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.

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has announced a number of new appointments as the trade association continues to strengthen its team and support for members across the industry. As part of the changes, Kay Scattergood, becomes PA to General Manager & Secretary, Michael Skelding. Following many years of dedicated service, Kay Scattergood has chosen to reduce her working hours and workload, transitioning into a new role within the organisation and remains a highly valued member of the DHF team. Overseen daily operations Kay has been with DHF for more than 38 years, progressing from Senior Secretary to Manager of the Administration Team and will continue to bring her extensive knowledge and experience to support the organisation. Joining the organisation in April 2026 is Annie McKay as Office Manager, a newly created role for DHF. Annie is responsible for overseeing all office operations and the day-to-day running of the organisation’s administrative functions, including IT, HR, and the management of DHF’s externally recognised certifications such as ISO 9001 and Cyber Essentials. She brings seven years of office management experience across a variety of sectors, where she has overseen daily operations and supported large teams. Annie now manages the administration team at DHF and helps ensure the smooth running of the organisation. Industry group meetings DHF has also welcomed Huw Barnett as Senior Training and Compliance Officer. Huw brings more than 26 years of experience in the door, gate and barrier industry, and his career has included both hands-on operational roles and senior management positions, giving him experience across installation, maintenance, team leadership and operational delivery. Throughout his career, Huw has represented employers at a range of industry group meetings, contributing to discussions around safety standards, best practice and new technologies. In his new role, Huw will provide technical expertise to DHF members and deliver training across the sector. Commitment to supporting members “We are delighted to welcome new team members, Annie and Huw to DHF at an important time for the organisation,” says DHF’s Deputy CEO, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “Both bring considerable experience, professionalism and energy to their roles, and their appointments reflect our continued commitment to supporting members and strengthening the services we provide industry wide.” DHF has also announced the appointment of two new directors to its board. Wolfgang Gorner, Managing Director of Hörmann (UK) Ltd, joins the board with decades of experience across the building products, perimeter security, windows and doors sectors. Perimeter security products Wolfgang began his career with RMC Group in 1988 before moving into perimeter security products with B&G Group in 1995. In 2000, he moved into the windows and doors industry, holding senior positions at REHAU, Epwin and Inwido before joining Hörmann in 2018 to lead its UK operation. Speaking about his appointment, Wolfgang said he is “Passionate about the door, gate and barrier industries and believes DHF plays an important role in promoting high standards and supporting a level playing field across the sector.” Also joining the board is Ricky Walker, Managing Director of Expert Access Solutions. Ricky has long supported DHF and been an active voice within the industrial doors sector throughout his career, including during his time as Solutions Director at dormakaba. Understanding legislative requirements He has contributed to a range of DHF activities including product group meetings, apprenticeship discussions and technical committee work focused on helping customers understand legislative requirements and industry standards. Ricky also brings significant board level and commercial governance experience and is committed to supporting the continued growth and professionalism of the federation. “All of these appointments represent another positive step forward for DHF,” concludes Patricia. “Annie, Huw, Wolfgang and Ricky each bring valuable experience and knowledge, and we are pleased to welcome them to the DHF family as we continue to support our members and the wider industry.”

iDenfy, a global RegTech and fraud prevention service provider, announced a major platform update ahead of the European Union’s Digital Identity Wallet compliance regulations for regulated businesses that require verifying users through government-backed digital ID verification methods, all without asking the user to upload an actual photo of their ID document. That means users will be entering their credentials that they use for daily services already, which creates a familiarity factor. According to iDenfy, these newly launched non-doc verification workflows will help businesses increase conversions due to the simplified version of the standard, document-based Know Your Customer (KYC) process. Secure mobile application Under Regulation (EU) 2024/1183, the eIDAS 2.0 framework requires all 27 EU member states to make at least one EU Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet) available to their citizens by December 31, 2026, a binding legal obligation with no room for interpretation. Banks, payment institutions, and electronic money organisations have to operate under EU regulation, and now require accepting the wallet as a valid method for Strong Customer Authentication (SCA), due to direct compliance concerns. The EUDI Wallet is a secure mobile application that can store verified credentials, including national ID cards, passports, and driving licenses in one place, so users won’t need to be asked to reverify every time they access a new service. This framework was presented in May 2024. Electronic ID verification flow To navigate businesses through this shift, iDenfy updated its platform with a combined physical and electronic ID verification flow. Rather than running separate processes, the integration handles both verification paths within a single session, and in this way, removes friction for the user as well as minimises implementation overhead for the business. A purely document-first verification flow is, in practical terms, a barrier to conversion for a meaningful share of users in these regions. The data reflects this. iDenfy has recorded a 23% reduction in verification drop-offs among users who previously abandoned sessions because a physical document was not available, and projects 30% reduction to allow the system to automatically switch to the electronic ID verification workflow when a physical document capture fails due to poor image quality or lighting, or other minor issues. Physical document verification The challenge businesses face is not purely about regulation, though that pressure is real and immediate. Across the Nordic markets, the shift away from physical document verification has already happened at scale. BankID is the dominant identity method in Sweden and Norway. MitID handles the majority of identity transactions in Denmark. Smart-ID is the standard across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. In these markets, asking a user to photograph a physical ID card is increasingly the friction point that ends a session, not a standard step within one. Identity verification tool In general, iDenfy’s identity verification tool covers over 16,000+ government-issued documents across over 200+ countries and territories, with automated workflows handling different KYC processes as needed. Clients can choose various elements and combine their own onboarding process using elements like facial recognition, age verification, or passive liveness detection without ever needing to code. Cases that fall outside automated parameters are sent to iDenfy’s internal compliance team, which operates nonstop with dedicated day and night shifts, so reviews are not delayed by weekends or public holidays. The second layer is a manual review conducted by iDenfy’s internal compliance team, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The company has day and night shifts to manage this process without any interruptions, such as holidays, weekends, or any specific days, to be able to catch edge cases, flag anomalies, and guarantee the most accurate outcome for every session. The combined flow is available to all iDenfy customers at no additional cost and can be enabled directly through dashboard settings, with no new integration work required. Beyond regulatory penalties For financial institutions, that means any onboarding or authentication flow that cannot process a wallet-based credential will be out of compliance. Likewise for fintechs, payment processors, and electronic money providers, the consequences of non-compliance extend far beyond regulatory penalties. A business that cannot accept wallet credentials will be unable to onboard a growing segment of EU users who will fail with a wallet-based identification as their primary method. This can create legal exposure and a direct revenue loss at the point of user acquisition. Inefficient onboarding flows According to research from Fenergo, globally, businesses already spend $72.9 million per year on AML and KYC compliance, simultaneously losing clients due to inefficient onboarding flows. Adding wallet incompatibility to that equation compounds an already costly problem.t. “The EUDI Wallet is not a future consideration for businesses in regulated markets; it is an immediate infrastructure question. Electronic IDs carry the same level of government-backed trust as physical documents, and in many cases, they are harder to forge. Our role is to make sure that businesses can accept both methods without rebuilding their onboarding system from scratch,” commented Domantas Ciulde, the CEO of iDenfy.

Elite Interactive Solutions, a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven, real-time crime prevention, announces the company has been selected The Monitoring Association’s (TMA) 2026 Monitoring Center of the Year. Elite was proclaimed winner of the security monitoring industry’s highest honor during the 20th Excellence Awards presentation, held during TMA’s annual Mid-Year Meeting. According to TMA, the Excellence Awards recognise FM-Approved, Intertek/ETL or UL‐Listed monitoring centres and outstanding personnel who perform in the highest professional manner, thereby making a significant contribution to the betterment of the industry and profession while demonstrating exceptional service to their customers and community. Real-time crime prevention The awards promote the value of monitoring centre services; honour those who have made the most significant contributions to the service; and recognise the distinct level of professionalism attained by Nationally Recognised Testing Laboratory (NRTL)-approved monitoring centres. Elite impressed a panel of independent judges in a multitude of ways, including leadership and growth; management and operations; training and personnel; procedures and best practices; technology and innovation; real-time crime prevention; elimination of false dispatches; law enforcement partnerships; and community and industry involvement. During 2025, Elite’s Security Operations Command Center (SOCC) directly prevented more than 71,000 crimes and assisted police in more than 2,300 arrests and detainments. Events escalated to police dispatch resulted in a record 78% apprehension rate. Facilitating optimal support Elite is believed to be the only provider that has an in-house Law Enforcement Advisory Board (LEAB) comprised of former LE command staff and executives. They are fully engaged in the daily activities of Elite’s UL-Listed command centre. The LEAB contributes to the training of Elite agents, reviews and ensures calls for dispatch follow best protocols, and communicates and meets with agencies around the country to facilitate optimal support and collaboration. In addition, during 2025 Elite appointed a decorated former military and Los Angeles Police Department sergeant as its chief security officer in charge of SOCC operations. Elite representatives serve as active members of TMA and Security Industry Association (SIA) committees dedicated to developing industry best practices, guidelines and standards. Law enforcement partnerships During 2025, Elite educated the industry and marketplace about remote video guarding, crime prevention, and partnering with police by participating and presenting at numerous events as well as engaging in webinars and publications. In March 2025, Elite spearheaded a historic industry townhall to rally the security channel in the aftermath of the Los Angeles wildfires disaster. “Receiving this prestigious honour has instilled the entire Elite team with elation and pride. It is a testament to their dedication and hard work, and a validation of our operational fortitude and unique approach to stopping crime in real-time,” says Elite CEO Michael Zatulov. “It is gratifying TMA’s judges appreciate our focus on delivering exceptional customer outcomes, advancing AI-powered detection and human intervention, educating and supporting the industry, strengthening law enforcement partnerships, and structuring operations for strategic growth.” Elite, which also captured its third consecutive SAMMY (Sales & Marketing) Award at this year’s ISC West tradeshow, was named as a finalist for TMA’s 2025 Monitoring Center of the Year and recognised by the association in 2024 as winner of the Monitoring Technology Marvel Award.

System Surveyor, the pioneer site survey and system design platform for security integrators and technology managers, announces the launch of the System Surveyor Phone app, a native smartphone app for iOS and Android that puts the full project in every project manager, technician and subcontractor’s pocket. Purpose-built for security technicians and installers, the System Surveyor Phone app brings the platform’s core survey capabilities directly to the smartphones teams already carry, complementing tablet and web access while accelerating project delivery, from sales win to installation. Detailed site surveys Sales teams have long relied on System Surveyor to capture detailed site surveys and system designs. Now, field technicians and project managers can access that same information anytime, anywhere, bringing projects full circle from installation to lifecycle management. By providing real-time access to surveys, floor plans, photos and project details, the System Surveyor Phone app ensures a seamless handoff from sale to installation to ongoing maintenance. “Technicians and subcontractors represent one of the largest segments of a security system integrator’s workforce, yet they’ve historically been disconnected from the photos, data and requirements captured by sales teams during a site survey,” said Chris Hugman, CEO and Co-Founder of System Surveyor. “With our new System Surveyor Phone app, we’re enabling teams to take System Surveyor everywhere they work — from field to office and back again — managing the entire project lifecycle from any device.” Complete project context By giving project managers and technicians immediate access to complete project context, the app helps integrators: Reduce installation time and rework due to miscommunication Take photos and automatically upload to the project Update status on installation and implementation Accelerate time from project award to successful, profitable installation Delivering System Surveyor Phone app represents a major step forward in mobile field enablement for security integrators. By delivering survey intelligence directly to smartphones, integrators can ensure every technician and subcontractor has the information needed to complete installations faster, with greater accuracy and fewer errors and to close the loop digitally.

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that Amos P. Godby High School in Tallahassee, Florida, is the first in the nation to deploy a three-part integrated solution called RADAR (Real-time Alert, Detection And Response). This solution combines ZeroEyes’ AI-based gun detection and situational awareness solution with Ark Strategic’s 3D Mapping solution and Campus Guardian Angel drones to provide comprehensive, real-time threat detection, alerting, and response in the case of a gun-related incident. Enhancing situational awareness "ZeroEyes Al gun detection and Ark Strategic’s 3D mapping solution, combined with Campus Guardian Angel, represent the cutting edge of school security in the United States," said Jimmy Williams, Chief of Safety, Security, and Emergency Management for Leon County School District. "When leveraging these tools collectively in Project RADAR, we’re continuing to set a national standard for school security with solution-oriented and mission-ready resources.” Ark Strategic’s 3D mapping solution blends cutting-edge aerial and interior mapping technologies to deliver unparalleled operational intelligence for its customers. When integrating the exterior and interior intelligence with ZeroEyes AI threat detection software, the solution empowers first responders to quickly identify critical assets, enhance situational awareness, and respond to threats with greater speed and precision. Situational awareness software layers “At Ark Strategic, our mission is to turn the entire campus into actionable intelligence,” said Chris Yellina, Founder & Chief Product Officer at Ark Strategic. “With inside-and-out coverage, responders have a clearer picture of the environment before they ever make entry.” ZeroEyes' AI threat 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 center, 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 as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. Creating a safer environment When a detection occurs at a location mapped in 3D, each camera alert is automatically tied to its exact position on the map, enabling responders to navigate instantly to the area of concern. The system is entirely cloud-based, requiring no installation for local law enforcement. Annotated maps display camera placement, fields of view, and potential blind spots, while operational layers and interactive measurements empower security teams to assess situations and make informed decisions quickly. In tandem, or if a panic button is pressed, Campus Guardian Angel deploys non-lethal drones within seconds, tracking the assailant and navigating obstacles to provide support and situational awareness. While in operation, the drones actively distract, delay, and disrupt the perpetrator, buying precious time and creating a safer environment for students and staff. Truly comprehensive security solution “Amos P. Godby High School’s deployment of RADAR marks a historic step forward in school safety,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and cofounder of ZeroEyes. “This integrated and innovative approach further demonstrates how utilising a multilayered technology solution can protect students and staff more effectively, setting a new standard for safety nationwide.” "We are thrilled to partner with the innovative team at ZeroEyes in launching Florida’s first-in-the-nation pilot program, which includes Godby High School, bringing together the best in AI-powered gun detection and elite human-piloted drone response capabilities to create a truly comprehensive security solution that can save lives,” said Justin Marston, CEO and co-founder of Campus Guardian Angel. Enhancing campus safety “Our innovative Active Shooter Suppression System is uniquely designed to deliver non-lethal effects that distract, delay, and disrupt a threat within seconds, buying critical time for law enforcement to protect students and staff. We are proud to be working side-by-side with companies like ZeroEyes to advance cutting-edge technology solutions to enhance campus safety in Florida and across the nation.” ZeroEyes, Ark Strategic, Campus Guardian Angel, and the district are hosting a summit June 17 and 18 at Godby High School, featuring demonstrations and discussion sessions surrounding the technologies, including reflections from school leaders on the district’s successful deployment. The event is open to local schools, law enforcement, and the media.

John Street, Newham, a high‑rise residential development comprising Blocks A and C, has been equipped with a comprehensive life safety solution from Advanced, incorporating SmokeGo smoke control and EvacGo evacuation alert systems to support a stay‑put fire strategy and enhance resident safety. The project, delivered as part of a wider life safety installation by Simple Life Safety Systems Limited, required a robust and compliant approach to smoke control and evacuation alert across two buildings with different heights and risk profiles. Block A is a 14‑storey, high‑rise residential block, while Block C is a smaller, four‑storey building. Each block was equipped with one SmokeGo panel and one EvacGo panel, providing dedicated control tailored to the specific needs of each structure. High‑rise residential block SmokeGo was specified to deliver active smoke control via the fire system, supporting the management of smoke in common escape routes and critical areas. Designed to comply with EN 54 Parts 2 and 4, as well as BS 7346‑8 and ISO 21927‑9, SmokeGo enables automatic and manual control of smoke control fans and dampers from a single, intuitive interface. Its simple matrix‑based configuration allowed the project team to clearly define smoke compartments and cause‑and‑effect relationships, helping ensure smoke is contained and extracted effectively in the event of a fire. EvacGo was installed as a fully independent BS 8629-compliant evacuation alert system, giving the fire and rescue service a reliable and secure means of alerting residents if evacuation beyond the affected flat is required. Each EvacGo panel is housed within a robust, tamper‑proof enclosure and is designed exclusively for use by the fire and rescue service, helping prevent misuse while ensuring clear, decisive control during an incident. Complex residential project John Newton, Director Life Safety at Simple Group, commented: “John Street was a complex residential project that required careful coordination between smoke control and evacuation alert systems. Using SmokeGo and EvacGo allowed us to deliver a fully compliant solution that aligns with the fire strategy while giving the fire and rescue service the tools they need to manage incidents safely and effectively.” The SmokeGo smoke control system and EvacGo evacuation alert system operate as separate dedicated life safety systems, ensuring smoke movement can be actively controlled while evacuation decisions remain firmly in the hands of the fire and rescue service. This layered approach supports resident safety without undermining the stay‑put strategy that underpins the building’s fire design. Implementing smoke control Shaun Scott, Applications Engineer at Advanced, added: “Projects like John Street highlight the importance of implementing smoke control and evacuation alert systems correctly. SmokeGo makes complex smoke control logic far simpler to configure and manage, while EvacGo provides a clear, compliant evacuation alert solution. Together, they deliver confidence for installers, building managers, and emergency responders alike.” With one SmokeGo panel and one EvacGo panel installed in each block, the John Street development now benefits from a coordinated life safety solution that addresses both smoke management and evacuation alerting in line with current best practice and regulatory guidance. The project demonstrates how Advanced’s specialist systems can be combined to meet the evolving safety requirements of modern residential buildings, delivering compliant, practical solutions that prioritise both resident safety and operational simplicity.

Genting Casino at Westfield Stratford City has completed a major fire alarm system upgrade with Comelit-PAC technology, delivered in partnership with installation specialist VTF&S. As the UK’s largest casino floor, including the biggest poker room in the country, Genting Stratford operates around the clock, welcoming visitors day and night. Any upgrade to critical infrastructure needed to be carried out without interrupting the flow of customers and staff, while maintaining strict safety standards throughout. Slowing response times The casino’s previous fire alarm system operated on a closed protocol, which had become increasingly restrictive. Even minor adjustments required specialist call-outs, increasing costs and slowing response times. By contrast, Comelit-PAC’s four-loop fire system offers a more flexible, open protocol approach, enabling easier maintenance and reducing long-term operational expense. The upgrade also ensures improved system reliability and faster fault identification, better suited to the demands of a busy, high-traffic venue. Careful planning and coordination Beyond the technical and visual improvements, the inclusion of Comelit-PAC’s free cloud connection allows the system to be monitored and supported remotely. Secure cloud access enables engineers to diagnose and often resolve issues without waiting for a site visit. The installation was carried out by VTF&S while the casino remained fully operational. Working in a live environment required careful planning and coordination, supported by Comelit-PAC’s technical team. This collaborative approach enabled the upgrade to be delivered with minimal disruption, while also setting the foundation for faster, more cost-effective ongoing support through remote connectivity. Implementing safety and efficiency The project’s success relied on close collaboration between Genting Casino, VTF&S and Comelit-PAC. Clear communication and meticulous planning ensured the system could be upgraded safely and efficiently while the venue continued to operate as normal. Says Ben Howley of Comelit-PAC: “This project demonstrates with the right teamwork and planning, even complex upgrades can be delivered seamlessly in a live venue. Genting Casino now has a system that was implemented safely and efficiently and simple to maintain even remotely, thanks to the strong partnership between all parties involved.”

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 St. Cecilia School in Cincinnati, Ohio, to help protect students, staff, and visitors from gun-related threats. Located in the geographic centre of Cincinnati within Hamilton County, St. Cecilia School serves approximately 250 students in Pre-K through 8th grade and employs 28 faculty and staff members. The school deployed ZeroEyes as part of its continuing commitment to maintaining a safe, welcoming learning environment. Intelligent situational awareness “The safety of our students is always at the forefront of what we do,” said David Lewis, Teacher and Student Resource Officer at St. Cecilia School and a retired police officer with 30 years of service. “I’ve seen ZeroEyes in action, and I believe it will save time and save lives. When I’m teaching, it’s hard to focus on security, so this technology gives me real-time intelligence to respond quickly. It’s a powerful supplement to our existing security measures, and you can’t put a price on student safety.” 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 centre staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. Real-time intelligence 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 as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. “St. Cecilia School has taken a thoughtful and proactive approach to campus safety,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “By building upon existing security measures and empowering staff with real-time intelligence, the school is demonstrating its strong commitment to protecting students and faculty while preserving the close-knit culture that defines its community.”