We have a new “big brother” coming to town as Astrosec sets its sights on Blackheath. Situated on the corner of Wimbledon Road and Heath Circle, a new control room is being set up to act as Astrosec’s eyes and ears for its new security operations.
The control room will enable Atrosec to offer a wide range services to prospective clients; i.e. monitor procedure, processes, staff and guard replacement. What does this mean? Simply it means a reduced need for expensive security guards, but rather a system that can be monitored and operate from a central, off-site location. It utilises alarmed event monitoring which means that the displays in the control room are blank until an alarm is raised that will in turn trigger the specific camera(s). The required actions are then taken as prescribed by the client, and if an audio system is available then the control room operator can make use of direct communication to speak to the perpetrator – just let them know “Big Brother is watching!”
The operators themselves are specifically trained to use these monitoring systems / techniques and extract information from feeds in accordance with client requests. The system is not only used for monitoring and ‘checking-up’ on sites, but can be used very effectively when communicating with armed response – informing them of crimes in progress. Thus the operators have to be wide awake and ever vigilant. The best part? The building has been designed specifically to accommodate staff suffering disabilities. Giving opportunities and experience to those who would otherwise be at a disadvantage.
Astrosec also offers business intelligence services, covert CCTV installations, screening of camera footage and Risk Management Assessments.
When asked about the systems coverage and scope it was revealed that there is the potential for a greater network of CCTV cameras. Effectively, the system can connect to virtually any site – anywhere, from here to all around South Africa – so long as you have some sort of communication medium i.e. wireless or ADSL through which you can link them.
So what is the benefit to businesses in short? Well, firstly it gives us eyes and ears in all corners of our properties, which can be triggered and monitored at all times via the control room. Firstly, no inefficient guard patrols. Secondly, it is considerably cheaper than hiring personnel – so it is a major saving for companies. Thirdly, productivity can improve and reduce pilferage. Astrosec has dedicated itself to uplifting those less fortunate and providing jobs and experience in the security industry for those who are disabled and in wheelchairs. What is not to like?
So how long do we have to wait for this new development? We should be seeing testing starting as of Monday, 1 June 2013 from a separate temporary location while the control room is being completed. Official launch of the finished building will be on the 1st of August 2013. So let’s hang ten – exciting times are ahead for security in Blackheath.