Total security for Transport (UK)

It’s readily apparent that the more traditional security methods among them turnstiles, Help Points and ticket inspectors are working in harmony with newer technologies. The end result of that integration is very impressive.

At airports, for example, the need for enhanced counter-terrorism measures has coincided with the growing focus on serious and organised crime, in addition to illegal immigration. Improved security screening procedures at airports – including RFID tags on boarding cards to track passengers, intelligent CCTV systems and devices designed to detect chemical odours – are all being developed.

Saturation CCTV coverage

The advent of digital CCTV, video-over-IP and detectors linked to Remote Video Response Centres renders comprehensive surveillance increasingly effective and affordable. According to Transport for London – the organisation directly responsible for the Capital’s transport network – there are now over 6,000 CCTV cameras on the London Underground network alone. That figure is set for an increase to 12,000 by 2010.

This technology is also being used to considerable effect by car dealerships all over the country. At Quarry Garages in Huddersfield, for instance, a remotely-monitored CCTV solution helped proprietor John Denton achieve low insurance premiums, long-term savings and peace of mind. He told SMT: “I see the event-driven solution as a crucially important part of our pro-active risk management. Where the service really stands out is in terms of its ability to qualify what is happening, take appropriate action and eliminate problematic false alarms.”

Automatic Number Plate Recognition

Another advancing technology is that of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) software. Security professionals in charge of car parks, ports, stations and airports can now deploy security cameras linked to barriers and rising bollards in order to control traffic flows.

Access barriers are now being tested at the main vehicle entrances to the concourses at Waterloo and Victoria Stations in London, including those methods for admitting authorised vehicles during deliveries and emergencies. They are designed to address terrorist attacks and property crime by controlling access without impeding rail users.

Mobile cameras and digital recording

Mobile cameras and digital recording allow camera images to be automatically downloaded at depots or viewed via the Internet using GPRS mobile technology.

Recent implementation of such a system on the Dutch railway network resulted in 60% of passengers feeling safer. Train staff felt their working environment had improved, while damage from vandalism plummeted by 45%.

Ultimately, the BSIA would like to see the same exemptions afforded to bullion vehicles currently allowed for Royal Mail vehicles. Business crime, human crime CVIT crime is currently classed as a ‘business crime’, and receives the attendant police resources and prison sentences that go with that designation. While this is the case, it is highly unlikely we will see a major reduction in these very ‘human crimes’.

During the 836 reported attacks perpetrated in 2005, criminals shot six couriers and a member of the public. CVIT robbery, then, affects ordinary people going about their everyday work. The ‘Combating Cash Delivery Crime’ Campaign’s objectives are all common sense approaches to reducing the risks faced by couriers on a daily basis. With the help of the Government, the police and the business community, that vital reduction is possible.