In the world of cybersecurity, ethical hacking proactively identifies security vulnerabilities before malicious actors (i.e., unethical hackers) can exploit them. By simulating real-world attacks, organisations can strengthen defences, protect sensitive data, and maintain public trust. In the physical security world, ethical hacking can transform cybersecurity of security systems from a reactive struggle into a strategic safeguard. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the role of ethical hacking as it relates to physical security?

Next-generation (Next-Gen) technologies are products, services, or infrastructures that represent a significant leap forward rather than a small, incremental update. In the physical security industry, NextGen products are those that enable disruptive change, breakthrough performance, and a fundamental change that renders previous products obsolete. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the next generation of physical security solutions, and how will they change the industry?

Emphasising proactive rather than reactive security shifts the focus from dealing with crises and damage control to prevention. Advantages of a proactive approach include cost efficiency, better business continuity, and fewer crises that draw attention away from strategic improvements. Staying ahead of threats is a core mission of the security department, and technology has evolved to enable security professionals to deliver on that mission better than ever. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive, and what is the benefit?

Multiple technology trends are transforming the physical access control market. There is a fundamental shift away from physical cards and keys toward digital identities — mobile credentials, digital wallets, biometrics, and cloud-native access platforms. These next generation access solutions are radically reshaping how buildings operate, protect staff, and perform functionally. At the same time, AI and analytics solutions are being layered onto these physical access control systems to support predictive threat detection and behavioural insights. Access data itself is becoming an asset for sustainability, space optimisation, and smart building initiatives. Risk, impact operations and experience The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues. The survey cites improving user convenience as a priority for nearly half of organisations, while 41% are focused on simplifying administration, and 28% struggle with system integration. These are not theoretical challenges, they are day‑to‑day friction points that add cost, increase risk, impact operations and experience, and, of course, must be addressed. HID Global’s commercial focus HID Global’s commercial focus is to help organisations digitise their access control — with mobile identities, biometrics, and cloud platforms — and then to use the data to deliver more value. “We are turning access control from an operational cost into a software-driven asset that improves efficiency, supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and even creates new revenue opportunities,” says Steven Commander, HID Global’s Head of Consultant Relations. The impact of digital transformation Digital transformation is the method of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials Digital transformation is in the process of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials to a software-driven, integrated experience. The transformation strengthens security while also improving user convenience — transforming the “pavement to the desk” journey. HID enables this shift through mobile credentials, biometrics, cloud-native platforms, and solutions that allow third-party applications to run on door hardware. “This helps customers turn access data into operational and commercial outcomes, while also improving the overall user experience,” says Commander.  Digital transformation in access control is not focused on chasing the latest trends. Rather, transformation is about turning software, data and integration into outcomes that matter to customers, says HID. “Security becomes stronger and more adaptive,” says Commander. “Operations become simpler and more cost‑effective. Experiences become seamless and consistent. Sustainability moves from ambition to action. And the financial case becomes clearer as efficiencies are banked and new value streams emerge.” The challenge of futureproofing with long lifecycles Given that physical security technologies will be in place for 15 to 20 years, it is important to plan for how systems can evolve over time. Considering how rapidly security threats, compliance standards, and user expectations change, 15 to 20 years is a long time. The decisions made at the beginning of a system’s lifecycle can either limit flexibility later (which will be costly) or enable long-term adaptability. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important Choosing products and platforms that are open, interoperable, and designed for updates can enable future-proof projects. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important.  In addition, systems built on open controller platforms — such as Mercury — enable organisations to switch software providers or expand functionality without replacing core door hardware. Architectural openness is key to system lifecycles and maximising the return on investment (ROI) from a chosen solution. Digital credentials and mobile access Flexibility and upgradeability should also be top of mind when it comes to endpoints like access control readers. While RFID cards are still commonplace, there is a clear trend toward digital credentials and mobile access. Readers that support both allow organisations to transition at their own pace, without committing to a full system overhaul. A long system lifecycle does not mean technology should remain static. Security, particularly cybersecurity, demands more frequent updates. Technologies that support firmware upgrades in the field extend the value of a deployment while helping organisations keep pace with emerging threats. In that sense, lifecycle thinking is not just about longevity — it’s about maintaining resilience and readiness over time. Applying biometrics and mobile identities Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction. Many organisations are now deploying biometrics to support fast, seamless access journeys, with adoption already around 39% in access control according to HID’s recent research.  In addition, 80% of organisations surveyed expect to deploy mobile identities within the next five years. Full technology integration enables tap‑to‑access without opening an app; the user journey becomes faster, safer, and more convenient. “It is where the industry is headed and we are at the vanguard of this,” says Commander.    Ongoing challenge of cybersecurity At HID Global, cybersecurity is embedded into everything, from corporate processes and development practices to the solutions they bring to market. “Our approach ensures that customers can strengthen their overall security posture, not only by deploying secure products but by benefitting from HID’s commitment to the highest industry standards,” says Commander. HID holds multiple globally recognised certifications, including ISO 27001, ISO 14298, SOC Type 2 and CSA STAR, which demonstrate their robust information security and cloud security practices. In addition, HID’s SEOS® secure chipset is independently SEAL-certified, providing one of the most advanced levels of protection available on the market today. “Ultimately, this means organisations are not just purchasing isolated secure products; they are implementing solutions developed and delivered within a comprehensive, cybersecure framework,” says Commander. “When deployed according to best practices, HID solutions enable customers to achieve the highest levels of resilience against evolving physical and cyber threats.” Developing green and sustainable solutions A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards Digital credentials align with the sustainable solutions that everyone wants. A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards. Over 550 million access cards are sold annually. This creates 2,700 tons of plastic waste and 11,400 tons of carbon, based on a PVC card weighing 5 grams.  Therefore, digital credentials self-evidently reduce the reliance on plastic cards (helping reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% according to HID’s research), while leveraging access control system data supports energy optimisation by shutting down or reducing systems in unused spaces. Energy use and CO₂ emissions can be cut dramatically, showing how access systems can contribute to sustainability goals and green building certification. What is the latest in smart buildings? Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services. Real-time access data enables new services such as automated room bookings, HVAC control, lift/elevator calling, e-bike hiring, and so on. Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services The financial upside is clear; smart, digitally transformed buildings can deliver around 8% higher yields per square foot versus traditional office space. Operational savings accrue from reduced administration, the removal of card production and shipping, and lighter IT support. This creates a value cycle — better experiences drive adoption, adoption fuels monetisation, and monetisation funds further improvements. Achieving technology impact in the real world One standout project is One Bangkok – a $3.9 billion mixed used development in Thailand – which demonstrates the scale of what can be achieved when access control data is used for optimisation, particularly when it comes to monitoring facilities usage and occupier behaviours. By switching lights off or lowering the temperature in unused rooms, for example, the One Bangkok building demonstrates this potential with a 22% reduction in energy consumption, saving 17,000 MWh and 9,000 tons of CO₂ annually.  Sustainability is a key factor in contributing to how properties are valued. And sustainability extends far beyond digital credentials having a lower environmental impact than plastic cards.  Buildings with recognised sustainability certifications often command rental premiums of around 6%, and three‑quarters of security decision‑makers now consider environmental impact in their procurement assessments.

Leisure and business travellers increasingly want the stress-free convenience of a frictionless journey. Flexible, secure PIN-powered hotel locking can help provide the flow they crave, door-to-door, combining round-the-clock keyless, queue-less access with powerful, cost- and time-efficient management for staff. A 2025 survey of 12,000 travellers across 14 major European markets found that guests increasingly expect seamless, queue-free hotel stays, with self-service check-in becoming a standard preference. In the 2026 Global Hotel Alliance Travel Trends survey, nearly 80% of brands said they were investing in frictionless check-in to meet these growing guest expectations. Growing guest expectations Providing guests with the convenience of round-the-clock check-in and the safety of contactless arrival, then, is an increasing priority as the market evolves with the needs of a new generation of travellers. TESA Hotel’s Check-In PIN solution offers hospitality businesses a system which is easy to implement and simplifies day to day operations for staff. With the TESA Check-In PIN solution, guests enter their room when they choose, without keys, keycards, or queues at the reception desk. Prior to the stay, they receive an email with their PIN. They can then arrive friction-free and independently at their own pace: no keys or cards to carry, no apps to download. On checkout, they just pack their bags and head for home. Every stage of their digital journey happens without hassle or hitch. Authorised common doors Property owners and managers enjoy significant benefits. TESA software automatically sends the guest PIN email. No reminders need to be set. The same code automatically expires on scheduled checkout – or managers can change the validity period with a few clicks in the software. For small hotels or B&Bs, Check-In PIN can be a game-changer, enabling 24/7 guest arrivals without additional staffing costs. For every business, it reduces the use of plastics and frees hotel staff from endless reception queues. The unique, secure PIN also becomes the guest’s digital companion during their stay. It unlocks their room and authorised common doors such as main entrance or gym. Hotel managers can tailor access on a guest-by-guest basis. Delivering smoother experience Late checkout is also offered with a couple of clicks in the TESA Hotel software. Check-In PIN simplifies hotel operations, enabling faster service and delivering a smoother experience for both staff and guests. Check-In PIN is just one option within the TESA Hotel ecosystem, and part of a suite of connected digital solutions from the access experts at ASSA ABLOY. The TESA Hotel solution is custom-built to streamline access management for hotels, rental apartments, campsites, guesthouses, and hospitality businesses – of every size and type. Robust battery-powered locks Compatible TESA locks with keypad are quick and wire-free to install at almost any door. For enhanced site security, every PIN may be cancelled instantly and all communication between system and locks is encrypted. The TESA hardware range includes a choice of robust battery-powered locks for doors and in-room devices, available in multiple finishes and designs. As well as PIN, hotel managers can offer guest access with RFID keycards or mobile keys on their smartphone – without changing their locks. Staff manage the stay from user-friendly TESA Hotel software. With real-time, remote control over all doors, they can react instantly to any unexpected incident. If a keycard is lost, or a PIN compromised, it is quick to generate a new one within the software, simultaneously cancelling the missing one. There is no need to change locks or waste time and money with rekeying. With minimal training, any staff member will find TESA Hotel a breeze. Online booking platforms The Check In PIN solution also integrates seamlessly via API with PMS systems, self check in kiosks, and online booking platforms, enabling managers to streamline operations and manage bookings and access more efficiently. Harpazul, an apartment complex in Galicia, chose Check-In PIN to make late guest arrivals stress-free. Booking confirmation and follow-up messages provide each party with their unique PIN to enter Harpazul; move through common areas; and unlock their room. Stylish, wire-free digital devices secure all main access points, recreation areas, and individual apartments. “This way we offer a better service to the customer because they don't have to queue at reception,” explains Harpazul’s Roi Casal. “It is as easy as sending the PIN via email.” Their TESA devices are already fully compatible with keycard and smartphone unlocking, if Harpazul introduce either option in future. The Harpazul welcome is appreciated by their guests: apartments are rated 4.7/5 on Google Reviews and 9.5/10 on Booking.com.

Suprema, a global pioneer in intelligent access control and physical security solutions, has obtained ISO/IEC 42001 certification, the international standard for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS). The certification confirms that Suprema has established a formal governance framework for AI in its access control solutions is built, operated, and continuously improved. ISO/IEC 42001 is not a benchmark for product performance. The standard evaluates the organisational framework behind AI operations: the policies, accountability structures, risk controls, and oversight practices that determine how AI systems are managed. For Suprema, the certified scope covers AI applied to biometric authentication and identity verification across BioStation Series, BioEntry Series, and BioStar Platform. Public sector procurement Certification required an independent audit by an accredited third-party body, providing customers with external verification about Suprema's AI governance practices rather than self-reported assurances. Enterprise, government, healthcare, and financial customers evaluating Suprema's access control systems can now formally review how Suprema governs its AI as part of procurement due diligence. As AI governance requirements tighten in regulated industries and public sector procurement, that level of transparency is increasingly relevant to vendor selection. Future expansion of AI use Suprema applies AI in its access control solutions to improving the accuracy and processing speed of biometric authentication. The scope of AI use is verified under ISO/IEC 42001 framework, and as Suprema's AI capabilities develop, that governance structure is designed to scale with them, ensuring any future expansion of AI use is held to the same standards of review and accountability. ISO/IEC 42001 also provides a foundation relevant to evolving regulatory requirements, including the EU AI Act, which applies differentiated obligations based on AI risk classification. High-risk AI system obligations are scheduled to take effect on August 2, 2026, with implementation details still under discussion. Suprema is monitoring these developments and addressing related requirements on an ongoing basis. Information security management Suprema previously held ISO/IEC 27001 certification for information security management and ISO/IEC 27701 for privacy information management. With ISO/IEC 42001 now in place, customers can evaluate Suprema's security, privacy, and AI governance posture as a single integrated framework. "Our customers need to know that the AI in their security systems is not only accurate, it is also governed responsibly and verified independently," said Hanchul Kim, CEO of Suprema Inc. "Every certification Suprema pursues reflects the same conviction: trust has to be earned, and it has to be proven. We cannot simply tell customers that the AI in their access control systems is responsibly built and carefully governed. We need independent verification to back that up. ISO/IEC 42001 is exactly that, and we intend to maintain and build on this standard as AI governance requirements continue to develop globally."

Gunnebo Safe Storage launches a new global certification campaign, bringing together expert technical guidance and resources on independent testing, recognised security standards and the role certification plays in physical security. Developed as an educational initiative for businesses, specifiers, distributors and end users, the campaign provides clearer guidance on the role of certification when selecting physical security solutions. It explains what certification means in practice today, how independent testing is conducted and why recognised standards provide an important benchmark when specifying safes, vaults, strongrooms and other secure storage solutions. Independent testing process Says Mark Brookes, Global Product & Standards Director at Gunnebo Safe Storage: "With security threats becoming more sophisticated, certification provides an independently verified benchmark of performance. While testing demonstrates how a product performs against recognised standards, certification helps ensure such standards continue to be met throughout production, providing an ongoing safeguard for specifiers, installers and end users. Greater awareness of the role certification plays in maintaining consistency and accountability is essential when security decisions carry operational, financial and regulatory consequences." The multi-channel approach presents how certification supports organisations in reducing risk The campaign brings together a range of educational resources, including a dedicated online hub, covering the purpose of certification, the independent testing process, internationally recognised standards, and the role accredited certification bodies play in verifying product performance. The multi-channel approach presents how certification supports organisations in reducing risk, meeting insurance requirements and specifying physical security solutions with greater confidence. Products are assessed against recognised testing methodologies, including realistic attack scenarios and fire resistance requirements, while certification bodies independently audit manufacturing processes, ensuring compliance throughout the product lifecycle. Recognised testing methodologies Alongside technical guidance, the campaign includes resources designed to make certification more accessible, including a glossary of commonly used terminology and answers to frequently asked questions. These resources support customers, partners and specifiers in understanding how certified products are tested, classified and specified across different sectors and applications. Mark concluded: "Certification involves technical standards, testing methods and security rating systems that can appear complex, but they play an important role in selecting security products appropriate for the risks an organisation faces. By explaining how the process works and providing access to our technical expertise, we aim to give customers the knowledge they need to make informed security decisions with confidence."

ZeroEyes, creators of the pioneering multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces a planned $10 million U.S. investment in AI/ML research and development. This includes a commitment to hiring over 100 veterans in Southeastern Pennsylvania over the next 24 months to fill the roles of Technical Program Managers (AI), MLOps Engineers, and AI Solutions Specialists. The company made the announcement at Senator Dave McCormick’s 2026 Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit, being held today and tomorrow at Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. AI weapons detection The investment will fund additional expansion, including: The company's state-of-the-art, 3,000 sq. ft. experimental AI technology lab that gives ZeroEyes the ability to generate unparalleled data, perform live demos, and test its AI weapons detection models and hardware in any environment The Conshohocken-based ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry's only in-house operations hub staffed primarily by military and law enforcement veterans, including former special forces personnel Small drone technology capabilities, including 3D environment mapping, threat detection (ZeroEyes Aerial Detection [ZAD] Kit), and active shooter disorientation (Drones/Robots for Active Shooter Deterrence [DRASD]) Comprehensive security platform Over the past few months, ZeroEyes has expanded its platform beyond firearm detection to deliver a broader, more intelligent approach to safety. New analytics capabilities including knife detection and real-time threat geolocation, as well as additional security offerings, mark a significant step toward unifying acute threat detection with everyday safety operations. The new capabilities reflect ZeroEyes’ goal to become a single, trusted platform organisations will use to secure, detect, and respond to a wide range of critical security events. These continued investments showcase the company's commitment to further developing a comprehensive security platform that integrates preparedness, operational awareness, and investigative insights. “This investment marks a critical milestone in our evolution into a unified threat intelligence platform that provides organisations with a single, trusted ecosystem for threat response," said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. "We are excited to accelerate our technology roadmap while deepening our commitment to the veteran community within our home of Southeastern Pennsylvania.”

HID, a pioneer in trusted identity and access control solutions and Kodaa, an Australian digital consultancy, announces that Melbourne’s iconic 101 Collins Street tower is emerging as a live example of how mobile credentials are moving from pilot projects to everyday building operations - with thousands of tenants and visitors now accessing one of the city’s most prestigious commercial towers through their mobile wallet, without the need for a physical card. The Collins Street building is setting a new benchmark for commercial buildings after deploying HID Mobile Access at scale across entry points, elevators, lockers, and end-of-trip facilities. Secure mobile credentials The deployment, delivered by Melbourne-based digital consultancy Kodaa with HID Mobile Access, has been live for nearly a year and is supporting thousands of active users across more than 35 tenancies. Rather than introducing new hardware or layered systems, the integrated solution embeds access directly into the mobile wallet, with HID providing the trusted identity backbone through secure mobile credentials. Steve Katanas, Head of ANZ for HID Physical Access Control Solutions said the shift from plastic cards to mobile credentials is one of the most significant changes the industry has seen in decades. “Through HID’s proven ecosystem of credentials and readers, we enable partners like Kodaa to deliver frictionless, mobile-first experiences at scale,” Katanas said. Combining strong identity “There’s often a perceived trade-off between security and convenience, but mobile access solutions remove that compromise entirely by combining strong identity and device-level security, which sets a new benchmark for workplace access control.” Kodaa founder, Seth Khouri, said the results confirmed the growing demand for mobile wallet access to secure buildings. “A year on, we’re supporting thousands of active users, and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. People don’t want to go back. Also, the project didn’t require a full infrastructure overhaul. The integrated solution is built to work with existing systems and HID ensures modernisation without disruption, making the transition low risk and the results immediate.” Modernise access control The 101 Collins Street deployment has reshaped the way teams manage access administration, with access requests, approvals, updates, and revocations now handled digitally through a central portal. “As hybrid work continues to influence tenant expectations, office buildings are under increasing pressure to deliver smarter, more seamless experiences from the moment someone arrives. What 101 Collins has shown is that digital credentials can be deployed at scale without disrupting existing infrastructure,” Katanas said. What began as a flagship deployment at one of Australia’s most iconic commercial towers is now being viewed as a model for how HID and its partners can help modernise access control for the next generation of workplaces.

Gunnebo Entrance Control has completed a major entrance control project for ByteDance’s new corporate offices in Dubai Media City and Business Centre, delivering secure and efficient access for one of the world’s pioneer technology companies. ByteDance, the global organisation behind TikTok, Lark and Lemon8, selected Dubai as the base for its Corporate Services head office. The facility supports business functions including security, procurement, EHS and R&D and reflects the company’s long-term investment in the Middle East. Maintaining robust protection With a rapidly growing workforce and constant visitor traffic, ByteDance needed to maintain a secure workplace while ensuring smooth, welcoming operations. Managing access for hundreds of employees and contractors daily, alongside the onboarding of new staff, was critical to preventing unauthorised entry to sensitive areas and systems while maintaining a seamless day-to-day experience across the offices. Gunnebo Entrance Control worked closely with ByteDance’s internal teams to align with both security and operational requirements, ensuring employees and visitors could move efficiently throughout the building without disruption while maintaining robust protection across key areas. High-traffic corporate environments In total, twenty-four SpeedStile FLs MAX gates were installed across the two sites: seven in Media City and seventeen in the Business Centre. The SpeedStile FLs MAX is a premium speed gate designed for high-traffic corporate environments, combining advanced security functions with a sleek, professional appearance. Compact in footprint and highly adaptable, the solution integrates smoothly with third-party access control systems. Intelligent detection technology reduces the risk of tailgating and piggybacking, ensuring only authorised personnel gain entry while preserving a smooth flow for everyday movement. Entrance control solutions Delivering the project required close collaboration with ByteDance’s IT teams and civil contractors to align the solution with building design and operational requirements. The installation was completed in line with the timeline for the launch of ByteDance’s new headquarters and has become a central part of the company’s entrance control strategy in the region. Jacob Touma concluded: “ByteDance is a global brand with demanding requirements for workplace security and employee experience. Their new Dubai offices mark an important hub for the company’s Middle East future, and the SpeedStile FLs MAX delivers the right balance of safety, efficiency and aesthetics, ensuring smooth movement while maintaining robust protection. This project underlines our commitment to supporting world-leading businesses with reliable, effective entrance control solutions.”

Evolv Technologies Holdings, Inc., a security technology company pioneering AI-based solutions designed to create safer experiences, announces that it has agreed to a multi-year renewal of its hardware and software subscription agreement with TD Garden, the 19,000+ seat multipurpose arena in Boston, Massachusetts. TD Garden, home of the NHL’s Boston Bruins and NBA’s Boston Celtics also hosts a full calendar of other sporting events, concerts, and shows annually. Advanced sensor technology The subscription renewal, which extends an original agreement struck in 2024, includes an upgrade of the Evolv Express® concealed weapons screening systems to the company’s Gen2 hardware. Evolv Express uses advanced sensor technology and AI to detect concealed threats and identify the person and location of the potential threat, while allowing people to move through checkpoints at their natural walking pace. The system is designed to screen visitors effectively while helping minimise congestion and disruptions to traffic flow at entry points. Under the new agreement, the Express units, which are deployed at all venue entry points, will be paired with Evolv eXpedite™ bag screening systems. All the new systems are currently deployed and in use at the venue. Minimising congestion and disruptions The renewal also extends the official partnership between Evolv and the arena, under which Evolv has been designated as the “Official Fan Screening Provider of TD Garden.” “TD Garden operates at an exceptionally high volume, often hosting multiple events in a single day, which makes reliable and efficient systems essential to delivering a strong experience for both guests and staff,” said Tim Townsell, SVP of Business Operations at TD Garden. “We value our continued partnership with Evolv and look forward to further enhancing operations with the Gen2 hardware and new eXpedite systems.” Collegiate sports properties “We’re grateful for TD Garden’s continued trust in Evolv to support entry screening operations at such a busy and high-profile venue,” noted John Baier, Evolv’s Vice President of Sports & Entertainment. “As a company, we take pride in serving one of the landmark venues in our hometown of Boston, so we’re especially pleased to continue our partnership with TD Garden for years to come.” Evolv has official partner status with nearly all of the major professional and collegiate sports properties in the Boston market. In addition to TD Garden, the company is a “Proud Partner” of the Boston Red Sox; the “Official Fan Screening Provider” of the New England Patriots, New England Revolution, and Gillette Stadium; and the “Official Fan Screening Partner” of Boston College Athletics. These official partner designations join more than 50 others held by the company, which in total counts nearly 100 sports teams and venues worldwide as customers.

Comelit-PAC has partnered with Optic Fire & Security Solutions to deliver an upgrade to the fire alarm system at Rampworx Skatepark, the UK’s largest indoor extreme sports centre. Established in 1997, Rampworx is one of the UK’s longest-running skateparks and a major community facility in Merseyside. As a registered charity, it supports more than 1,000 young people every week and reinvests all income back into maintaining and developing its skatepark, programmes and retail operations. Multiple interconnected areas With a large and constantly active indoor environment, Rampworx required a fire alarm system capable of delivering consistent coverage across multiple interconnected areas. These included skate zones, spectator spaces, retail units and staff facilities while allowing daily activity to continue without disruption. Says Rachael Robinson at Rampworx Skatepark: “As a busy charity facility with thousands of weekly visitors, it was important for us to work with a company we could trust to guide us through the entire upgrade process for our fire alarm. Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions understood the requirements and recommended a Comelit-PAC solution. The new system provides confidence and peace of mind, knowing it has been designed around us and the way we operate.” Live operational environment Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions worked closely with Rampworx to design and install a tailored system using Comelit-PAC fire safety systems, ensuring the solution reflected both the operational demands and the unique layout of the building site. The installation was delivered within a live operational environment, requiring careful planning and coordination to ensure the skatepark remained open throughout much of the works. Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions phased the installation to minimise disruption to visitors, staff and ongoing activities. Sase Boardman, Director at Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions added: “Every area of Rampworx presented different considerations from a fire safety perspective. By working closely with the team and technical specialists at Comelit-PAC, we were able to carefully deliver a fire safety system known for its adaptability, reliability, and scalability to provide consistent protection across a complex, multi-use environment.” Fire detection coverage The completed system provides enhanced fire detection coverage across the entire facility, improving response capability and strengthening life safety provision for users, staff and volunteers. Mandy Bowden, Fire Systems Business Manager UK & ROI: “This project was delivered through close collaboration with Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions and Responsible Persons on site, taking time to understand the specific requirements of the Rampworx environment. By combining this insight, we were able to specify a bespoke fire safety system, enabling a unified detection and control approach across areas with very different occupancy and risk profiles.”