Industrial properties such as warehouses, manufacturing plants and processing facilities face unique security challenges. Some of their main concerns are sabotage, intrusion, internal and external theft, and employee accident claims. Eric Cliche, Major Account Director for GardaWorld Security Systems, has years of experience in the industrial sector. Eric shares his insights into the security challenges faced by this specific vertical, the latest trends in security technology, and the importance of listening to customers' needs in developing effective security solutions.
 
How do the security needs of industrial buildings compare with other types of buildings? 
 
The security needs of industrial buildings are complex due to their unique features. For example, industrial buildings typically have a large square footage area to cover, which means that they may require more surveillance cameras and other security equipment to monitor the premises effectively.
 
These types of buildings might also experience a high volume of deliveries and pickups, creating vulnerabilities around access control and unauthorized visitors. They might house complex machinery such as conveyor belts, which can in turn create heightened risks of theft or employee accidents. 
 
What types of solutions do you offer to customers in the industrial sector?
A key component of a robust security program for industrial clients is remote video surveillance. We begin by auditing the existing systems and determining if there are any outdated cameras that may need replacement. You’d be surprised at the number of sites where video cameras are no longer transmitting footage to the monitors! 
 
The latest cameras can be integrated into the existing infrastructure, thereby protecting the client’s investment, while at the same time improving security and efficiency. Video surveillance helps cover gaps in a security program where there might not be a physical security guard on duty, for example during off-peak hours like in the evening or on weekends. Remote access to footage is useful for investigations and legal purposes, providing valuable evidence in case of an incident.
 
Evaluating and implementing a robust access control system, whether it be magnetic key cards or biometric readers, helps ensure that not only are entrances and exits protected, but specific areas of the site such as data rooms as well. 
 
Fire alarm systems are critical to ensuring building safety. We install fire alarm panels, enunciators and strobe lights, and then connect the panel to our 24/7 monitoring centre. These systems are designed to detect and alert building occupants to the presence of a fire or smoke, allowing for quick evacuation and minimizing the risk of injury or damage to property. In addition to protecting lives and property, fire monitoring systems can also help to reduce insurance costs, comply with regulatory requirements, and provide peace of mind for building owners and managers. 
 
What type of solution can be used to monitor security during a construction phase?
 
Mobile Surveillance Units (MSUs) are an effective security measure that can be used at an industrial site undergoing a construction or repair phase. Often on construction sites, expensive machinery and materials will be left unattended during certain periods of time. The MSU is the perfect solution as the unit can provide 360 degrees of remote video surveillance coverage. Thanks to the two-way speakers, strobe lights and sirens, a potential intruder will be deterred. 
 
What is virtual guard service and how can it complement an existing security system?
 
A virtual guard is a service that provides real-time monitoring and protection of a property or facility using remote video monitoring technology. Our operators can remotely perform security functions such as a virtual walk-through of the site, checking different areas for suspicious activity, and guiding visitors through remote access control. Virtual guard service is an affordable and effective complement to your security program and can be customized to meet specific site needs. 
 
 
Can you explain what video analytics are and how they will shape the future of the security systems industry?
 
Video analytics is the process of using algorithms to analyze video footage and extract meaningful information. It allows us to identify patterns and anomalies in behaviour, and it can be used for a variety of applications, including crowd detection, license plate recognition, and object tracking. This is an exciting development that I think will become more prevalent in the coming years.
 
In conclusion, security solutions are an essential part of protecting industrial sites’ people, assets and property. GardaWorld Security Systems offers a range of solutions, including camera surveillance, intrusion detection systems, access control, fire detection systems, and more. 
 
To request a quote, contact us today.