Morse Watchmans' KeyWatcher System Helps Secure World's Tallest Suspension Bridge in Istanbul

Bridge Safety and Security Bolstered with Key Management System

 The recently opened Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, connecting Istanbul’s Asian and European sections across the Bosphorus Strait, is described as the world’s tallest and longest suspension bridge. It is an engineering marvel that also features cutting edge technology for road and traffic safety as well as bridge security, including a Morse Watchmans’ KeyWatcher automated key management system.

“Controlling and tracking key usage is a necessary step in ensuring the overall safety and security of the bridge,” said Fernando Pires, VP Sales and Marketing, Morse Watchmans. “We are delighted that our KeyWatcher system was included as an integral component of the high-tech solution.”

According to Orcun Bayindir, regional representative for Morse Watchmans, the 96-key cabinet will store and secure keys used for bridge maintenance and service facilities, department vehicles, on-site office and elevator access, among others. Only authorized users can access keys by entering their (PIN, biometrics, access card); if the information matches the data stored in the system, the key cabinet will open and the requested key can be removed. The system automatically records all key access activity and if a key is not returned or returned late, an email or text message is sent to the supervisor. For added convenience, management can view live or recorded data as well as schedule practical management reports which trace key movements by time, date and user code.

“The KeyWatcher system delivers on all fronts and adds to operational efficiency as well as safety and security,” said Mr. Berk Köse. “It’s a perfect complement to the department’s goal of using technology to support road and traffic safety.”

The new bridge, which was completed within a record-breaking 27 months, nine months ahead of schedule, stretches 1,480 meters (4,620 feet) over the Bosporus, has a width of 192 feet and a height of 1,056 feet, eight lanes of highway and two lanes of railway. It is the longest suspension bridge in the world that includes a rail system, per the government officials.

Featured

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

  • Survey: 48 Percent of Worshippers Feel Less Safe Attending In-Person Services

    Almost half (48%) of those who attend religious services say they feel less safe attending in-person due to rising acts of violence at places of worship. In fact, 39% report these safety concerns have led them to change how often they attend in-person services, according to new research from Verkada conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,123 U.S. adults who attend a religious service or event at least once a month. Read Now

New Products

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.