Integration remains one of the biggest problems for physical security at stadiums. If security devices are not integrated into a cohesive solution, security gaps could be exploited. This is changing, as integrated security is a trend. More solutions deployed at stadiums provide greater integration, comprehensiveness and mobility. If security devices are not integrated into a cohesive solution, there could be holes in security. One stadium keeps a database of all the people that have previously caused trouble during events, so that once they enter a stadium, their face is caught on camera. Facial Recognition technology can then be integrated with the stadium turnstiles to keep these individuals out of the stadium.
- Integrated security is a trend. More solutions deployed at stadiums provide greater integration, comprehensiveness and mobility.
- PSIM can smooth security responses by linking different security measures.
- There will be some kind of Trusted Traveler-like program implemented by large-scale events like the Olympics, where attendees can be prescreened via background checks
Integration remains one of the biggest problems for physical security at stadiums. If security devices are not integrated into a cohesive solution, security gaps could be exploited. This is changing, as integrated security is a trend. More solutions deployed at stadiums provide greater integration, comprehensiveness and mobility.
If security devices are not integrated into a cohesive solution, there could be holes in security. One stadium keeps a database of all the people that have previously caused trouble during events, so that once they enter a stadium, their face is caught on camera. Facial Recognition technology can then be integrated with the stadium turnstiles to keep these individuals out of the stadium. Although the stadium eventually decided against these measures, instead choosing to catch individuals shortly after they had entered the stadium, this example gives a good illustration of how security can be more efficiently deployed in the future.
Lack of integration is common when there are multiple sites at the same venue using different security systems. This fragmentation is due to pragmatic reasons. Sites were likely built at different times when different technology was available, or were under different ownership. If security is not connected across these different sites, then after a first disturbance, a troublemaker could possibly continue to cause more disruptions at another sports site. Integrated security would help to prevent foreseeable disturbances.
To minimize risk from sometimes insufficient integration of security measures, stadium managers may wish to purchase as much technology from one vendor as possible. If something goes wrong, stadiums are better able to isolate how security was circumvented, who was responsible and who to talk to in the future.
PSIM Provides Coordinated Response
Coordinated security efforts can help to ensure a positive fan experience. Long lines could have been prevented if there had been better coordination between federal and local security agencies. “There is a need to provide a high level of security while at the same time ensuring a fan-friendly experience,” said Keith Marett, VP of Marketing and Communications, Avigilon. “Fans are paying for a positive experience.”
PSIM can help strengthen the links between technology, people and processes. James Chong, founder and CTO of VidSys, gave an example of how PSIM can smooth security responses by linking different security measures. “If an evacuation is required for a specific situation, a PSIM system can present SOPs or instructions for the command center operators to follow. The system can perform automated actions, according to the SOP, such as sending notifications to first responders going to the scene, or even lock or unlock appropriate doors. All steps taken are tracked for later analysis and compliance review to ensure the evacuation procedures were followed.”
Air conditioning, illumination, water, electricity, fire protection and other infrastructure systems are
integrated
Integration extends to no security systems as well, increasing the value of a management platform. Stadium management will appreciate being able to control or integrate with air conditioning, illumination, water, electricity, fire protection and other infrastructure systems — these systems help stadiums run smoothly, said Nathan Needel, VP of Sales for North America, Infinova.
Typical fire systems are integrated with public address voices alarm systems to help protect public areas, including concourses and concessions, together with back-of-house areas such as changing rooms and offices. According to Robin Edmunds, GM of Sales and Marketing, Kentec Electronics, open-protocol structures also allow simpler expansion in the future, with more choice and flexibility with regards to maintenance and servicing.
Integrated antitheft system
With the large number of people, a viable, integrated antitheft system is necessary. Nothing ruins a good game like losing your belongings. “In addition, while open for business, the shopping and recreation areas need monitoring to deal with the safety of customers and their belongings,” Needel said. “An antitheft alarm system, which is linked with the surveillance system, is needed. The material storeroom and ticket office needs an antitheft alarm system while other alarms are installed in corridors and non-audience entrances and exits among other places.”
However, as there are likely limitations to security integration, other solutions should also be proposed to help keep danger out and stadiums safe. “It's unlikely that we'll see a ‘Tunnel of Truth' or ‘Minority Report'- style security checkpoint in the next five to 10 years,” Goldsmith said. “What is more likely is that there will be some kind of Trusted Traveler-like program implemented by large-scale events like the Olympics, where attendees can be prescreened via background checks, which would lead to security tiers at a checkpoint, from low risk to high risk, with the appropriate screening procedures at each level.”