship between the installer, the distributor and the end user, but also the increasing importance of the auxiliary markets in the security buying process, including facilities and health and safety. This is a goal we’ve worked hard to meet, and we’re thrilled to see it reflected in this year’s results.” Visitors from various sectors at FIREX FIREX International saw an impressive 4% increase in year-on-year visitors and a 13% increase in the visitor-to-exhibitor ratio. Visitors came from 73 countries, representing a broad cross-section of the fire safety profession: 16% of visitors came from the construction sector, reinforcing the interest we have seen in fire safety in the wake of Grenfell, and complementing the growth in attendance we saw at our Tall Building Fire Safety Conference this year. A further 12% of our audience was involved with manufacturing, revealing a thriving sector bursting with innovation. Finally, the event witnessed a further increase in the number of fire safety installation companies in attendance, which reflects the merging of sectors we are seeing across all four shows in the series. In total, visitors had a combined annual purchasing budget of around £6.3 billion, demonstrating the wealth this sector is accumulating. Increase in number of high-quality visitors Government representation continued to increase at the event, totalling around 8% of total visitorsHighlighting the increasing importance of FIREX to the global fire safety market, government representation continued to increase at the event, totalling around 8% of total visitors. Furthermore, over a third of visitors were business owners or senior managers, with this increase in high-quality visitors reflected in feedback from the exhibitors. FIREX International’s growth was driven by a program of timely, current seminars, most notably a session outlining the findings of the Hackitt review into the Grenfell tragedy, one of the key discussions within the industry. New FIREX event in Egypt Furthermore, FIREX officially launched its new Egypt show, set to open on 3-5 November 2019 in Cairo. This represents a significant expansion of the FIREX brand, bringing this world-class industry events to major new markets across Africa and the Middle East. Commenting on this year’s success, Exhibition Director Simon Young said, “It’s been another successful year for FIREX International. We’ve continued to deliver a world-class event at the forefront of the fire safety profession – and we’ve seen this borne out in significant growth in installers, construction and manufacturing professionals and representatives from government. FIREX is critical for the industry, and the growing, high quality audience is a testament to this.” CPD-Accredited educational seminar This program helped Safety & Health Expo secure a 3% increase in visitors and an annual purchasing budget of £7.2 billionSafety & Health Expo saw steady visitor growth driven by an impressive selection of highlights, including a 75-hour CPD-accredited educational seminar program, the brand-new Workplace Wellbeing Show and the new PPE Attack Zone. The 2019 inspirational speakers were a particular attraction with Steph McGovern, Eddie the Eagle and Jonny Wilkinson drawing huge crowds. This program helped Safety & Health Expo secure a 3% increase in visitors and an annual purchasing budget of £7.2 billion ensuring Safety & Health Expo remains by far the largest event of its kind in the UK. Visitors came from 74 countries, with strong growth in heads of department and C-suite professionals, highlighting the show’s prestige and considerable global reach.     Event Director Chris Edwards commented, “The substantial increase in footfall we saw this year and the high-quality of visitors Safety & Health Expo attracts, really demonstrates how significant the event remains for the health and safety profession. We’re proud of the way it has continued to grow in scope and scale, remaining at the forefront of the industry as it evolves.” Showcasing smart buildings technology The visitors to Facilities Show boasted a combined annual purchasing budget of £9.2 billionFacilities Show also demonstrated a 3% increase in visitors, continuing a three-year upward trend in attendance. As with the other shows, this resulted in a 4% increase in the number of visitors per exhibitor, giving every exhibitor an increased opportunity to meet the strong numbers of TFMs, facilities directors, C-suite executives, directors, owners and heads of departments. Demonstrating the importance of this sector, the visitors to Facilities Show boasted a combined annual purchasing budget of £9.2 billion. Among the highlights driving such strong numbers was the Smart Buildings Expo – a new area dedicated to showcasing smart buildings technology including a working replica of a smart office building, which attracted considerable attention from visitors. Facilities Show also benefited from increased footfall resulting from the inspirational speakers – a shared feature with Safety & Health Expo. Event Director Chris Edwards said, “We’ve adapted Facilities Show to better reflect the changing face of the profession – that meant introducing new features such as the Smart Buildings Expo and the Workplace Wellbeing Show. And these developments help Facilities Show remain a critical destination for FM and workplace professionals, so we’re delighted to see that reflected in the show’s continued upward trend.” Significant events for the respective industries These strong numbers represented the four events’ continued centrality to their respective industries. Showcasing the most innovative products, providing education and helping connect thousands of professionals with hundreds of leading exhibitors, each has proved itself an essential part of the industry calendar, reflected in the visitor growth and their continued innovation. IFSEC International, FIREX International, Safety & Health Expo and Facilities Show will take place on 19-21 May 2020 Next year, IFSEC International, FIREX International, Safety & Health Expo and Facilities Show will take place on 19-21 May 2020. The date change, announced earlier this year, has been made so that all four events will better reflect the industry calendar and give exhibitors and visitors a longer period of time in which to continue their conversations before the summer period. Return of Smart Buildings Experience Smart Buildings Expo will expand to become its own event alongside Facilities Show, and the Smart Buildings Experience in association with Vanti will return with a new, wider remit aiming to integrate even more suppliers into its program. Joining the events at ExCeL London next year will be Security & Counter Terror Expo, which previously took place at Olympia London. Together with IFSEC International, this will create an even more comprehensive and diverse global hub for the security industry, giving attendees a unique opportunity to access all segments of the market.

Time for an indepth review of IFSEC 2019 in London. This show had fewer exhibitors than previous shows, and the ‘vibe’ was definitely more low-key. Fewer exhibitors meant larger aisles and plenty of room to breathe, and the slower pace provided time for exhibitors to reflect (often negatively) on the return on investment (ROI) of large trade shows. There was little buzz on the first day of the show, but spirits picked up on the second day (when, not coincidentally, some exhibitors served drinks to attendees at their stands). Enterprise security solutions One eye-catcher was smart wireless security provider Ajax Systems’ stylish black stand Many exhibitors compared IFSEC unfavorably to ISC West in the United States and even to Intersec in Dubai. Others seemed willing to be lured back to Birmingham (previous location for IFSEC) to participate in the upstart competitor, The Security Event, next spring. However, not all the IFSEC 2019 reviews were negative. Vaion made the most of their small stand toward the back of the hall. They experienced brisk traffic right up until the end of the show. Happy with the response, the provider of real-time enterprise security solutions reportedly has already committed to IFSEC 2020. Other exhibitors also made the most of their space at IFSEC; one eye-catcher was smart wireless security provider Ajax Systems’ stylish black stand. Vaion made the most of their small stand toward the back of the hall Latest new products Nedap launched a new product, AEOS 2019.1, that is five time faster and more stable than its predecessor. It uses HTML5 – no more reliance on Adobe. Feedback has been good. The company has also increased its integration of open security standards (OSS). Traka showcased smart lockers, which are modular, scalable, and staff can easily replace broken equipment. Product features can be adapted to specific sectors (i.e., retail, prisons). Traka spends 30% of its revenue on research and development, developing their own engineering. The company has seen massive growth in the UK and Europe. Hanwha Techwin lured visitors into the centre of their stand with drinks and ice cream, surrounded by the latest new products. Hanwha promoted their investment in a manufacturing facility in Vietnam and showcased Wisenet cameras with enhanced 4K images, digital auto tracking, and less motion blur for clearer images. Video verification product A multi-sensor model captures wide areas with a single camera. Hanwha also offered some value-priced cameras that feature easy self-install and are swappable. Optex launched a new product called ‘the Bridge’, a video verification product that bridges CCTV on a digital video recorder (DVR) to intruder alarms. Hanwha showcased Wisenet cameras with enhanced 4K images UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner Tony Porter announced ‘Security By Default’, a set of minimum requirements that will guarantee users that network video security products are as secure as possible in their default settings right out of the box. Hikvision promoted their support for Secure by Default and expressed hopes the initiative would be embraced by other companies and create a new best practice for camera cybersecurity. Hikvision also promoted their retail solution, which includes on-site redaction for GDPR compliance, shelf detection incorporating artificial intelligence, and use of heat mapping to analyze customer foot traffic. Generating revenue Safety and Security Things (SAST), another IFSEC exhibitor, is in the process of creating an ‘app store’ for the security market. Striving to achieve critical mass with participation by a wide range of systems integrators and manufacturers, SAST has a goal of launching to the public in Q1 next year in time for ISC West. Hanwha Techwin is among the players that have already joined the alliance A pilot version will debut this autumn, and they already have 26 apps and six camera manufacturers toward that goal. With a staff of 120, mostly based in Munich, SAST expects to begin generating revenue in 2020 and to grow rapidly. An investment by Bosch is financing start-up operations. Open Security & Safety Alliance (OSSA) is creating standards and a platform to enable the sale of apps in the security market. Large industry players Hanwha Techwin is among the players that have already joined the alliance, and OSSA is seeking to add other large companies, such as Axis, Genetec and Hikvision. Engaging integrators, app developers and software providers as well as camera manufacturers will generate widespread support to ensure the initiative succeeds. Although currently most OSSA members are based in the EU and Asia, it is a global organization open to any company in the world. Many large industry players are now missing from the IFSEC show floor; the most noticeable new abstainer this year was Milestone. And the downturn seems likely to continue: Exhibitors were largely noncommittal about returning next year, although organizers were urging them during the exhibition to sign up for 2020.

The world’s first National Surveillance Camera day is being launched by a University of Stirling academic to stimulate public debate about the spread of the technology. National Surveillance Camera day Surveillance centers across England and Wales will be throwing their doors open on Thursday 20 June, in an event planned by leading CCTV expert Professor William Webster. The national day, which is being organized in conjunction with the Surveillance Camera Commissioner, aims to reveal the often secretive world of surveillance cameras and encourage people to think about the technology’s role in society. Professor Webster, who is Director of the Center for Research into Information, Surveillance and Privacy (CRISP) and lead for the public engagement strand of the National Surveillance Camera Strategy, said: “Surveillance cameras have been watching over us for more than 40 years but their rising use, coupled with the development of new technologies like face recognition, drones and body-worn cameras, has resulted in an increased need to ensure that surveillance systems used to uphold public safety also respect our rights and freedoms.” Expanding scope of CCTV surveillance As part of events, control centres will be publishing key factsheets “This event aims to start a vitally important, nationwide conversation about how, why and by whom camera technology is being used, and the risks and benefits this brings to society.” As part of events, control centers will be publishing key factsheets outlining important information about the equipment they operate, and why and how they are using surveillance cameras. Video surveillance infringing privacy debate CCTV has been at the centre of heightened controversy in recent times, with new technologies sparking several debates over privacy. Last month, San Francisco became the first city in the United States to ban police and other government agencies from using facial recognition technology, while a pedestrian in London received a £90 fine after trying to avoid similar cameras installed on a street in London. Tony Porter, Surveillance Camera Commissioner, said: “Surveillance Camera Day is a world first. The UK is sometimes referred to as ‘the most surveilled country on the planet’. Cameras are used to keep people safe but new and emerging technology can lead to greater infringements to our civil liberties. I really want to start a conversation about how surveillance cameras are used, why they’re used and who is using them. Civil engagement is a key strand of the national surveillance camera strategy and I want people who use cameras to shine a light on what they do – how they’re using cameras to protect communities not spy on them.” Prof Webster added, “National Surveillance Camera Day provides an opportunity to go behind the scenes and see how surveillance is being used in this country. Ensuring that the public are fully informed on the use of CCTV – and where the lines should be drawn on access and privacy – has never been so important.” The organizations taking part include: Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council Caerphilly County Borough Council Gloucestershire Police Hackney Council North Bristol NHS Trust North Wales Police Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Surrey Police University of Wolverhampton ‘Secure by Default’ standard for cameras As part of the national day, a new ‘Secure by Default’ standard for surveillance camera manufacturers is being launched at the UK and Europe’s leading security exhibition, IFSEC International, which is being held at ExCel, London. This new standard will ensure that the default settings of a product are the most secure settings as possible, meaning they are much less likely to be vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

At IFSEC International 2019, Hikvision, the global supplier of innovative video surveillance products and solutions, will help launch the pioneering Secure by Default initiative, and unveil a host of its new product and technology developments. Secure by Default is a set of minimum requirements which for the first time will provide a guarantee for users that network video security products are as secure as possible in their default settings out of the box. Secure by Default will be launched by UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner Tony Porter as part of the first National Surveillance Camera day, the launch of which takes place on Thursday June 20 from 10am to 10:45am at the IFSEC Key Note arena. Porter’s address is followed immediately by a Hikvision interview panel further discussing Secure by Default and featuring Tony Porter, Detective Constable Patrick McBrearty, who is the Cyber Protect Officer within the Regional Organized Crime Unit for the West Midlands, Norbain’s Jeremy Hockham, and Hikvision’s Gary Harmer. Products and technology developments During IFSEC International 2019, Hikvision will be showcasing a host of its latest products and technology developments, including its: HikCentral Solution Deep Learning Series Panoramic Series Turbo HD Series Pro Series & Ultra Series PTZ Series Access Control & Intercom Series Smart Retail Solution Smart City Solution Smart Utilities Solution DarkFighterX Technology Technology Partner Program Portal Hikvision will also introduce its new Technology Partner Program Portal at the show. The TPP Portal is designed to bring together technology partners and systems integrators, in order to accelerate projects, enhance collaboration and drive the development of more innovative customer solutions. It will provide partner listings, easy engagement with Hikvision’s integration department, comprehensive technical documentation, management of Hikvision Embedded Open Program (HEOP) including license management, and regular updates and increased functionality. Pyronix will be launching a new addition to their all-round perimeter protection solution Intruder alarm specialist Pyronix, part of the Hikvision group of companies, will be present on the Hikvision stand during IFSEC International. Pyronix will be launching a new addition to their all-round perimeter protection solution, adding even greater functionality for additional peace of mind and greater upsell and retention advantages for installers. Hikvision partners on the stand Other Hikvision Technology Partners will also be present on the Hikvision stand, including: Manything Pro will be showcasing their offsite cloud video storage platform and showing how easy it is to add cloud to Hikvision camera installations. Manything Pro cloud storage plans start from £3.19/month, allowing installers and integrators to add margin and introduce a new recurring revenue stream to their businesses. IPS Intelligent Video Analytics will show five camera-based analytics modules for the HEOP. They enable indoor and outdoor real-time detection of motion, intrusion, sabotage and loitering. Seagate will be showcasing Seagate SkyHawk Health Management, with embedded drive monitoring software designed for prevention, intervention, and recovery. Now integrated with Hikvision NVR Plus receive notification alerts from the SkyHawk HDD directly to the Hik-Connect app. Visit Hikvision during IFSEC International 2019 at Stand IF1530. Stop by the stand for 15 minutes daily talks on hot industry topics: 12.00: Dive Into Deep Learning 13.00: HikCentral MasterClass 14:00: Pyronix Powering Business Growth

The surveillance system provides a safe and secure shopping and working environment SSAIB, the UK and Ireland’s security, fire, and telecare certification body, has confirmed that, following an in-depth audit, major High St retailer Marks and Spencer has achieved the Surveillance Camera Commissioner’s Certificate of Compliance. In a move personally praised by the Surveillance Camera Commissioner, Tony Porter, M&S voluntarily sought the certification and is the first retailer in the UK to demonstrate compliance with the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice. Customer And Staff Protection Protecting its customers and staff, by providing a safe and secure shopping and working environment, is crucially important to the company, which realized that adopting the Code would provide transparency and consistency throughout its operations. Added-value benefits have also included cost reductions, for example through value management and rationalization of CCTV systems against their need and purpose. A reduction in the installation program has additionally saved costs and minimized retail disruption. The certification, awarded by the Surveillance Camera Commissioner, follows an audit conducted by SSAIB’s Lead Assessor Stephen Grieve, which covered all of Marks & Spencer’s operations, from its head office through to distribution centers and retail stores. In practice, it means that the company has been found compliant with the 12 guiding principles of the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice (in accordance with the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012). M&S’ Head of Corporate Security, Clint Reid, worked in partnership with Four Security Consultants Ltd to meet the certification standards and comments, “We are optimistic about the potential improvements in protecting our people and working environment that gaining the SCC CCTV certification will bring.” “This move has significantly raised the profile of CCTV within M&S and is an important source of operational information” Operational And Commercial Benefits Brendan McGarrity, Head of Four Security Consultants, adds: “We praise the vision and tenacity of Clint and his team in realizing the importance of gaining this certification and the hard work they put in, helping us achieve it with them. This move has significantly raised the profile of CCTV within M&S and is an important source of operational information. The increased awareness of M&S’ surveillance capability, together with the quality of its CCTV equipment, has resulted in managers being more willing to use the data to help them realize operational and commercial benefits.” Meanwhile, Surveillance Camera Commissioner Tony Porter notes that: “For a retailer of Marks and Spencer’s size to achieve full certification against the code is no mean feat at all. They are not required to comply with the code and have done this voluntarily, which makes it all the more impressive. Working with Four Group and SSAIB they have been able to demonstrate they comply with the code across their vast estate. If an organization of this size can achieve certification there’s no reason why anyone else can’t and shouldn’t.” Adaptable And Flexible Approach Stephen Halpin from Four Security Consultants, who worked with SSAIB’s Stephen Grieve throughout the certification process, declares that a key element in achieving compliance was SSAIB’s flexibility. “SSAIB provided an adaptable and flexible approach, while remaining firmly within the scope and spirit of the SCC’s certification standards,” he explains. “This allowed M&S to demonstrate its compliance with the code in both practical application and process compliance. SSAIB remained impartial, providing advice and guidance whenever needed, and took into consideration the operational challenges of a large retail operation while working with us to deliver the successful accreditation. Included among the legacy commercial and operational benefits of certification is a clear understanding of the future requirements to maintain certification over the next five years, thanks in no small part to the adaptable and supportive approach of SSAIB.”

Porter will tell IFSEC attendees about an upcoming National Surveillance Camera Strategy The Surveillance Camera Commissioner for England and Wales, Tony Porter, will be speaking at IFSEC International 2016 on how compliance with the U.K. Surveillance Camera Code of Practice can ensure that CCTV systems are operated proportionately, transparently and effectively. Porter has certainly been busy in the two years since his appointment by the Home Secretary. He has the difficult job of balancing effective surveillance on the one hand with considerations for privacy and individual freedom on the other. What Is Surveillance Camera Code Of Practice? To help him achieve this, the Home Secretary published the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice in 2013, under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012. The code sets out guidance on the appropriate and effective use of CCTV systems by “relevant authorities,” who must take it into consideration in the running of their surveillance systems. “My role is to ensure CCTV systems are used to support and protect communities, and not to spy on them,” says Porter. “The 12 guiding principles of the code of practice aim to balance the need for cameras in public places with individuals’ right to privacy. If the principles are followed, it means that systems are only used proportionately, transparently and effectively.” Other, mainly private, users are encouraged to adopt the code on a voluntary basis. Apart from overt surveillance, the guiding principles of the code also apply to drones, body-worn cameras and automatic license plate recognition systems. CCTV System Self-Assessment Flowing from the code of practice is a detailed self-assessment tool, with which those managing CCTV systems can ascertain whether or not they are complying with the code of practice. Between 60% and 70% ofauthorities have demonstratedthat they comply with the codeusing the self-assessment process “The self-assessment tool is a very good first step to demonstrate compliance with the code,” says Porter. “By encouraging authorities to publish the findings of their assessments, a conversation takes place with the public so they feel that surveillance is not being done to them, but that they are part of it. I call it surveillance by consent.” He estimates that between 60% and 70% of authorities have demonstrated that they comply with the code using the self-assessment process. But what about those CCTV users who do not fall into the category of those required to use the code of practice? “We’re getting a great deal of uptake from the private sector,” says Porter. “We have worked with universities, banks, retailers, government departments and bodies like Transport for London. The incentive for them is that they can then tell their customers or stakeholders that they follow best practice and provide good security for them.” Even in times of austerity and squeezed budgets, the self-assessment tool can have benefits. While some local authorities have declared there is no money and have walked away from their systems or reduced the extent of monitoring, others are using the tool as an opportunity to review whether their systems are working effectively and efficiently. Independent Verification Of CCTV Users One step further in raising standards and accountability is the third party certification scheme for operators of public space surveillance camera systems. The scheme, launched last year, enables organizations complying with the code of practice to be independently verified. It is open to all users operating CCTV systems in a public space. “Users can demonstrate compliance with the code by using a process that demonstrates integrity cost-effectively,” says Porter. “Certification is an outward sign of inward compliance and the process will help raise standards.” Certification can be relatively inexpensive as well, with a typical cost of £300-£400 for a 50-camera system for the first stage of certification. “Step one certification is a desktop review of the system. The process is built on honesty but based on transparency, and is valid for one year. It is designed for organizations that are working towards full compliance with the code, but are aware they need more time to become fully compliant. We encourage people to approach step one certification as a natural follow-on from self-assessment, but certification is on the understanding that the organization will work towards being in a position to apply for full certification. Step two (full certification) includes a full on-site audit of the system and is valid for five years, subject to an annual review.” Porter wants to focus the thoughts and actions of users, suppliers, installers and consultants on the core requirements of the system by re-working the OR so that it facilitates compliance with the code of practice Recommendations Although introduced only in 2013, the commissioner has already carried out a review of the code of practice. Among his recommendations are: Extending the definition of “relevant authorities” to cover all organizations that are publicly funded in any way, including bodies such as NHS trusts, education establishments and transport operators; Introducing an obligation for authorities to publish their camera coverage in terms of systems, numbers, privacy impact assessments, self-assessments, certification and outcomes of annual reviews, with limited powers of enforcement in cases of non-compliance; Encouraging the use of a “passport to compliance” using the Operational Requirement and system certification; Producing a single code of practice on surveillance camera systems rather than having two (the Surveillance Camera Commissioner’s and the Information Commissioner’s Office) at present. Revamping Operational Requirement (OR) Among the further initiatives to come from the commissioner is the revival of the Operational Requirement (OR), which was last revised in 2009. The OR is used by designers of CCTV systems and consultants, but the intention is to revise its provisions so that it can become a key element of the passport to compliance. Porter wants to re-work the OR so that it facilitates compliance with the code of practice by focusing the thoughts and actions of users, suppliers, installers and consultants on the core requirements of the system, therefore becoming a process and guidance manual. As stated in the commissioner’s review of the code of practice: “Properly developed, the OR represents a key opportunity to ensure public monies are properly invested and CCTV industry specialists are held to account for products provided.” The revamped OR is due to go out to consultation soon. Looking further ahead, Porter will tell IFSEC attendees about an upcoming National Surveillance Camera Strategy, due to go out for consultation in the autumn. The strategy aims to cover all stakeholders – manufacturers, designers, installers and end users – and to raise standards and compliance with the code of practice. “I see this strategy as being crucial to bring the many different and disparate parts of the sector to follow one strategy.” “I’m determined to drive up standards right across the spectrum of the industry,” concludes Porter. “I believe the first two years of tenure in my post demonstrate that.” Tony Porter will be speaking on a Passport to Compliance in the Security Management Theater at IFSEC International in London on 21 June.