Datapath Ltd.

What are the main functions of a security control room?

March 23, 2023 - The security control room is the central point of all communications within an operation. Alongside this there has to be full control and monitoring of security and safety systems, for example, CCTV sources supplied in real-time.

Operators must possess a real-time overview of all data and sources available from all locations within a control room, at any given time. An effective security control room operation will be able to enhance security through proactively monitoring and reacting to operational developments in an effective manner.

Today's control room technology bring content to the operator like never before. It is not uncommon for information sources to be in the hundreds – with camera feeds, websites, satellite TV and bespoke software all requiring real-time monitoring and control for smooth operations and swift decision making in times of crises. 

It is typical for control room operators to be assigned responsibility for a specific task in the organization, for example monitoring CCTV feeds within a large sporting venue. Operators in this environment would need need all relevant data and information on 'their area', as well as an overview of information related to the running of the operation on a shared video wall. 

Such control rooms are typically managed 24/7, 365 days a year to ensure that there is constant attention and alertness. A control room is the central point that monitors and then deploys resources within the operation, and it's absolutely crucial to ensure that operations are smooth, efficient and safely managed.

What type of activities occur within a control room?

1. Monitoring and Surveillance: Security personnel monitor various systems, such as CCTV cameras, access control systems, fire alarms, and intrusion detection systems, to detect any potential threats or breaches.
2. Incident Response: If a security breach or incident is detected, security personnel within the control room will initiate a response. This may involve contacting law enforcement or emergency services, notifying on-site security personnel, or taking other appropriate measures to resolve the situation.
3. Communication: Security personnel within the control room are responsible for communicating with on-site security personnel, other departments within the organization, and external entities as needed to manage security-related incidents and situations.
4. Access Control: Security personnel in the control room may manage access control systems to ensure only authorized personnel are granted access to restricted areas.
5. Record Keeping: Control room personnel may be responsible for keeping detailed records of security-related incidents, including incident reports, surveillance footage, and other relevant data.

What is an operator responsible for?

A security control room operator is responsible for monitoring and managing various security systems and devices, such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and access control systems, to ensure the safety and security of a facility or location.

Some specific tasks that an operator may perform include:

1. Monitoring security systems: The operator is responsible for keeping an eye on security systems, such as CCTV cameras, to detect any unusual activity or security breaches.
2. Responding to alarms: If an alarm is triggered, the operator must respond immediately to assess the situation and take appropriate action, such as dispatching security personnel or contacting law enforcement.
3. Controlling access: The operator may control access to a facility by monitoring and managing access control systems, such as card readers or biometric scanners, to ensure that only authorized personnel can enter.
4. Communicating with stakeholders: The operator may communicate with stakeholders, such as security personnel, law enforcement, and emergency services, to coordinate responses to security incidents.
5. Recording incidents: The operator is responsible for recording and documenting any security incidents or breaches, including the time, location, and nature of the incident.

What type of control room solution is needed?

To meet the growing complexities in control room environments, Datapath's fully integrated control room solution, Aetria, and is able to design, manage and monitor entire systems from one single interface.

Aetria provides a scalable platform that is easy to expand as more capacity is required. Video walls, workstations, and screens can all be added and integrated into the wider system over time.

Aetria ensures all necessary personnel have access to relevant information with team-wide viewing enabled across video walls and workstations. Operators can send and receive sources to supervisors/managers, allowing for quick escalation.