Construction sites are high-risk workplaces. In addition to risks of on-site injury, managers must be constantly vigilant about protecting a site from theft, vandalism and intruders, and choosing the right security system can mean the difference between being able to deliver a project on time and on budget. Here, we outline the six critical factors construction managers need to consider before selecting a site surveillance solution.
Given how much is at stake for a high-value construction site, choosing the right security system can feel overwhelming. The following questions will help identify the most important considerations when choosing the right security system for a site.
1. Does the system need grid power?
Many traditional security systems rely on access to grid power, meaning that they are unable to operate in remote or temporary locations. But because grid-powered cameras need to be near a power source, they have limited options for placement around a site and are easily compromised by power interruption. As a result, managers often have no choice but to accept that certain areas of the sites will be unmonitored and vulnerable to theft or vandalism.
In contrast, unwired systems – like those offered by Australian surveillance and security experts Spectur – offer flexible placement around a site. Because these cameras don’t need to be placed near a power connection, they can monitor areas of a site which would be challenging for grid-powered cameras. They can also be moved quickly and easily as construction progresses.
2. Will the system actively deter criminals?
Traditional security systems are reactive in nature, using cameras to simply record security breaches and retroactively provide evidence of the incident. However, an active surveillance system with advanced intelligence can go a step beyond, responding to criminal activity in real-time with deterrence.
Paired with artificial intelligence, edge and cloud computing, Spectur’s security system is able to sense threats, analyse data to assess the situation, and actively deter the threat by responding with an appropriate action, such as triggering an alarm.
3. How does the system store and manage data?
Surveillance systems typically store captured data through cloud or edge computing. Cloud computing allows data to be shared and remotely accessed; while edge computing stores and processes data locally, allowing for a faster response in real-time applications and reducing the consumption of data transmitted over wireless networks.
Spectur’s systems offer the best of both worlds, combining cloud and edge computing in an optimised form known as fog computing.
The system uses edge devices to process and store high volumes of data, and transfer limited, curated information to the cloud for further processing and long-term storage.
4. What are the set-up costs?
Aside from the costs of a surveillance system, grid-powered cameras often have additional costs of trenching or digging for cable installation. On the other hand, wireless cameras can completely eliminate these costs. And while 24/7 surveillance of a construction site is ideal, employing an on-site security guard can be prohibitively expensive. For the same cost, a user could have more than 30 independently operating Spectur systems on hire, or they could save even more in the long-term by purchasing outright.
Through deterrence and warning systems, including flashing lights, spoken warnings and sounds, Spectur cameras can give the impression that security personnel are on site, even if they are not physically present.
5. What are the operating costs?
Spectur’s systems are optimised for low power and data usage, and are designed to maximise the number of devices and computing power each unit can support. One platform can support up to four cameras, offering a 360-degree view of an area in 4K, high definition and thermal images. When fully charged, each station of four cameras can operate for up to five days of fully overcast conditions.
6. Does the supplier offer installation and aftermarket services?
Partnering with a supplier that can offer repair, maintenance and installation services ensures that security systems are working to their fullest potential, providing the highest standard protections for a site. With low-intrusion installation, Spectur offers ongoing services to suit the unique needs of the site, with flexible and customisable services that can adapt to your needs.
For more information on using Spectur’s solar-powered camera systems, call 1300 802 960 to find the right solution for your unique onsite challenges.
This sponsored editorial is brought to you by Spectur. For more information visit spectur.com.au
