Security System integration can be beneficial if used properly. The system must be setup to simplify security tasks and make human interaction with the security system more efficient. To do this, all of the security systems in place should communicate with each other. Typically, this communication takes place over the IP network, but can be serial or RS485 communication protocols.
Examples of good integration:
1. Perimeter Intrusion - In this case, if the perimeter of a facility is breached, either through a visible fence or through outdoor motion detectors, the following could happen:
a. The outdoor PTZ camera is automatically programmed to go to a preset position and view the area of detection.
b. The Video Recording system increases its recording rate and video quality on the alarm activation.
c. The alarm system should notify security staff at the workstation or via email or text message.
2. Access Denied at card reader - In this case, a person has presented an invalid card to one of the card readers in the system. If setup correctly an integrated system should
a. Generate an alarm at the security workstation or send an email / text message informing security of the condition.
b. Camera is linked to the event and displays live video stream at the security workstation.
c. Clicking on a link in the security software will replay the alarm event from the camera viewing the door.
3. Exterior Door Propped Open - Having an exterior door to your facility left open can be a serious security risk. This potential security threat needs to be remedied quickly. A good integrated system should perform the following tasks.
a. A live camera view of the door should be displayed on the security workstation; as a result the security staff can quickly identify the problem.
b. An email / text message alarm should be sent out to security personnel so they are immediately alerted to the problem. Typically, this email should go out to a group so that various people are alerted to the problem.
c. A note window should be displayed so that the problem can be properly recorded. Items such as cause of the alarm and how it was resolved are important so that incidents can be reviewed at security safety meetings and the issues addressed.
In all of these examples, each step should be as automated as possible and require minimal human interaction. A good integrated security system takes the guesswork out of potential security threats and helps resolve them quickly and efficiently. In a real emergency situation the system needs to perform. To ensure your security system is ready, monthly tests should be conducted by your security staff to make certain that these integrated functions are working properly. Document the results of each month's tests and have any problems corrected as quickly as possible.
