Scheduling safety and security audits to complement the accreditation process can be a wise strategy
By Matthew Conrad
In the not-too-distant past, preparing for a survey by The Joint Commission meant ensuring that not only the facility but also all policies, procedures and documentation were well-prepared and ready for scrutiny during one specific week every three years. Anyone who has worked in a hospital knows how stressful this was and how the survey process has changed in recent years.
North American university finds success with major security overhaul
By Tim Neary
With a larger student population than any other university in North America and more than 200 facilities spread across three campuses, the University of Toronto is a vast and diverse institution, rich in history and culture. In addition to being internationally known and recognized for its research and teaching, the university is now a model of security, thanks to careful, coordinated planning and integrated technology.
Software configuration synchronizes fire and life safety systems
By Todd Alford
Comprising two interconnected threestory buildings, Silvercreek Premier Retirement Living overlooks the Cherokee Valley Golf Course in Olive Branch, Miss. Silvercreek has 98 luxury apartments and offers catered independent and assisted living opportunities. Because it is a retirement facility catering to a senior community, the design of the fire system posed some unique challenges for AlarmTec Systems of Memphis, Tenn., designer and installer of the fire system.
Wireless mesh enables fixed, portable and mobile video applications
By Ksenia Coffman
Wireless transmission for security is often used in outdoor settings where there is not existing wired infrastructure, or where it’s cost-prohibitive or impractical to implement wired solutions. Wireless networks also are ideal for temporary installations such as special events, fairs or rallies, as well as longer-term installations, such as construction sites.
Distributed network architecture provides scalability in industry environment
By Warren Brown
Global enterprises and large, multi-site hospitals, universities and government agencies are increasingly facing a common challenge: how to bring all of their disparate buildings into an easy-to-manage enterprise security system. Most multi-site organizations have a variety of sites that range in size from small branch offices to large, multi-building campuses.
Western Digital is making waves in the mergers and acquisitions market by buying Hitachi Global Storage. With the economy making a rebound, we wanted to know more about the company and its plans for the future, so we talked with Ed Strong, director of Western Digital’s CE business unit.
Automated detection solutions prevent crime before loss occurs
By Rolland Trayte
Security technologies are valuable for their ability to deter criminal and illegal behavior. The visible addition of security cameras to highcrime areas reduces criminal activity significantly. But video surveillance isn’t the only valuable service or system that effectively reduces crime. The presence of security guards also limits illicit activity that leads to loss or damage, and regular visible patrols restrict the opportunity for violence.