As advancements in smart security tools and systems continue to accelerate, building owners and operators are increasingly recognizing the potential to significantly enhance the safety and security of their facilities. The growing accessibility and affordability of these technologies are driving a shift towards more integrated and intelligent security solutions, designed not only to protect occupants and assets but also to streamline operations and improve response times during emergencies.
Let’s explore the various ways that integrating smart technologies can bolster building safety. From advanced surveillance systems and access control to predictive analytics and real-time monitoring, these innovations are transforming how we approach security in the built environment.
Occupant, Perimeter, and Asset Monitoring
A variety of smart technologies can be implemented that bolster the physical safety of occupants and assets. While video surveillance is a well-known choice, other IoT technologies can complement video systems to improve monitoring capabilities.
For instance, occupancy monitors can track the number of people within a defined area. In turn, this information can be sent to a Building Management System (BMS) to adjust fresh air ventilation and lighting while also providing the ability to send various alerts to physical security teams based on changes to baselined traffic behaviors.
Furthermore, the integration and data-sharing capabilities of modern smart security systems allow for holistic analysis of data from video and occupancy counting systems, providing a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the building environment. The more accurate data and insights that facility and physical security teams have, the better.
Access Control Systems
Buildings and campuses with existing Access Control Systems (ACS) can enhance their security and convenience by integrating additional technologies. One example is switching from physical proximity or key cards to biometric-based systems to deliver extra security for the operator while allowing occupants to access areas without needing anything beyond their own biometric credentials.
A second way to expand ACS convenience is to implement a modern visitor management system. These systems can utilize a number of methods including:
- Pre-registration apps and websites to request access prior to their visit
- Check-in kiosks that are autonomous and fully self-service
- Real-time tracking capabilities and integrations with existing surveillance systems to monitor visitor movements in real-time
Emergency Response Systems
To ensure the safety of occupants within a building, Emergency Response Systems (EMS) are designed to alert occupants about threats of fires, unauthorized breaches, or other potential disasters in order to achieve a safe evacuation for all while also attempting to minimize damage to expensive assets.
Implementing supplementary technologies to an EMS can improve effectiveness and efficiency in a variety of ways. Some examples include:
- Geofencing capabilities to target and alert occupants that are in the most immediate danger
- HVAC control integrations to lessen the propagation of fires or chemical fumes
- Two-way message systems for improved communication
- Smartphone app integrations for improved interactions and notification propagation to facilities teams, physical security personnel, and occupants, in addition to receiving alerts from other smart building technologies
- Intelligent access control integrations to provide the free flow of traffic to safer locations
Advancements in AI that Improve Building Safety
Artificial intelligence is increasingly integrated into smart security systems to enhance the safety of occupants and assets. For example, AI can analyze data from health and safety systems to detect early signs of potential failures, enabling predictive maintenance to ensure these critical systems operate reliably.
Additionally, AI can be employed in risk assessments and audit processes by simulating various emergency scenarios and predicting their outcomes. This enables the optimization of safety technologies, ensuring they provide the most effective response for a range of emergency situations.
Benefits of Smart Security System Add-on Integrations
The days of siloed smart security systems should be considered a thing of the past. Instead, deep integrations and data sharing should be researched and acted upon to provide a building-wide approach to occupant safety and asset protection. Not only does this approach provide more accurate information to operators and occupants in real-time, but it also ensures better predictability, reliability, user experience, and efficiency of all smart systems.
By understanding the inherent benefits and practical applications of smart security integrations, you can make informed decisions that prioritize safety while leveraging the latest technological advancements.
