Question:
Can logistics managers protect their warehouses using remote monitoring technology?
Expert:
Gilles Ortega
Country manager, MENA, Axis Communications
Warehouse robberies in the Middle East
The logistics industry has unsurprisingly raised some concerns about security in the Middle East following a series of warehouse robberies in Dubai. A number of these incidents took place over holiday periods and weekends, which resulted in the police receiving delayed alerts from the owners of these warehouses. The key issue highlighted by these robberies is the lack of proper security measures in place, which is not only critical, but can be achieved affordably, especially compared to the costs incurred when valuable material is stolen.
Protecting your storage facilities
The recent spate of robberies has raised an important question – how can companies in the Middle East protect their warehouses from such vulnerabilities? Remote monitoring is certainly an option worth considering for logistics managers. The term ‘remote monitoring’ can actually have several different meanings. For a warehouse manager, it offers an ability to prevent break-ins and other criminal damage to a storage facility, by monitoring the building from a remote location. It can also be used to monitor the activity of employees and the movement of cargo, both inbound and outbound, from the warehouse facility.
Traditional security methods
A number of options are available for companies wanting to protect their warehouses. Implementing secure locking systems and fencing, covering windows with steel bars and hiring security guards are popular examples. However, these methods cannot reach optimum efficiency unless complemented with some surveillance monitoring. This is normally done by using a form of intrusion detection system, which is normally connected to a central alarm centre or directly to the police.
The benefits of remote monitoring
Clearly the ability to gather and send visual evidence remotely is a significant bonus to organisations in terms of cost-savings and speed of response to warehouse security incidents. It also provides increased safety for security guards, because they no longer endanger themselves by working in potentially hazardous situations, such as armed robberies in progress. As new technology has started to be commonly used, it has also changed the definition of remote monitoring. While in the past remote monitoring was mainly about a remote security guard watching in a central location, today the remote monitoring centre will add value by analysing video and onward transmission of key data to relevant authorities and contacts. Some remote monitoring operations also provide more specific analysis such as low stock levels, unusual activity during off periods or suspicious motion detected in “sensitive goods” storage areas.
Typical remote monitoring systems
So what is a network-based remote monitoring system? It basically contains one or more video servers or network cameras, installed at the remote location. These will digitise images from the site and make them available on a network, as secure and encrypted data. In most cases, they will also be connected to intrusion systems or other systems capable of generating an alarm upon break-in, via pressing of panic buttons and the like.
The other end consists of software, which is used to manage these remote sites, provide storage of images and other features. When an alarm is received, the operator will instantly receive instructions related to this specific site and alarm. Based on the content of the video and given instructions, the operator will then take suitable action, such as alerting the police.
Even the best system will fail if it is not designed to meet the customer’s expectation. The most important thing with all security systems is to understand end-user needs. If there isn’t a clear understanding about the system, with pros and cons, the service may not meet the user’s expectation.
Choosing the best approach
To wait and see is normally not a good business strategy. Network video is a proven concept used in many large-scale and heavy-duty installations worldwide. The first network camera was introduced in 1996. If you have not acquainted yourself with network video yet, you have probably waited long enough already. Remote video solutions based on network technology represent a major opportunity. It is an opportunity to keep your existing customers happy and to expand your business into new markets meeting new business needs. With proper attention to the possibilities of remote video monitoring, you will secure your existing business alongside the chance to take it to the next level.
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