Security on the Move: Video technology in logistics

Santa isn’t the only one loading up packages these days. Goods are being rushed to and from warehouses and logistics centres at a frantic pace all over the world. From your online Christmas shopping to the latest arms shipment, businesses need to move high-value items quickly and safely to their destinations. Here are some ways the latest video technology is making logistics centres more secure and efficient.

Loading Dock

While bar code scanners can track when goods are loaded and unloaded and where they are stored, they cannot explain how damage occurs. High-definition video footage, however, can confirm whether those goods were damaged upon arrival or if they were mishandled during loading or unloading

Warehouse Storage Halls

Businesses can place digital IP (Internet Protocol) security cameras strategically throughout storage areas to prevent theft and monitor employee performance.

• PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) ceiling cameras can track movement and zoom in on packaging details
• High-definition IP security cameras can monitor areas where small or high-value items are stored.
• NVR (network video recorders) process, compress and store encoded video from these HD IP cameras.

Outdoors

Increasingly, security cameras equipped with video analytics software provide the best solution for protecting the outdoor areas of a logistics centre. Using complex algorithms with predetermined criteria, this software detects, categorizes and tracks objects in real time. The camera then processes the video to separate foreground elements from the background. It can distinguish between a dog wandering through the yard, a warehouse foreman and a semi-trailer in all weather and lighting conditions.

When the software detects suspicious activity, it trips an alarm at a central monitoring station, where an operator can remotely assess the situation using PTZ cameras. Sometimes, the operator confirms it is only a false alarm. Or she may notify the local police about a crime in progress. If the police arrest a suspect, the video footage stored on the NVR will be useful as evidence.

While security cameras are only one component of security for a logistics centre, they are critical for protecting the massive volume of goods on the move. Perhaps Santa should talk to us about a security strategy for his operations.

Contact us for more information about security cameras for your business.

Note: This blog discusses general safety and security topics. It is not intended to provide comprehensive advice or guidance. In all matters of personal safety and security, We encourage readers to research topics in depth and consult a security professional about specific concerns.