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.

Johnson Controls, a global pioneer in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency and decarbonisation, introduces Metasys 16.0, the latest version of its flagship building automation system with new capabilities designed to help customers reduce downtime risk, strengthen cybersecurity and bring systems online faster across complex environments at a time when building performance is becoming essential to business outcomes. “The environments our customers operate in are more complex than ever, and expectations for performance continue to rise,” said M. Faisal Pandit, president, Building Management Systems, Johnson Controls. “Even brief disruptions can impact operations, productivity and outcomes. Customers need a building automation system that is secure, resilient, and simple to deploy and scale. With Metasys 16.0, Johnson Controls brings this together in a single platform, helping customers maintain continuous operations, reduce risk and adapt as their needs evolve.” Reliable operating environments A wave of scientific advances—from artificial intelligence to biotechnology to advanced manufacturing—is now moving rapidly into large-scale deployment. These industries require precise, reliable operating environments, elevating building performance from a supporting role to essential for business success. Thermal management is now central to how systems perform and scale, and digitally enabled life cycle services are critical to maintaining uptime, protecting high-value assets and delivering consistent outcomes. Metasys 16.0 responds to the performance needs of these high-growth industries, enabling faster deployment, more autonomous operations, and connected, resilient platforms built for environments where performance cannot fail. Peak load analytics New features include: Stronger cybersecurity: Safeguards operations with protections aligned with IEC 62443-4-2 Security Level 2, reducing risk and supporting evolving requirements. “Fast Track” upgrades cut upgrade time by up to 40% through pre-emptive system checks and accelerate adoption of the latest cybersecurity and operational enhancements. Faster integration and deployment: Connects systems more quickly across environments using an open, connected approach. Visual integration tools, including Node-RED, enable real-time data sharing and help deploy integrations up to 80% faster, reducing costs by 60% to 70% and bringing new capabilities online in days instead of months. Built-in resilience for continuous uptime: Protects uptime with built-in resilience across multiple servers so operations continue seamlessly if one server goes offline, without the need for specialised hardware or third-party software. Accelerated engineering and upgrades: Accelerates deployment and reduces disruption through standardised workflows that cut engineering and deployment time by up to 30%. Integrated energy and performance visibility: Provides real-time visibility into peak load analytics, energy use, indoor air quality, emissions and system performance in a single system, reducing configuration time and limiting the need for third-party tools. Scalability for growing environments: Scales from single buildings to campuses and portfolios, supporting up to 1,300 IP devices, 30% more than previous versions, without requiring system changes. Optimised performance and efficiency: Improves efficiency with air and water sequences aligned to ASHRAE Guideline 36, delivering more consistent performance and up to 30% energy savings. Regulatory readiness: Helps customers stay ahead of evolving requirements, including dashboards ready for Energy Performance of Buildings Directive dashboards and other emerging global standard reporting requirements with validated data and clear insights to support compliance and occupant well-being. Enabled by Johnson Controls innovation, manufacturing scale and a global 50,000-person field workforce, Metasys 16.0 helps customers create and sustain precise, resilient environments, facilitating more efficient operations, lower risk and consistent performance over time.

Security Essen is once again providing strong momentum for the security industry – not only through innovative products and technologies, but also with a high-calibre supporting programme. From 22 to 25 September, the trade fair for civil security will place current challenges and future-oriented topics centre stage through conferences, expert forums and themed days. Whether talent development, cybersecurity, drone technology or the protection of critical infrastructure, the programme at Messe Essen combines knowledge transfer, networking and practical insights at the highest level. Best of all, most events are freely accessible and already included in the trade fair ticket. Cross-organisational cooperation A key focus is on attracting young talent: the Training and Further Education Day will take place on 22 September. Companies, educational institutions and associations will provide information on career paths, qualification opportunities and prospects within the security industry. Young people will gain practical insights into a wide range of professions and have the opportunity to speak directly with potential employers. Also on 22 September, the Emergency Services Day will be held. Representatives of the police, fire services, ambulance services and other emergency response organisations will learn about current operational scenarios, new technologies and cross-organisational cooperation. Practice-oriented presentations Cybersecurity and knowledge transfer at the highest level Running in parallel, the DNS Digital Networking Security Conference will begin on 22 September and continue until 23 September, highlighting the latest developments in digital security. Experts from industry, research and public authorities will discuss current threat scenarios and strategies for a secure digital future. Topics will include cyber defence, network security and artificial intelligence, as well as insights into the dark web and phenomena such as doxing. Continuous knowledge transfer will also be provided by the Security Experts Forum, which will take place throughout all four days of the exhibition. In practice-oriented presentations, specialists will showcase trends, solutions and best practices from all areas of the security industry. Future technologies and the protection of critical infrastructure Another highlight will be the European Drone Conference, taking place on 23 and 24 September. The event focuses on the opportunities and challenges of unmanned systems in the security sector. Growing security requirements International experts will provide insights into current applications and future developments in this technology, which is becoming increasingly The Banks and Savings Banks Day on 24 September is specifically aimed at security professionals in the financial sector. The focus is on current requirements for the protection of branches, cash machines and safe deposit facilities. In light of rising threats and growing security requirements, the event offers valuable insights for banks, savings banks and financial service providers. Tickets available online Tickets for Security Essen 2026 are available online. A day ticket costs 49 euros. The exhibition is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 9 am to 6 pm and on Friday from 9 am to 4 pm. Important note: A separate exhibition ticket is required for EUDEX, the international defence industry trade fair taking place at the same time.

Scality, a pioneer in data infrastructure software for the AI era, and OVHcloud, a global cloud provider and European cloud pioneer, announces an expanded technology partnership and a new joint storage platform built for European digital sovereignty. The solution gives organisations full control over sensitive data, with no dependency on U.S. hyperscalers, while delivering the performance and resilience required for the most demanding AI workloads. Deployment options include a 100% dedicated sovereign cloud and on-premises via the OVHcloud OPCP (On-Prem Cloud Platform), with backup replication across multiple availability zones (multi-AZ). Demanding regulatory environment The expanded partnership addresses two urgent business needs: maintaining control over sensitive data in an increasingly demanding regulatory environment and providing private infrastructure capable of supporting the most intensive artificial intelligence workloads. Today, digital transformation faces a contradiction: organisations want the agility of the cloud but cannot afford to expose critical data to foreign jurisdictions. This challenge is particularly acute in healthcare, finance, defence, and public services, where strict regulations such as European GDPR, DORA, NIS2, and HIPAA for the U.S. require data localisation and complete control over information assets. Public cloud providers The combination of Scality and OVHcloud OPCP solutions directly addresses this challenge. Scality RING and Scality ARTESCA provide massive, resilient, S3-compatible object storage deployed directly on the customer’s on-premises infrastructure. OPCP adds cloud-native orchestration, a managed services catalogue, and deployment automation, all built on a foundation independent of foreign public cloud providers. Beyond the on-premises layer, this alliance also extends to a dedicated storage offering on OVHcloud Bare Metal infrastructure through the HGR-STOR range. This setup enables organisations to easily deploy off-site backups with private S3 compatibility, integrated with leading cyber-resilience tools such as Veeam and Commvault, all hosted directly by OVHcloud. A key advantage is the guarantee of 100% dedicated servers, with no resource sharing with other customers, providing predictable performance and maximum isolation. It also supports a robust business continuity plan (BCP) by enabling controlled failover to OVHcloud infrastructure in the event of a disaster or primary site outage. High-performance object storage For end users, the result is a modern, seamless, sovereign cloud experience with predictable costs and without the legal risks associated with U.S. hyperscalers. Artificial intelligence requires vast amounts of data and computing power, but it is equally demanding in terms of latency and confidentiality. Training models or performing inference on mission-critical data, like medical records, financial transactions, and industrial telemetry, requires processing where it resides. The joint Scality-OVHcloud OPCP platform addresses this need end-to-end. Scality’s high-performance object storage, which is GPU-direct compatible and optimised for AI data pipelines, integrates natively with OPCP’s managed on-premises infrastructure. Organisations can train models, run MLOps pipelines, and deploy AI applications in near real time directly within their own environments, without compromising data security or regulatory compliance. Most critical data “OVHcloud and Scality share the same conviction: sovereignty is not a barrier to innovation - it is the prerequisite. By combining our high-performance object storage with the OPCP platform, we empower companies to scale their AI projects without ever sacrificing control over their data.” - Emilio Roman, Chief Revenue Officer, Scality. “The OVHcloud OPCP platform was designed so that software vendors and their customers can benefit from the power of the cloud wherever they need it: on their own premises. Scality is the natural and recognised partner for high-performance storage solutions for the most critical data. Together, OVHcloud and Scality provide a sovereign infrastructure backed by more than 25 years of OVHcloud expertise and ready for AI.” - Sylvie Houliere Mayca, Managing Director France Belux & MEA, OVHcloud.

Gunnebo Safe Storage has supplied the technology behind the Nordic region’s first fully automated safe deposit box service, launched by precious metals specialist Jalonom Oy in Espoo, Finland. Located at the Prisma shopping centre in Lahti, the service enables customers to securely access their personal safe deposit boxes independently, without the need for appointments or on-site staff assistance. By combining convenience with high-level security, the solution addresses a growing gap in the market as traditional bank safety deposit box services become increasingly limited. Safe deposit system At the core of the service is Safe Store Auto, Gunnebo Safe Storage’s automated safe deposit system. The solution integrates robotics with a certified high-security vault, ensuring stored assets are protected against theft, fire, and loss. Customers authenticate securely before a robotic system retrieves their individual safe deposit box in a controlled environment, delivering both privacy and efficiency. “Customers are finding it harder to access physical safe deposit box services, while the need to securely store valuables and important documents continues to grow,” said Kimmo Korkiakoski, CEO of Jalonom Oy. “We wanted to introduce a solution to remove the limitations of traditional services including no appointments, no restricted office hours, all while maintaining the highest possible level of security.” Physical bank branches Jalonom Oy, a family-owned company with 15 years of experience in the precious metals sector, has seen increasing demand from both private individuals and businesses seeking reliable storage for valuables, important documents, and investment assets. The decline of physical bank branches and the reduced availability of traditional safe deposit boxes have further accelerated the need for alternative solutions. The new facility allows customers to manage their storage needs on their own schedule, aligning with latest expectations for flexibility and self-service. The system is aesthetically designed to provide a seamless user experience while maintaining strict security protocols throughout every stage of access. Future-ready response The service also reflects increased awareness around asset protection, combined with the rising popularity of precious metals as an investment, has created sustained demand for dependable and accessible storage options. Automated solutions such as Safe Store Auto are emerging as a scalable and future-ready response to these shifting needs. “Automated safe deposit solutions are transforming how customers access and manage secure storage,” said Joakim Tillman, International Key Account Manager at Gunnebo Safe Storage. “This installation highlights the growing global adoption of automated vault systems, and through our partnership with Jalonom, we are bringing proven technology to a new audience in the Nordic region. With Safe Store Auto, we combine certified vault protection with intelligent automation to deliver a secure, convenient, and future-ready service model that enhances both security and the overall customer experience.”

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.”

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its proactive AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software has been deployed by Colby Public Schools in Kansas to help protect students, staff, and visitors from gun-related threats. Located in a rural community in northwestern Kansas, Colby Public Schools serves approximately 950 students across three campuses, including an elementary school, middle school, and high school, supported by a staff of 175 employees. The district’s close-knit environment fosters strong relationships among students, staff, and the broader community. Broader community initiatives The district secured funding through the Kansas Safe and Secure Firearm Detection Grant Program, administered by the Office of the Kansas Attorney General, to purchase and implement ZeroEyes. The grant followed coordination with local law enforcement and community leaders to identify AI gun detection as a key safety priority aligned with broader community initiatives. “As a smaller district, we don’t have the resources to dedicate someone to monitoring cameras at all times,” said Lucas Schnider, IT Director at Colby Public Schools. “ZeroEyes acts as an extra set of eyes to catch something we might otherwise miss. Most security tools are reactive, but this gives us a proactive way to respond and better protect our students and staff.” Situational awareness software ZeroEyes’ AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry’s only U.S.-based, fully in-house operations center staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If the threat is determined to be valid, alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — are dispatched to law enforcement and school officials, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a gun is detected. Strong working relationship Colby Public Schools maintains a strong working relationship with local law enforcement, with officers regularly collaborating with the district to support safety initiatives and respond quickly when needed. This partnership reinforces the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment. “Colby Public Schools is building a culture of safety where students can learn, grow, and thrive every day,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “By leveraging state grant funding and strengthening their existing safety partnerships, the district is demonstrating its commitment to protecting students and staff while preserving the close-knit culture that defines its community.”

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport (RKS) has modernised its physical security operations using Genetec™ Security Center. The airport selected Genetec as part of its terminal modernisation project to support future expansion, evolving Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requirements, and potential new carriers and flight routes. Located outside Rock Springs in Sweetwater County, Wyoming, the regional airport supports more than 11,000 annual flight operations and serves more than 50,000 passengers annually. The airport recently completed a $43 million commercial terminal modernisation project. As part of the upgrade, airport leaders wanted to replace aging video surveillance and access control systems with an open and flexible platform that would allow them to expand security infrastructure without being locked into proprietary systems. Terminal modernisation project Working with systems integrator Incline Technology, the airport deployed Genetec Security Center to unify video surveillance, access control, and alarms in a single interface. According to Nic Hasler, Founder and President of Incline Technology, “Our vision from the start was to deliver a system for RKS that’s easy to operate and support, and ready for future expansion.” With Security Center, the RKS team now has full visibility across the airport terminal, weather station, fuel station, and Sweetwater Aviation facility. This allows them to improve visibility across the airport, respond faster to incidents, and streamline day-to-day security management from one platform. Security and airport operations “Genetec Security Center brings everything into one place, which helps us manage security and airport operations much more efficiently than before. We’re only scratching the surface of what the system can do. This is the foundation we needed to keep adding capabilities and enhancing our operations,” said Devon Brubaker, Airport Director at Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport. Airport staff is also using the Quick Search feature in Security Center to accelerate investigations and reduce the time spent reviewing footage after incidents. After a reported theft in the airport micro market, the team used Quick Search to review footage, identify when the inventory changed, and confirm within minutes that the item had been purchased but mislabelled. “We might be a small airport, but investing in Genetec Security Center allows us to operate like a much larger one. The platform helps us work more efficiently today and sets us up to say yes to new opportunities in the future,” said Brubaker.

Xtract One Technologies announces its Xtract One SmartGateway has been selected by Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) for facility entrance deployment following a successful pilot and evaluation period. The selection reflects PRHC’s leadership and commitment to exploring innovative approaches to healthcare safety and adds to Xtract One’s growing presence in healthcare environments. This selection in Ontario follows previous Canadian deployments across Prince Edward Island, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia. Recognised as an innovator in Ontario’s healthcare system serving a regional referral population of 600,000 people, PRHC is taking a proactive approach to addressing modern security challenges. The organisation recently convened a security forum for healthcare leaders across the province of Ontario to collaborate on best practices, followed by a hands-on, three-week pilot to evaluate emerging technologies in a real-world clinical environment. Adopting innovative approaches After the comprehensive pilot and extensive testing, PRHC selected SmartGateway for its ability to detect a broad range and large volume of weapons, ease of use, and seamless integration into the hospital’s operational flow. The deployment will take place at the facility’s Emergency Department entrance. PRHC’s decision reinforces the organisation’s role as a leader in evaluating and adopting innovative approaches to healthcare safety across Ontario. “Healthcare organisations are increasingly embracing digital transformation strategies that enhance safety without compromising the patient experience,” said Peter Evans, CEO of Xtract One. “Our work with Peterborough Regional Health Centre demonstrates how forward-thinking providers can balance intelligent screening technology that proactively addresses modern threats with the openness and accessibility that are essential to care environments. We’re proud to support PRHC as it sets a new standard for healthcare safety in Ontario while contributing to the growing adoption of advanced AI-driven solutions. As more organisations follow in PRHC’s footsteps, we look forward to expanding our provincial and healthcare presence.” Undergo secondary screening “As the Peterborough region’s largest employer, PRHC views care and safety as inseparable. We believe that every team member, patient, family member, and caregiver deserves to feel safe and supported from the moment they walk through our doors,” said Jennifer Taylor, Vice President and CFO at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. “SmartGateway is a solution we’re proud to introduce in our Emergency Department, where it will support us to uphold this standard for patients and families, who depend on us to be there when they need us most.” Modern healthcare settings SmartGateway delivers intelligent, high-throughput security screening using advanced AI-powered sensors that discreetly detect weapons and prohibited items as individuals enter a facility. The system enables fast, accurate screening without requiring individuals to stop, divest personal belongings, or undergo secondary screening. Unlike traditional metal detectors, SmartGateway supports a continuous flow of movement, allowing healthcare facilities to maintain efficient ingress even during peak periods. By combining robust detection capabilities with a frictionless user experience, SmartGateway helps create safer environments while preserving the welcoming, patient-centred atmosphere critical to modern healthcare settings.