INTRODUCTION
A multifaceted warehouse video surveillance system uses a combined solution of internet protocol (IP) cameras, multi-purpose sensors, edge analytics-based gateways, and bridges accommodating cloud storage. The solution performs real-time video analytics techniques like object detection, people counting, motion detection, inventory tracking, and classification using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. In conjunction with a cloud-based database, these technologies provide users with a complete and comprehensive security solution. They also use various sensors like vibration sensor, door sensor, thermal sensors, and support the cameras and increase security.
WHAT IS A WAREHOUSE VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SOLUTION?
A warehouse surveillance solution starts with primary IP cameras installed all over the warehouse to monitor and record all activities. The recordings from these cameras are instantly uploaded to a cloud platform. Here, AI and ML algorithms are used on these video recordings to perform various functions like object recognition, motion detection, intrusion detection, etc., in real-time. The moment the system detects a threat or anomaly, it raises an alert and forwards it to the command center, where it can be verified and further action can be taken. These functions can improve the effectiveness of surveillance systems. For example, these cameras can be used at the facility’s perimeter and run intrusion detection to detect the moment some unauthorized person tries to cross a wall or fence of the facility.
HOW VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SOLUTIONS HELP SECURE PREMISES?
Here we will explain how these systems help improve the security of premises using different methods.
Intrusion detection: It is essential to protect your facility against intrusion and take all possible measures to do so. These cameras can continuously monitor entrances and exits to detect intrusion. If an intruder tries to gain entry into the facility, the system automatically detects that and raises an alert immediately. Intrusion leads to further crimes like thefts and vandalism, which is why the perpetrator must be stopped the moment he/she intrudes the perimeter.
Motion detection: Motion detection can be used to monitor areas with restricted access. The system can warn of any unauthorized movement within a given area. This is especially useful during nighttime. For example, the administration floor of a warehouse should not be accessed during the nighttime. Motion-sensing cameras can be used on that floor to detect if anyone enters and moves about on that floor.
Access control: Access control uses various tools to monitor and control access to different parts of the premises. It can restrict the movement of an employee to only the areas they are authorized to enter. This system becomes imperative when your premises have sensitive data and equipment stored on-site. For example, a factory worker can be given access to the production site but not into a factory’s accounting and administration wing. These intelligent systems help you control access according to the timing of the day while monitoring the number of times a door is used & by which employee.
Fire detection: Smart smoke detectors can be used along with smart cameras to detect smoke levels throughout the warehouse facility and send real-time notifications to the relevant officials. They can validate the situation and take further action. Smart cameras help by getting an accurate idea of the location and intensity of the fire on the premises and help authorities’ respond more effectively.
People counting: These intelligent cameras can also be used at entrances and exits to monitor the number of employees and have a headcount for the number of people present in the facility. In the current covid circumstances, these can detect if the number of people present in a space exceeds the limit instated
HOW IS VIDEO SURVEILLANCE DIFFERENT FROM TRADITIONAL CCTV SOLUTIONS?
Artificial Intelligence Analytics & Machine Learning: AI and ML algorithms are used on the video recordings captured from the cameras to perform video analytics. Under video analytics, they can perform various functions as required by an individual client, like motion detection, object recognition, etc.
Secure storage over cloud & doesn’t require local storage: All of your data is stored on a unified cloud platform. In other words, you no longer need to store data at individual locations using separate local video recorders. All data can be stored in a centralized location where it is stored securely and can’t be accessed without authentic credentials.
Long-term data retention and easy retrieval: Cloud-based storage gives you the control to access and retrieve all of your data anytime you desire, from any location you want. All you need is a mobile device with a working internet connection. You can also choose to retain data for longer periods by purchasing extra cloud storage without making any changes to your existing infrastructure.
Compatibility with legacy infrastructure: Many companies are hesitant to adopt newer technologies as they believe they will not be compatible with the legacy infrastructure already in place. However, a smart surveillance system can be easily set up alongside existing legacy infrastructure.
Real-time and remote monitoring: The most significant advantage of an intelligent video surveillance solution is that it sends real-time notifications to a common command centre for swift footage verification. The matter can then be escalated to responsible authorities quickly, if necessary.
Benefits other than security from external threats
SOP compliance check: A smart warehouse surveillance system can reduce the dependency on guards and managers to monitor SOP compliance & employees’ performance so that they can focus on more critical tasks. There is no need to continuously maintain logs and registers as the surveillance system can automatically monitor these metrics and notify in case of non-adherence to SOPs.
Energy management: A smart surveillance system can monitor energy consumption in real-time by different machinery and equipment in the warehouse. It can detect when a particular machine’s energy usage varies from its pattern. The system can report these abnormalities in energy consumption and send notifications to managers to service the device. This helps prevent damage to the machine and also reduces breakdown expenses.
Inventory tracking: Inventory can be tracked from its point of entry till its departure, and various things like pilferage and damage can be monitored throughout using these systems.
Safety and hygiene maintenance: It is important to maintain safety and hygiene standards, especially with a pandemic on our hands. A smart surveillance system can not only monitor garbage or dirty floors but can also verify whether the employees are following protocols like social distancing and wearing masks or not.
Air Quality control: An e-surveillance system can use smoke sensors to measure the levels of various gases present in the atmosphere, comparing them to predefined thresholds and notifying staff in case of deviations. The solution can also automate the turning on of the exhaust system in similar circumstances.
Conclusion
A smart surveillance system can offer a wide variety of services that can help improve security and provide many other benefits. This helps a business improve its surveillance structure, boost the operational efficiency and also reduce costs significantly. Each of these services can give your business an edge over the competition. It is necessary for every warehouse manager, executive or owner to invest in some sort of surveillance solution for the long-term safe operations. However, investing in a solution that not only facilitates surveillance but also enables you to expand your facilities, integrate your sites by overcoming geographical restrictions and improving your return on investment, is a choice of the wise.
