Healthcare security

i-PRO Co., Ltd., a global pioneer in professional security and public safety solutions, and Milestone Systems, a pioneer in data-driven video technology, today announced that selected cameras now support native camera-to-cloud connectivity within Milestone’s video surveillance-as-a-service platform, Arcules®. The integration enables i-PRO cameras to connect directly to Milestone’s Arcules cloud without requiring on-site servers, recorders, or hardware gateways. By combining i-PRO’s secure, AI-enabled edge hardware with Arcules’ cloud-managed architecture, organizations can deploy a simplified, serverless video infrastructure while maintaining high performance, robust cybersecurity protection, and operational flexibility. Modernise video infrastructure Milestone’s Arcules platform delivers centralized cloud video management, including live monitoring, playback, event search, mobile access, alert management, and case handling tools across distributed environments. As organizations modernise video infrastructure, many seek cloud-first deployments that reduce complexity without sacrificing intelligence or control. With camera-to-cloud support, i-PRO cameras operate as intelligent edge devices that transmit encrypted video and event data directly to the Arcules platform. Embedded edge AI analytics processes people and vehicle detection directly within the camera. Only relevant metadata and event-based footage are transmitted to the cloud, reducing bandwidth consumption while maintaining real-time responsiveness. Bandwidth-constrained environments Secured local SD card storage provides additional resilience in bandwidth-constrained environments and ensures video continuity during temporary network interruptions. Customers retain the freedom to choose SD card storage without proprietary lock-in, reinforcing i-PRO’s open hardware philosophy. The integration reflects both companies’ commitment to open and collaborative ecosystems. The joined approach enables customers to deploy intelligent edge cameras within Milestone’s Arcules VSaaS platform while preserving long-term architectural flexibility. For organizations operating hybrid environments, deployments can integrate alongside existing Milestone XProtect® installations. This allows customers to modernise at their own pace without requiring a full system replacement. Privacy-conscious deployments Security and responsible AI governance remain central to both i-PRO’s and Milestone’s strategies. i-PRO products are developed under its ISO/IEC 42001 AI management framework and support NDAA and TAA compliance, aligning with regulatory requirements across high-demanding sectors, such as government and enterprise environments. AI processing at the edge reduces unnecessary transmission of raw video and supports privacy-conscious deployments. By generating descriptive metadata within the camera before transmission to the Arcules cloud, organizations can balance operational insight with data protection requirements. Secure boot technology Building on this secure foundation at the edge, Arcules extends protection into the cloud with end to end encryption, strong user controls, and continuous compliance - leveraging Google Cloud’s six layer security model and continuous monitoring to protect video data at every layer. i-PRO cameras also incorporate secure boot technology, secured storage, certificate-based authentication, and hardened device architecture to protect data integrity in distributed and cloud-managed environments. Broadening the camera to cloud ecosystem The current integration includes a selection of i PRO S series camera models, and support will continue to expand across the wider i PRO line-up throughout 2026, reinforcing i PRO’s position as the manufacturer offering the most Arcules Camera to Cloud integrated camera models. “This broad compatibility provides indoor and outdoor deployment flexibility across retail, education, healthcare, hospitality, and multi-site enterprise environments. Cloud is not about forcing a single architecture, it’s about giving customers freedom and flexibility of choice,” said Philippe Henaine, Manager, Strategic Partners at i PRO. “With Camera to Cloud connectivity in Milestone’s Arcules platform, i PRO is enabling a cloud model where intelligence starts at the edge and scales securely into the cloud, allowing organizations to modernise at their own pace without compromising performance, cybersecurity, or openness.” Cloud-ready devices “Cloud is transforming how organizations manage and secure video data, and with the addition of i-PRO cameras, Milestone continues to accelerate the shift toward cloud-optimized, serverless video architecture,” said Sebastian Döllner, Vice President, Technology Partnerships & Open Platform, Milestone Systems. “By expanding the range of cloud-ready devices, even more customers are empowered to adopt the right mix of technology for their operational and budget requirements. This is what our open platform philosophy is all about, and together with partners like industry leading i-PRO, we are shaping intelligent solutions that resonate with our customers’ evolving needs.” The new camera-to-cloud integration will be demonstrated for the first time at ISC West at the Milestone (#18053) and i-PRO booths (#26053).

Milestone Systems, a global pioneer in video technology, is at the forefront of the video security industry, emphasizing responsible technology innovation across its operations. The company will host this free, one-day event on September 5, in Los Angeles.  Event features Designed for IT pioneers and security professionals, the event will feature engaging presentations from Milestone's technology partners across key industries such as education, healthcare, smart cities, and hospitality. Attendees will gain insights into the latest developments in AI technologies, cloud video strategies, and Milestone's newest product offerings. Keynote session Brown will share his insights on how artificial intelligence is transforming video technologies and reshaping the future A keynote session from renowned AI futurist, entrepreneur, and author, Steve Brown promises to be a highlight of the event. Brown, a former executive at Google Deepmind and Intel, and an advisor to Fortune 100 pioneers on how to innovate with AI, will share his insights on how artificial intelligence is transforming video technologies and reshaping the future of security and business operations. Video technology "We're excited to bring together IT and security professionals from all over Southern California to discuss the game-changing video technologies that are driving our industry forward," said Tim Palmquist, VP Americas, Milestone Systems. "The Los Angeles XPerience Days is a great chance to mingle with experts and colleagues and see firsthand how data-driven video solutions can boost both safety and efficiency for any organization." What to expect AI & Video Analytics: Discover how AI is revolutionizing video technology in the security industry and beyond. Accelerating Cloud Technology: Understand the many options for cloud-based video management. Vertical Solutions for Growth: Learn about successful solutions that meet customer needs and expand business opportunities. Networking opportunity The event will be held at The Majestic Downtown, Los Angeles. Following the day's presentations, attendees are invited to network with fellow security professionals and speak one-on-one with Milestone experts during a relaxed social hour. "At Milestone, we're all about equipping our partners with the information they need to thrive in today's fast-moving security world," said Palmquist. "We can't wait for this event – it's going to be insightful, informative, and fun.”

Honeywell Technologies introduces a set of new AI-powered building automation offerings, including EBI One, fire and life safety, and security innovations at Accelerate 2026, its largest-ever industry event with more than 2,000 customers and partners. The new technologies are designed to help building owners and operators modernise infrastructure, improve safety and efficiency, and accelerate the transition from automation to autonomy with practical, AI-driven features. “Buildings are at an inflection point with owners and operators being asked to manage increasingly complex environments, often with fewer skilled resources," said Juan Picon, president and CEO of Honeywell Technologies Building Automation. "Customers today need more than connected systems and volumes of data. Instead, they need technologies that turn information into actionable intelligence, simplify operations and enable better decisions.” Autonomous building operations Picon continued, “At Accelerate 2026, we're demonstrating how Honeywell Technologies is combining decades of building automation expertise with AI and advanced technologies to help customers address these challenges and accelerate the transition to autonomous building operations." Honeywell Technologies is introducing several new technologies and expanded capabilities across building operations, fire and life safety, and security at Accelerate 2026 and beyond: EBI One brings AI-powered intelligence to building operations. EBI One is a new command and control platform that draws on the AI-powered intelligence of Honeywell Technologies Forge Cognition to continuously assess outcomes and inform operator actions to improve efficiency and safety. Built on Honeywell Technologies’ decades of Enterprise Buildings Integrator (EBI) experience across more than 30,000 buildings, it provides operators with conversational AI operations, intelligent alarm assistance and open integration capabilities designed to simplify operations and help improve safety and efficiency. Single operational view New fire and life safety capabilities support earlier detection and smarter response. Honeywell Technologies is introducing low-level carbon monoxide (CO) monitoring that provides immediate concentration visibility and trend analysis; System Sensor Distinguish detector technology that differentiates fire signatures from conditions such as steam, dust, and mist to reduce unwanted nuisance alarms; and Incident Command, a software application that brings incident information, unit accountability, operational procedures, and most critically, live data on the evolving conditions within the connected building into a single operational view. Together, these innovations help provide earlier insight into potential risk and developing conditions, reduce nuisance alarms, and improve incident response, helping create safer environments for building occupants and emergency responders. Click here to view the full release on the launch at Accelerate 2026. Natural-language reporting Expanded AI-powered security capabilities help teams prioritise, manage risk and respond faster. With the upcoming release of LenelS2 Adaptive Intelligence Suite, Honeywell Technologies will bring operators AI-weighted alarm management, alarm contextualisation, natural-language reporting, unified dashboards, anomaly detection and guided workflows, all designed to reduce alarm fatigue and improve situational awareness. The suite layers contextual AI onto existing platforms, starting with LenelS2 OnGuard to help customers modernise security operations while preserving existing investments. The new suite is expected to be unveiled at ISC West in early 2027. Modernising security operations Next generation Niagara framework creates a foundation for increasingly autonomous buildings. Niagara 5, the new generation of the industry-standard Niagara framework, serves as the engine that enables systems from any building or vendor to connect across HVAC, fire, security, access control, lighting and energy. The trusted, open and contextualised view of all building system assets, combined with Forge Cognition intelligence, reduces engineering and commissioning efforts and helps building owners, system integrators and operators accelerate the transition from connected buildings to increasingly autonomous operations. The new Niagara framework is expected to be unveiled at AHR in early 2027. Together, these innovations demonstrate how Honeywell Technologies combines AI-powered decision support, advanced detection, connected infrastructure and modern building management platforms to help buildings move from automated systems to increasingly autonomous operations. Understanding facility conditions Honeywell Technologies is already leading the industry transition from automation to autonomy through Forge Cognition, an agentic AI and simulation platform it recently launched in collaboration with NVIDIA and Dell Technologies. The platform combines real-time digital twins with AI capabilities to help operators understand facility conditions, anticipate issues, and coordinate actions across connected systems. In a co-creation deployment at NVIDIA’s headquarters in Santa Clara, Forge Cognition demonstrated an average reduction of 90% in unnecessary alerts, enabling operations teams to focus on what matters most. This co-creation work also identified a potential reduction of up to 10% in energy and utility consumption. Accelerate 2026 brings this vision to life through executive keynotes, customer-led discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and an immersive Innovation Hub showcasing real-world building applications across hospitality, data centers, semiconductors, energy and utilities, commercial buildings, financial services, healthcare, life sciences, government, and education.

dormakaba introduces AVA Entryway Intelligence, a new solution designed to help facility managers better monitor and maintain automatic entrances. AVA will debut at the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) World Workplace, November 18-20 in Anaheim, California. Entryways are the first impression of a building and are among its most frequently used systems, yet facility teams have little insight into their condition until something goes wrong. Door failures can disrupt building operations, create safety concerns, and result in costly emergency service calls. AVA – which stands for Awareness, Visibility, Alerts – addresses this challenge by providing instant visibility, early detection of potential issues, and remote diagnostics. These insights help teams determine when service is needed and plan maintenance more effectively, giving them greater control over their budgets. More predictable operations "Facility managers should know more about their entrances than whether they're working. AVA gives them a read on what's happening before it's a problem," said Derek Sarmas, Senior Vice President, Access Automation Solutions at dormakaba Americas. "This isn't an overengineered smart door. It's about fewer surprise phone calls at 2 a.m. and more control over something people depend on every day." Designed for healthcare facilities, airports, retail properties, offices, higher education campuses, and other environments, the solution can be managed through dormakaba's secure cloud or integrated into existing building management and automation systems (BMS/BAS) through its open API. In the U.S., AVA is powered by EntriWorX™ Insights to deliver intelligence for dormakaba automatic doors. Future compatibility will include dormakaba Argus Air eGates. AVA will be demonstrated at dormakaba booth #1544 during IFMA World Workplace. Attendees are invited to meet with dormakaba experts and experience how connected entryway intelligence can help facility teams move from reactive maintenance toward more predictable operations.

The artificial intelligence revolution in physical security has arrived, transforming how we protect people, assets, and infrastructure. From smart buildings that automatically adjust access protocols based on real-time threat assessments to healthcare facilities using AI-enhanced video analytics for patient safety, these technologies are reshaping the industry landscape. But with this transformation comes a new era of regulatory oversight that security professionals must navigate carefully.  Convergence of AI The convergence of powerful AI capabilities with traditional security systems has created unprecedented opportunities for enhanced protections while simultaneously raising important questions about privacy, transparency, and responsible deployment. As these technologies become more sophisticated, security professionals face the dual challenge of maximizing their potential while ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory frameworks.  The current state of AI in security systems  By combining multiple data streams, AI creates a more comprehensive and intelligent security ecosystem Today's AI-driven security solutions extend far beyond traditional security capabilities. Modern systems can understand complex human behaviors, analyze crowd patterns in transportation hubs, detect early signs of trouble in retail environments, and even predict potential security breaches before they occur. By combining multiple data streams — video feeds, access control systems, audio detection, and various sensors — AI creates a more comprehensive and intelligent security ecosystem.  Industrial applications The impact is particularly evident in integrated security operations. In healthcare settings, AI systems can simultaneously monitor patient safety, manage access control, and detect unauthorized entries, all while maintaining strict privacy protocols. In education environments, these technologies help safeguard campuses by identifying unusual behavior patterns while respecting student privacy rights. Retail operations benefit from AI's ability to not only detect potential theft but also analyze customer flow patterns and identify operational inefficiencies.  The technology's capabilities continue to expand through: Advanced anomaly detection that establishes normal activity patterns and flags deviations.  Predictive analytics that forecast potential security risks before incidents occur.  Natural language interfaces that allow security teams to query video data using voice or text commands.  Multimodal analysis combining data from thermal cameras, LIDAR, IoT sensors, and other sources.  Integration of multiple data sources Security systems are evolving into predictive platforms that can anticipate and prevent incidents These innovations represent just the beginning of AI's potential impact on security applications. As algorithms become more sophisticated and computing power increases, security systems are evolving into predictive platforms that can anticipate and prevent incidents rather than simply respond to them. The integration of multiple data sources allows for a more nuanced understanding of security situations, enabling more precise and effective responses to potential threats.  Emerging regulatory frameworks  The rapid advancement of AI capabilities has prompted governments worldwide to develop comprehensive regulatory frameworks. The European Union has taken the lead with its AI Act, categorizing AI systems based on their potential risks and establishing strict guidelines for high-risk applications.  Focus on safe, secure AI The United States is following suit, with recent executive orders focusing on safe, secure, and trustworthy AI development. These initiatives reflect growing global awareness of the need to balance technological advancement with ethical considerations and human rights protection. These regulations are reshaping how security technology providers approach development and implementation. Responsibility-by-design approach Companies must consider the entire lifecycle of their AI solutions, from initial development The focus has shifted toward a "responsibility-by-design" approach, where privacy protection, data security, and ethical considerations are built into systems from the ground up. This includes robust testing protocols, responsible data practices, and continuous monitoring of AI systems post-deployment. Companies must consider the entire lifecycle of their AI solutions, from initial development through deployment and ongoing operation.  Transparency, accountability For security professionals, this regulatory evolution means adapting to new requirements around transparency, accountability, and human oversight. Security teams must document how AI systems make decisions, implement safeguards against bias, and ensure human operators maintain final authority over critical security decisions. The regulations also emphasize the importance of data protection, requiring organizations to implement strict controls over how information is collected, stored, and used within AI-powered security systems.  Address challenges of AI The regulatory landscape continues to evolve, with new frameworks emerging that specifically address the unique challenges of AI in security applications. These include requirements for regular system audits, mandatory impact assessments for high-risk deployments, and specific guidelines for handling sensitive personal data in security contexts. Organizations must also develop clear procedures for addressing potential AI system errors or biases, ensuring that corrective measures can be implemented quickly when needed.  Preparing for the future  The challenge lies in maximizing security effectiveness while maintaining transparency and public trust The security industry stands at a crucial junction where innovation meets responsibility. As AI capabilities grow more sophisticated, security professionals must balance the use of these powerful tools while adhering to evolving regulatory requirements. This balance becomes particularly critical in smart city applications, where AI systems might monitor public spaces for safety while respecting individual privacy rights. The challenge lies in maximizing security effectiveness while maintaining transparency and public trust.  Proactive approach Success in this new landscape requires a proactive approach. Security teams should invest in understanding both the technical capabilities and regulatory implications of their AI systems. This includes developing clear protocols for data handling, establishing robust testing procedures, and implementing continuous monitoring systems that can detect and address potential issues before they become problems. Organizations must also create comprehensive training programs to ensure security personnel understand both the capabilities and limitations of AI-powered systems.  Human-in-the-loop approach The human element remains crucial. While AI can process vast amounts of data and identify patterns beyond human capability, security professionals must maintain oversight and final decision-making authority. This "human-in-the-loop" approach ensures that AI serves as a powerful tool for augmenting human judgment rather than replacing it. Training and education become increasingly important as security teams must understand not only how to operate AI-enhanced systems but also how to interpret their outputs and make informed decisions based on AI-generated insights.  An ever-evolving environment  The integration of emerging technologies like large language models and computer vision will create new opportunities Looking ahead, the security industry will likely see continued evolution in both AI capabilities and regulatory requirements. Future systems may incorporate more advanced predictive capabilities, enhanced natural language processing, and improved ability to understand complex human behaviors. However, these advancements will need to develop within an increasingly structured regulatory framework that prioritizes privacy, transparency, and ethical use. The integration of emerging technologies like large language models and computer vision will create new opportunities while also introducing novel regulatory challenges.  Physical security transformation The transformation of physical security through AI represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. By embracing responsible innovation practices while maintaining strong ethical standards, security professionals can help shape a future where advanced AI capabilities and regulatory compliance work together to create safer, more secure environments for everyone.  Need for security guidelines The key to success lies in viewing regulatory requirements not as obstacles but as guidelines for developing more trustworthy and effective security solutions. As the industry continues to evolve, organizations that prioritize both innovation and compliance will be best positioned to leverage AI's full potential while maintaining public trust and regulatory compliance.

The biggest return on investment from an AI-enabled camera might have nothing to do with security. Organizations are increasingly discovering that the same cameras installed to protect people and property can also improve safety, streamline operations, automate routine workflows, and generate valuable business intelligence. Security remains the primary mission, but it is increasingly only the first customer for the intelligence these systems produce. AI-enabled cameras are rapidly becoming distributed IoT sensors that continuously observe, interpret, and describe their surroundings. Instead of simply producing video, they generate rich metadata about people, vehicles, objects, movement, and activities. That information has value far beyond surveillance. As organizations look for better ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs, enhance safety, and automate routine operations, they are discovering that the same camera installed to monitor a doorway or parking lot may also become one of the most valuable operational sensors on the network. From video to metadata For years, higher resolution dominated the conversation around video technology For years, higher resolution dominated the conversation around video technology. More pixels promised better evidence and clearer images. While image quality remains important, AI has fundamentally changed where the real value lies. Modern edge AI processes video directly inside the camera, identifying people, vehicles, objects, behaviours, and countless other attributes as events unfold. Instead of transmitting every frame for centralized analysis, the device generates lightweight metadata that describes what it sees. That metadata can be searched, filtered, shared, and consumed by other applications without requiring operators to review hours of video footage. This fundamentally changes the role of the camera. Rather than acting as a passive recorder, it becomes an intelligent sensor that continuously feeds structured information into operational workflows. Once organizations begin thinking in terms of metadata instead of video, entirely new applications emerge. Movement of critical equipment The security department may have purchased the camera, but it is increasingly supporting decisions made by operations, facilities, safety, transportation, and executive leadership. In healthcare, cameras can do far more than document incidents. AI applications can detect when someone has fallen, help staff locate misplaced wheelchairs, count ambulances arriving at emergency departments, or monitor the movement of critical equipment throughout a facility. These capabilities improve patient care while reducing the time staff spend searching for resources. AI-enabled cameras As an IoT sensor, the camera has become a shared resource across multiple departments Logistics organizations are seeing similar benefits. AI-enabled cameras can monitor for compliance issues, automate gate operations using license plate recognition, validate vehicle movements, and track pallet or trailer activity throughout a distribution center. Security remains important, but the same infrastructure also improves throughput, reduces manual processes, and provides operational visibility across the facility. Barnet Council in the United Kingdom initially modernised its video infrastructure to improve safety and security. Today, the same cameras generate people and vehicle counts that support planning decisions for parks, transportation, libraries, festivals, and other public spaces. Rather than serving only security personnel, the system supplies operational data that helps city planners make better infrastructure and investment decisions. As an IoT sensor, the camera has become a shared resource across multiple departments. Metadata is only valuable when it drives action Collecting more information just because it’s possible is not the objective. Organizations are already overwhelmed with data. The real opportunity lies in intelligent automation. The greatest operational value comes when AI-generated metadata automatically triggers meaningful workflows rather than simply identifying people or vehicles. When a person enters a restricted area after hours, a PTZ camera can automatically focus on the activity while lighting activates to deter loitering. Security personnel receive alerts only if the individual remains in the area. License plate recognition AI handles repetitive operational tasks while people remain responsible for judgment and response When a worker collapses inside a manufacturing facility, safety personnel are immediately notified while responders receive precise location information. At a logistics gate, license plate recognition can validate vehicle credentials, update operational systems, and document the transaction automatically. In each example, AI handles repetitive operational tasks while people remain responsible for judgment and response. This transition from detection to intelligent automation may ultimately deliver greater value because it focuses on outcomes rather than observations. The business case is getting stronger Perhaps the most significant consequence of this evolution is organizational rather than technical. Historically, video projects were often justified solely through security budgets. Return on investment depended largely on reducing theft, improving investigations, or strengthening compliance. Today, the value proposition reaches far beyond the security department. Facilities managers use camera data to understand occupancy and space utilization, operations teams streamline workflows, safety officers monitor hazardous activities, transportation managers optimize vehicle movement, and executives gain measurable operational metrics that support planning and resource allocation. The same camera infrastructure can now deliver value to multiple departments, making investment decisions easier to justify while improving long-term utilization of existing assets. Open ecosystems will determine who benefits most Metadata creates the greatest value when it flows freely between systems As cameras become operational sensors, another requirement becomes increasingly important: openness. Metadata creates the greatest value when it flows freely between systems. An AI-enabled camera may generate valuable operational information, but that information becomes significantly more useful when it integrates with video management systems, access control, public safety platforms, business intelligence software, facility management applications, or other third-party operational systems. Organizations want the flexibility to add new AI applications as needs evolve without replacing existing hardware. Developers benefit from standardized platforms that allow applications to run consistently across different environments, while integrators need the freedom to build solutions that reflect each customer's unique operational requirements rather than forcing every deployment into the same proprietary framework. Open architectures make that possible. Looking beyond security AI is expanding the role of the camera far beyond traditional security. Organizations are increasingly treating AI-enabled cameras as operational infrastructure that improves safety, streamlines workflows, and supports better decision-making across the enterprise. Every day, AI-enabled cameras observe facilities, generate metadata, automate workflows, and provide actionable information that helps organizations make faster, better decisions. Security remains the foundation, but the same intelligence now supports business operations, public safety, healthcare, logistics, transportation, and smart city initiatives. Organizations that recognize this shift early will find that one of the richest sources of operational intelligence is already installed throughout their facilities. They simply need to start thinking beyond security.

Across many sectors, AI is transitioning from an experimental process to a trusted tool, but how will construction - and architectural ironmongery specifically - balance this technological opportunity with traditional practice? Artificial intelligence was once considered the trend of tomorrow, but it’s now here, and already it’s impacting the design, specification and management of the built environment. Following a period of refined development, the technology is emerging as a valuable tool for architectural professionals, with its growing role signifying far more than a passing industry trend. Passing industry trend According to the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) Artificial Intelligence Report 2025, 59% of architectural practices now use AI on at least some projects, an increase from 41% in 2024. Furthermore, a global survey led by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in 2025 found that 56% of investors planned to increase AI investment, suggesting that the rate of adoption will continue to accelerate over the coming years. However, whilst innovation typically creates opportunity, there are challenges to address These findings represent a cultural shift, one where AI is firmly embedding itself into workflows and influencing the decision making process. However, whilst innovation typically creates opportunity, there are challenges to address. As more professionals equip themselves with an arsenal of AI-driven tools, are we in danger of becoming overly reliant on technology? Or are those reluctant to adapt likely to be left behind? Daniel May, Director at Consort Architectural Hardware, shares insight: Repetitive administration tasks “The development of the built environment has always relied on technical precision. Specifications naturally contain large volumes of product information and technical data, with professionals managing document-heavy tasks in the form of specification writing, door scheduling and BIM coordination in order to meet project requirements and compliance obligations. All of this data must be analyzed and processed accurately - often in line with demanding timescales - and it is here where AI can offer the greatest value.” “Where time was once consumed by repetitive administration tasks and information processing, professionals are now embracing AI as a means of working more efficiently. For architectural ironmongery specifically, where specification accuracy is critical, AI has the potential to support architects and specification professionals as they navigate the product selection process. As a tool, AI can streamline documentation by rapidly processing performance data and certification requirements, whilst also identifying inconsistencies and absent compliance information within schedules.” Complex project requirements “AI systems are helping professionals navigate increasingly complex project requirements quickly, accurately and consistently. As machine learning and autonomous models continue to advance, these tools may further reduce the administrative burden associated with architectural work models whilst improving accuracy and minimizing the risk of human error in the process. With that said, the effectiveness of AI software is very much reliant on the quality of the information it receives.” “With the sector so deeply tied to fire safety, accessibility, security and regulatory standards, the caution around adopting AI as common practice is of course justified. Historically, much of the construction industry has been measured in its adoption of new technology, partly due to the critical nature of compliance and the significant consequences of error. Though, AI feels somewhat different because of its pace and potential, and as such, organizations must be measured in their approach to it, ensuring that professional knowledge remains central to delivering safe, efficient and compliant building projects.” The human element As industry standards and the legislation surrounding the built environment continues to evolve, so too will the methods used to achieve high level design and compliance. Seemingly, AI looks set to have an increasingly prominent role, but it should be viewed as a collaborative partner capable of enhancing professional expertise as opposed to a system that can, or should, do it all. Daniel continues: “At this stage, AI alone simply can’t understand the nuances of individual projects and that has implications for both design and compliance. This is particularly relevant in the post-Grenfell regulatory landscape, where accountability, traceability and evidence-based decision-making have become fundamental to product specification and delivery.” Building greater trust “Although AI can assist with information processing, the technology is not ultimately responsible for the decisions being made. Accountability has rightly become a major focus point in construction, and as AI continues to disrupt practices, the industry must ensure that responsibility remains clearly defined. AI-driven errors could lead to serious penalties in relation to compliance, safety and project delivery, proving human expertise remains critical.” “Moving forward, greater transparency within AI systems will be key. If professionals are able to understand how or why AI recommendations have been generated, they can assess them with confidence, building greater trust in the technology.” Architectural design solutions “When it comes to architectural design, the emotional intelligence, contextual understanding and creative balance offered by a team of professionals far outweighs the speed that AI can offer. Already, AI is being used to support visualization and concept development for multi-layered projects in hospitality, healthcare and commercial environments to name a few, helping teams to explore ideas and communicate concepts at a quicker rate.” “However, can AI effectively develop architectural design solutions based on the bespoke requirements of a project, the operational needs of its users or even the general character of the building? Most would argue that it’s not conceivable, because AI lacks the lived experience and contextual understanding that comes from being present in the project itself.” Architectural ironmongery products “For architectural ironmongery products, professionals must regularly assess how products will function in real environments. Human intuition is impossible to replace and those informed design decisions, made by human professionals, will always be essential. Whilst some question whether AI could one day plan and deliver a project from concept to completion, perhaps the more important question should be whether future generations of professionals could lose the critical design and specification skills that are needed, should the industry become too dependent on AI.” “There is a growing sense of inevitability surrounding AI’s influence on architectural ironmongery and the wider built environment. As the industry continues to embrace this new wave of technological development, it is important to remember that innovation must complement the knowledge, judgement and accountability of the professionals who create safe and functional buildings, not replace it.”

With 1,300 cameras recording 24/7 and more than 1,000 investigations to process per year, Massachusetts General Hospital’s security team was not able to keep up with the vast amounts of recorded video. Now, BriefCam Syndex Pro for fast video review, search and analysis, embedded within a Milestone XProtect video management software (VMS) platform is making efficient and effective video investigation possible. Unique challenges to security Massachusetts General Hospital’s (MGH) Police, Security and Outside Services Department provides some security services to many other Partners hospitals and facilities. Following its recent digital conversion, unified on the Milestone XProtect VMS platform, MGH’s security team was able to expand camera coverage by adding new Axis network cameras directly to the existing IP network. The hospital environment presents unique challenges to security, Michelman points out “The number of investigations we were doing was taking huge amounts of time in terms of reviewing video, and that was really a waste of time,” said Bonnie Michelman, MGH Executive Director of Police, Security and Outside Services and Consultant for Partners Healthcare. The hospital environment presents unique challenges to security, Michelman points out. MGH’s 17-acre urban campus, comprising 29 contiguous and 14 separate buildings (including underground and freestanding garage facilities), is complex. The security team must also take into account not only the main location, but also dozens of satellite facilities around the Boston area. Enterprise risk management “We can’t cover all of these facilities with security staff,” said Michelman. “We need to augment heavily with very good, state-of-the-art technology that allows us to combine our intelligence, labor, policies and procedures, in order to create a better holistic approach to enterprise risk management.” Charged with creating a safe environment, MGH’s security team at the same time is challenged by the clinical team’s needs for increased efficiency through lowering length of stay and moving patients through the hospital as quickly as possible. The 24-hour Emergency Room, with its anxious, highly volatile population presents challenges of its own. In addition, patient elopement and patient wandering – unauthorized departures from the medical facility, whether intentional or unintentional – pose liability threats that can be very damaging to a hospital. Providing customer satisfaction A unified system was required to balance the video surveillance needs of a busy hospital campus A unified system was required to balance the video surveillance needs of a busy hospital campus with remote satellite locations while upholding the highest level of security possible, maintaining operational flow, and providing customer satisfaction that includes expectations of privacy. Michelman, together with MGH Senior Manager, Systems and Technology Robert Leahy, decided on the Milestone XProtect VMS platform. Camera count was increased from 400 to 1,300, and standardized with Axis network cameras connected directly to the IP network. To deal with the marked increase in video data, MGH’s team chose BriefCam Syndex Pro, a powerful set of tools intended to reduce the time and effort needed to conduct video reviews, post-event video investigation and real-time video monitoring. The BriefCam solution ties in seamlessly with the Milestone video management solution, providing efficient workflow for investigators. Presenting video metadata According to Michelman, BriefCam has already proven invaluable. A two year long ROI examination of video surveillance use at MGH has shown a progressive rise in success rates with the use of video in incident investigations. According to Michelman, BriefCam has already proven invaluable “I see BriefCam as a very important part of our toolbox of excellent practices for protecting what is a very complex environment of tangible and intangible assets,” said Michelman. BriefCam Syndex Pro’s ability to present video metadata in graphic visualization format, such as bar graphs, pie charts and the like, has opened up new realms of possibilities to extend the role of CCTV video beyond security into organizational efficiency and more informed, data-driven decision making. Better investigative focus “In the past, there might have been things that would have been a ‘nice to do,’ but we couldn’t do it because we didn’t have resources to watch many hours of video,” said Michelman. “Now we can manage the content and we can see trends, which in turn can drive redeployment of resources, and by extension, facilitate a better investigative focus and success.” BriefCam Syndex Pro embedded within Milestone XProtect VMS platform is helping MGH in its mission to effectively and efficiently protect and safeguard the hospital community. Michelman said: “We’re happy with these products, but it’s not just about the quality of the technology, it’s about the quality of the partnership. You know, it’s easy to sell a product, but to sustain it, service it, and be there after it is in is really very critical for us.”

TDSi products can be easily synchronised with existing security investments from many third parties The Healthcare market is an area of expertise for security solutions specialist TDSi. Not only does it require the most stringent security, the Healthcare sector often has strict budgets and involves caring for some of the most vulnerable people in society, so any solution needs to be highly reliable and easy to operate and manage. Specific areas such as hospital pharmacies need higher levels of security due to the value of stored products; baby units or wards for elderly patients typically require access control to monitor both entry and exit. There may also be specific security considerations for staff, with lone workers or remote parts of healthcare facilities that could be open at any time, day or night. Despite this, staff, patients and visitors need to be able to move around with a minimum of disruption. TDSi’s range of access control and security solutions are designed to integrate efficiently with each other and also in close collaboration with other manufacturers’ products, such as Texecom’s alarm systems and Milestone’s CCTV solutions. TDSi products can be easily synchronised with existing security investments (from many third parties) or installed from scratch to offer fully bespoke security. By offering a wide choice of access control options along with the ability to record a detailed audit trail with their highly flexible software packages, TDSi is the ideal choice for installers and customers in the Healthcare sector. An excellent example of TDSi’s expertise in this market is a recent installation at London’s Charing Cross and Hammersmith Hospital, which covers an impressive 617 doors across multiple sites and integrates with both security and fire systems for a rapid response in an emergency. John Coleman, Managing Director of expert installation specialist Advanced Detection Systems (ADS), which specified TDSi’s solutions as part of the project commented, “This has been a major and high-profile project for us which required a best-of-breed solution for the access control element. TDSi systems are specifically designed to integrate with other building services and security systems and are particularly well suited to projects where CCTV, fire alarms and access control need to work closely together to protect people and property. In partnership with TDSi, we were able to offer Charing Cross and Hammersmith Hospital, solutions which fully met their needs and give peace of mind that patients and staff can be fully protected from emergencies and potential security breaches, at all times.” TDSi’s EXpert controller features a stand-by battery facility that allows the system to continue operating in the event of power failure The project uses TDSi’s EXpert IP controllers, fully featured networkable access control units, with supervised inputs and relays, making them ideal for monitoring and signaling alarm conditions which could occur at Charing Cross and Hammersmith Hospital. With capacity for up to 48,000 cards, the flexible access controller is ideal for those applications that feature high user volumes through access points - such as a busy hospital and teaching environment. TDSi’s EXpert controller features a stand-by battery facility that allows the system to continue operating in the event of power failure and at these times the system can be controlled without the need for PC communications, so controlled access is maintained. TDSi’s Director of UK Sales, Stuart Griffiths, explains, “The project at Charing Cross and Hammersmith Hospital is an excellent example of how TDSi’s systems can be easily and very successfully integrated with other building services and security solutions to offer a highly intelligent and powerful access control system. A hospital environment protects many vulnerable people and assets, so being able to fully co-ordinate security while making the most of existing asset investments (particularly when budgets are under closer-than-ever scrutiny) is a highly desirable outcome for all stakeholders.”

In a sector where budgets are always a focus of attention, delivering concrete returns to every investment is crucial. By digitalising access, healthcare premises – whether large hospitals or small clinics – can benefit from day one. They can improve staff and patient safety; quickly implement more efficient, time-saving workflows; and painlessly meet compliance demands. Healthcare sites always present complex access challenges. They must be welcoming, accessible public spaces. They often occupy large, sprawling areas; unfamiliar faces and first-time visitors are around every single day. At the same time, these premises inevitably have valuable and/or sensitive assets, including confidential data and medicines, which must be secured. Patients, doctors, nurses and support staff must feel safe. In labs and treatment suites, restricted materials and valuable equipment need both security and a compliant system for logging every access event. This has always been healthcare’s ‘business-as-usual’: it is a complex environment for any security manager. Meeting compliance demands Modern hospitals and clinics, however, now face an extra level of challenges – and opportunities. Their access system may benefit from integration with fire detection, CCTV and other building solutions, for example. With so many temporary and contract workers employed on-site, access is in constant motion. It needs to be tailored to specific and very different needs and, equally, revoked when any time-limited tasks are complete. In case of a security breach, rapid investigation is essential. Tracing and logging access to specific areas may also be a legal requirement, especially with new NIS2 regulations introduced for critical infrastructure, which demand proactive “hybrid” cyber/physical security frameworks for many healthcare premises. Relying on manual or siloed systems to complete these tasks could eat up hours or even days for security and even medical staff. Happily, there is a better way to work. Digital access devices The solution is access digitalisation. Digital access devices and credentials help to keep every hospital user safe. Unauthorized access is minimised because unapproved key copies rarely circulate and lost credentials are canceled with a click. Employees and equipment are safer because more access points may be digitally secured. Issuing contractors and temporary staff with digital or even mobile credentials can further simplify the granting, amending and revoking of site access. Security teams waste less time handing out and collecting keys. Intelligent, intuitive software helps facilities managers stay in control even while they are off-site. Logging access to specific assets or areas becomes quick and simple: a few clicks rather than the laborious process of keeping manual logs up to date. “Access is such an important part of any holistic approach to safety,” says David Moser, SVP and Head of Digital Access Solutions at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. “Digitalising access immediately puts powerful tools in the hands of hospital management, delivering tangible daily benefits to meet security challenges head-on, improving efficiency and regulatory compliance at the same time.” Implementing digital access “There’s now a device to extend existing systems with digital control at almost any access point, whatever building solution is in place. Alternatively, we can equip customers with whole solutions to implement digital access from scratch, without invasive installation. So many efficiency and security benefits are within reach.” Below are three of many real-life examples which illustrate the ways healthcare premises have benefited from digital access beyond the most obvious security and safety aspects. By choosing ASSA ABLOY’s Aperio® wireless locks, integrated natively with an ARD access management solution, Centre Hospitalier Métropole Savoie (CHMS) could issue access rights tailored to individual staff and contractors and implement real-time control, helping to boost site safety. Because Aperio locks are wireless, the hospital introduced more layers of security without incurring excessive installation or operating costs, including for sensitive offices and drug stores. Access point functionality at CHMS now includes real-time management logs and remote door opening. Real-time management logs For convenience, staff now carry one credential programmed with their individual tailored permissions. “Having just a single badge, and not having to carry around heavy keys, has been a major advantage for us,” explains Béatrice Dequidt, Health Executive at CHMS. “We have implemented internal HR management procedures, creating badges that are automatically integrated into ARD's operating software,” adds Alain Gestin, CHMS’s IT Systems Architect. Aperio and ARD maintain compatibility of credentials with the French government’s electronic Health Professional Card (CPS), for added staff and management convenience. Personalized access permissions Hospital MAZ, in Zaragoza, also implemented a new ASSA ABLOY digital solution, SMARTair®, with real-time access functionality. Their online wireless access management system saves security managers’ time because they can implement all changes via the central system in real time, without needing to waste time walking through the hospital. Staff convenience is further enhanced: they now carry a smartcard programmed with their personalized access permissions. Custom-made cards double as employee IDs, so 625 staff and approximately 100 contractors only need to carry one. Their ASSA ABLOY system is also mobile access ready, making it easy for the hospital to issue and manage mobile keys in the future without hardware changes. “Digitalisation presents opportunities for healthcare organizations of every size and type to improve security while they also reduce costs ‘hidden’ in daily workflows,” explains David Moser. Convenient secure access Managing physical keys can impact nursing care, as pharmacy managers at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham discovered. An older, mechanical system made it difficult for them to keep track of who held the right key. Searching for that person wasted time. They identified a better solution for convenient secure access to controlled medicines: programmable keys. With their CLIQ programmable key access solution, power to digital and electromechanical locks is supplied by a standard battery inside every key, so no wires are required – making it an ideal retrofit solution for hospital doors, cabinets and mobile drug trolleys. Audit trails for locks and padlocks are available on demand: nurse managers can quickly see who has accessed cabinets or drug trolleys. Key access solution “The message from all nursing staff is that patients are getting medicines much easier and in a more timely fashion,” says Inderjit Singh, Chief Pharmacist at QE Birmingham. “For us, the key return on investment is the quality of service we’re providing.” “Our expertise in access, established over decades, enables us to work with customers to get their access ready for what’s ahead,” adds David Moser. “With ASSA ABLOY, they digitalise with confidence.”

After a major refurbishment, Benghazi Children's Hospital in Libya is preparing to deliver a safer, more connected, and more efficient healthcare experience. By adopting Hikvision's AIoT (AI-powered Internet of Things) technologies, the hospital is enhancing patient care, strengthening communication, supporting medical education, and improving operational efficiency throughout the facility. For more than four decades, Benghazi Children's Hospital has served local communities and families. Covering approximately 11,300 m², the hospital supports a wide range of inpatient and outpatient services. Its recent refurbishment—the first in over 40 years—was more than a maintenance project. The hospital set ambitious goals to modernise the environment, aiming for an 80% improvement in patient satisfaction, response times, and interdepartmental communication. Smart healthcare solution To support these objectives, the hospital has been working with the national distributor Al Motaheda to deploy an integrated Hikvision smart healthcare solution spanning patient communication, medical education, and fire protection. When a patient needs help, every second matters. To help caregivers respond quickly and efficiently, Benghazi Children's Hospital has deployed Hikvision's Nurse Call System across its two inpatient departments: the Observation Department and the Gastroenteritis Department. At 11 ward entrances, Doorway Terminals and LED indicators have been installed. Now, when a patient calls, room number and bed information will immediately appear in the corridor, helping nursing staff identify where assistance is needed. Delivering routine announcements A Nurse Station has been located between the two departments. From a single point, staff will be able to receive, prioritise, and respond to requests from all 11 wards, helping improve efficiency while ensuring patients receive timely attention. Beyond the nurse call system, the hospital also wants to strengthen communication between departments. 40 SIP Phones have been installed across examination rooms, operating rooms, labs, and offices, to keep every department connected for day-to-day coordination. 37 Ceiling Speakers will deliver routine announcements, visitor guidance, and emergency notifications. 26 Ceiling Access Points will provide hospital-wide wireless connectivity, supporting staff communications, connected devices, and future digital healthcare applications. Improving patient satisfaction Together, these systems have are creating a more connected healthcare environment where information reaches the right people at the right time. Hospital management expects the solution to play a key role in improving patient satisfaction while significantly reducing response times once the facility becomes fully operational. As a teaching hospital, Benghazi Children's Hospital also places strong emphasis on clinical education. However, limited space inside operating rooms can make it difficult for large groups of students to observe procedures firsthand. To address this challenge, the hospital has deployed a Live Surgery Broadcasting System built around the Hikvision Video Cart. Dedicated training hall This is a mobile unit that can be moved between all four operating rooms as needed. With appropriate patient consent and in accordance with hospital policies, it captures high-quality video and audio that can be transmitted live to a dedicated training hall. This will allow more medical students to observe operations without disrupting clinical activities or overcrowding operating rooms. In addition to live viewing, surgical procedures can – again, with consent – be recorded and stored for future training purposes. This will enable educators to build a growing library of teaching materials while giving more students access to practical clinical learning experiences. Centralized emergency management Fire safety has also been addressed by installing a comprehensive Hikvision fire protection solution. The system enables early fire detection, rapid alert distribution, and centralized emergency management. 203 Smoke Detectors cover every area of the building, from operating rooms to waiting areas to staff rooms. 24 Audible and Visual Alarms, and Manual Call Points have been placed at the ends of corridors and near all exits, where people moving toward evacuation routes will find them. A Fire Alarm Control Panel at the main reception provides centralized monitoring and control. A microphone at the same location will allow staff to broadcast live evacuation instructions to the entire hospital should it be needed. Effective medical education Together, these capabilities help ensure faster response during emergencies while supporting a safer environment for patients, visitors, and staff. Although the hospital has not yet officially opened following its refurbishment, feedback from hospital management and medical staff has been highly positive. As Taha Grgom, Project Manager at the Hospital put it: "The nurse call system will help us respond to patients more quickly, while the live surgery broadcasting system will open new possibilities for medical education. Together, these technologies are helping us build a more connected and efficient hospital." As Benghazi Children's Hospital prepares to welcome its first patients, it stands as a powerful example of how AIoT technologies can support better care, stronger collaboration, safer operations, and more effective medical education. More importantly, it shows what Tech for Good can mean in practice—using technology to make a meaningful difference where it matters most and help every child receive the care they deserve.