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Security Dealer & Integrator
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Homeland Security: Industrial is a High Stakes Game
Complete security protection for this complex market has taken on greater importance over the last five years.The Latest from SIW
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By Tim O'Leary
The Industrial Security market is the big leagues and often means big bucks. It is not an area of security to be taken lightly. Yet, Industrial Security is based on several key elements that are not unlike other market segments. These include:
• Occupational safety.
• Process control & integrity.
• Physical security.
• Electronic measures for intrusion detection and access control.
• Background checks and cyber security to protect the networks and other corporate soft targets.
In an exclusive interview with Tim O’Leary, Security Dealer Technical Editor, Jerry Blackman, Global Director, Industrial Security Solutions for Honeywell, offers insights into what is involved in entering and succeeding in this arena. Blackman joined Honeywell in 1989 and during his 17-year tenure has been involved in major security related initiatives.
SD: How big is the industrial security market?
JB: It is large and growing every year. Because it is an emerging market, it is hard to put exact figures on it. However, when considering the total installed cost of systems, including infrastructure, we expect this segment to be over $1 billion soon.
SD: What requirements differentiate industrial security from other security markets?
JB: I would say there are four significant elements that distinguish industrial security from other segments.
First of all, this environment is quite complex to both work in (from an installation and service standpoint), and operate a system in. The requirements to hold a sterling safety record, and have certifications in safety training are very stringent. From a systems standpoint, you have devices and infrastructure that intersect from building to building and from interior to exterior applications—all on the same circuit, across a large geography. The personnel that use the systems work at all different times, and is a blend of subcontract and employed workforce. In many instances, these sites are located in environments prone to adverse weather.
