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Securing Boundaries in the Middle East

Perimeter security has become an integral part of protecting sensitive infrastructure across the Middle East, where vast industrial sites, government facilities, and ambitious urban projects require robust and adaptive security solutions. In a region where environmental factors, the scale of development, and security concerns intersect, perimeter protection systems must be tailored to meet both the physical and operational challenges of each project. This article explores the key players and technologies involved in perimeter security across the Middle East, focusing on how fencing systems, detection technologies, and integrated security solutions are addressing the specific needs of the region’s critical infrastructure. Environmental and Sector-Specific Challenges The Middle Eastern environment, characterised by extreme temperatures, sandstorms, and vast desert expanses, presents unique challenges for perimeter security systems. Solutions must be able to withstand harsh conditions while ensuring reliable performance. In addition, projects vary significantly, from sprawling industrial installations to densely populated urban areas, requiring different approaches to perimeter protection. Gunnebo is one manufacturer addressing the specific environmental challenges of the Middle East. Its outdoor perimeter protection solutions are designed to function in extreme climates. Gunnebo’s systems offer fencing and barriers that can withstand the region’s harsh environmental conditions, ensuring that security measures are not compromised by temperature fluctuations or dust storms. Additionally, its solutions are scalable, making them ideal for use in both urban and remote desert areas. Another player in the perimeter protection market, YKM Group, focuses on manufacturing fencing systems that are durable and corrosion-resistant. YKM’s perimeter fencing products are designed to endure the Middle Eastern climate, with coatings and materials that protect against rust and degradation caused by extreme weather conditions. These fences are often installed in industrial settings where security is paramount, such as oil and gas facilities, where corrosion can quickly become a liability if not addressed. The diversity of the Middle East’s projects requires flexible perimeter security solutions. Urban areas need highly integrated systems with advanced surveillance and detection capabilities, while industrial sites often prioritise durability and scalability. Link Middle East, for example, provides a wide range of fencing options, from chain-link fencing for low-risk areas to welded mesh fencing for high-security zones. The company’s fencing solutions are used in numerous projects across the region, providing a balance between physical security and adaptability to different environments. The Middle Eastern climate and geography, therefore, dictate the design and implementation of these security systems. Temperature-resistant materials and durable infrastructure are necessary not just for operational continuity but for longevity in the harsh desert conditions. Wind, sandstorms, and fluctuating temperatures require materials that can endure without compromising structural integrity. Read more in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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i-PRO announces Aero PTZ camera range

Registration Open for World Police Summit

Middle East News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Registration is now open for the World Police Summit, 5– 7 March 2024, Don’t miss out on this opportunity to engage with global futuristic trends impacting policing and law enforcement around crime prevention, investigation technology, data, AI, security, forensics, anti-narcotics, drones and many more. Hosted by Dubai Police, the World Police Summit Exhibition is a unique global law enforcement marketplace brimming with cutting-edge policing and security technologies, services and solutions from over 230+ well-renowned global organisations, including Bristol, Dahua, Airbus, Hikvision and Icarus Aerospace to name a few. Beyond exploring new technologies and innovations, the Summit offers an opportunity to gain relevant insights into the world of policing and law enforcement. Immerse yourself in a series of seven high-level specialised conferences led by international industry luminaries and experts. The conferences will provide unique networking opportunities to foster progress and new partnerships. Secure your free visitor pass now by visiting worldpolicesummit.com Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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Who’s Who: Integrated Control Technology (ICT)

News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

ICT products are installed in more than 50 countries and supported by a network of international offices, certified installation professionals, and distributors ICT offers a unified solution for your access control, intruder detection, and building automation needs. We help keep unwanted visitors outside, while enabling access control and monitoring inside, all from one system. Whether it’s a small business needing basic protection or a large-scale enterprise project with thousands of doors and complex user access requirements, our Protege systems provide a comprehensive solution that meets the needs of big or small. Single unified interface With native support for mobile credentials, video intercoms, and a wide array of built-in features, such as scheduled arming and floor plans to help streamline your day to day, the Protege systems mean you can track where people are, see who’s at the door, and respond to incidents from one single easy-to-use platform. Designed for the end user, a single unified interface means that you don’t need to switch between your security, access control, and building automation systems. Expand functionality with integrations Make use of a wide range of integrations including, Video Management Systems (VMS), high-level elevator control, building management, ANPR, wireless locks and sensors, and biometric solutions. But we don’t stop at off the shelf solutions – our custom integration tools give you the freedom to tailor a solution that meets your exact needs. ICT’s ability to integrate with other systems thanks to an open technology focus, ensures you obtain the greatest benefit from an ICT system or component, without having to start from scratch. This is useful for any vertical – such as Multifamily Residential, where ICT provides a single, simple solution that protects residents and visitors from the front entrance through to the apartment door. Or in Healthcare, where a unified access and intrusion solution with integrations for VMS, elevators, and HR systems brings increased efficiencies and significant decreases in security response times. All while providing additional cost savings by automating building functions. Smart mobile solutions Mobile credentials complement existing systems by enabling secure access from smartphones. And, with the Protege Mobile App, you can monitor and control properties on the go. With an access control, intrusion detection, and building automation system in your pocket, oversight and control has never been easier. Secure connectivity with OSDP Native OSDP connection make it easy to use ICT’s advanced multi technology tSec Readers with an existing access control system. Or team up third-party OSDP card readers with a MIFARE DESFire card and an ICT Protege controller to create a totally encrypted communications path from the card to the server. Worldwide reach, local focus Designed and manufactured in New Zealand, installed in over 50 countries, and supported by a global network, ICT provides a comprehensive solution that is easily expandable and supported by an ever-growing number of third-party integrations. ICT is expanding its operations in EMEA and is offering a full-service direct solution to clients across EMEA. This includes a dedicated sales team, full local customer service, technical and warranty support plus on-site stock warehousing. They run localised training (both online and in-person), to make sure installers across the region get the most out of the Protege range and can give the best service to their customers. To discuss your access control and security requirements, contact the local ICT team today at emea-info@ict.co Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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Abloy UK reinforces importance of access control

UK News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Abloy UK has emphasised the significance of adhering to fire door regulations in response to recent government data showing a concerning surge in fire incidents across England. In light of these developments and to commemorate the commencement of Fire Door Safety Week 2023, Abloy is urging for enhanced comprehension of escape system regulations, aiming to elevate industry standards and mitigate the potential for loss of life. Pat Jefferies, Commercial Director at Abloy UK, explains: “Abloy is a huge advocate of fire and emergency escape door compliance and an avid supporter of Fire Door Safety Week. We promote the crucial importance of fire doors in saving lives and protecting property – not just during the initiative but all year round. “When it comes to access control in public buildings, there is no greater responsibility than specifying the correct locking solution on emergency escape and fire doors. As well as having a moral obligation to ensure access control systems adhere to the latest regulations, there is also a legal requirement for those in charge of a public building – whether that’s an employer, building owner, or facilities or building manager.” There are already several building regulation standards in place that relate to access control, and it’s essential that these are adhered to, to ensure safety and security. These include EN179 Emergency Escape (for when the building occupants are aware of the building environment), EN1125 Panic Escape (for environments used by the general public) and EN13637 Electronically Controlled Escape Systems (for use on escape routes). These standards affirm that even if a door is electronically controlled for access there must be a compliant mechanical means of escape in an emergency. When it comes to fire doors, this is essential to provide fire protection, compartmentalise a building and protect the escape routes. This is also a critical function in a terror situation – offering the ability to shut off certain areas to terrorists and allow controlled egress or access to ensure the safety of the public. There was also a recent amendment to BS 7273: Pt4 Code of practice for the operation of fire protection measures – Part 4: Actuation of release mechanisms for doors, to enhance security and provide safer means of controlling the unauthorised use of escape doors. Pat added: “Even with all these regulations in place, there is little awareness of who is responsible for fire safety duties. There needs to be greater education on escape and fire door safety, and how to ensure the solutions specified are safe and compliant. “This is most crucially to guarantee the safety of a building’s occupants, but also to make sure that the building manager is not liable if an accident does occur.” With this in mind, the Abloy Academy provides a range of free courses designed to designed to train installers, security managers, end users and specifiers, giving them the skills and knowledge to ensure maximum safety and security while helping to save lives in an emergency. These include the Foundations and Foundations Plus courses, and new RIBA approved CPDs to help educate on specifying compliant access control solution. Pat concluded: “Compliance must be taken very seriously – the shocking increase in fires in England makes this an even more pertinent issue. With the free courses available at the Abloy Academy, specifiers of access control solutions for emergency escape and fire doors can ensure that systems adhere to the latest regulations. “After all, it could mean the difference between life and death.” Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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Sophos supports hybrid shift

Middle East News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Sophos, who pride themselves on their innovative cybersecurity solutions, has announced the Sophos AP6 Series to support the shift to hybrid environments with a new generation of remotely managed Wi-Fi 6 access points. The new offering adds another feature to Sophos’ secure access portfolio, which includes Sophos Switch and Sophos Firewall. “With cloud-managed Wi-Fi, Sophos is addressing the need for more scalable, remote-managed Wi-Fi solutions that support the increasing number of connected devices and the proliferation of IoT systems,” said Daniel Cole, vice president of product management at Sophos. “This combination of our Sophos AP6 Series and Sophos Switches provides channel partners with a consolidated single vendor access solution strategy, easing the burden and overhead cost of managing multiple disparate systems from different vendors. Many access layer networks are still operating at 1 Gigabit speeds. With the significant performance enhancements in Wi-Fi 6, the industry has a great opportunity to review and modernize the network ecosystem that wireless is deployed into. Sophos’ solution dissolves a common bottleneck at the physical layer and can boost the total network performance of a company’s Wi-Fi infrastructure.” The Sophos AP6 models – which include the 420E, AP6 840, AP6 840E and the outdoor AP6 420X – contain at least one built-in 2.5 Gigabit interface for faster LAN connectivity. When combined with the Sophos multi-Gigabit switches, which also support 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, companies can unlock faster speeds across the entire network. With the AP6 420E and 840E devices, which support Wi-Fi 6E, companies can also use the 6 GHz band, which is a newer, less congested space, that offers high performance for the latest devices. A further advantage is that Sophos access points can be remotely managed in the cloud-based Sophos Central platform alongside a wider range of solutions than any other vendor. This gives partners the ability to oversee all customer installations, respond to alerts, and track licenses and upcoming renewal dates via a single, intuitive interface. Moreover, an on-premises interface gives administrators the advantage of using on-AP settings. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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Allied Universal names Vice President

News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The security and facility provider, Allied Universal®, has just announced the appointment of Retired U.S. Army Major General William J. Walker to the position of vice president and corporate security director. Walker will rely on his civilian and military executive leadership knowledge and experience to serve as ally to universal customers in developing comprehensive security strategies. He will establish priorities for the protection of people, property and assets and will advise on the allocation of resources based on risk, operational requirements and company policies. Additionally, he will provide counsel to help customers leverage cutting-edge technology and data to deploy smarter, more efficient security programs. “William is an accomplished safety, security and threat mitigation professional with a proven record of success designing, developing and integrating organization-wide strategies to protect against internal and external vulnerabilities,” said Steve Jones, global chairman and CEO of Allied Universal. “His recruitment to our already-winning team is going to be a game changing asset to the customers and communities we serve.” Walker joins Allied Universal after serving as the 38th Sergeant at Arms of the U.S. House of Representatives for the 117th Congress. An elected officer, the Sergeant at Arms is the House of Representatives’ chief law enforcement, protocol and security officer. During his time here, William approved all matters concerning the protection of members, staff, visitors and office buildings at the Capitol complex. “I’m proud to join the world’s security leader and utilise my experience to identify new business opportunities and build strategic partnerships with clients,” Walker said. “Allied Universal is an extraordinary organisation and it’s a pleasure and privilege to be part of its vision for the future.” In his professional past, Walker served as commanding general with the District of Columbia National Guard; deputy assistant administrator for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; and deputy director of the National Intelligence Coordination Center via selection by the Department of Justice and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. He holds an active top secret security clearance. In addition, Walker is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Included in his military background, he served by presidential appointment as the 23rd commanding general of the District of Columbia National Guard, where he led more than 29,000 guardsmen and provided security in support of the secret service for the 59th Presidential Inauguration. He’s a veteran of Operations Noble Eagle and Enduring Freedom. He’s also a graduate of the Joint and Combined War-fighting School, the Inter-American Defense War College and the Command and General Staff College. He completed national security programs at Harvard University, George Washington University, Syracuse University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the National Defense University and the Naval Post Graduate School. Walker earned master’s degrees from American University (international service), National Intelligence University (strategic intelligence) and Chicago State University (criminal justice) and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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Jacksons Fencing preserving history

UK News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Thanks to a collaborative effort between the Oxford Preservation Trust, the Railway Heritage Trust, Historic England, and an input on security solutions from Jacksons Fencing, the Rewley Road Swing Bridge, has undergone a remarkable transformation in 2023 from rusting to restoration. A journey through time Dating back to 1851, the Rewley Road Swing Bridge played a pivotal role in the movement of goods and people during the 19th century in Oxford. However, changing times lead to its disuse and subsequent state of disrepair. By the 1980s, the bridge stood permanently fixed in an open position. Recognising the historical and cultural significance of the bridge, the Oxford Preservation Trust embarked on a restoration journey to bring this historical treasure back to life. Jacksons Fencing was specified by the Railway Heritage Trust and Historic England to provide demarcation fencing around the landmark, playing a vital role in ensuring the successful establishment of the bridge as a visitor attraction. Modern security meets historical elegance To ensure the safety of visitors and protect the bridge from potential vandalism, Jacksons Fencing provided a thoughtful protection plan that seamlessly integrated modern security features with the bridge’s historical aesthetic. In the pursuit of safeguarding the Rewley Road Swing Bridge, Jacksons Fencing introduced a total of 57 metres of 1.25m high Barbican Imperial® fencing which seamlessly harmonised security with the bridge’s historical charm. The fencing’s unique vertical bar design not only exudes visual elegance but also serves as a robust barrier against unauthorised access. This fence choice is ideal for a heritage project as it offers the look of traditional metal railings but with a modern, stronger, and more sustainable tubular design. Concealed connectors and the absence of visible bolts or fixings further amplify the fencing’s security prowess while maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance. As an integral part of the protection strategy, a 3.6m wide double leaf gate was integrated, complete with a padlockable slide latch. This innovative latch ensures controlled access, reinforcing security without compromising convenience. The specification of high quality materials was paramount for this project. The selected Barbican Imperial fencing was meticulously crafted from high-quality hot dip galvanised steel, equipping it with exceptional strength and resistance against the corrosive forces of time. To ensure the bridge’s appearance would not wither, a black polyester powder coating was applied. This not only adds a touch of timeless sophistication but also guarantees durability and a long-lasting finish. By embracing modern techniques, the bridge’s protective features are seamlessly integrated into its historic context, allowing it to confidently stand the test of time. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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Abloy UK amends BS 7273: Pt4

UK News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Abloy UK is showing full support for the recent amendment by the British Standards Institution to BS 7273: Pt4 Code of practice for the operation of fire protection measures – Part 4: Actuation of release mechanisms for doors, to enhance security and provide safer means of controlling the unauthorised use of escape doors. The amendment features an expert commentary that will accompany the standard so that it will now directly refer to ‘BS EN 13637 Building hardware – Electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes’ in respect of any electrically locked door on an escape route. BS 7273 pt4:2015 covers the operation and release of electronically controlled escape doors, setting out recommendations for the specification, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of the electrical control arrangements to actuate mechanisms that unlock, release or open doors in the event of a fire. The new expert commentary introduces a safe means of securing escape doors against unauthorised use, whether for general access control management such as read-in and read-out control or to improve security to prevent theft or terrorism etc. A BS EN 13637 Exit system will achieve a best practice, safe and compliant solution in respect of current building regulations, without impeding the building occupant’s ability to escape in a real emergency. The use of an EN 13637 Exit system provides full compliance with building regulations with a solution that is designed specifically for the purposes of electrically controlling an escape door, with state-of-the-art equipment with the durability of the ability to release proven, which satisfies the requirements to prove materials are fit for purpose and designed for the application. Building owners must ensure their building is safe for all occupants, at all times, this means ensuring that all occupants can safely escape, and that the integrity of the fire compartmentation is maintained within the building. The BS EN 13637 performance standard for an Escape Door System (EDS) ensures performance testing of the whole system and the individual components and consists of the electric locking device, the actuation element (push button, emergency release or touch bar etc.), and the system’s control element. An EDS system incorporates self-monitoring to ensure no fault or component failure could keep the door locked. The EDS controller manages all integrated inputs from 3rd party systems such as access control and ensures that the default status is always to fail unlocked. All system components must have been tested together and be compatible as a complete solution, installed following the manufacturer’s instructions. Substitutions are only permitted for any components if they fall under the scope of the initial testing. The amendment creates a safer solution for electrified doors than the traditional Green Emergency Break glass type solution we have been used to, overcoming many of the issues that have previously resulted in a failure to release the door. Roy Buckingham DipGAI, Regional Specification Development Manager for London & South East at Abloy UK, comments: “We wholeheartedly support the decision by the BSI to make this amendment to BS 7273:pt 4. “The modification of BS7273 is a positive step forward in improving buildings safety. Previously, the standard was in conflict, and that caused confusion throughout the industry. “The standard now aligns with BS EN 13637, which is a more complete solution for electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes. This is a fundamental change to the industry, and Abloy UK is available as trusted advisor on this and all other issues of access control compliance.” Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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Amthal hires 6 new staff

News Desk / Ghyslaine Cordrey

Fire safety and security specialist, Amthal is continuing on its ambitious growth plan to service more advanced commercial customers, with six dedicated appointments already in 2023, set across the business. The new appointments include Amy Bradbury who has joined the commercial team, together with Donna Henderson who has been welcomed as a key account coordinator in the MSR team. Amthal has also appointed three new MSR Engineers since the start of the year. Continuing its rolling recruitment programme, Amthal is looking to grow its team further with the appointment of a new Business Development Manager, Supply Chain Team Member and a Key Account coordinator to meet increasing customer demand, alongside a number of Engineer roles in commissioning, maintenance and installation. Commenting on the team’s aspirational growth plans, Jamie Allam, CEO Amthal said: “There is a positive outlook for the physical security technology and fire safety industries as we move into 2023, especially with new legislation coming through. To ensure we can continue to maximise the opportunities and remain proactive with our customers, together with the senior management team we have continued to steer the company on an ambitious growth plan. “This is both through acquisition following our success with IPL, and organic growth to further expand our geographical expansion along with adding to our existing services within the fire and security sectors. To maintain our mission, vision and values and continue to customer excellence, we are delighted to welcome Amy, Donna and our new Engineers so early in the year. We are also conscious not to be complacent and present further exciting career opportunities via both technical and managerial pathways.” Amthal is also committed to its apprenticeship programme to develop the workforce and bring forward the next generation of talent in security and fire safety. Jamie adds: “We operate in a dynamic industry and there are plenty of opportunities for a fulfilling and rewarding career. Amthal has always been a big supporter of apprentices and we continue to develop a range of training strategies and job-specific courses across the business. “We ensure apprentices have the opportunity to work with our senior team in a structured career progression path and form an essential part of our product and service development. We have employed, retained and promoted the majority of our apprentices, with some even forming part of our management structure, making a significant influence on our future business growth.” To read other news stories and exclusives, see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@securitybuyer.com

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