Risk Manager Magazine

RiskManager

Security | Fire | Risk Management

Ireland’s Security, Fire and Risk Management Magazine

Magazine of the AIRM

Winter 2010

Volume 11 | Issue No. 3 | Price â‚Ź4.00 |

Ireland’s Security Exhibition & Conference Since its inception in 2003 this bi-annual national security exhibition has gone from strength, focusing on innovative security technology and security concepts.

Exhibitions are about maintaining current relationships & developing new relationships. Only at an exhibition such as ISEC can you generate direct sales while simultaneously: • Enhancing your brand image • Launching new products • Research new markets • Building you database • Maintaining existing customer relationships

Why Visit • To source new products which will enhance sales within your own business • To discover new more cost-effective & innovative solutions • To experience live demonstrations • Interact face-to-face with key suppliers • Network with new and diverse suppliers • Get expert advice on specific challenges facing your company • Keep up to date with emerging trends in the security industry • Gain new insights & ideas to grow your business

At ISEC2009 over 90% of Irish security installers attended .isec.ie w w w t a w s online no

Find u

Informed Deci Are Made by Info

Convention Centre, Citywest Hotel, Dublin Wed 30th & Thurs 31st March 2011

A variety of exhibitors at ISEC2011 will include CCTV Access Control Intruder Detection Gate Automation Retail Solutions Locks & Safes Wirefree Systems IP Security Door Entry Systems Time & Attendance Systems Thermal Imaging Remote Surveillance Fire Detection Physical Security Biometrics Perimeter Intrusion Remote Monitoring Video Analytics Security Training RFID Trade Associations

isions ormed People

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Contents Risk Manager

www.isec.ie

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46

22

48

There is a Menace in the marketplace that won’t go away

The Importance of being Err……

Who?

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IP Perspective – Your guide to IP Security Trends in Ireland

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Safety Data Sheets – Understanding Chemical Risks

52

Master of Science – A life journey

Winter Security Issues

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44

Absolute Return Investing

Rosebank Media, First Floor, 72 Tyrconnell Road, Inchicore, Dublin 8 Phone: +353 1 4163678 - +353 1 4534121 - Fax: +353 1 4545119 E-mail: anndaly1@eircom.net

Credits

The Presence of Pyrite

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IT Disaster Recovery

Published by

Securing the Homeland & Beyond

Use your Leadership Style

54

58

Work Place Bullying

Editorial board John Hamilton Peter O’Toole Ann Daly

Designed by www.space.ie

Risk Manager is the quarterly magazine of the Association of Irish Risk Management (AIRM). The magazine is circulated among AIRM Members, Security Manufacturers, Distributors and Installers, Facilities Managers, An Garda Siochana, Insurance Companies and Brokers, Local Authorities, Fire Safety Companies, Loss Adjusters, Health & Safety Companies, Training Companies, Entertainment and Leisure Industry, Financial Institutions, Construction Industry, Government Departments involved directly or indirectly with the Irish Security Industry and Risk Management.

Views expressed by contributors or correspondence are not necessarily those of the AIRM or Rosebank Media and neither accepts responsibility for them. Risk Manager welcomes product news, contract awards announcements, company news, appointments, press releases, etc, email details to the address above. Companies or individuals wishing to subscribe to the Risk Manager magazine can do so by contacting Rosebank Media.

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EUROPEAN DESIGN & MANUFACTURING DIVISION: IC Realtime, 34 Eastgate Drive,Little Island, Cork, Ireland.

Phone: +353 21 4355818 Email: info@icrealtime.ie Web: www.icrealtime.ie

Chairperson's Column

ey, mps e D ldine IRM Gera on A s r e p r Chai

Welcome to the Winter edition of Risk Manager magazine. It’s only the start of the year and already we have had country wide severe weather conditions.

Weather forecasters are advising that last November was the earliest we had received such sub zero temperature in 17 years.

Few expected that those temperatures and conditions would continue to worsen right up to the Christmas period.

Two years ago the severe flood events cost the insurance industry €244m, the combined cost of the floods and the big freeze that followed is reported at €541m.

And that does not account for those that were not insured. There are many preventative measures 6

that property owners, both domestic and commercial, can take in order to mitigate loss to their properties.

A property owners (or managers) duty of care to visitors should also be considered, especially in relation to slip and fall injuries.

Erwin, a professional mediator and facilitator who specalises in conflict resolution in the workplace. Karen gave a very interesting and informative speech outlining the process of mediation and its role in today’s workplace environment. All in attendance enjoyed the lovely lunch and festive atmosphere.

The Risk Manager magazine is now available on-line at www.issuu.com (search Risk Manager magazine Ireland) where there are some very informative articles on protecting your property from water damage and protecting vacant buildings, written by Nigel Dawkins of RSA and Michael Brennan of Aviva in last years autumn and winter editions. Further risk management advice can also be found on www. flooding.ie or direct from your insurer.

Moving on to this year, we are delighted to have Maura Connolly, Partner and Head of Employment & Employee Benefits Group at Eugene F. Collins Solicitors present to us in January. Maura will provide a legal update on recent developments in workplace health and safety, something a lot of us will be interested in, as many companies struggle to manage health and safety with fewer resources than they may previously have had.

On the same topic of flood mitigation, the AIRM were delighted to have Mark Adamson of the OPW present to us at our November seminar. Mark gave an overview of the flood defence programmes completed todate and an insight into the detailed studies the OPW are undertaking in order to provide predicative mapping upon which future flood defences will be founded.

Our annual Christmas lunch took place this year in the Howth Yacht Club, our guest speaker at the lunch was Karen

We hope to see you there, further information can be found on www.airm.ie.

A prope r (or man ty owners care to agers) duty of v also be isitors should co especia nsidered, lly in to slip a relation nd fall inju ries.

Global brands Local knowledge Nationwide Distribution

National Sales and Distribution Boyle Business Park, Deerpark, Boyle, Co. Roscommon P: 071 9663893, E: sales@nal.ie Dublin Trade Counter 4055 Kingswood Ave., Citywest Business Campus P: 01 4699115 Training on Gate Automation and Control Products available by arrangement.

Call 01 4699115 to avail of this Service

www.nal.ie

Visit us at Stand A18

Ireland’s Security Exhibition and Co

Rosebank Media, First Floor, 72 Tyrconnell Road, Inchicore T: +353 1 416 3678 / 453 4121 F: +353 1 454 5119 info@isec.ie www.isec.ie

Industry News Risk Manager

Niscayah IP Security Seminar

Niscayah’s recently hosted IP security seminar in Citywest Hotel, Dublin proved an excellent opportunity to gain practical advice on IP technology and the challenges and opportunities of IP for commercial businesses in today’s environment.

IP video surveillance, IP access control, managing IP Video, Mexapixel camera resolution, remote monitoring of IP based solutions and Video Analytics in Perimeter Intrusion were the main topics for the speakers.

Demonstrations on the relevant technologies were also given by the speakers.

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Speakers included: • Willie Tighe - Niscayah • Gordon Smith - GVD • Glenn Fletcher – Milestone • Atul Rajput - Axis Communications • Gordon Thomas – Honeywell • Mats Bergh – Pacom • Indy Kler - IQ in Vision

Niscayah’s Managing Director, Willie Tighe, opened the seminar by expressing to delegates that this is an exciting era for the security industry and Niscayah will fully embrace new technology to support and enhance our customer’s security solutions.

Secure remote access – not a token gesture

Remote access to corporate networks has undoubtedly been a key shift in the function of IT networks over the last few years.

Steven Hope, Managing Director at Winfrasoft However, for all its remarkable business benefits, the new plethora of mobile devices and facilities for remote access means that there have never been a greater opportunity for cybercriminals to target sensitive information (and harvest this stolen data for profit) of organisations that take full advantage of remote working.

Fears over network security are clearly founded – the European Commission (EC) recently announced its intention to create a new directive to tackle threats to information systems, following a rise in attacks across the continent. The directive has been suggested to replace the EC’s 2005 framework decision, which attempted to coordinate laws on hacking across Europe. The EC suggests that because of new methods of attack and advances in technology, there needs to be improved measures to combat this.

Naturally the IT industry is acutely aware and united in recognising the potential

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dangers, but there is a level of debate over the best ways to tackle threats. Recent surveys suggest network managers’ consider their greatest challenge to be providing safe, secure but highly usable and effective remote access to their network clients. Striking a balance between offering the full range of network services and making sure the company’s most valuable asset, its data, is not falling into the wrong hands is becoming the holy grail for many IT managers.

The traditional password authentication approach used for remote access gives a degree of security but is unfortunately susceptible to fraud and can suffer from users’ repeatedly re-using the same details over and over again. The next step is a 2 Factor Authentication (2FA) system and for many solutions this involves using a personalised ‘token’ to authenticate users. Whilst using a token-based system improves security, it can be an expensive and resource intensive exercise to implement and maintain (especially for SMEs on tighter budgets) and makes it more difficult for authorised remote users to use easily.

There is an alternative of course and like the all the very best solutions it looks at network security as a whole.

Using the latest type of token-free 2FA in combination with a secure Virtual Private Network gives an organisation far more protection than simple password authentication alone. It allows an organisation to cost-effectively implement a strong solution for any networked end-point device attempting to access corporate resources. This improves the protection and the integrity of the IT network, whilst improving the quality of access to it. Using this kind of 2FA requires only a standard webbrowser for any end-point device to be thoroughly authenticated (over a secure SSL-VPN connection). It is ideal for any organisation whose workforce

and business partners require fast, reliable and secure anywhere access to resources held on the corporate network.

Finding the right combination and making it user-friendly, as well as secure and fully compatible with the rest of the network is vital. To achieve this Winfrasoft, for example, has paired Microsoft Forefront Unified Access Gateway (UAG) and Swivel Secure’s PINsafe on the same appliance, to create an integrated network perimeter defence system that uses an innovative, fast and simple to use One Time Code system. When an individual wishes to connect to the network they simply combine the ten-digit security string (sent to them via SMS or phone app) with their standard four-digit PIN number to derive a One Time Code, which is used to swiftly authenticate their access rights. This level of authentication provides a much greater level of security than passwords alone, as the administrator can be confident that the user is who they say they are.

Ensuring security of remote access to a company network is always going to be a question of ‘horses for courses’. IT managers need to determine the needs of the business and to find the right level of security – which can range from simple password systems right up to the latest in 2FA security or a combined combination of best-in-breed solutions. The assumption that having the best in 2FA technology means cumbersome and complicated systems that are costly for the user and organisation simply isn’t true. Using a combination of a top-notch Virtual Private Network and the latest generation of 2FA offers authentication that provides a much greater level of security than passwords alone and it is easy to manage centrally, whilst still offering users a level of access that allows them to make full use of the network and its resources.

www.winfrasoft.com

Now Available from Northwood Technology

FLIR D-Series Multi-Sensor Thermal Security Cameras In Networked, Outdoor Dome Enclosures The D-Series outdoor dome enclosure provides precision pan/tilt control while providing fully programmable scan patterns, radar slew-to-cue, and slew-to-alarm functionality. Fully enabled for control and operation over IP and serial networks, D-Series systems deploy a 320 × 240 thermal imager along with a day/night 36× zoom color CCD camera.

FLIR’s D-Series thermal multi-sensor security dome cameras are the perfect replacement for day/night dome cameras, providing clear 24/7 imaging capability in an attractive, discrete dome-style enclosure.

Normal Vision

Thermal Vision

Normal Vision

Thermal Vision

Crisp thermal images

All versions of the outdoor domes are equipped with an un-cooled Vanadium Oxide micro bolometer detector that produces crisp images of 320 x 240 pixels.

Precise Pan/Tilt mechanism

All D-Series thermal imaging cameras come with a precision pan/tilt mechanism. It allows the user to rotate the camera 360° continuously and to tilt it +45° to -180°. This drastically increases situational awareness. The Pan/Tilt has 128 preset positions. Ideal if you want to scan an area continuously.

Daylight camera

All versions are equipped with a long range daylight/low light camera. The daylight camera offers an 36x optical zoom.

Digital Detail Enhancement

The D-Series provide high contrast imagery optimized to get the most out of video analytics software. Digital Detail Enhancement ensures clear, properly contrasted thermal images in all weather conditions.

Excellent range performance

Equipped with a 35 mm lens, the D-313 is designed for mid-range security and surveillance applications. The D-313 has a 13° field of view. With the D-313 you will be able to detect a man-sized target at a distance of over 780 meters.

Easy to use

Equipped with an “a thermal lens”, all D-Series are able to maintain focus no matter what the environmental temperature is.

There is no need for user adjustments.

Designed for use in harsh environments

The D-Series are extremely rugged systems. Their vital core is well protected, IP66 requirements, against dust and water ingress.

If you would like more information about the above or about FLIR Systems and its wide range of thermal images for security and surveillance applications, please call:

Northwood Technology Ltd. 56 Nore Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Glasnevin, Dublin 11 P:+353 1 8601880 F:+353 1 8601882 E: info@northwoodtechnology.ie www.northwoodtechnology.ie

There is a

“Menace”

in the m

Let me get straight to the point, the above headline is not designed to be ‘sensationalist’- it’s based on FACT. The menace I’m referring to is a relatively new piece of equipment called a GSM Jammer (or Blocker) and when used can cause enormous problems for the Security Industry and their clients.

by Paul Manley, General Manager, Alarm Control 24. (as reported in recent press coverage).

Burglars and criminals are now using these devices to “jam” the cellular network to break-in and gain access to premises, which prevents the GSM Dialler Unit from transmitting its signals to the Monitoring Centres.

Sudden Increase in Robberies Nationwide

Over the last 9 months there has been a significant increase in break-ins and robberies to various business premises nationwide, such as Petrol Stations, Fast Food Outlets, Convenience Stores, Post Offices, Pubs etc. to name a few where it is now known that a GSM Jamming Device has been deployed.

Cause for concern

How the Problem takes hold

Normal Alarm System monitoring signals are transmitted via the telephone line to the Monitoring Centre. In most commercial businesses where a higher level of security is required it is normal practice to use a GSM or a GPRS Unit or indeed a GSM/GPRS Dualcom transmitter, all these devices use the various cellular networks to transmit their signals to the Monitoring Centre. If the networks are “down” for whatever reason, due to maintenance, over capacity, (work being carried out on a cell is a favourite) the GSM devices as described simply cannot make contact with the Monitoring Centres and can render the system vulnerable.

The GSM Jammer

This brings us to the GSM Jammer/ Blocker device, which is now available in Ireland and can be bought on the Internet

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This situation has caused and will continue to cause huge problems for all concerned, i.e. The Business Owner, The Insurance Company, The Gardai, The Safety of Staff, The Alarm Installation Company, as well as the The Alarm Receiving Centres.

Let me explain

1. The alarm installation company designs, installs and commissions the alarm system to contact the Alarm Receiving Centre via a GSM/GPRS dialler unit (no problem there-everything is working fine).

2. The business owner feels he has put in the best security and monitoring system available to protect himself, his business, and of course his staff (no problem there).

3. The insurance company more than likely has received a copy of the alarm system specification and are quite happy to note that a GSM Unit has been fitted which helps them with their risk situation.

4. The Alarm Receiving Centre has received and confirmed all the normal test signals so everything is ok.

Take this Scenario as a good example: Somewhere in Ireland a premises is about to be broken into at 3am

A well organised gang, interferes with the telephone lines in a targeted premises, they then turn on a GSM Jamming Device and proceed to Hold-up or Break-in to the premises. The alarm system activates but it cannot transmit the alarm signals because there is no cellular network available, the gang make off with its haul, in some cases leaving the jamming device in situ, for fear of it transmitting a belated signal.

The following morning…

The owner arrives to the premises to open for business only to discover that a breakin has occurred. What happens next is that all the people concerned with securing and insuring the property as well as the Gardai are called…now it gets interesting.

Now the blame game begins

• Why didn’t the alarm system activate?

• Why did the alarm receiving centre not contact the Gardai and Keyholders?

• It is soon discovered that the telephone line is cut, that explains why the normal Digital Communicator didn’t alert the Monitoring Centre. Ok? • If the jamming device was left behind it is soon discovered, as no one will have a signal on their mobile phone, and that explains why the GSM Unit did not alert the Monitoring Centre. Ok? • But what if the gang take the jamming device with them? Now we have a completely different situation. Because

”

market place that won’t go away! now we don’t know if the GSM device activated.

• If it did, why didn’t the alarm receiving centre contact the Gardai and Keyholders?

• The Alarm Installation Company is asked to test the GSM device to the Monitoring Centre, all signals are received. Ok? • So what now? Is the GSM device somehow faulty? Did the Monitoring Centre somehow miss the signals?

• How will the Insurance Risk Assessor view the situation?

We Have The Solution

Alarm Control 24 first became aware of the Jamming devices at the beginning of this year, we sourced and carried out extensive tests on some jamming devices, to prove conclusively to ourselves that there was a real problem that poses an even greater threat to GSM Diallers.

Having researched the international marketplace we realised that the most secure way to transmit alarm signals is by the Long Range Radio Telemetry System.

We very quickly formed a partnership with the market leader in Radio Transmission Systems who operate in 80 countries worldwide and who have sold over 1.5 million Radios Alarm Transmitters Units.

We then acquired a Comreg Licence and proceeded to roll-out over 20 repeater stations at various secure sites nationwide.

So How Does It Work?

Quite simply one of our ATS100 Radio Alarm Transmitters can be fitted to any Alarm System (new or existing).

It is also the only Nationwide Radio Transmitter System in Ireland that can transmit its signals in Contact ID, which is a requirement of The Garda Alarm Verification Standard 2005. The ATS100 cannot be blocked by the GSM Jammer as it does not use the cellular network. An

“Over the last 9 months there has been a significant increase in break-ins and robberies to various business premises nationwide” Alarm System, which has one fitted when activated, will send signals which will then be received within 1-3 seconds in the Monitoring Centre. Some other points to remember; with a Radio Alarm Transmitter there is no need for a SIM Card, therefore there is no on-going SIM Card charges.

Installation of the Unit

The unit can be fitted by your preferred Alarm Installer and the annual monitoring fee should be less than what you are paying at present.

NEWS

More importantly you now have in place a highly secure alarm signal transmission system which cannot be jammed, blocked or by-passed by the latest “menace” to hit our shores.

Conclusion

Alarm Control 24 view the arrival of the GSM jamming device as a major threat to the security industry and will do all in our power to protect our clients from such threats to their staff and property. We also feel that we have a duty of care to inform our clients, the security industry and the public at large of any serious infringement to their security that may affect them now or in the future.

For more information on the GSM Jammer and Monitoring If you would like to discuss or receive further information or have a demonstration of the GSM Jammer or the ATS100 Alarm Transmitter please contact me paulmanley@ alarmcontrol24.ie or telephone Alarm Control 24 at +353 1 292 3700

PAPER

COVE

Irish Ex aminer - Wedn ‘Garda esd alert as gang le ay, July 28th 2 sophist arn to b 010 icated e yp quipme robberie nt to ca ass alarms’ Th s. rry out ieves us hundre ds of ‘lo ing Indepen w-value d ’ ‘Gangs ent - Sunday A using ja pril 11th mmers to deac 2010 tivate a The Sun larms’ d ‘Gardai ay Times - Apr il 26th 2 smash gang of 0 ex-milit 10 Full artic a r y Alban le ian bur newspa s can be sourc glars’ ed by g pers. oing on line to t he relev ant 13

RAGE

Industry News Risk Manager

Safe Sales Surge as more Irish are Keeping Cash at Home

Safe sales in the Republic of Ireland have increased significantly as more bank customers keep their cash at home. The major banks report a decrease in deposits, with AIB reporting a decrease in deposits of €13bn last month.

AllSafes.ie, one of Ireland’s largest suppliers of safes, reported a year-on-year increase in the sales of home safes of over 80%, with some customers citing fear of burglary and mistrust of the banks as reasons for keeping cash at home.

If you decide to keep cash or valuables at home, it is important to consider several factors to choose the right safe.

Firstly, where will the safe be located? Do you have space for a freestanding safe or would a hidden wall or floor safe be a better choice?

Next, what is being kept in the safe? For important documents or valuables, it is important to make sure the safe has been certified to withstand fire and flooding. If the safe is to contain valuables or cash, you must ensure it has the correct insurance rating so you can insure the contents, this is determined by a number of factors including the wall thickness and lock type.

For free advice visit www.allsafes.ie or call 1850 940 226

Get trained with Northwood

In conjunction with our Training Partner Tavcom, we have a full program of IP & Fibre Optic training courses running for 2011

CCTV over IP

For those wishing to add IP to their portfolio of skills, this unique blend of essential IP theory and practical exercises provides you with a ‘real world’ approach to networks and IP in the security industry. This BTEC Advanced Accredited course covers the change from Analogue CCTV to CCTV over IP (3 Day Course).

Practical Optical Fibre

Find out how simple it really is to plan, design, splice and connect optical fibre. This BTEC Advanced Accredited course covers the essential principles along 14

with hands on practical assessments for installing CCTV over fibre (2 Day Course).

Visit our demonstration suite or call our sales line at 01 8601880 info@northwoodtechnology.ie www.northwoodtechnology.ie

RELIABLE AND ROBUST SOLUTION

The Vista VIPS range of cameras offers a truly reliable and robust solution to night time viewing, operating up to 120m in complete darkness thanks to the high sensitivity camera module and in-built IR illuminators. Rather than using traditional belt drives to allow pan and tilt of the camera, the VIPS range uses a specially designed worm gear mechanism, ensuring the unit can carry the added weight of the illuminators.

Ideally suited to both installers and end users the VIPS range are easy to install and come with the same menu structure and feature set as the popular and well established Vista PowerDomePRO series of high speed domes.

What’s more the VIPS range is ideal for all environments and come in either 18:1 or 35:1 camera options both with a wiper facility. Other features include four alarm inputs allowing it to respond to triggers such as PIR detectors, privacy zones, 220 presets and detailed automatic touring options.

Republic of Ireland: 0044 118 9125566

For more information on Vista’s extensive range of CCTV solutions, please visit vista-cctv.com

FLEXIBILITY BY DESIGN™ vista-cctv.com

Northern Ireland: 0118 912 5566 irelandsales@norbain.com

Industry News Risk Manager

Niscayah accredited to Health & Safety and 14001 Environmental Management

Electronic Security Company, Niscayah Ltd. announced that it has achieved ISO 14001 Environmental certification and OHSAS 18001 Health & Safety Standard

The ISO 14001 Environmental accreditation is awarded to companies that implement a successful series of core standards for designing and implementing an effective environmental management system (EMS), which controls and reduces a business’ negative impact on the environment. This is a significant achievement for Niscayah, illustrating competency, good ethical practices and quality assurance across its environmental considerations.

To achieve the OHSAS 18001 Health & Safety accreditation, Niscayah had to complete a range of assessments and audits concerning their Health and Safety Management Systems and processes. The OHSAS 18001 certification is a positive move for the company demonstrating Niscayah’s continued commitment to managing health and safety risks and hazards within the working environment.

These accreditations come in addition to Niscayah’s existing ISO 9001: 2008 certification received originally and consistently retained since 1993 and FAS Excellence Through People Standard gained in July 2008.

We continually strive to improve and develop our services to become best in class. By achieving ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001, we have taken another step towards becoming Ireland’s preferred security partner.

Sheenagh McCullagh, HR Manager for Niscayah, comments, “We are delighted to have been awarded both certifications by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI/ Certics) as it demonstrates our dedicated approach to professional practice. Our concentrated commitment and focus on environmental improvement has been a year-long, company wide effort, and I would like to thank each staff member for their contribution towards this accreditation. Our efforts in Health & Safety have been core to Niscayah’s business ethos and we will continue to ensure that it is of the utmost importance in the business.

Niscayah provides high-quality, costeffective, electronic security solutions for a range of industries from retail to public sector and from IT to financial services.

Can’t see it? Can’t steal it!

Security Smoke Screen stamps out Dublin robbery.

A daring robbery at a jewellers’ on Dublin’s Lower Dorset Street has been stopped by a recently installed security smoke system.

Just after 6pm on the 22nd November, a hooded man wielding an iron bar kicked in the front door of the shop. Proprietor Martin Gear immediately set off the panic alarm, activating the Smoke Screen system which burst into action, filling the shop full of dense, nontoxic, non residue fog, forcing the intruder back out of the store.

There was unavoidably some damage to the shop door and fittings by the intruder, but nobody was harmed, very little was taken and Mr. Gear can continue to trade.

‘Very terrifying, it’s a sign of the times, people are becoming increasingly desperate for money, especially in the run up to Christmas’, Martin

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remarked. ‘There have been a lot of robberies within the Irish jewellery business. The Smoke Screen is the best investment I have made in the shop, the machine has paid for itself ten times over’.

The security smoke system was installed

by James Nealon of Real Security, Leixlip and supplied by UK based experts Concept Smoke Screen, aided by Concept’s agent in Ireland, Eamon Canavan. Concept Smoke Screen aim to stamp out this kind of violent robbery with their ultimate loss prevention solution.

Visit www.smoke-screen.co.uk for more information or www.security-smoke-videos.co.uk for a host of new video shorts.

Samsung security solutions.

Integrated into modern life

CCTV

IP & Networking

Samsung professional security products are protecting people and assets the world over.

Video Door Entry

Access Control

Through the integration of its groundbreaking technologies, Samsung is able to meet the demands of modern life by delivering complete security solutions which incorporate products of the highest quality. What’s more, Samsung provides flexible and fully scalable solutions with the ability to adapt as your requirements change, ensuring you achieve the maximum benefit from your investment in security.

Intruder Detection

You can also be assured complete peace of mind as all Samsung security products are backed by a comprehensive full three-year warranty, free system design advice and free technical support.

Why not contact us today to find out how we can help you with your next security project?

Available from:

T +44 (0)1932 455 308 E STEsecurity@samsung.com W www.samsungsecurity.com

Reliable Security Products Ltd. Units 1-3 Cian Park Industial Estate, Drumcondra, Dublin 9

Samsung Techwin Europe Ltd. Samsung House.

1000 Hillswood Drive. Chertsey. Surrey. KT16 0PS. UK

For further information please contact: E-mail: info@rspl.ie Web: www.rspl.ie

Tel: 00353 1 837 2445

Fax: 00353 1 857 1685

Northwood staying ahead of the game as their IP Security Conference hosted at the new Aviva Stadium proves to be a huge success

The new and impressive Aviva Stadium was the venue where over 100 delegates attended this event hosted by Northwood.

• Avigilon with full HD & Megapixel solutions • FLIR, Thermal imaging over IP • UTC Fire & Security with Fibre to IP conversion • Tavcom offering IP & Fibre training • Videotec demonstrating the latest POE camera housings • Ikegami with there new Hybrid range.

This in itself proved that IP technology is the future of the security industry. With spectacular views of the new pitch and the latest in IP Security Technology from an impressive list of exhibitors along with a full program of seminars, those attending were in no doubt that the way forward for our industry is to embrace this opportunity to become part of the IP revolution.

Northwood Technology is at the forefront of IP security development. Our aim as a leading provider of IP solutions is to illustrate the potential opportunities that IP security technology can bring to your business. Northwood Technology has the products, systems, expertise, support, resources and experience necessary to deliver outstanding networked CCTV and Security solutions. Our company is IP (Internet Protocol) orientated and provides design, configuration, training and commissioning services to help our customers win, and successfully deliver networked CCTV installations. We work with and offer support to integrators, installers and IT resellers operating or entering this new security market. We help to specify, design and implement efficient and effective IP security solutions for a wide range of applications. We can do the same for you. With our combined IP and security capability, Northwood Technology is well placed to offer expert assistance and answer any questions you may have.

End to end solutions were on show from IP & megapixel camera technology, transmission mediums such as Wireless, Fiber and an array of media conversion devices to storage solutions and monitoring platforms. Participating companies on the day were • Paxton Access presenting total wireless solutions for Access Control • Dowshu Technosteam with realtime recording solutions over IP • Wavesight Wireless demonstrating wireless bridge links from 1km to 40km, • Bosch with their state of the art video analytics • Netwatch offering IP Monitoring solutions

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www.northwoodtechnology.ie

Robin Hughs from Avigilon demonstrates the latest in HD CCTV

Fergus Mc Cormack from Northwood enjoying the view

Damien Gilheany from Bosch talking Analytics with David Courtney ADS Ireland

Padraic Cafferty Chairman & Paul Hennessy, Managing Director from Northwood

THE SUNDAY TIMES, April 26th 2010

Your Staff and Business are at Risk!

If you depend on The GSM Dialler or Cellular Network for your protection.

Then think again!

We know The Problem! GSM Signal Jammer/Blocker We have The Solution! Radio Telemetry Alarm Monitoring We have The

Cost Right!

connect to Radio Telemetry Alarm Monitoring - Ireland’s most secure system Our Radio Transmitters can be retro-fitted to any existing alarm systems.

For further infomation contact: Three Rock Road Sandyford Business Park Dublin 18 t +353 1 292 3700 e paulmanley@alarmcontrol24.ie

www.alarmcontrol24.ie

New Products Risk Manager

ATS100 :- Long Range Radio Telemetry Alarm Transmitter

The ATS100 is a new generation Long Range Radio Alarm Transmitter. It is synthesized for both VHF and UHF frequencies. The ATS100 Unit transmits periodic test signals verifying its status and alerting the Alarm Receiving Centre of any service problems. Low batteries, for example, can now be detected and replaced before discharging, ensuring constant security monitoring and efficient maintenance.

Parallel Systems for Increased Security Full Zone and Panel information (Contact ID) can be sent via the ATS100 by either connecting to our innovative dialer interface or directly to a number of industry-standard alarm panels. Messages are then sent via radio transmission and Line Receiver ensuring complete primary/secondary security back-up.

Important Features •C annot be Blocked/Jammed •S ynthesized VHF and UHF Units •P rogrammable periodic test messages • I nterfaces with any Alarm Panel for transfer of up to 256 different messages •8 Dry Contact Inputs •C omes complete in a 1 AMP Power Supply Unit •R eplaces any GSM Dialer with no on-going SIM Card charges www.alarmcontrol24.ie

SONY

The SNC-DH110T is an indoor high definition (720p, supporting H.264 at 30fps) 1.3 Megapixel (1280 x 960 maximum resolution) vandal resistant compact mini-dome camera with Electrical

Day/Night function, DEPA and ONVIF compliance. It supports dual streaming and triple codec encoding.

Sony’s X-Series cameras have outstanding picture quality and a compact, affordable, stylish design.

1-year Prime Support is included as standard within the EU. This gives users access to an expert helpdesk and, in the unlikely event of a failure, will arrange for an advance replacement unit to be delivered within a target time of one working day. An additional 2-years support is also available as an option. www.pro.sony.eu

ACTpro 4000 two door controller enhances ACTpro access control offering

The ACTpro 4000 two door controller from ACT is the latest door controller in the hugely popular ACTpro range of access control solutions. This two door controller has been designed to suit installations where the traffic volumes are large and changes to the card holder database are a daily occurrence.

Networkable to up to 4,000 doors the ACTpro 4000 can manage up to 60,000 users and changes to large databases can be affected up to ten times faster than previously. Installation has been simplified by the inclusion of an auto-discovery button in the ACTWin 2.8 software. When selected all controllers and door stations on the network are located. The controller configuration and network communications can be viewed and verified using a specially designed controller status web page.

Contact: 01 466 2570 or visit www.accesscontrol.ie

UTC Fire & Security Introduces Outdoor Detection

Security starts from outside…protect your premises with our new outdoor motion sensors!The DI601 and DDI602 deliver extremely precise, reliable presence detection outdoor. They’re designed for use in CCTV and intruder alarm systems.

The DI601 PIR Detector is an outdoor motion detector and alarm trigger that uses two independent passive infrared detectors integrated into one housing. This quad pyro technology delivers precise, reliable presence detection whilst avoiding false alarms. The DDI602 includes a microwave sensor module which provides a higher level of detection as all three sensors (2 PIR’s + microwave) must be activated in order to trigger an alarm. www.gesecurity.ie

Samsung introduces operator friendly colour LCD touch screen control keyboard

The new control keyboard incorporating features and functions which will be particularly attractive to operators of medium to large surveillance systems.

The SPC-6000 is equipped with a 5” colour LCD touch screen control panel which makes it easy to navigate menus and can also be used as a monitor to view live or recorded images from individual cameras via a DVR.A single SPC-600 provides control of up to 255 individual PTZ domes but can also be used in conjunction with up to 16 other SPC-6000 units to provide operators with an extremely effective and easy to use method of centrally controlling large surveillance systems.

The SPC-600 is compatible with all DVRs in the Samsung SRD, SVR and SHR ranges as well as supporting a wide range of devices that use Samsung T/E, Pelco D/P, Panasonic, Vicon, AD, Honeywell, Elmo, Bosch and GE protocols. www.samsungsecurity.com

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ENTERPRISE SECURITY

MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

SECURITY SYSTEMS INTEGRATORS • Total Access Control • Logical Access • Project Services • Systems Integration • Biometrics • Card Technologies • Turnstiles & Revolving Doors • Central Control & Visualisation • Manned & Mobile Image Points • Visitor Management • Contractor Management • Emergency Headcounting • CCTV • Time & Attendance • Student Attendance Avail of a FREE SITE SURVEY to determine how your Organisation can reduce security costs through integration whilst better protecting its: • People • Property • Assets

RF Range Tester Kit

An invaluable tool from HKC Ltd. for specifying and installing wireless security systems. The Kit comes complete with a Transceiver and Wand. To use just locate the Transceiver (which mimics the control panel) where you plan to locate the Control Panel. Then carry out the survey using the Wand. By pressing the appropriate detector button on the Wand you will get both audio and visual feedback on the signal strength of the device to the control panel. The Wand also has a voice recorder on board which will help with installation notes for the specification. The Wand can also be uses as a diagnostic tool while carrying out a service call or routine inspection. www.hkc.ie

To schedule please contact: Valerie O’Flynn TDS (Time Data Security) Ltd 01 466 3060 valerie.oflynn@tds.ie www.tds.ie

Northwood & Avigilon Announces New Line of High Definition ONVIF Compliant H.264 IP Cameras Combined with the new Avigilon Control Center 4.6 network video management software, Avigilon HD H.264 IP cameras deliver predictable high quality, low-latency video with low bandwidth and minimal storage requirements Visit our demonstration suite or call our sale line at 01 8601880 or contact info@ northwoodtechnology.ie with your details and one of our Sales team will contact you. www.northwoodtechnology.ie

Northwood Technology has teamed up with Wavesight, Europe’s leading innovator in wireless and fibre communications solutions for secure, high bandwidth, long range transmission of data, voice and CCTV video for use in a wide range of applications including security, transportation and local government, offering Wireless Bridging Solutions for CCTV from 1km to 40km.

Visit our demonstration suite or call our sale line at 01 8601880 or contact info@ northwoodtechnology.ie with your details and one of our Sales team will contact you. www.northwoodtechnology.ie

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who?

The importance of being Err …

Sean Reynolds, CEO Rits Group Proof of identity is becoming an ever increasing risk to organisations who need to rely on the accurate and positive identify of an individual. Historically we could rely on certain documentation such as a utility bill or photographic identities such as a work identification badge showing a photograph and company name as proof of the identity.

However, with the growth in the Internet in terms of readily available templates and images that can be downloaded coupled with the increased sophistication of printer technologies, these forms of identification can no longer be accepted at face value as proof of identification.

This leaves organisations with a considerable challenge in putting the necessary technical and operational controls in place in order to determine ‘proof of identity’. Needless to say the extent and cost to which these controls will be deployed will be based on the level of risk to the organisation in question. For example, where financial transactions are involved then the level of controls required to determine proof of identity will be higher than where such transactions are not.

In this article I set out not to allay your fears about what can be done to determine proof of identity but on the contrary, to illustrate how easy it is for an individual to obtain false identification documentation.

How many of us can spot a genuine proof of identification (ID), a fake ID or indeed a genuine fake ID? Well let us start with the most recognisable and implicitly trusted form of ID, The Passport.

The primary information that a passport tell is that the individual in the affixed photograph is called Joe Bloggs, where he was born and when he was born. Newer passports even allow properly equipped machines to display a digitally signed copy of the affixed photograph on a screen for comparison against the actual picture being presented by the individual. This all sounds very positive however what benefit does it provide to us when we a presented with a passport as proof of identity? For most organisations they have no way of authenticating the passport, which do not even have an address recorded on them. To the untrained eye we can even be taken in by a genuine fake passport.

What is a genuine fake passport? This type of passport is traditionally referred to as a camouflage passport. The purpose of the camouflage passport is to look like a genuine passport from a non-existent country for example Rhodesia, Burma or British Guiana. While these countries no longer exist, we are familiar with their names.

Camouflage passports not only purport to come from countries that no longer exist or have changed their name.

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These types of passports also bare the names of places or political subdivisions that exist within a real country, yet these locations have never issued and cannot issue genuine passports. In addition, other camouflage passports are issued in the names of wholly fictitious countries that typically have a plausible or familiar ring to their names.

With a camouflage passport there will be no signs of tampering and the machine readable data and electronic photo will match, so to the untrained eye the passport will pass as a genuine passport.

Apart from passports, another common form of proof of identity is the driving license. Yet again, these genuine fake IDs are also readily available thanks to the Internet. Genuine fake driving licenses can be purchased at relatively low cost online, yet they can be passed off as a genuine EU driving license.

There are so many websites selling “fake” and “novelty” driving licenses that the purchaser is quite simply spoilt for choice!

Obviously while the license looks genuine those organisations who have legitimate access to the licensing authority can check the validity of the license. Unfortunately, the majority of organisations do not have the facility to perform such verification.

Now extend the issue of proof of identify to within the organisation itself. Creating a fake staff ID card is actually very easy in practice, given that the organisation’s logo can be downloaded from the Internet and most organisations use a standard layout on the card itself.

Unfortunately the impact on some organisations, where an individual creates and presents a fake staff ID, can be quite significant. For example, presenting a fake staff ID to gain access to a customer’s home or business premises under false

Are we really who we say we are and when does this pose a risk to an organisation?

Over the years printed documentation, such as utility bills and bank statements, have been tied into the identification and indeed decision making processes when granting loans. pretences. While some organisations suggest that if you are in doubt you can ring their customer line where an agent will authenticate the person proffering ID, few people know to do so and even fewer companies actively encourage such verification. Consequently, the value placed on a staff ID for proof of identification is minimal as it cannot be authenticated.

Let us now consider the inordinate reliance place on utility bills typically by the financial institutions but also other organisations. Keep in mind that bills from utility companies are just that “bills”, not forms of identity or proof of residence.

Over the years printed documentation, such as utility bills and bank statements, have been tied into the identification and indeed decision making processes when granting loans.

The presentation of a utility bill issued within the last three months, will on face value give the appearance of residence for the named individual. However, with a little bit of ingenuity, some paper and a good quality printer these documents can also be fraudulently produced to appear as a genuine fake document. Or indeed, if one did not want to go to the hassle of creating the document oneself, for a small sum of money it is possible to order your own personalised copies online.

The original purpose for a given document is important in considering its use when it comes to identification. Another interesting example is the CIE photo identity card. This is a mechanism to prevent more than one person using a saver bus ticket. It does not establish the real identity of the holder as the information supplied to acquire one is not verified. The value to CIE is to confirm that the card holder matches the ticket in use and as such there is no great need for detailed identity information it is adequate to have a photo.

A word of caution though to those individuals who may be tempted to use such websites. As these websites currently operate in the grey area producing “novelty” or “fake” IDs it is probably not a big leap for them to simply defraud you by taking your money for no return as you are unlikely to report them!

Indeed if you give real details simply because you want an extra entitlement on your driving license you are most likely setting yourself up for identity theft yourself.

So in summary for a few euro I can order a passport, drivers license, make my own staff ID card and obtain utility bills and bank statements to match my fake identity.

The challenge now for organisations is to determine if the proof of identity being presented is genuine, fake or genuinely fake.

This can be achieved through the use of technology, yet not all organisations have the ability to access these technologies such as passport and driving license databases. Consequently, reliance may have to be placed on the vigilance of the employees.

Some key areas for organisations to focus on are: • Are employees asking for proof of identity qualified to examine it?

• Will they know what are acceptable forms of proof of identity and what are not?

• What further verification of ID and/or documents produced by the individual can be undertaken?

And as for the number of organisations asking people for their PPSN without appropriate authority or any means to verify it, well, that’s a discussion for another day!

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PSA News

by Geraldine Larkin, CEO, Private Security Authority

At the end of 2010 the PSA, despite the ongoing difficulties for the Private Security industry has concluded a very busy year.

By the end of the year we had processed over 15,000 individual applications for 2010. This compares with 20,000 in 2007 at the introduction of licensing and the busiest year for the PSA. The year was also eventful in that the PSA processed its 50,000 individual licence application.

Underlying this work and a total of 755 contractors licensed for 848 sectors are initiatives by the PSA to help the industry in this very difficult time. Last year, we targeted our resources at those who are working illegally in the industry by taking 7 successful prosecutions against unlicensed operators and achieving fines totalling â‚Ź58,500. In addition our inspectors conducted monitoring inspections on 89 contractors in the guarding and door security sectors.

This result of our inspection work show that a significant amount of contractors are fully compliant with licensing standards, delivering security in accordance with the relevant standard underpinning their respective licence.

At the same time however, a significant number of providers inspected (36%) by the PSA in 2010 had Category 1 major non-conformances. This is despite the fact that all these providers had a valid licence and a valid standard at the time of inspection. A further analysis of the findings, shows many of the non conformances were so fundamental to the operation of the business that it is difficult to understand how they could have arisen post certification. Where the PSA believes that non-conformances could have existed at the time of the certification audit these

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instances are being taken up with the relevant certification providers.

Breaches of standards and thus providers delivering a poorer quality security service are failing their clients and letting the entire industry down. Ultimately the public at large are also losing out as security providers are providing security without proper employee screening or proper assignment instructions. At the same time these breaches allow providers to reduce operating costs, and offer a reduced price security service to clients. This is not acceptable. Licensing standards must be maintained by all and pricing must be structured to follow the cost of minimum standards.

Ultimately costs must follow breaches of standards and reduce for compliance. For those providers who are fully complaint inspection is of no benefit to the public as standards are fully maintained. These providers should not be subject to the same level and frequency of audit as those who consistently breach standards.

For those where there continues to be persistent breaches of standards there must be more inspections and surveillance and that cost must be borne by those companies rather than the PSA or compliant industry providers. Additional

costs for those found to be non-compliant will also arise because of increased interaction with the PSA and formal action against licences where non-conformances are not addressed.

This requires restructuring of our existing model in order to direct costs to those who continuously fail to meet standards. The PSA is examining ways compliance costs can be reduced for the compliant and increased for the non compliant. Chief among the measures being considered are the costs of certification and subsequent PSA monitoring and inspection.

One of the key aspects of this new approach is to develop a model whereby contractors identified as being more likely to breach standards will be more likely to receive additional audits either from their certification company or the PSA. The PSA will be requiring providers who breach standards to be re-audited to prevent action against their licence. Where such audits are required by certification companies it will be a matter for the contractor to bear the cost of these audits.

Where certificates are not produced the PSA will take formal action against licences up to and including suspension

“The PSA is examining ways compliance costs can be reduced for the compliant and increased for the non compliant.”

and revocation of the licence. Work on the development on this model has already commenced.

Equally for contractors who are always compliant the intention is that we will move to less frequent monitoring audits from the certification companies and less frequent PSA inspections. This should reduce the costs of the contractor. Quality and assurance of compliance with the standard will be maintained by a means of a self assessment scheme to be developed by the PSA. While arrangements are still being considered it is likely that contractors will be required to conclude new agreements with their certificate body authorising that body to report audit findings to the PSA in accordance with PSA reporting templates. The information from the audits will be used by the PSA (in conjunction with the certification bodies) to determine schedules of surveillance audits.

The PSA is conscious that the revisions proposed will require a considerable amount of change in existing practices.

We have already commenced consultations with key stakeholder groups as to how to progress this and the best way to maximise the benefit to compliant contractors. It is intended that revised arrangements will be introduced on a gradual basis during 2011 for existing licensed sectors and will be included as part of the roll out of any new areas of contractor licensing.

If you have any specific comments or suggestions on these proposals at this stage, we would welcome your contribution marked “revised certification model” by email to info@psa.gov.ie

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IP Perspective

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Perspective Your guide to IP security trends in Ireland

r guide to IP security trends in Ireland

IP Perspective is a new column that looks at IP technology trends and the IP industry in Ireland.

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Gordon Smith is Managing Director of

banner.indd 1 WIT Electronic Security Installer Apprenticeship gets IP Video Management Software sponsorship

In order to develop the security installer of the future, the world leader in video management software, Milestone Systems, has sponsored Waterford’s electronic security installer apprentice programme with free Milestone software to the tune of €14,000.

Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) introduced the electronic security installer apprenticeship programme in September 2009. The apprenticeship allows people working in the security industry to gain a qualification as is required by the Private Security Authority.

Over 20% of the security market currently uses IP security systems and this is set to increase to over 50% by 2014. Against this backdrop, WIT up skilled their lecturers in IP knowledge & skills covering IP video surveillance, hands on computer networking, fundamentals of wireless networking and PC & server maintenance in the National IP Experience Centre in Dublin.

The sponsorship enables 10 separate IP security networks to be set up in the WIT Electronic Security Lab. This allows each apprentice to set up their own network on which they can learn how to integrate security devices such as megapixel cameras, video servers, access control, alarm panels, and speakers all managed by one piece of software. In a single view they will be able to see how events are triggered by an access control device that in turn links to a preset on a camera for instance. This is a really positive investment to up skill engineers and equip them with the latest technology to gain employment in the expanding IP security sector.

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GVD | making IP easy

National IP Security Survey 2010 | What are the IP trends for 2011?

The second National IP Security Survey is currently underway. The survey is open to all security system integrators and businesses involved with specifying, installing and maintaining IP security systems. The survey seeks to analyse the level of the IP security market in Ireland and to look at the trends for 2011.

The 2009 survey uncovered some interesting results. It found that 66.7% of security installers who responded deployed IP cameras in over 25% of all security installations completed in 2009. When asked what the single biggest advantage of IP security was, the answers broke down as follows: Higher Quality Megapixel Images according to 63.9% of respondents. The next biggest advantage was the Ease of Installation and Wireless connectivity according to 16.7% of respondents and 13.9% responded with ease of Systems Integration.

The 2010 National IP Security Survey takes less than 3 minutes to complete. To take part in the survey log on to www.gvd.ie.

Business Campus Security | Procter & Gamble uses IP solution for expansion Flexibility & multi device integration is vital for Business Campus security solutions with an eye to expansion in the future. A major consideration in large business campuses is maintaining the security integrity of existing systems as new buildings and areas come on stream, which require to be added to the surveillance system.

Procter & Gamble in Newbridge, Co. Kildare has a large Business Campus with multiple buildings requiring different levels of security and integration with existing systems. Paramount for the business

was to choose an NVR system with an open software platform that allowed for expansion and had world class pedigree.

Recording & archiving was required to the NVR situated in the communications hub in the main building. With a single mode fibre link around the campus, allowing for fast connectivity, it was decided earlier on to take full advantage of megapixel PoE cameras for the new building. Ten 1.3 Megapixel Box Cameras (in external housings), one IP Speed Dome with 35 x Optical Zoom and seven indoor IR domes were installed and cabled back to 3 separate POE switches with fibre ports in the new building. These switches were then linked to the single mode fibre network which allowed footage from all cameras to be recorded and archived in the main campus building.

The NVR system offers unlimited Smart Clients – a Smart Client can be installed on any PC on the main P&G network with unique viewing rights for each user as decided by the Security Department. Only the authorized administrator can actually access the management of the system.

P&G like the fact that the security system is fully flexible and in a way is future proof so that they can add additional cameras and security devices all over one platform without requiring new software for each new device. The entire system is completely scalable for expansion in the future – and is also open to integrate with Access Control, Alarm, Barriers and Remote Monitoring.

For Business Campus security the main advantages of an IP solution are: • Megapixel picture quality for superior image quality • Multi device integration with other security hardware • Unlimited Smart Client interfaces for security & operations personnel • Scalability & flexibility for future phases of installation

FORECOURT SECURITY SOLUTIONS

IP Solution 1 x 5MP IP camera Use 1 channel on NVR 1 single CAT 5 cable for data and power Maintenance – 1 Camera Efficiency - One camera to view for playback

Analog Solution 10 x D1 resolution Analog cameras Use 10 channels on DVR 10 coax cables for cameras and 10 local power supplies Maintenance - 10 cameras Efficiency - 10 cameras to view for playback

5 Megapixel Camera covering a field of view of 120m in depth x 40m in width does the same amount of work as 10 x D1 resolution analog cameras

Digital zoom in on target objects 60m away Zoom in on each car with one camera.

Ideal for forecourts

Zoom in on reg plate and export for easy evidence

Megapixel Cameras reduce security costs for Retail & Forecourt sites Megapixel cameras work harder than analog cameras as they cover a wider field of view and retain a sharper quality of picture even on recorded footage and when zoomed in. For retail car parks, shopping malls or retail chain stores megapixel cameras give you more flexibility to survey a larger area using less cameras and less money.

Image quality is high, leading to easy identification of people and a clear view of commercial transactions. In contrast to DVRs where the playback capability is often lower than the quality of live recording, the image quality you get from an IP solution remains consistent over time.

Read text from 60m with the same camera

Retail chains can save money by bringing all video surveillance back to one central control room for monitoring where a security team can access and act on video information rather than having one dedicated CCTV control room at each retail outlet.

The picture above illustrates how one 5MP camera can do the work of 10 analog cameras. As you can see when zoomed in the quality of the picture is retained so that you can read the registration plate on the car. To get this image from an analog camera you would need it at the car level and positioned directly at the registration plate. With one 5MP camera you are able to get a wide view of up to 7 lanes of cars.

Imagine the savings in a Forecourt solution for this. You would save on installation time, cable costs, cameras and ongoing

maintenance. Now, ask yourself the question is an IP security solution really more expensive than an Analog solution?

GVD | making IP easy Specialist value added distributor of IP technology | www.gvd.ie We welcome your views and any applications you’ve encountered with IP technology.

Email your questions and comments to gordon@gvd.ie

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Industry News Risk Manager

Honeywell and BPS deliver video monitoring solution to Ireland’s tallest building – Obel, Belfast

Costing £60 million and measuring 85 metres (265 ft) in height, Obel dominates the Belfast skyline. It has overtaken the current tallest skyscraper in Ireland which is Windsor House (80m) which is also in Belfast.

Obel was developed by the Karl Group and is located on Donegal Quay on the river Lagan beside the Lagan Weir. The development consists of 282 luxury apartments and this ultra modern construction has two underground car parks and commercial and retail space in development.

Building Protection Systems (BPS) based in Belfast is the security installer for the project and specialises in the specification, installation and maintenance of security, video, access, fire and intrusion systems.

Karl Group, the company that owns Obel, has an obligation to provide safe and secure parking for residents.

As an exclusive address in the heart of Belfast, residents expect their cars to be monitored and for thieves or vandals to be deterred from any illegal activity. Equally residents expect the

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entrance and central lobby area of the tower to be monitored closely to prevent intruders and unwanted guests from entering the building.

“We are pleased that we were chosen as specialist sub-contractor for the supply & installation of security and fire systems for this prestigious project”, said Clive Kinnear, Senior Manager Security Systems, BPS Northern Ireland. “ For the Obel project,a cost effective CCTV solution with the capacity to record and store surveillance footage to provide 24/7 video monitoring of the underground car parks and lobby area of the building was required. Part of the requirement was for the cameras to be vandal resistant and able to withstand the damp environment of the underground car park as it is very close to the river Lagan.

BPS turned to Honeywell to deliver the right product mix for this project. As a market leader in video surveillance, CCTV and digital video recording solutions, Honeywell provided the right equipment to meet the clients’ requirements.

www.accesscontrol.ie

pro

Scalable access control solutions for medium - large scale enterprises RECENT DEVELOPMENTS & RELEASES

ACTpro 4000 two Door Controller

ACTWin 2.8 Software

ACTpro MIFARE DESFire EV1 Readers

◊ 2 door controller

◊ auto-discovery simplifies

◊ maximum security smart

◊ 60,000 users, 4,000 doors ◊ database download speeds - 10 times faster

installation ◊ improved download speeds

◊ monitor controller status via web page

Int’l Phone: +353 (0)1 466 2570 sales@accesscontrol.ie

card solution ◊ store multiple applications on the same card

New Products Risk Manager

Now available from Northwood the new Technostream range from Dowshu.

Dowshu has perfected the art of real time video capturing and lip – sync audio encoding at resolutions provided by the latest camera technology.

Dowshu proprietary CQE 264 encoding has enabled them to produce unparalleled levels of quality at less than one third of the file size produced by their main competitors, this allows them to provide your customers with up to 10 years continuous 24/7 recording of 16 cameras, in a single box solution”.

New MIFARE DESFire EV1 Readers from ACT

Access Control Technology (ACT) Ltd. has enhanced their MIFARE product range with the launch of the ACTpro DESFire EV1 readers. DESFire EV1 offers a highly secure smart card application and is ideal when there is a requirement for using the smart card for multiple applications e.g. access control, identification and cashless vending.

• integrate into any ACTpro access control solution • proximity or pin and proximity • surface, flush, panel or mullion mount options • operate with DESFire EV1 cards however in serial mode they will accept any MIFARE card • potted electronics • IP67 rating (indoor / outdoor) • configure for “Clock & Data” or “Wiegand” output.

DESFire EV1 fully complies with the requirements for fast and highly secure data transmission, flexible memory organisation and interoperability with existing infrastructure. www.accesscontrol.ie

Genie launches specialist industrial stainless steel cameras Genie CCTV Ltd. has launched new specialist stainless steel security cameras for marine and coastal, food production, chemical and petrochemical applications.

The MSC/3.6 day and night vandal resistant stainless steel industrial camera has been manufactured using marine grade stainless steel (type 316) offering resistance to rust. The camera is submersible and is supplied with a 4mm toughened glass window for extra protection. The IP68 rated camera offers 540 TV lines of colour resolution, over 600 TV lines of monochrome resolution and boasts features like digital noise reduction, AGC, BLC and ATW. It is suitable for wall and ceiling mount and is available in a variety of fixed lens options (2.97mm, 3.6mm, 4.3mm, 6.0mm, 8.0mm and 12mm) all at the same price. The camera has been designed and manufactured in the UK and also confirms to the UKAS certification of BS EN 60945:2002. www.geniecctv.co.uk

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Dowshu DVRs are available with real time recording on the complete range 9/16/32/48 and 64 camera.

Visit our demonstration suite or call our sale line at 01 8601880 or contact info@northwoodtechnology.ie www.northwoodtechnology.ie

Introducing the innovative V2 TEL from Pyronix, which allows the monitoring

and remote switching of third party equipment via your mobile phone.

The V2 TEL inputs can be connected to any alarm system outputs. After an activation the V2 TEL receives a signal to send a voice message to any telephone number. This informs the user of the activation, and each voice message can be programmed with customised messages.

Key end-user and engineer features: • Engineer/user friendly menu driven programming • Voice message signalling • Up to 9 telephone numbers • 6 inputs • 4 outputs • Dedicated keys to operate outputs “on demand” • Remote control triggered outputs • Used as a normal telephone • Regular ‘sign of life’ test calls • On board microphone (listen in to property) and speaker (speak in to property) • 256 Event log www@pyronix.com

SONY

The SNC-DH210 is an indoor high definition (1080p, supporting H.264 at 15fps) 3 Megapixel (2048 xx 1536 maximum resolution) compact mini-dome camera with Electrical Day/Night function, DEPA and ONVIF compliance.

It supports dual streaming and triple codec encoding.

Sony’s Exmor CMOS sensor provides excellent pictures and event detection for effective evidence gathering.

Sony’s X-Series cameras have outstanding picture quality and a compact, affordable, stylish design.

1-year Prime Support is included as standard within the EU. This gives users access to an expert helpdesk and, in the unlikely event of a failure, will arrange for an advance replacement unit to be delivered within a target time of one working day. An additional 2-years support is also available as an option. www.pro.sony.eu

New Advisor Advanced IP platform

Small change, huge difference The Advisor Advanced product line is the latest offspring from the Advisor CD and Advisor Master product lines.

Its heritage consists of well established functions and features of the Advisor series, but it also has been designed to meet the challenges posed by future trends.

Communication standards are currently changing. Communications are moving away from PSTN networks towards wireless and IP networks. So, importantly, this product line can accommodate different communication options thereby offering long-term flexibility, reliability and availability.

The Advisor Advanced products can be configured locally through an onboard USB port. Based on the Advisor CD user interface this allows for a rapid familiarity with the system yet new features are easy to learn.

There are both quick and full menu browsing facilities available.

A built-in “hint” key provides easily accessed help about the options so the user can quickly become familiar with the menu structure.

Approvals in Europe start to converge to one standard: EN50131.

The new Advisor Advanced product line is designed with EN50131 compliancy as a standard. Using existing ATS accessories (keypads, readers, expanders), Advisor Advanced panels provide for a reliable system with a wide range of options to extend its functionality.

Automatic hardware enrollment quickly adds devices.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

8 onboard zone inputs Max 32 zones: wired, wireless or mixed Economic input and output plug-in expansion Up to 16 shock sensor inputs 4 areas Up to 50 users EN50131 Security grade 2 / Environmental class 2 USB port for local configuration Onboard PSTN dialler for reporting or configuration Multilingual: each user his own language Integrated 10/100Mb Ethernet connection IP Alarm reporting to OH-NETREC receiver U/D over IP IP Diagnostics DNS support Dynamic/Static IP address

We listened to you

UTC Fire & Security Ireland 2007/2008 Orchard Avenue City West Business Campus Dublin 24 P : 01-4699 760 F : 01-4699 761

www.gesecurity.ie

New Advisor Advanced platform

Simple choice for advanced value The Advisor Advanced product line is the latest offspring from the Advisor CD and Advisor Master product lines. Its heritage consists of well established functions and features of the Advisor series, but it also has been designed to meet the challenges posed by future trends.

Communication standards are currently changing. So, importantly, this product line can accommodate different communication options thereby offering long-term flexibility, reliability and availability.

The Advisor Advanced products can be configured locally through an onboard USB port. Based on the Advisor CD user interface this allows for a rapid familiarity with the system yet new features are easy to learn. There are both quick and full menu browsing facilities available. A built-in “hint� key provides easily accessed help about the options so the user can quickly become familiar with the menu structure.

UTC Fire & Security Ireland 2007/2008 Orchard Avenue City West Business Campus Dublin 24 P : 01-4699 760 F : 01-4699 761

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We listened to you

www.gesecurity.ie

New Advisor Advanced keypad • • • • • • • • • • • •

Modern Ergonomic design 2 line LCD Visual LED’s for Fault, Power, Alarm and Access User adjustable buzzer volume control User adjustable LCD contrast Help menu for Installer programming Freely programmable open collector output Areas Set LED indicators Unique navagation keys Available in proximitty version ( ATS1115A) Mounting plate for pre installs Robust Flip down cover

e l b a l i a v a Nomoyw ibutors tr is d g in k c our sto fr

01

On/off + alert

02

Lock/Unlock – FOB Alarm Indicator

03

Part set

04

Help

05

Full set

06

Zone status

07

Unset

08

Clear

10

Navigation keys

12

Enter

09

Menu

11

Area status

New Advisor Advanced platform

ATS Advanced becomes yet again a little more Advanced...

We are delighted to announce the latest software upgrade with its great new features for all Advisor Advanced ATS1000A and 2000A panels as well as the ATS7310 GSM module. Now we can offer full bi-directional SMS reporting to mobile phones, which is a very popular feature used by end-users. And Command & Control over SMS for the user and over downloader for the installer.

Across Ireland less than half of all new security installations are connected to a monitoring station. However, end users increasingly want to be informed or interact with their security system. With this software upgrade they can now opt for SMS reporting functionality or control their security system using bi-directional SMS commands.

For our installers we have added Command & Control that enables them to remotely interact with the system, where in the past they had to send out a service team to check and solve issues.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

SMS alarm reporting & Control SMS number per user / user group Scalable - C&C option per user / user group Combined ‘SMS & Voice’ report Easy configuration- Using existing reporting structure panel Roaming option Diagnostics - Network scan option SIM PIN request option Pre-paid SIM support - Credit check + interval SMS events coming from event log Multilingual SMS control messages User-selectable SMS language Users can change their own telephone number GSM diagnostics menu 34 SMS Control commands Check status of outputs via SMS End user control of SMS reporting – Switch On/Off during holidays • Initiate U/D remotely via SMS

Note: the first 2000 panels with V52 will have an orange sticker on the outside of the carton indication NEW FUNCTIONALITY

UTC Fire & Security Ireland 2007/2008 Orchard Avenue City West Business Campus Dublin 24 P : 01-4699 760 F : 01-4699 761

We listened to you

www.gesecurity.ie

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What is smart card technology?

Most people when asked will not know what smart card technology is despite it being part of their daily lives. Anyone who uses a card to open doors, purchase lunch or travel on the train is most likely doing so by smart card technology.

This technology enables the data for multiple applications such as access control, transportation, cashless vending, to be stored on one card in a secure and cost effective manner.

Over the last few years more and more companies have adopted contactless smart card technology as an alternative to 125kHz RFID proximity, barcodes and magnetic stripe cards. Contactless smart cards contain an embedded computer chip that stores and transacts data wirelessly and unlike

earlier cards they also possess computing capabilities. Commonly used for access control any company with a smart card based access control system in place can simply expand card use to other applications and benefit from an easily scalable system.

e.g. access control, identification and cashless vending. It fully complies with the requirements for fast and highly secure data transmission, flexible memory organisation and interoperability with existing contactless smart card infrastructure.

MIFARE is the contactless smart card technology that has been integrated into readers produced

by Access Control Technology.

Introduced to the market in 1994 MIFARE is now reported to be the most widely used and trusted smart card technology with over 1 billion cards in daily use. The MIFARE product range incorporates a number of different products including Classic and DESFire EV1 both of which offer varying levels of security, versatility and flexibility.

Smart Card Applications

MIFARE Classic is a highly cost efficient authentication and data encryption method. It has been designed for maximum performance with good data security. For high security installations Classic has been replaced by MIFARE DESFire EV1 as the most secure contactless technology available today. The London transport system with their oyster cards is a good example of an organisation moving from Classic to DESFire EV1. DESFire EV1 has a number of advantages over the Classic technology the most significant being in terms of security levels and the improved data storage capabilities which makes it faster and more efficient.

From a security point of view, the data on a DESFire EV1 card can be encrypted using several published and extensively studied encryption algorithms including: DES, 3DES, 3KDES and AES. ACT has opted for the most recent and secure encryption method available - 128bit AES. This encryption method is now the global standard for securing electronic data and is used by most governments including the US and UK government.

DESFire EV1 is ideal when there is a requirement for using the smart card for multiple applications

Access Control Access control is the process by which users present a card to a reader from which they are identified and granted or denied access to a building, room or area based in the access rights allowed for the

card presented. Traditionally the most common technology used for access control was 125 kHz RFID proximity but smart card technology is becoming increasingly popular as costs decrease and a company’s security requirement increases.

Time and Attendance Increasingly companies are integrating their time and attendance software into the existing access control solution. The requirements can vary from simply needing to know what time an employee clocked in at to a solution that can handle complex organisational structures, large numbers of employees and offices based in

form and include everything from financial data to key customer information.

Cashless Vending With cashless vending in place employees present a card in the canteen or at a vending machine

multiple geographical locations. By integrating the time and attendance solution with the other service providers an employee can clock in with the same card that they buy their lunch and access the building.

level of credit placed on their card.

Transportation

PC Logical Access Smart cards provide greatly enhanced security for PC’s via a two factor authentication whereby a password known to the user and a

when they wish to make a purchase. This removes cash from the workplace and reduces the associated costs and security risks.

It also reduces the time spent on making transactions. In a cashless vending environment the card holder will either put credit on the card or they will pay for their purchases over a certain time period e.g. a week or a month deducted from their wages.

Smart Printing / Copying

smart card held by the user have to be presented together. The access card is placed into a slot which is connected into the PC and the user is then asked for their password.

When a person leaves their PC they will take their access control card with them to open doors. Once the card is removed the screen will lock and the data held on the PC is protected from theft. The adoption of smart card based logical access has been remarkably slower than for physical access control. This is surprising considering that in today’s digital world much of a company’s business assets are in electronic

card at the printer to authorise the actual printing of the document.

Smart printing can reduce costs by eliminating the requirement for private desktop printers for people working within certain departments e.g. payroll and human resources. It also improves efficiencies, reduces running costs and is beneficial to our environment as employees are more conscious of how much they are printing. Smart copying has been widely adopted in educational institutions such as universities smart copying limits the number of copies made by a person to the

The first major transport project was rolled out with MIFARE 1K in 1996. As the adoption of contactless proximity smart cards becomes more and more common transport operators are switching to full contactless solutions for their ticketing with MIFARE based cards being used on buses, trains, subways and boats. This allows fast and convenient access to public transportation as end users can choose between pre-paid or seasonal tickets.

If you would like to receive more information on ACT’s MIFARE Classic and DESFire EV1 range please feel free to contact Michael Moyna on (01) 466 2570

Michael Moyna Product Manager (ACT)

Smart printing greatly improves data security particularly when printing documents of a sensitive nature.

After a document is sent to the printer the user must present their

Industry News Risk Manager

National IP Experience Roadshow NIPX2010 – Ireland’s largest IP Security Exhibition is a great success GVD | making IP easy hosted NIPX2010 – the 3rd Annual National IP Video Surveillance/Security Seminar - last October.

The large attendance at the show is testament to the growth in the IP security market in Ireland. Attendees enjoyed a full suite of lectures and interactive demonstrations covering IP video surveillance, IP access control, IP sound and lighting systems, IP Video Management Software, High Definition Storage, Video Synopsis and Remote Monitoring IP solutions. The interactions on the day led to a fruitful exchange of new information and ideas with plenty of food for thought.

With an eye to 2011, many businesses have positioned their companies with a greater focus on IP and are investing in IP knowledge & skills training as a direct result of the eye opening experience of NIPX2010.

38

Now, fixed firmly as a date in the industry’s calendar, NIPX2011 is set to be bigger and better. The exhibition will develop next year for even more interactive elements and displays of the best IP technology on the market.

“NIPX2010 was a great success in terms of the amount of security systems integrators embracing IP,” says Gordon Smith, Managing Director, GVD | making IP easy.

“We showcased many successful IP Security Irish projects at the event which piqued a lot of interest amongst the security installers. While there isn’t always enough time at an event like NIPX2010 to go through all the solutions, many of the

exhibition delegates are now availing of more in depth consultations and demonstrations in the National IP Experience Centre. This is a dedicated resource for businesses in the security sector to learn more about IP. We welcome people to the NIPX, who can find out more and book a free consultation on www.nipx.ie.”

For more information on IP Security please contact GVD at 01 4659056, email info@gvd.ie or go to www.gvd.ie.

where we will gladly help you with your requirements for systems kits and technical support.

.

IT Disaster Recovery Prevention Is Better Than The Cure!!

Eoin Scott, Corporate Director, Motherboard

Many of us take for granted the information that appears on our computer screens at the touch of a button – and most of the time we can count on our computers to faithfully produce that information day-in and day-out without any problems.

We host more and more of our information electronically rather than on paper. Such electronic data can include databases of member details, accounting systems with up-tothe-minute receipts and payments information, and of course all of our financial information.

Computers really have

become a vital tool at the heart of any successful business. From front desk to back office and for communicating with your clients computers are necessary for just about every transaction that takes place every day.

In most companies where strict rules are in place in relation to professional and ethical conduct , there is an increasing pressure on companies to meet compliance requirements.

You are expected to have a robust method of protecting electronic data, and if you don’t do so this may raise the question of liability in relation to any data lost in the case of an IT disaster. Thankfully, most of the time we can count on our computers to faithfully produce this information at a touch of a keyboard. But sometimes we can’t! From time to time our server crashes or our desktop suddenly goes blank – and that disaster scenario rears its ugly head!

What do we do if our IT systems die? How long can we afford to be without these systems? How much data can we really

40

afford to lose? What happens if a lot of your data is irretrievable?

Any company that has suffered this fate due to fire (for example) will no doubt think that the loss of the premises is the most costly loss – at least at first. But premises are insured and, in the grand scheme of things, relatively easily replaced. The unfortunate truth is that too many companies learn only when it’s too late that if they lose their IT systems and data - and can’t get them back - the company can be permanently lost too!

Many organisations believe themselves to be protected from disaster by tape or online back-up – believing one of these processes to be enough to allow recovery of their systems. However, it is not often realised that both tape and online back-up systems usually only back-up the raw data, not the full system information. They also take many hours or days to run and they are dependent on being restored to the same hardware. If you ask any IT specialist whether it is easy to accomplish a full restore from such back-ups, he or she will quickly tell you that this is a situation they would never wish to encounter! It is really

very difficult, very time consuming, and very costly.

Appropriate disaster prevention measures are vital for the survival of any organisation. A number of IT service providers across the country can supply some level of data protection but very few specialise specifically in the area of disaster prevention. Motherboard is one of a small number of companies that does.

To safeguard against IT disasters, Motherboard has developed a unique service (called RecoverIT) that completely protects any organisation against such a crisis. RecoverIT is a solution that makes backups of the

entire system – all settings, software, operating systems, applications – absolutely everything as you see it and use it on your computer. In the event of a disaster everything is quickly restored ‘as was’.

Many had been looking for a service of the type provided by Recover IT in order to satisfy compliance issues that had been raised internally (either by auditors or directors).

for disaster recovery, the primary responses almost always are: • Extremely urgent restore

Among the organisations who have already signed up for the service since its launch are a number of architectural practices, law

client companies to run a fire drill on their IT infrastructure to test their disaster procedures as soon as

firms, financial services providers, wholesale product suppliers, major insurance brokers and accountants.

Such organisations identified business continuity as their main consideration in opting to use Recover IT. When asked what their priorities are

• Absolute minimum of data loss Many had been looking for a service of the type provided by Recover IT in order to satisfy compliance issues that had been raised internally (either by auditors or directors).

Motherboard has the following advice for risk managers: - Ask your

possible. If they then report back to you to say that they got back up and running in even a few hours with minimum data loss – congratulate them! They obviously have a robust IT disaster prevention plan in place. If they have not been able to do so, it may be time for you to recommend that they put a new plan in place!

Alarm Manager

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Rosebank Media, First Floor, 72 Tyrconnell Road, Inchicore, Dublin T: +353 1 416 3678 / 453 4121 F: +353 1 454 5119 info@isec.ie www.isec.ie

Master of Science A Life Journey

By Larry Quinn MSc; F.Sec.II; HDip.SM; Dip.Ed; CPP

My official journey at Leicester University started in March 2008. The real journey began with a casual enquiry in 1996 of a colleague who had just completed his ‘Masters’. However, at the time, my life was much too busy to engage with self improvement or academic up-skilling. Everything else had a much higher value. Why would I need something like this? decision to do my Masters - the simple statement of ‘You don’t know what you don’t know’. Initially it puzzled me, but gradually impacted on me as its meaning became clearer. I realised I needed to up-skill to a higher academic level and give credence to 35 years operational experience.

In 1998 I completed the Higher Diploma in Security Management with the Security Institute of Ireland and realised the academic gaps in my knowledge base.

Later some close colleagues completed the Honours Degree in Training and Education at NUI Galway and I remember this course beginning with a discussion on Catalytic and Cathartic, two words which still drive the need to learn in me.

A further course in Waterford Institute of Technology in Mentoring and Assessing RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) had an assessment requirement of drafting my detailed CV. This highlighted to me the academic gaps that needed to be addressed, through drawing together certificates, testimonials and articles in what I called my RPL box, which is a cardboard storage box.

However, it was one sentence in a discussion with John Byrne, CEO of the Security Institute of Ireland, as he was nearing completion of his Honours Degree that finally became the catalyst in my

42

In February 2008 I contacted the Department of Criminology at Leicester University, which is part of the College of Social Science, and used the RPL process to gain access on to the two year Masters Programme in Security and Risk Management.

In preparing for the Masters I renovated my offices and spoke to my wife and family who supported me in my decision to study. I put aside every Friday and a half day Saturday to study and write. How little I knew. This would only be the start of a very mentally, physically, financially and time challenging journey.

The Masters was structured into six modules over eighteen months. The final six months was allocated for the dissertation. The process started with a 2000 word sample essay (which I nearly didn’t bother completing!) and identified academic writing shortfalls outside the scope of my operational knowledge. I passed it and was given some very gentle constructive assessment comments.

In March 2008 I commenced the real journey with a researched and referenced 4000 word essay on Situational Crime

Prevention. This was followed by another pass and reasonably positive comments in my assessor’s critique. Maybe this academic stuff was easier than expected.

Essay two on Defensible Space brought reality home with an almighty bump. I failed and got a scathing critique. This annoyed me and resulted in me appealing the outcome. I knew it was worth more marks. It wasn’t and the result stood, a fail.

The second assessor reworded the critique and gave more encouragement but I had to re-write and re-submit the second essay, which I did grudgingly.

On to essay three, Security Risk Management and another fail accompanied by another rant. I was seriously annoyed that these academics could bring my extensive operational and educational experience into question.

At this point I was about to give up and ‘throw my hat at it’. But I needed these experiences to recognise and learn three specific valuable lessons.

The first was how important my personal support system was. Family, friends, colleagues and previous students were there to support and encourage during this tough time. The second was the realisation that the university required essays written in a very particular academic format and not the academic and operational way I felt they should be done. This caused me to understand the phrase ‘You don’t know what you don’t know’. Maybe there were things I didn’t

Forty years before, I collected my Leaving Certificate results, which I failed, a stigma I carried all that time. All those years ago I worried how I would tell my father this terrible news.

know. The third was I found it virtually impossible admitting to anyone, including myself, that I needed help and in order to get that help I had to swallow my pride and ask for it. That was very hard. But I did it and was surprised at the generosity of others in helping me move myself and my study forward. No one does the study for you but they can make the journey easier by giving clearer directional signage.

Essay three was re-submitted and was finally passed, along with essay two. Just as I began to find my footing with the essay structure, along came essay four, the Research Proposal. This was different. I had to decide on the subject and then indicate how I intended to research it. There was more new learning about Literature Review, Theoretical Perspectives, Research Methodologies and Ethics. However, the previous academic writing experience had worked. I passed with a very constructive assessor critique.

The next step involved the submission of the Research Ethics Review and Dissertation Proposal forms. After some clarifications these were accepted by the university. Essay five on Health and Safety and essay six on Leadership and Motivation followed and were passed. At last I was actually getting to grips with the academic research and writing methods.

In September 2009 I began the research of the question for my dissertation ‘Is current Door Security Personnel (DSP) mandatory licensing training in

Ireland sufficient in violent nightclub environments and, if not, what next?’

Again the generosity of security managers, nightclubs and DSPs was heartening. The 20,000 word dissertation and a further 5,000 words in references and appendices were submitted in February 2010.

Successfully completing the MSc has made me realise the importance of not being too proud to admit ‘you don’t know what you don’t know’

I thought this would be an exciting time but I didn’t feel that, instead it felt like an anti-climax and I was just glad to get rid of it.

In May 2010 I got the provisional pass results. These were confirmed by the External Examination Board in June and by the University Senate in July. I was now a Master of Science. Still the realisation of my achievement didn’t hit me. That came on the 16th July 2010 in the DeMontford Hall at Leicester University when I was called before the University’s Chancellor

and Academics, my peers and family to receive my Master of Science to cheers and applause. Looking down from the stage at over 2,000 people, the realisation of what I had achieved hit me.

Forty years before, I collected my Leaving Certificate results, which I failed, a stigma I carried all that time. All those years ago I worried how I would tell my father this terrible news. Now, 40 years on, I am a Master of Science and I wonder if he was alive today what he might have said of my amazing achievement.

How hard was the course? Very hard!

Could I have done it on my own?

Absolutely not! Was it worth it? Yes! Successfully completing the MSc has made me realise the importance of not being too proud to admit ‘you don’t know what you don’t know’ and to learn from that. It has made me realise the importance of asking for and accepting the support of family and friends and to have a personal determination to complete the course and graduate with an MSc. Finally for me it means ‘Magister Dixit’ or ‘the teacher has said it’, the Canonical medieval reference to Aristotle, precluding further discussion.

My learning journey was both, catalytic and cathartic.

What an experience!

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Absolute Return Investing – Style or Substance?

Gary Connolly, iCubed

As I watched the MasterChef final on BBC recently I was struck by the regularity with which food appeared looking more aesthetically pleasing than appetising.

It reminded me of a funny distinction between the worlds of art, fashion, food and that of finance.

nightmare, yet some of these shoes retail

Let me be clear. I am not suggesting

for the price of a small car. The most

absolute return funds are “all sizzle

famous twins from Kildare are a veritable

and no sausage”, in fact quite the

phenomenon in the entertainment

opposite. To the advisers I work with, I

industry, yet many wouldn’t open their

recommend absolute return funds as part

curtains to see them across the street.

of a diversified portfolio. But I have two

In the culinary world and the world of art, fashion and entertainment the triumph

I am an advocate of investing in absolute return funds. They are a valuable investment tool. But cash-plus returns does, not mean cash-like levels of risk.

reputed $140m. If you have not seen this painting, search for it on Google and have a look. I’ll readily admit I know next to nothing about art, but to me it looks like random splashes on a canvas. In art, taste is very subjective. Equally in fashion, a Manolo Blahnik high heel is one woman’s fashion heaven and another woman’s

44

to which they are being used, in some instances as a replacement for guaranteed product and secondly, the lack of understanding of the individual products, which are very different.

The label “absolute” differentiates these funds from the more common “relative return” funds that seek to outperform benchmarks like the FTSE 100 or ISEQ index. Absolute return funds seek to generate positive returns, i.e. not lose you money, regardless of how broader markets perform.

As investors, we have an aversion to losses,

In 2006, the most expensive painting ever sold, a Jackson Pollock was bought for a

concerns; my first concern is the extent

of style over substance is desirable. But, in matters of finance, particularly investing, it most certainly is not. Confusing style for substance is a mistake investors regularly make with respect to their choice of investment products. This tendency to pay too much attention to labels (and too little to substance) may be happening right now with regard to absolute return funds.

so it’s quite clear why absolute returns funds are popular. Nobel prize winning theory documents our loss aversion, going as far as saying that we feel two and half times worse about a €100 loss than we do about a €100 gain. So, for every €100 loss we sustain, we require a €250 gain to offset this. Funds whose goal is to avoid

losses, are clearly pushing on an open door

want participation going forward. But

Understanding absolute returns

as regards investor demands.

when performance has been bad, they

is challenging. Understanding the

demand protection.

differences between each fund even more

However, the label is desperately

so. The quest for a fund that seeks to

inadequate. Categorising funds under an

Investors can feel good about +1% and bad

absolute return sector with no attempt

about +10%, depending on how markets

made to differentiate beyond that, is about

have performed recently. Investor appetites

as useful as classifying all equity funds

fluctuate and for this very reason,

under a relative return sector because they

investments other than absolute return

The biggest challenge for investors now is

aim to outperform an index.

matter. Absolute return funds are part of

determining which managers and which

the answer to an appropriate investment

funds can consistently deliver on that

strategy, but they are not a panacea for

promise. One thing is for sure, it won’t be

the ills of the ten year bear market we

found by picking funds according to their

Yes, each fund is attempting to deliver a positive return, but in very different ways.

So assuming the multi asset funds to be the same as the long/ short funds is only

have been through.

storing up disappointment down the road.

I am an advocate of investing in absolute

No weight should be attached to what

return funds. They are a valuable

something is called. Labels alone have little

investment tool. But cash-plus returns

significance with regard to risk and return.

does, not mean cash-like levels of risk.

As an investor, what does this mean for you? Let’s consider for a moment, what it is that you – the investor - wants. I’ve agonised over this one for years and found that the answer is usually heavily reliant on recent experience. When market

Absolute return should not be viewed as a replacement for relative return investing.

They deserve a place in a well diversified portfolio. The geared property obsession went wrong by forgetting this most basic investment principle.

exploit the highs and avoid the lows is not unreasonable, but delivering this kind of performance requires a lot of skill.

labels, it requires proper due diligence.

Gary Connolly is principal of iCubed an investment training, research and consulting firm. www.icubed.ie He can be contacted at gary@icubed.ie

performance has been good, investors

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Israel, a country roughly 1/3 the size of Ireland with a population of more than seven million people, is sadly no stranger to conflict in the often volatile Middle East.

Securing the Homeland and Beyond – Israel’s Security Industry Israel’s security sector.

To ensure its survival and safety, Israel maintains a conscripted military and has had to continue to invest heavily, both financially and technologically, in defence and security. As a result, few other countries around the world have leveraged the valuable resource of experienced security, military and trained personnel to create an industry with almost unparalleled expertise and a global reputation for developing leading edge security technologies.

The development of a self-sufficient Israeli defence and security sector, coupled with Israel’s high-tech and Research and Development capabilities in an environment that supports enterprise, has led to the formation, growth and evolution of around 600 indigenous Homeland Security (HLS) companies today. Characterised by innovation and improvisation, these companies now export cost-effective products, systems and services that help combat the increasing and ongoing global terrorist and criminal threats.

What Israel offers

While perhaps best known for its expertise in Aviation security, Israel offers a vast array of security solutions. From counter terror and physical protection to the protection of borders and critical infrastructure, Israeli-made solutions are deployed in cities and venues around the world from Dublin to Shanghai.

Some readers might have stepped into IDO Security Inc.’s MagShoe, a machine used in a number airports in Europe and elsewhere to detect weapons or devices

46

hidden in shoes without passengers having to remove their footwear. Others might be aware of Magal Security’s electronic smart fences around facility perimeters which alert staff to specific areas where a breach or unauthorised access occurred.

As the nature and spectrum of threats and disasters continually expand, more and more countries are now looking for cost effective and comprehensive ‘Safe City’ solutions which incorporate physical and virtual protection, situational awareness and advanced reaction, communication and coordination capabilities.

In Israel, public safety organizations use advanced technology such as softwarebased command and control systems, video surveillance and automatic vehicle location systems in order to improve their public safety services. New technologies have been designed and developed which upgrade digital surveillance with analytic capabilities. Improved access control technologies incorporate ID verification and authorization, biometrics and smartcards technology, as well as anti-forgery detection.

As countries, corporations & individuals become increasingly reliant on data networks and electronic communications, IT security is now considered by some to be as important as physical security in the effort to combat threats such as computer systems hacking, sabotage, denial of service and identity theft. The recent cyber attacks on certain high profile organisations illustrate this all too well.

As one of the world’s leading hubs of information technology, Israeli companies have pioneered software solutions which provide network security, web security, digital content protection, GRC (governance, risk management and compliance) and mobile security as well as e-mail surveillance, data mining, and pattern and image recognition for CCTV systems.

Israeli companies such as Check Point Technologies, a Nasdaq traded company, are world leaders in pioneering secure communications and privacy over networks, while others such as Finjan Software provide Secure Web gateway solutions that protect against malware and data leakage using the company’s active real-time content inspection technologies and anti-virus modules.

NDS, the leading provider of conditional access smart cards for the secure delivery of content to digital TV set-top boxes, PCs and other devices was founded in Israel.

Verint Systems, another company traded on NASDAQ, offers among its solutions analytic software and solutions for lawful communications interception, digital video security and surveillance and enterprise business intelligence.

A key feature of the Israel experience is that maximum security cannot be achieved by a single solution but rather through the integration of multiple technologies. Chief among them is often the individual who has the necessary training insight and instinct. In that regard, Israel is also home to numerous companies offering security consulting services, specialised security training & VIP

“IT security is now considered by some to be as important as physical security in the effort to combat threats such as computer systems hacking, sabotage, denial of service and identity theft.”

protection courses for which the demand globally is increasing.

International Cooperation & Business

Israeli security companies are active across the world and engage in various partnerships with countries such as the U.S. via special Homeland Security Projects or with professional consortia in niche areas such as combating Chemical Biological Radioactive or Nuclear (CBRN) threats. Many of the companies have worked as key contractors in helping to secure major global events such as the Olympics. Through Israeli trade representatives working with the Homeland Security Business Division of The Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute (IEICI), trade links, joint ventures and strategic alliances between overseas and Israeli companies can be leveraged not simply for the mutual benefit of the companies but more importantly to provide sophisticated security solutions for the benefit of the wider community.

While Ireland and Israel are both small, open and exportoriented countries, whose bilateral trade amounts to about €400 million, there are numerous possibilities for greater bilateral trade and cooperation. These range from commercial representation in each other’s markets to the creation of joint ventures with a focus on exports to third countries with large markets. Under EU Framework Programs, Irish and Israeli firms could use their respective research talents to collaborate to develop more advanced security technologies. Supporting such efforts are bilateral agreements between Israel and Ireland on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and an Agreement of Industrial Research and Development Cooperation. Through the Israel-EU Association Agreement, goods and services traded between the EU, Israel and the US are eligible for a zero or reduced rate of duty, which contributes to

Israel’s areas of security expertise include:

• Aviation Maritime and Public Transport • Borders and Critical Infrastructure • Public and Commercial Facilities • Counter Terror and Physical Protection • Crisis and Emergency Management Systems • Safe-City Projects • Security for major International Events such as the Olympic Games, World Cup and European Soccer Championships • Public Awareness and Preparedness for non-conventional threats • Biometric Solutions • IT Security and Anti-Fraud

competitiveness.

Furthermore, both Ireland and Israel were ranked highly in the comparison of 183 countries for the ease of doing business in the World Bank’s 2011 Doing Business survey.

Conclusion

As evidenced in recent years and months, expertise and solutions from the defence and military sectors are becoming increasingly relevant and applied in the civilian domain. While the demand for greater security in the civilian sector is lamentable, security professionals and companies from Israel and around the world will need to continue to work hard and increasingly together, to ensure that future security challenges can be met.

Colin Sheena is the Commercial Officer at the Embassy of Israel in Dublin.

The role of the Commercial office is to promote and enhance bilateral trade between Israel and Ireland.

For more information please contact: Colin Sheena – Commercial Officer, Embassy of Israel, Dublin Tel: 01 2309415 or email trade@dublin.mfa.gov.il

47

Risk Management and Problems Associated with the Presence of

in Subfloor infill

By Kevin Currivan, ACII Manager, Centre of Excellence, Dublin In recent years OSG have had an exposure to dealing with claims that have been made by both householders, commercial entities and building contractors where it has been found, following testing, that Pyrite was contained in the hard core under floor infill that was used when undertaking the construction of domestic and commercial developments.

The mineral Pyrite, or iron Pyrite, is an iron sulphide with a chemical formula FeS2.

The name Pyrite is derived from the Greek word purites meaning “of fire”. In ancient Roman times this name was applied to several types of stone that would create sparks when struck against steel.

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Pyrite is usually found associated with other sulphides or oxides in quartz veins, sedimentary rock and metamorphic rock as well as in coal beds. Despite being nicknamed “fool’s gold” it is sometimes found with small quantities of gold.

Pyrite enjoyed brief popularity in the 16th and 17th centuries as a source of ignition in early firearms. Pyrite remains in commercial use with the production of sulphur dioxide for use in such applications as the paper industry and in the manufacture of sulphuric acid. It is also used in making certain types of jewellery.

Pyrite exposed to the atmosphere during mining and excavation reacts with oxygen and water to form sulphate resulting in acid mine drainage. Iron Pyrite oxidation is sufficiently exothermic (gives off heat) that underground coal mines in high sulphur coal seams have occasionally had serious problems with spontaneous combustion in the mined out areas of the mine.

The solution was to seal the mined out areas to exclude oxygen.

In modern coal mines limestone dust is sprayed onto the exposed coal surfaces to reduce the hazard of dust explosions. This has a secondary benefit of neutralising the acid released

by Pyrite oxidation and therefore slowing the oxidation cycle thus reducing the likelihood of spontaneous

combustion. In the long term, however, oxidation continues and the hydrated sulphates formed may exert crystallisation pressure that can expand cracks in the rock and lead eventually to collapse.

The Pyrite that has caused the problem, in our experience, has been found in the hardcore. Hardcore is fill material used in building construction to raise ground levels and provide a dry, firming level base on which to cast the concrete ground floor slab or “oversight” concrete beneath suspended floors. The hardcore should be well compacted in layers of appropriate thickness. Materials used should also be chemically inert and not physically affected by water. Unfortunately some of the materials and placing procedures used in the past have not met these requirements and there has been consequent damage to buildings.

The principal problems can be: • C hemical attack by hardcore materials on concrete • S ettlement due to poor compaction.

• C onsolidation or swelling resultant from changes in the moisture content and/or chemical instability

International Experience

In the early 1980s Canada saw an upsurge in the construction of new residential units which peaked at nearly €75,000 in 1987 and a proportionally higher number of problems were recorded from that period. Traces of pyrite (FeS2) were found in the sedimentary rock used to make crushed stone, the backfill material used in the construction of private houses in this

period. Cases have been reported in sites on the island of Montreal. Most cases were recorded as occurring in buildings from eight to twenty years old. Affected areas in the UK are the English Midlands from Coventry to Birmingham. Also reported are areas in the north east of England from Doncaster northwards to Newcastle upon Tyne and the midland valley of Scotland between Glasgow and Edinburgh.

For residential buildings constructed before 1970 the layer of crushed stone used as infill at foundation level was found to be either non-existent or quite thin. This would tend to explain why there have been very few problems reported with buildings constructed up to this time.

Irish Experience

• C eltic Tiger 1995 to 2007 • Construction industry boom • Increased demand for building materials, building products • Particular demand for infill for residential, commercial and infrastructural projects There have been widely reported incidents in the media in recent months where is stated that homes were “exploding” because of the inappropriate use of Pyrite in the construction. It was stated that up to €20,000 homes owners are facing devastating Pyrite problems which are destroying recently built houses. According to an “Irish Independent” investigation there are twenty building firms which have used material which contains pyrite from at least four suspected quarries which are located in Dublin and Meath.

It has been reported also that the average costs of removing Pyrite from a house and repairing the damage is between €50,000 and €70,000.

Irish Geology

Approximately 40% of the island of Ireland and 50% of the Republic is underlain by limestone bedrock. The most common form of limestone comes from the carboniferous age and is over three hundred million years old. This limestone is generally hard and gray or black in colour. Limestone is a rock type that is almost entirely composed of calcite (calcium carbonate). Some limestones are almost pure carbonate but many contain thin layers or pockets of other softer materials such as clay or shale. A chemical reaction causes the hardcore infill to swell and expand. Where the infill contains Pyrite this metal oxidises and produces sulphuric acid in the presence of

humidity and oxygen.

This acid reacts with calcium carbonate found in the crushed stone. The chemical reaction results in the formulation of sulphate and gypsum. This gypsum crystallises and causes the infill to swell.

This swelling may heave the internal concrete slab and interior structural supports resting on it. In cases where the aggregate fill is of small chips which have not been heavily packed there may be space where the gypsum can form without causing expansion of the sub floor unit. The amount of heave will depend on the percentage of Pyrite, the depth of the fill, the size and orientation of the aggregate and various factors which affect the Pyrite oxidation process.

Where the Pyrite content is greater than 2% evidence has been found of damage caused by the swelling of the infill heave.

Pyrite content in Ireland has been found to be higher when compared to the problematic aggregates in Quebec.

Gypsum percentage has been found to be higher than that experienced in Canada.

Rapid oxidation has occurred because of the presence of fine strands of Pyrite found in the aggregate. The aggregate infill in reland has shown a higher rate of absorption which favours pyrite coming into contact with water. The climate here has significant levels of rainfall leading to greater moisture levels.

As a consequence of the swelling and expansion of the infill, damage has been seen mostly to the interior of properties.

The swelling will take the route of least resistance and generally speaking this is upwards, affecting the concrete floor and internal walls. The rising walls can also be affected in some instances.

Remedial Works

• A survey will be required of the internal cracking • Plasterboard will have to be removed and cracks in the exposed block work recorded • All services will need to be isolated.

• Fixtures and fittings will have to be removed and stored

• U pstairs of properties will need to be sealed to minimise dust etc.

• C ut and remove the concrete flooring – this has to be done in sections so that it can be carried out and placed in a skip for disposal • T he hardcore has to be removed down to the original subgrade level • E nsure all particles of infill imbedded in the subsoil are removed • N ew infill will be delivered and loaded onto a conveyor and levelled and compacted • S ervices will need to be reconnected.

• A new DPM barrier will need to be laid.

• N ew insulation will need to be laid • T he floor will have to be reinstated • R eplastering will have to be undertaken where required • A snag list will have to be completed

Conclusion

• I t is vitally important in the current climate and in light of the amount of construction work done in this country over the last ten years, for the Underwriter and the Claims Handler to firstly, know the risk and secondly be aware of the potential causes of the damage if and when problems manifest themselves at an insured property • F urther quality checks are necessary both at the quarry locations and also by the end user/contractor • P roper analysis of the excavated hardcore for specific uses, e.g. motorways, residential housing, commercial/infrastructural developments, should be undertaken • U se of different construction methods should be investigated including suspended floors (timber/concrete), or pre-cast concrete floors with ventilated airspace below

49

‘Safety Data Sheets-

Understanding Chemical Risk’

Michael Brennan Fcii, bsc osh Risk Management Manager, Aviva Others would argue that it’s always best to be on the ‘safe side or risk’ ignoring any additional resource requirements or expenditure incurred.

Does the word ‘Chemical’ prompt undue trepidation and lead to an over kill approach to managing the risk? Maybe the word ‘chemical’ alone is enough for the uninitiated to overstate the hazard presented? One of my earliest memories of training to become a insurance Risk Manager was being taken to a large ‘chemicals’ risk in Co. Wicklow in the 1990’s. Over the course of the survey I learned from my elder colleague and our insured client, that the risk insured was little more than a factory that blended surfactants at low pressure to manufacture shampoo. This was low hazard risk, posing moderate to low health and safety risk to employees working there. Altogether, not what I was expecting.

The spectrum of chemicals is wide and varied and naturally this adds to confusion.

If this is your experience when speaking to clients, customers or businesses, its always worth reminding the public that chemicals are an every day substance in every walk

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of life, and although certain chemicals, concentrations and manufacturing processes are inherently hazardous, many other ‘classes’ of materials can quite safely be managed and pose a moderate to low risk to handlers.

The dangers posed by ‘a chemical’ depends on a multitude of factors i.e. on their toxicity, flammability, stability, pollutant capabilities etc. No doubt it is these assessment factors than can cause confusion…

When you think about it we all are very close proximity to chemicals, but often we are unaware of the properties and usage.

For example, when eating at a restaurant we are usually provided with sodium

In my experience the simplest (and best) tool available to health and safety professionals is the Safety Data Sheet..

chloride and acetic acid to flavour our food…salt and vinegar by another name!

So its all about context, (a) how a chemical can enter of affect the body and (b) the toxicity risk posed (c) any other inherent features of the material that pose a hazard i.e. fire/explosion etc. Look under any kitchen sink in the country and you will see an array of chemical compounds, some more toxic than others but all in everyday general use.

So, as a professional risk assessor or advisor, what tools are available to you to explain chemical risks in a format that consistent and easy to understand?

In my experience the simplest (and best) tool available to health and safety professionals is the Safety Data Sheet.

Chemical and chemicals risk assessment is governed and prescribed under the Chemicals Act 2008 that was brought into operation on 15 July 2008 through the Chemicals Act 2008 (Commencement) Order 2008 (S.I. No. 273 of 2008).

Safety Data Sheets must be provided with any hazardous chemical and be prepared by a competent person. It must be issued in the official language of the EU member state. It must be free of charge, clear and readily understandable and revised and

When assessing workplace chemical risks, it can be argued that some people are not fully informed of the hazards, are disproportionately concerned by their lack of knowledge which can lead to an over reaction in managing the risk? updated as necessary. Crucially, any SDS must be available from the manufacturer/ supplier to the end user no later than at the time of first delivery.

The beauty of the SDS is that it manages to immediately put a measure and value of hazard to any given substance in a format and language that is easy to explain and universal across the EU. Let’s remind ourselves of the 16 sections and the information they contain: 1. Company Details: This contains the name, address and contacts of the manufacturer/supplier and includes emergency contact phone number to answer any technical queries.

2. Hazard Details: Gives full hazard details of the substance including health effect and symptoms and include the ‘hazard label’ pictogram. It also advises the ‘primary’ routes of entry to the body.

3. Compound Elements: If a mixture, this section includes full details of component parts.

4. First Aid: Covers all first aid measures needed to handled spills and eye injuries etc.

5. Fire Fighting: Information is supplied here on effective and safe fire fighting measures i.e. types of extinguisher or special exposure hazards.

6. Accidental Release: Where an accidental release occurs and the material is a potential pollutant, this section gives risk mitigation advice.

When you think about it we all are very close proximity to chemicals, but often we are unaware of the properties and usage.

7. Safe Handling & Storage: certain chemicals require specific methods of safe storage to avoid fire and other hazards. If appropriate, this section spells out what is needed.

8. Risk Reduction: This section provides additional targeted safety information specific to the chemical in question. This could be safety tips on eye protection, breathing apparatus or gloves etc.

9. Physical Risk Assessment: Section 9 gives practical information on the physical ‘look and feel’ of the substance, its boiling and melting points, colour or general appearance.

10. Hazardous Reactions: Covers conditions you need to avoid, other materials to avoid i.e. oxidising agents, acids, alkalis etc.

11. Chemical Risk Assessment: This part gives specific risk details on the toxic effect of the material, its entry points to the body and how best to protect yourself. This is vital for safe use and handling.

12. Ecological Information: Is the material a pollutant to air or water?

13. Waste Disposal: Simply how best to safely dispose.

14. Safe Transportation: Often, the most hazardous use of a chemical is when its being exposed i.e. tipping and spilling, road traffic accidents etc. The part clearly states the best methods to carry materials, labelling of the material (its unique UN number) and class of material.

15. Labelling & Classification: Expands on section 14 and includes specific risk and safety phrases for the material.

16. Any Other Information: Finally a catch all section to include all other issues arising i.e. training.

In summary, a key component to safety management is the understanding of the risk posed. The risk posed by ‘chemicals’ is wide and varied, some benign and others highly hazardous, the trick is sourcing information that formulates a clear and concise assessment.

SDS continues to be a very effective tool in the safety professional’s armoury, in explaining and promoting chemical risk safety to clients. It’s important to reiterate that they must be supplied and available by law and are standardised across the EU. It is accepted that chemicals can pose serious, fire, bio and pollution hazards among others, but basic safety information provided to all at an early stage significantly helps raise awareness and manage and mitigate the risks.

51

Use Your

Leadership Style to Create an Environment of

Motivation

It has long been a popular saying that “A company is only as good as its leadership,� and that statement applies more today than ever.

Paul Davis FCMA CMC Davis Business Consultants, Business Development and Growth Specialist

Over the years, successful leaders have developed styles that have changed and evolved to be more concerned with positive motivation of employees than with controlling and/ or commanding them. While autocratic leadership still exists, it typically does not create an atmosphere that encourages employees to be involved or care about more than their next pay cheque.

What is your leadership style? Are you a leader who believes in the people you hire and gives them respect and opportunities to excel in what they do and the freedom to change and improve your company and the environment in which they work?

Or are you still caught in the autocratic mindset in which your way is the only way?

The good news is that no matter what your current style of leadership may be, you can learn a leadership style and habits that will create a team environment which will generate motivation, action and improvement in every facet of your

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organisation. Good leaders are formed from people who are continually willing to learn, not only from their own experience but from the experiences of other leaders as well as from the comments, ideas and experiences of their own staff members.

A good leader is one who understands the importance of individual motivation for every member of an organisation because it is the drive, enthusiasm and action (or lack of it) of each person in your business that will contribute to the overall level of success (or failure) of your company.

The most important characteristic that is needed for a company to be successful in any financial environment, but especially in one with a weak economy, is to have every member of the business behind the visions and goals of the organisation. To do that, a business needs to be built on the concept of collaboration where every employee is involved and excited about

Remember, being a leader who motivates is not about what you do to others but how you inspire them to take action, move, create and accomplish ...

the accomplishments and benefits of the entire company.

An environment of collaboration has to start from the top with a leader who is open to creativity and hires and encourages employees who are selfmotivated and thrive on independence and challenges. A leader who wants to control will unwittingly attract and hire employees who want and need to be told exactly what to do and when to do it. People who are independent and creative will either wither in that type of environment or move on to a company that offers an atmosphere in which they can thrive.

Develop the Qualities of a Motivational Leader

Being a leader who creates motivation within everyone in your company will require certain actions, behaviours and characteristics on your part. A motivational leader is one who gains the respect and admiration of their staff members because of the way he or she interacts with them on a daily basis as well as their overall approach to business and life in general.

There are certain actions and characteristics of a leader that have been shown to positively impact and motivate their team members.

• Have a Clear Vision – As a motivational leader you will need to be very clear within your own mind as to the purpose and vision of the company. And it needs to be about more than making money, because while every employee or team member wants to be well compensated for their skills, talents and abilities, it is an overall vision of how they are contributing to something bigger that typically inspires action and dedication.

As a motivational leader you must carry your vision through with actions and decisions.

• Demonstrate Commitment – Having a vision or goal is not enough to be a motivational leader. You must also demonstrate your commitment to achieving that goal by supporting, encouraging and empowering everyone in your organisation in the process of achieving the vision.

• Demonstrate Maturity – Exhibit your ability to make decisions without hesitation, showing your confidence in yourself, your company and your employees. And be willing to readily admit mistakes and be forgiving with yourself and others.

• Take a Team Approach – A leader who has an attitude of “I could do this better all by myself” will usually end up having to do it all by themselves. But a leader who believes that it takes everyone involved to be successful will create a team environment and attitude that lends itself well to self-motivation and action.

• Exhibit Self-Control – A leader who rants and raves will not inspire their staff members to want to give the best of their talents and skills but will instead instil a sense of “why bother” in their employees. Remember, a leader who exhibits self-control is one worth respecting and emulating.

• Understand Your Impact - Motivational leaders also understand the impact that their choices and behaviours have on their team members. When employees feel encouraged, empowered and supported, they typically exhibit selfmotivation, a desire for achievement and a team spirit that reflects the primary goals and visions of the organisation.

• Be Appreciative – When you notice an individual or a team performance that excels and moves toward accomplishing your company’s goals, provide positive feedback and reinforcement as well as recognition and awards. People appreciate being appreciated and the more appreciation and recognition that an organisation gives, the more its employees will want to be on the

receiving end of those behaviours. As the business owner, you set the pace and the example of whether or not your team members are recognized for their contributions or just expected to perform as a part of their jobs.

• Communicate Clearly and Openly – Don’t assume that the people in your organisation understand your vision and your ideas— communicate them in an open, honest and ongoing format that will help everyone stay on track with the overall goal. And remember, communication goes two ways, so be an active listener and show interest in the thoughts and ideas of your team members. Ask for their thoughts and input. People who are listened to feel appreciated and people who feel appreciated feel motivated.

• Trust People – Develop an attitude that shows that you trust people to do the right thing because more often than not, people will fill the expectations of those in charge. If your organisation’s leadership expects that your staff members will make the right decisions and choices and you give them the freedom to do so, they will. And while the choices they make may not be exactly what you would have chosen to do, trust that the decisions they make will still be positive ones. The more people are respected and trusted, the more they rise to those expectations.

• Be Open to Creativity and New Ideas – You had a great idea and that’s why you created a company, but visions and goals need to grow and expand in order to prosper and continue to succeed. A motivational leader is one who is open to letting that happen from the input, creativity and ideas of people within the company. Employees who are allowed to put their own ideas into a vision, goal, product or service are ones who will continue to be motivated and excited about what they do.

• Know What Motivates Your Employees and Provide That Environment – Different types of businesses attract and require different types of personalities. As a motivational leader, you need to understand the types of personalities within your organisation and what inspires and motivates them. Some employees work from a logical perspective and do best within an environment that is orderly and managed. Other team members are

creative and work more from the right side of the brain where interaction, ideas and change are the embers that fuel them into action. Know what type of environment is best for your team members and help create it. Some organisations have a blend of personalities and thus a need to create spaces in which they can all thrive and grow. The most crucial part of this aspect of a motivational leader is understanding the importance of creating and supporting a work atmosphere that positively impacts and motivates the people you depend on to help you manage and grow your business.

Remember, being a leader who motivates is not about what you do to others but how you inspire them to take action, move, create and accomplish. And that is done by being a leader who creates and supports an environment that encourages selfmotivation.

To obtain a free copy of our Shocking Report “The 7 BIG Mistakes in Business…” simply download directly from our site www.davisbusinessconsultants.com

Paul Davis FCMA CMC

Davis Business Consultants

Business Development and Growth Specialist

Tel: (01) 288 5563

E: paul@davisbusinessconsultants.com www.davisbusinessconsultants.com

53

Security Issues

It is important for individuals, organisations, and businesses to review their security from time to time.

And the dark winter months have their own security issues which should be considered.

By Stephen Heffernan, MD SERIMA 1

Personal Safety

• E nsure you park your car in a safe well lit location. How safe will the area be after dark?

• I f returning to the cars with shopping, place the bags in the boot, where possible, and drive off immediately. Never place goods in your car and go back for more shopping or to meet friends • D o not leave valuables in the glove box or door compartments. It’s the first place thieves look • I f you use a GPS do not leave it on clear display in the car and note that the cradle of such devices can leave tell tale suction cup marks on the windscreen after they are removed

• D o not leave your car keys on the hall table particularly if the table is near the front door • W hen leaving the house or apartment consider leaving a radio on. Ensure your electrical system is safe to do this and do not leave televisions on. Consider using a timer • A light connected to a timer which is activated at dusk or at a particular time can be a deterrent also. Ensure the electrical system is safe and there are no flammables in close proximity to the light • B e careful where you leave the wrappers of valuable items. Dispose of wrappers carefully. Do not unnecessarily advertise in your bin the valuable contents of your home • I f going away on a long break or holiday ensure you have cancelled your milk deliveries for e.g. if possible have a neighbour or friend remove post away

from inside the door and if your driveway is vacated why not let a neighbour or friend use the space while you are away

• I f you have an answering machine in your home please do not leave a outgoing message such as “Hi you have reached the Griswold’s home, we will not be returning until the 4th of February, leave a message” • T ry and predict your cash needs in advance in order ensure you do not have to use an ATM machine at night time when the streets could be quieter, darker, and less secure for you

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• I f you are planning on driving long distances ensure your car is well serviced, you have more than enough fuel for the journey, your mobile phone is charged and has sufficient credit, you tell someone the details of your trip and your ETA, A torch, bottle of water and extra warm clothing can be carried in the boot also be extra vigilant when travelling. Airports, train, and bus stations etc. can offer rich rewards for thieves. People are often tired after travelling, disoriented or perhaps have their hands full with bags, there most likely will be crowds of other travellers, and it can lead people to be a little lax regarding the security of their bags, wallets, phones, and valuables

Retailers

If you are having a sale at this time of year here are a number of points to consider • Carry out more frequent till lifts.

Overflowing tills attract crime • I f employing extra staff over the sale period ensure they are fully instructed on all safety and security policies, procedures, and hardware where necessary • T his is a good time to talk to existing staff and refresh their memories in relation to the threat of fraud and scams, stock control, cash management, opening and locking up procedures and what to do in the event of a robbery • E nsure that stock delivery and control procedures are adequate to cater for larger deliveries and possible deliveries outside normal operating hours

“Lone workers vulnerability is always a area of concern. Review all your procedures and the legislation in relation to the risks in this area ...”

• I s your alarms system vulnerable to the new tool of the criminal”GSM BLOCKERS” • L one workers vulnerability is always a area of concern. Review all your procedures and the legislation in relation to the risks in this area • E nsure staff know that they should not to put themselves in danger when dealing with shoplifters or suspected shoplifters • P erform more regular security checks particularly on the exterior of the premises, doors, windows, roofs etc.

• C heck your external lighting and particularly note if it caters for staff safety and security during the dark winter opening and locking up times • B in storage- does it pose a threat to your business. Can your bins be used to access higher parts of the business or can they be set on fire in close proximity to the premises?

• R emember, it is considered by many experts that 50% approx. of retail losses can be directly attributed to staff. Ensure your staff are aware of your policies in this regard, ensure you do regular stock and till checks and contact an expert security consultant if you need further direction in this area of loss

Financial Institutions

Financial Institutions find that there are greater cash demands at certain times of the year. Before the busy period management of these institutions should do a full review of their security. This review should include

the physical security as well as policies and procedures.

This should include such areas and items as: • Regular inspections of the perimeter and shell of the building, windows, and doors.

Ensure locks, hinges, lights and CCTV cameras have not been interfered with • R eview and refresh all procedures regarding opening and locking up, cash management, lone workers, staff breaks, admission to the premises and be extra vigilant if there is any type of construction work being carried out on or in close proximity to the premises • E nsure you communicate to all staff the policies and procedures regarding an armed or violent robbery, strongroom, and key control, the threat of tiger kidnapping and if necessary have a security awareness training course delivered by an expert in the field • A ssess the threat to the premises in relation to the new GSM blockers. These blockers can effectively disable your alarm system and it appears their use is on the increase

• H ave you communicated to all staff the policies regarding right of admission, how you expect incidents to be handled, and what policies you have for ejecting people and dispersal of crowds after closing?

• H ave the staff had sufficient training in conflict management which could prevent a situation escalating • I f the staff have to use physical intervention what are the medical implications and has the procedures been reviewed by a expert • D o you have procedures and policies in place for searching and have the staff been trained in proper searching techniques. How do staff search a female patron for e.g.

• E nsure all your security staff are PSA licensed • R eview your cash handling procedures from admission desk and bars as well as your locking up procedures

• E nsure external lighting also caters for staff security and safety during the dark winter opening and locking up times

Hospitality Industry

Bars clubs, discos. Increased levels of alcohol can often result in increased aggression and fighting. Nightclub staff are subject to much more abuse, threats, and physical violence also. To reduce the threat of problems escalating and the possibility of litigation it is prudent to review the following:

Stephen Heffernan – MD of SERIMA1 an Independent security consultancy and training company. Stephen has been trained in the UK by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust and Maybo UK, the leading consultants in personal safety and workplace violence. You can contact Stephen at www.serima1.ie or 01 4568872.

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New Products Risk Manager

New range of Adams Rite highperformance security hardware is here

The Adams Rite range of door magnets includes the Armlock 261, 262 and 281 surface mounted direct-pull models, that can be used as part of an access control system for electric locking applications. Featuring a compact size, with clean aesthetics, the Armlock 261 and 262 products are capable of maintaining a holding force of at least 250kg (550lbs), while the Armlock 281 can cope with 510kg (1,120 lbs). They all fit aluminium, timber and steel doors, and are highly durable.

Featuring the core specification of the Armlock 261, 262 and 281 products, the Armlock 291 external door magnet can be used to facilitate access and exit control of any aluminium, timber or steel door, or gate/barrier. IP67 rated, the 291 facilitates dual fixing positions to suit both side and face fixing. www.norbain.com

Mercury Software - making it easier to handle Service Calls

High Definition, high-speed Pelco Spectra network dome is here

Launching its industry-leading Spectra Series dome into the world of high definition, Pelco’s new Spectra HD Series Network Dome System is now available through Norbain.

With up to 1280 x 960 resolution, choice of 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio, auto flip, and 360 degrees continuous pan rotation (at 400 degrees/second), the Spectra HD dome delivers stunning, crystal-clear, live streaming images over the Internet, using a standard Web browser. With four times the resolution of standard definition domes, Spectra HD provides the perfect solution to view details such as faces, car number plates, playing cards (in casinos), or other specific features. www.norbain.com

Mercury Software’s Alarm Manager system now allows any Security Installer to log Customer calls and instantly send them by email to an Engineers iPhone or Smart Phone saving time and allowing you to work more efficiently.

Alarm Manager is a comprehensive system which is suitable for installers of Alarms, CCTV, Fire Equipment, etc. Alarm Manager Version 3 is now available with no upfront purchase price and an annual fee from only €495. Contact Mercury Software Ltd. to arrange a demonstration. www.mercurysoftware.ie

SONY

The SNC-DH110 is an indoor high definition (720p, supporting H.264 at 30fps) 1.3 Megapixel (1280 x 960 maximum resolution) compact mini-dome camera with Electrical Day/Night function, DEPA and ONVIF compliance. It supports dual streaming and triple codec encoding.

Sony’s X-Series cameras have outstanding picture quality and a compact, affordable, stylish design.

1-year PrimeSupport is included as standard within the EU, Norway and Switzerland. This gives users access to an expert helpdesk and, in the unlikely event of a failure, will arrange for an advance replacement unit to be delivered within a target time of one working day. An additional 2-years support is also available as an option. www.pro.sony.eu

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SONY

The SNC-CH110 is a compact indoor high definition (720p) 1.3 Megapixel (1280 x 1024 maximum resolution) fixed camera with Electrical Day/Night function, DEPA and ONVIF compliance. It supports dual streaming and triple codec encoding.

Sony’s X-Series cameras have outstanding picture quality and a compact, affordable, stylish design.

1-year PrimeSupport is included as standard within the EU, Norway and Switzerland. This gives users access to an expert helpdesk and, in the unlikely event of a failure, will arrange for an advance replacement unit to be delivered within a target time of one working day. An additional 2-years support is also available as an option. www.pro.sony.eu

RF Heat Detector

New MIFARE Classic Readers from ACT

ACT have added to their MIFARE classic range with the ACTpro MIFARE 1030 (mullion mount) and the ACTpro MIFARE 1030PM (panel mount) readers. These proximity readers accept MIFARE cards and can be integrated into a new or existing ACTpro access control solution.

Both readers have potted electronics and an IP67 rating making them suitable for either indoors or outdoors. Both readers can be configured for “Clock & Data” or “Wiegand” output and can read Sector, Serial or reverse serial data from any MIFARE card.

HKC have added an RF Heat Detector to its SecureWave portfolio. The device is ideal for installation in kitchens, garages, boiler houses and other areas where there are normally high levels of fumes, smoke, and dust. The device communicates to the HKC SecureWave 1070 control panel. The Heat Detector is manufactured

by EI. It has its own independent siren and test buttons. www.hkc.ie

MIFARE Classic is a smart card technology and it enables multiple applications e.g. access control, transportation, cashless vending, to store data on a single card in a secure and cost effective manner. For more information call us on 01 466 2570 or www.accesscontrol.ie

Northwood Launches FLIR Sensors Manager & Analytics for Thermal offering Secure perimeter Protection

SALTOGEO next generation electronic cylinder lock

The new SALTOGEO (Global Electronic Opening) electronic cylinder lock is the latest addition to the SALTO stand alone range of RFID locks. It has been specially designed and developed for use with doors where normal escutcheons cannot be fitted or are not allowed i.e. antique doors, certain types of fire doors, some multipoint locking systems etc.

Fully integrated with the SALTO XS4 platform, SALTOGEO is a versatile, cost effective solution and its compact size and easy installation make it the ideal electronic locking system for almost any type of door.

SALTOGEO offers virtual network capability thanks to SALTO Virtual Network technology as well as a choice of ID carriers including iButton, Mifare, DESfire, and Mifare Ultralight C. www.salto.ie

Software to manage and control FLIR Systems thermal imaging cameras for security and surveillance applications.

FLIR Sensors Manager offers powerful and efficient management capabilities for any security installation with FLIR Systems thermal imaging cameras. FLIR Sensors Manager allows to automatically locate FLIR Systems thermal imaging cameras in the network and to easily control them.

Just connect the thermal imaging camera to the network, install FLIR Sensors Manager and hit the “discover” button and you will be able to manage and control the camera.

Thanks to FLIR Sensors Manager & Northwood Technology, the management of FLIR Systems thermal imaging cameras over a network will become extremely easy.

Visit our demonstration suite or call our sale line at 01 8601880 or contact info@northwoodtechnology.ie with your details and one of our Sales team will contact you. www.northwoodtechnology.ie

Samsung introduce 43x optical zoom network PTZ dome camera

Samsung new SNP-3430H network PTZ dome camera includes an unrivalled 43x optical zoom capability to allow operators to observe close up detail of far away people or objects.

Air and sea ports, car parks and sports stadia are just a few of the environments that will benefit from the SNP-3430H’s unprecedented 3.2 – 138.5mm focal range which allows operators to view 600 TV lines, colour images of both close up and far away objects.

The SNP-3430H, which is weather proof to IP66, is equipped with an extensive range of features including Digital Image Stabilisation (DIS), to help combat excessive vibration from strong winds if the dome is mounted on a pole or on a tall building. www.samsungsecurity.com

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Workplace Bullying, Harassment and Stress – THE LEGAL ISSUES Maura Connolly Partner and Head of Employment & Employee Benefits Group Eugene F. Collins, Solicitors

Introduction

In every workplace, employers are becoming used to an increased level of absence due to stress related illness often linked to claims of bullying and harassment.

In an ESRI study carried out in 2007 it was reported that 7.9% of workers experienced bullying in the workplace in the previous six months in Ireland. The ESRI study also illustrated that women were twice as likely to experience bullying in the workplace compared to men, with 10.7% of women having experienced bullying in the workplace in the previous six months compared with 5.8% of men.

Significant awards in the Irish and UK Courts have included a record award in the UK where an employee was awarded approximately €1,200,000 for bullying in the workplace.

An employer will be liable for claims relating to bullying, harassment and stress when it can be established that it knew or ought to have known the workplace was unsafe or that the employee was at risk and failed to do anything about it.

With significant social and economic consequences flowing from bullying and harassment claims the introduction of measures to safeguard workers has become more critical for employers both as a matter of good management and to limit liability under health and safety, industrial relations and equality legislation.

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Bullying and Harassment

Bullying and Harassment are often classed together but legally they are distinguishable. Workplace Bullying has been defined (in a Taskforce report dated 2001) as: “repeated inappropriate behaviour, direct or indirect whether verbal, physical or otherwise, conducted by one or more persons against another or others, at the place of work and/or in the course of employment, which could reasonably be regarded as undermining the individual’s right to dignity at work. An isolated incident of the behaviour described in this definition may be an affront to dignity at work but as a once off incident is not considered to be bullying”.

The key element of this definition is that it emphasises that the bullying actions must be repeated and states that a one off incident is not considered to be bullying.

Harassment is discriminatory treatment of one person by another because of a particular characteristic which is protected by the Employment Equality Acts 1998 to 2008 (for example age, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, race, disability etc.)

There are many legal remedies where employees feel they have been bullied or harassed – for example: a Rights Commissioner claim under Industrial Relations Acts 1967 – 2004, Rights Commissioner claim under Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, claim for constructive dismissal under Unfair Dismissals Acts 1977 to 2007 and increasingly these cases are being taken as personal injury cases in the Civil Courts.

There have been reports that a specialized bullying tribunal will be set up to deal with this whole area and the recommendations of a report of the Expert Advisory Group on Workplace Bullying (2005) supported the establishment of such a forum. There has been no specialized forum established to date.

Performance Management

One of the challenges for employers in dealing with claims of bullying is to distinguish between “bullying” and robust management? While harassment can be more overt and easier to identify – emails, gestures, statements which are linked to the person’s gender, race etc. it can be much more difficult to assess when a situation amounts to bullying.

The Taskforce definition is a good place to start in considering whether behaviour amounts to bullying – it emphasizes the inappropriate nature of the actions. It also emphasizes the effect (or likely effect) on the individual’s dignity at work.

It is increasingly common for managers to find that they are accused of bullying when they carry out routine management of employees. While no workplace can permit a situation where managers cannot effectively manage, there are ways in which this risk can be reduced, including a) Having proper systems in place for reviews which are established using objective standards b) Involving non-direct line management in performance appraisals where practical or providing a right of appeal c) Training of managers

The Health & Safety Authority Code of Practice issued in May 2007 recognises this risk to managers and clarifies and emphasizes that “bullying at work does not include reasonable and essential discipline arising from the good management of the performance of an employee at work”.

Course of employment

An employer may be liable even if the harassment takes place outside of the workplace, this is recognized in the Code Practice issued by the Equality Authority.

In the 2002 case of Maguire v North Eastern Health Board, the Equality Tribunal held the employer liable for discriminatory comments made to an employee at a Staff Christmas Party. In another case, Ms O’N –v- An Insurance Company where the complainant claimed that she has been sexually harassed in a nightclub following a work pub-quiz. The Equality Officer held that the harassment took place at an event which the employee did not attend for “the purposes of or in furtherance of work”.

Risk assessment

Bullying at work is a health and safety issue and employers should consider the risk of bullying in the workplace in developing risk assessments. Known risk factors for bullying include: a) high turnover of staff, high absenteeism or poor morale b) constitution of the workplace – where there are a high number of part-time or casual employees c) hierarchies – including traditional grading differentials d) changes in the workplace e) gender/age imbalance f) cultural integration issues g) Management of relationships in the workplace

Effective systems

Employees must have an effective “voice” and a sense that they will be listened to if they raise legitimate grievances.

Failure to put in place effective processes exposes the employer to a risk of claims.

The Health & Safety Authority require employers to have a bullying and harassment policy in addition to any standard grievance process it may have.

The need for training and awareness of the policy is crucial to the effectiveness of any system.

In some recent cases where employees claimed damages for work related stress both in the UK and Ireland guidance was given by the Courts to employers as to

The key element of this definition is that it emphasises that the bullying actions must be repeated and states that a one off incident is not considered to be bullying. how to manage these kind of cases and to provide a safe working environment to employees.

In a UK case involving Deutsche Bank, Helen Green sued her employer, alleging that her employer had failed to protect her from bullying and abusive treatment from other female employees. This treatment in turn drove her to a nervous breakdown.

The judge commented that “a reasonable and responsible employer would have intervened as soon as he became aware of

the problem….The management was weak and ineffectual. The managers collectively closed their eyes to what was going on, no doubt in the hope that the problem would go away.”

In the Irish case of Quigley v Complex Tooling and Moulding, the High Court awarded the employee in excess of €75,000 for psychiatric injury suffered by him as a direct consequence of his employer’s breach of duty to prevent workplace bullying. While the award was not upheld on appeal it shows the level which the Court was prepared to assign to psychiatric damages.

Summary

Some practical measures for consideration by an employer include: 1. Review systems – introduce dignity at work policy and a bullying and harassment policy and ensure that it works and is understood 2. Carry out risk assessment for Heath & Safety purposes and consider issues such as work systems and workplace constitution 3. Ensure that the IT usage and communication policy is adequate, including electronic bullying 4. Provide support to managers in dealing with employees and also in defending their management process against allegations of bullying 5. Keep work pressures and work hours under review 6. Introduce some form of employee assistance programme to assist with personal issues 7. Allow employees an effective “voice” and a method by which employees can refer grievances 8. Finally, if a stress claim is received refer to insurers promptly as it is an employer liability claim to be dealt with in the same way as other physical injury claims.

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AIRM October Meeting Risk Manager

by John Hamilton

The October AIRM Meeting had Three Excellent speakers who addressed a large number of AIRM members.

The first Presentation was by Derek Mooney and Paul Manley (Action Alarm Control 24) who discussed the use of Intruder alarm blockers, which prevents the transmission of GSM signals from burgled premises. This is a new and growing threat to both the Insurance and Security Industry.

The speakers discussed how the device works, its various applications and possible countermeasures.

John Hamilton, Philip Hermitage & Geraldine Dempsey

The second presentation was by Stephen Heffernan, Serima 1 who discussed Raid awareness and the duty of employers to protect staff.

References were made to ongoing Court cases where employees are suing for negligence.

The presentations were followed by a lively Question and Answer session.

Clive Grorke, Colm McGrath, Geraldine Considine & Martina Groban

Pat Moloney, Colm Fitzgerald & Derek Mooney

Edmund Williams, Philip Hermitage & Ray Greene

Herbert Mulligan, Dave Hey & David Hamilton

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Stephen Heffernan, Frank McGowan & Peter O’ Toole

Stephen Heffernan, Paul Manley & John Dunny

AIRM November Meeting Risk Manager

- Flood Risk Management

by John Hamilton

The November AIRM meeting was held in the Camden Court Hotel. A capacity audience listened to Mark Adamson (Office of Public Works) give a presentation on Flood Risk Management.

In his excellent presentation, he provided an overview of the national flood risk management programmes.

In his presentation, Mark Adamson provided an overview of the national flood risk management programme.

A background was set and major developments described that have lead to the current policies and programmes.

The various work flood risk management programmes were discussed, focusing on the Catchment-based Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme, capital flood protection works, non-structural measures and the proactive management of potential future risk through the consideration of flood risk in planning and development management.

Geraldine Dempsey, Mark Adamson & Nigel Dawkins

Jackie Lacey & Seรกn Coleman

Wally Reidy, Hillary Brennan, David Hamilton & Tony Fagan

Paul Collins & John Dunny

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AIRM Christmas Lunch Risk Manager

by Peter O’Toole

Howth Yacht Club was the venue for the Christmas Lunch in 2010. Returning to this north side venue after an absence of a few years ensured we had a large attendance.

In addition to members, we had a number of guests comprising of persons who made presentations to AIRM in 2010.

Our Chairperson Geraldine Dempsey hosted the lunch which got the stamp of approval from all in attendance.

Overlooking the yachts in the adjacent harbour made this a very scenic location despite the start of the tough preChristmas weather.

Following the lunch Geraldine spoke a few words and introduced our guest speaker Karen Erwin a professional mediator and facilitator specialising in conflict resolution in the work place. Karen outlined the need for a mediation service at certain times. She showed in practical terms how the process is initiated and goes through

Geraldine Dempsey & Karen Erwin

Martin Stairs & John Dunny

Peter O’Toole, David Moore & Stephen Heffernan

John O’Reilly & Victor Scott

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a process which would hopefully lead to a resolution for the various parties concerned. Following her talk the Risk Managers in attendance were not slow in asking questions. The conclusion of all in attendance was that the mediation service is a most useful service.

Following the lunch we all said our goodbyes and passed on seasonal greetings to each other and now look forward to the AIRM programme for 2011.

Ray Green, Ann Daly & Peter O’Toole

Leslie Doyle, Geraldine Dempsey, Ray Green, Trevor Bailey & Suzanne Barry

Wally Reidy & Tom English

Frank McGowan & Michael Cullen

Appointments & Recruitments Northwood Technology Northwood Technology are delighted to introduce the latest addition to their Sales Team. Paul Treacy has come onboard as a Field Sales Executive focusing on Dublin and surrounding areas.

With over 20 years experience in our Industry, Paul has a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the Security Market and its customer base. Paul has a proven track record in areas of customer support and reliability. Paul forms part of a team that is integral in bringing both our and your business forward.

Paul can be contacted directly on his mobile 086 0229022 and at the office on 01 8601880 or by email pault@northwoodtechnology.ie

www.northwoodtechnology.ie

Norbain appoints new managing director Norbain SD is delighted to announce the appointment of Barry Shakespeare as new managing director.

With a career that spans over 30 years’ in the telecommunications and computer industries, Barry brings to Norbain a wealth of experience gained within large multi-national Corporate and SME companies, including Honeywell, Case Communications, Nortel Networks and more recently the Westcon Group.

“Norbain is a highly successful company that has built an enviable reputation as partner of choice for installers, end users and manufacturers alike across Europe,” says Barry. “I’m excited about the opportunities that exist for further business growth, and am looking forward to working with Norbain’s high caliber staff, customers and vendor partners. Continuing to supply our customers with the mix of solutions they require is at the top of our agenda, particularly in these changing times of technology transformation and convergence.”

www.norbain.com

Samsung Appoint Account Manager for Scotland, Ireland and the North East of England Samsung’s professional security division has appointed Craig Smith to be its Account Manager for Scotland, Ireland and the North East of England.

Craig, whose career within the electronic security industry spans 26 years, has worked for a number of leading installers and manufacturers including Dedicated Micros, where he was a Regional Account Manager.

Reporting to Simon Shawley, General Manager - UK and Ireland for Samsung Techwin Europe Ltd., Craig will be responsible for developing new business opportunities by working closely with installers, system integrators and distributors.

Commenting on Craig’s appointment, Simon Shawley said: “Craig’s professional sales skills and extensive industry knowledge will be extremely valuable to us as we look to continue to grow our customer base throughout Scotland, Ireland and the North East of England.”

Craig can be contacted on: +44 (0)791 876 5533 or by email: craig.smith@samsung.com

Global Security Devices (GSD) are pleased to announce the appointment of David Byrne

Global Security Devices (GSD) are pleased to announce the appointment of David Byrne as Sales Channel Manager for both the UK & Irish channels, David will manage GSD’s complete security portfolio which includes Access Control, Intruder Alarm and the soon to be launched IP CCTV. David brings with him three years experience as Sales Channel Manager for Sony having managed their IP Security Solutions.

Commenting on David’s appointment, Peter O’Connor, managing director, GSD, stated that “David’s appointment will be a huge asset to GSD going forward, building on our reputation as product leaders”

Head Office: Global Security Devices Ltd., No. 1 Turnpike Business Park, Ballymount, Dublin 22 Tel: +353 (1) 5242691 Email: info@globalsecurity.ie www.globalsecurity.ie

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InjuriesBoard.ie

Statement re: Advertising Standards Authority of Ireland Ruling Against Claims.ie website InjuriesBoard.ie, the independent Government Agency that assesses personal injury claims recently welcomed the decision of the Advertising Standards Authority of Ireland (ASAI) to uphold the Board’s complaint about online advertising undertaken by the website www.claims.ie.

“We have been concerned for some time that personal injury claimants were providing information to this website mistakenly believing it to be the official Injuries Board website - www. injuriesboard.ie,” said Patricia Byron, Chief Executive of the Board.

“Based on customer feedback, we believe that the online advertising used by the promoters of this site misled potential claimants into thinking that they had made an online application to the Injuries Board. Instead, they had provided personal information, including details of their accident and injuries to an anonymous website, which provides no information about the individuals or organisation behind it.

“Typically, claimants who provide information to this website are then contacted by a solicitor to discuss being appointed as their legal representative. In a small number of cases, we have been told by some claimants that they were led to believe that the solicitors in question had been appointed or nominated by the Injuries Board and proceeded to engage them. The Injuries Board never appoints solicitors.

While the ASAI ruling against the claims. ie website is welcome, the Injuries Board is advising claimants to be vigilant and follow some basic advice:

Since its establishment in 2004, all personal injury claims in Ireland must be submitted to the Injuries Board. The Board’s website, www.injuriesboard.ie, provides clear and detailed information for claimants about how the Board works and how to make a claim for compensation. It also offers a user friendly facility whereby claimants can submit an online application themselves.

• Be careful about submitting personal data to sites where you have no idea who is the recipient is; unlike sites like www. injuriesboard.ie where you can clearly identify that it is a statutory Government agency. You would not give a stranger in the street personal and sensitive information, so why give it to a website which gives no information on who is behind it

Since the Injuries Board’s web based service was launched in 2008, there has been a significant increase in online advertising from sites which offer a variety of services to potential personal injury claimants.

The Injuries Board also operates a Service Centre which is open from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and can be contacted at Lo-Call 1890 829 121.

• If you have been the victim of an accident and are considering making an application to the Board, ensure that you click onto www.injuriesboard.ie and do not be deceived by online advertising which leads you to other sites

Cusafe celebrate First Anniversary

CUsafe, the Insurance channel for Credit Union members, celebrated its first anniversary in November. John Hamilton and Daren O’Neill have built a single unique brand for the credit union market, and with one contact point for a full range of insurance products. Cusafe has established competitors in its network but as they are not using the traditional broker model, earn lower margins and pass on great value insurance products to credit union members.

The model works very simply, Cusafe’s use an outsourced call centre, who take calls from Credit Union members and then connect them to chosen insurance suppliers who deal with

Insurance. Online quotes for Travel and Home

(Blackrock College Rugby Club). After an

are available online through www.cusafe.ie

exciting fight enjoyed by a capacity audience

. Alternatively Members can call 1850 287 233

the result was declared a draw. All proceeds

for a quotation. Members of over 100 Credit

from the night were donated to the Umbrella

Unions have used the Cusafe call centre.

Foundation.

Cusafe were delighted to be involved in the

the sale, premium collection, claims etc.

Recent Brawl for Nepal which was held in

Currently available are Motor, Home, Travel,

the Boxing match between Brian Moroney

Business, Boat, Health Cashplan and Pet

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Terenure college recently. The main event was (Terenure College Rugby Club) and Alex Dunlop

www.cusafe.ie

Wirefree Network Access Control System

World’s First Wirefree Grade 3 Intruder Alarm System

Seamless integration on secure wirefree network of Access Control and Intruder Systems Head Office: No. 1 Turnpike Business Park, Ballymount, Dublin 22, Ireland Main Office: +353 (0) 1 524 2691 Sales: +353 (0) 1 524 2690 Email: info@globalsecurity.ie UK Office: Centre Court 1301 Stratford Road, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 9HH, UK

www.globalsecurity.ie

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