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.

DMP has announced the appointment of Nicola Oakie, Pete Jankowski and Stephen Carney to its video solutions team. A pioneer in intrusion and access control for decades, DMP’s video initiative is the next step in a carefully executed strategy to provide professional dealers and monitoring centers with a world-class unified security platform. The team will report to Ken Francis, DMP Executive Vice President of Video Solutions. After partnering with DMP for over 20 years, Francis officially joined DMP earlier in 2026 as the first to lead the new video monitoring product strategy. His objective is to innovate industry-leading, practical solutions that are easy to deploy, improve detection and reduce false alarms, saving costs for dealers and customers.   Reducing false alarms “Video monitoring requires specialised expertise across technology and channel segments, so assembling the right leadership team is essential,” Francis said. “Our success depends on understanding cameras, analytics, software, monitoring center workflows and dealer success as part of a single ecosystem. I’m thrilled to say this team is made up of some of the most experienced individuals in the industry.” Nicola Oakie will join DMP as Senior Director, Commercial Monitoring Solutions. Born in Scotland, Oakie joined the security industry over 20 years ago in Las Vegas. Oakie recently served as the VP of Sales at Netwatch North America and led national sales at the National Monitoring Center. A trailblazer in video monitoring, Oakie first served as Director of Business Development at industry pioneer I-View Now. Fully integrated security platform Breaking new ground at DMP, Oakie will play the instrumental role of leading the company’s first Monitoring Partner Program, focusing on the needs of retail, guarding and wholesale monitoring operations with security products and services for professionals. Pete Jankowski will assume the role of Vice President of Video Engineering. Jankowski is the founder and former chairman of Next Level Security Systems, Inc., where he was integral in launching the company’s first fully integrated security platform. Previously, Jankowski served as CTO for Loronix, Verint and Cisco Video as a result of the acquisition of SyPixx.   Improving detection capabilities “When the opportunity arose to contribute to the design and development of the next generation of DMP video systems, I was eager to get involved. I’m particularly excited about leveraging AI-enabled video analytics, edge computing, unified platform design and modern streaming technologies,” Jankowski said. “My focus is on innovating robust, integrated solutions that deliver real value, improving detection capabilities, system reliability and ease of deployment.” Stephen Carney will lead DMP product marketing. With over two decades of leadership experience in the security industry, Carney will lead product marketing across all DMP products, with a focus on the accelerated growth of the video platform. Professional monitoring applications Carney recently served as President of Shooter Detection Systems. Previously, he held multiple executive leadership positions at HID Global, where he led product management and marketing initiatives focused on access control, cloud solutions and mobile credentials. Carney spent ten years with Tyco Security Products and Johnson Controls, serving as Senior Director of Video Surveillance, Integration Solutions and Cybersecurity. Before entering the security industry, Carney practiced law and served as a Lieutenant in the US Army. Adding to the ongoing success of their flagship Virtual Keypad™ platform, DMP expanded their AlarmVision® technology and introduced a powerful line of commercial video solutions in 2026, including 12 high-resolution low light IP cameras with active deterrence, designed for professional monitoring applications. “We’re building upon years of investment in expanding our video monitoring platform,” said Brad Tucker, DMP Vice President of Product Management and Support. “The future belongs to solutions that combine intrusion, access control, video and intelligent analytics. As the Original Unified Platform, we’re excited to provide the most advanced experience for those who self-monitor or hire professionals.”

Arista Networks, a pioneer in networking for cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) fabrics, announces the launch of its new AI-driven Edge Threat Management (ETM) for VeloCloud SD-WAN, delivering integrated zero trust security for enterprise branch offices. Customers can leverage this integration to simplify the branch, collapsing multiple disparate boxes into a single unified secure SD-WAN edge platform. Integrated ETM provides perimeter protection at the WAN edge as an ideal software upgrade option to VeloCloud SD-WAN, enabling customers to unify zero trust branch office security with SD-WAN connectivity in a single platform. This platform helps simplify the branch with a common operating system, a uniform enforcement engine, and common end-to-end security policies, all with cognitive management via a single pane of glass in the VeloCloud Orchestrator. AI-powered policy insights Key features include advanced firewalling and threat prevention capabilities, zone-based segmentation, Geo-IP filtering, DNS filtering, and AI-powered policy insights, all delivered locally at the branch WAN edge. This unified approach provides fine-grained policy control and strengthens the security posture for branch networks. “The new ETM functionality allows us to offer requested security services on top of the existing SD-WAN infrastructure managed within the same GUI. This eliminates the need to deploy a separate firewall box managed from a separate GUI, especially for small branches,” said Till Bockenheimer from T&A SYSTEME GmbH, a German MSP managing 7500+ sites in 98 countries for 10+ years within VeloCloud SD-WAN for its customers. Complex security policies "The network edge must evolve to be smarter and more autonomous as our clients expand their AI-driven operations from reactive troubleshooting to predictive management," states Edward Fox III, Chief Technology Officer at MetTel. The new Edge Threat Management solution leverages Arista AVAⓇ (Autonomous Virtual Assist) for AI-driven policy intelligence. Features like 'Policy Explainer' and 'Traffic Simulation' use Ask AVA to translate complex security policies into simple language. This helps security administrators reduce errors and quickly understand the impact and outcomes of security policies, especially in scenarios where policies may be contributed by multiple administrators. Virtual edge platforms “The new zero trust integrated security with ETM, developed organically by Arista, showcases the power of the combined Arista and VeloCloud teams on the anniversary of the VeloCloud acquisition. Customers can now simplify and unify the branch, extending enterprise-grade zero trust security to the branch office WAN edge,” said John McCool, Senior Vice President at Arista Networks. The introduction of Edge Threat Management in VeloCloud SD-WAN edge platforms underscores Arista’s commitment to providing end-to-end secure networking infrastructure from client to cloud, making the enterprise network simpler, more secure, and ready for AI-driven operations. Availability ETM for VeloCloud SD-WAN will be generally available in Q4 of 2026. ETM will be available for all current VeloCloud hardware and virtual edge platforms.

3DX-RAY is pleased to announce that its advanced AXIS CXi mailroom screening system has been selected to enhance security at an embassy in Switzerland, providing protection against postal bombs, hazardous substances, and other prohibited items delivered through the mail and parcel network. This latest deployment further demonstrates the growing international confidence in the AXIS CXi as a highly effective solution for safeguarding diplomatic missions and other high-security facilities. Providing additional support The AXIS CXi represents a significant advancement in mailroom screening technology. Its colour imaging capability enables operators not only to identify the shape of concealed objects but also to assess the composition of materials. Organic materials—including explosives, narcotics, chemicals, and even benign items such as food—are highlighted in orange. Metals such as firearms, knives, and potential IED components appear in blue, while inorganic materials commonly associated with improvised explosive devices are shown in green. A greyscale mode provides additional support for precise shape recognition. Maintaining operational efficiency This multi-layered visualisation allows operators, even with minimal training, to conduct more accurate, efficient, and confident assessments, helping organisations strengthen security while maintaining operational efficiency. The AXIS CXi cabinet X-ray system has been evaluated using the UK Mail Screening Test Piece (MSTP), a recognised methodology for assessing imaging performance in mail screening systems. The evaluation includes Tests 1–8, which examine factors such as resolution, penetration, and the identification of complex materials within mail items. These results provide an indication of system performance and are intended to support organisations in selecting appropriate screening capabilities as part of a broader mail security strategy aligned with the principles of PAS 97:2021. Beyond imaging performance Beyond imaging performance, the AXIS CXi introduces a notable innovation in system design. It combines an exceptionally large inspection chamber with a compact footprint, enabling the screening of not only mail and parcels but also larger items such as bags and aircraft cabin luggage. The system is fully mobile and features a modern, unobtrusive design, making it particularly well suited to embassy environments where security, flexibility, and aesthetics are equally important. Advanced screening solutions Vince Deery, CEO of 3DX-RAY, commented: "Embassies face a unique and evolving range of threats, with mailrooms often serving as the first line of defence against suspicious packages and hazardous materials. AXIS CXi was developed to bring the sophisticated colour differentiation technology traditionally associated with airport baggage screening into a compact and versatile platform suitable for government and diplomatic facilities.” “We are delighted to secure this latest embassy installation in Switzerland, which further expands the international footprint of the AXIS CXi. The selection of our system by another diplomatic mission reflects the growing demand for advanced screening solutions that combine exceptional imaging performance, ease of use, and operational flexibility. AXIS CXi continues to demonstrate its ability to meet the security needs of organisations where trust, reliability, and rapid threat detection are critical." The order further strengthens 3DX-RAY’s presence within the European security market and highlights the increasing demand for advanced, user-friendly screening solutions capable of addressing evolving threats to diplomatic, government, and critical infrastructure facilities.

Sharry, an advanced workplace experience platform, is pleased to announce the promotion of Sarah Teskova to Vice President of Americas. The appointment reflects the company's continued investment in North and South America as Sharry expands its local presence, grows its team, and strengthens relationships with clients and partners across the region. Sarah Teskova joined Sharry in January 2024 as Head of Sales and Client Operations for the Americas. Since then, she has played a key role in several strategic milestones, including the launch of the first Wallet-based office access deployment in Latin America. She also regularly represents Sharry at major industry events and conferences, most recently speaking at ISC West 2026. Developing strategic partnerships “I am excited to announce that Sarah Teskova is taking on the role of Vice President of Americas, where she will lead Sharry’s operations and growth across North and South America. She is responsible for developing strategic partnerships with enterprise clients and expanding collaboration with channel and technology partners across the region,” said Josef Sachta, CEO and Co-Founder of Sharry. Sarah's contribution to the security industry has also been recognized beyond Sharry. Earlier this year, the Security Industry Association (SIA) named her to the 2026 Women in Security Forum Power 100, recognizing influential leaders shaping the future of the industry. Broader expansion strategy “It's been an incredible journey so far, and I'm grateful for the trust Sharry has placed in me. What excites me most is working alongside our customers, partners, and team to solve real workplace challenges and build technology that people genuinely enjoy using. I'm excited for what's ahead as we continue growing across North and South America together,” said Sarah Teskova, new Vice President of Americas at Sharry. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys visual arts, discovering local food scenes, and building creative LEGO sets. Sarah's promotion is part of Sharry's broader expansion strategy across North and South America. The company continues to invest in local talent and customer success, with CEO Josef Šachta now based in Washington, DC, and the recent addition of delivery manager Michael Pichardo in Florida. Sharry is also expanding its presence in Latin America and is currently hiring a Regional Manager based in Mexico City.

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness platform has been deployed by Kansas’ Bonner Springs–Edwardsville USD 204 to protect students and faculty against gun-related violence. USD 204 serves more than 2,400 PreK–12 students with 455 staff members across a network of schools in the suburban communities of Kansas City, Bonner Springs, and Edwardsville, including one high school, one middle school, three elementary schools, and two pre-K buildings. ZeroEyes complements the district’s multilayered security plan, which also includes school resource officers (SROs), secured entrances, and close, ongoing collaboration with local law enforcement agencies across all three communities.  Situational awareness platform 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. “Ensuring the safety of our students and staff is at the core of everything we do,” said Lisa Terrell, Director of Education Foundation & Counseling Services. “The deployment of ZeroEyes is a natural extension of our district’s proactive, layered approach to security, enhancing the strong foundation we’ve built through trusted partnerships with local law enforcement, secure facilities, and dedicated personnel.” Digital security cameras 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 operation centre, which is staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If these experts determine the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — to law enforcement and local security teams, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a gun is detected. “Thanks to the Office of the Kansas Attorney General, we can provide an added level of confidence for USD 204’s families and community with ZeroEyes,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “It's great to see the district reinforce its commitment to creating a safe, supportive environment where every student can thrive.”

Athena Security, a physical security and threat detection company specialising in AI-powered weapons detection systems, announced today they are working with MLK Community Healthcare, a non-profit healthcare system in South L.A., to improve security measures at their hospital. MLK Community Healthcare is utilising Athena’s Apollo 500 Weapons Detection System, an Al-driven walk-through concealed weapon detection system designed for busy entrances, such as those at hospitals and healthcare facilities. “Everyone deserves to feel safe going to work every day. Likewise, patients and their loved ones should feel at ease when seeking care at their local healthcare facility," said Lisa Falzone, Athena Security co-founder and president. Threat detection company Lisa Falzone, Athena Security’s co-founder and president, said the device offers peace of mind to healthcare providers and patients alike at a time when violence in hospitals and other healthcare facilities is rising across the country. “Everyone deserves to feel safe going to work every day. Likewise, patients and their loved ones should feel at ease when seeking care at their local healthcare facility,” Falzone said. “By leveraging our expertise in the security space and utilising emerging technology like AI, we’ve created a weapons detection system platform that is potentially saving lives while creating less disruption in the day-to-day activities at healthcare facilities.” Automated weapon detection systems The move comes ahead of a new AB 2975 California law requiring hospitals and certain other healthcare facilities to have automated weapon detection systems at key entrances. “When it came time to comply with California’s AB 2975 workplace violence prevention requirements and implement a weapons detection solution, we conducted an extensive evaluation of the available systems. Athena’s Apollo 500 Healthcare Weapons Detection System stood out as the best overall value, combining effective weapons detection with the operational capabilities and healthcare-focused workflows our hospital needed,” said Trenton Jackson, Director of Public Safety and Support Services at MLK Community Healthcare. Weapons detection platform “Throughout the installation and testing process, Athena has been a responsive collaborator. They’ve worked with us every step of the way to ensure that the weapons detection platform technology works as it should and integrates smoothly into our hospital operations.” Athena Security’s Apollo 500 Weapons Detection System has already been shown to improve security measures at healthcare facilities. A recent case study at an Illinois-based healthcare system found that Athena’s product successfully detected more than 200 weapons at their hospitals in 2025 alone.

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park have unified their physical security operations using Genetec™ Security Center. Home to the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, SoFi Stadium is the premier sports and entertainment destination located at Hollywood Park. The stadium has established itself as a world-class venue, hosting record-breaking concerts and global sporting events while consistently ranking among the top venues in the world. Global sporting events To support events of this scale, the organisation standardised on Security Center to unify video surveillance, access control, automatic license plate recognition (ALPR), and other physical security systems in the 3.1 million-square-foot venue and across the 300-acre Hollywood Park development. Operators manage more than 3,000 cameras, 700 readers, and numerous other systems and sensors from three security control rooms, helping teams maintain situational awareness while streamlining day-to-day operations. "Genetec Security Center has improved our response time efficiency by giving us all the information we need in one platform. We’re able to understand what's happening and make decisions quickly," said Nick Bermensolo, Vice President of Security and Safety at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park. Physical security systems Since deploying Security Center, the SoFi Stadium IT team has a reliable, scalable, and cybersecure platform that runs on an isolated network and connects back to centralised servers. During big events, they support security operations by monitoring system performance from the Network Operations Center, ensuring everything is working as it should. The security team can easily handle daily tasks, while IT keeps systems running smoothly on the backend. "The Genetec team doesn’t just understand physical security systems, but IT systems too. With their help, we’ve been able to deploy a reliable and high-performing security platform at scale," said Paul Maldonado, Vice President of IT Infrastructure and Operations at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park. AI-based tools Looking ahead, both teams are focused on getting more value out of Security Center, exploring AI-based tools and more automation. They know they have a flexible, scalable platform that can support evolving cybersecurity and network requirements. "Genetec has really helped us establish a technology standard. Security Center is reliable and cybersecure, integrates well with our network, and reduces overhead for both IT and security. That’s the type of technology we want to continue implementing across our business," said Maldonado.

With up to one million fans attending FIFA World Cup™ matches and festivities in Miami, Florida, the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department has equipped the city’s host stadium with advanced connected safety technology to help protect spectators, athletes, and event staff. The technology is provided by Blackline Safety, a global pioneer in connected safety technology. Eight of Blackline’s connected EXO area monitors have been discreetly placed throughout the stadium to continuously monitor for potential hazards. Connected safety technology Highly visible, high-stakes environments like the World Cup require emergency responders to prepare for a wide range of potential risks, from accidental incidents to intentional chemical, biological, radiological and other public safety threats. Connected to the Blackline Live cloud platform, EXO technology provides incident commanders with real-time visibility into conditions, ensuring rescue teams can respond quickly if needed. “These are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, and being asked to protect such a large event is incredible,” said Marcel Berube, Hazmat, Logistics and Training Lieutenant with the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department in Florida. “You’re there in case anything happens, and you have a product that’s going to assist you to help everybody if needed." Real-time visibility Of the eight devices deployed, four are EXO 8 area monitors, equipped to detect up to eight gases plus gamma radiation, as well as four G7 EXOs, EXO 8’s predecessor. The monitors transmit readings live over a cellular network to Blackline Live software that act as a central command platform for the fire crew, giving them the instant data to make fast decisions if needed. Its long-lasting battery means no downtime throughout the tournament. “Every day, our technology helps protect workers in some of the world's most demanding environments,” said Cody Slater, CEO, Blackline Safety. “At events like the World Cup, or the Winter Olympics in Italy earlier this year, that same mission extends beyond the worksite to help emergency responders protect the hundreds of thousands of people who have gathered to experience something unforgettable." Connected monitoring solutions This deployment reflects the growing role of connected safety technology in public event security. Increasingly, fire departments and emergency management organisations are adopting cloud-connected monitoring solutions that provide greater visibility, faster communication, and improved coordination during planned events and emergency response operations. Berube and his team were even able to use the data from Blackline's platform to inform the entire Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), a coordinated group of agencies including police, FBI, and more. Emergency response operations Blackline Safety worked closely with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue throughout planning and deployment to configure the system, support implementation, and help ensure the technology was ready for operational use before fans arrived. “Every experience I’ve had with Blackline has been great,” Berube said. “The support is excellent. If you have a question, they run you through it without a problem, and everyone is very helpful. Every time I've had an issue, problem, question, they've been very supportive.”