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Maritime
Ports
The importance
of high security for maritime ports can not, and should not be undervalued.
80 percent of world trade is transported by sea. Protecting port operations
is one of the most critical challenges faced by the United States' Homeland
Security Department. An integral part of port security is video surveillance.
Maritime ports demand the latest in security camera technology in order to maintain
an appropriately high level of visual security.
Benefits of Port
Surveillance Cameras
- Combat
terrorism – Because of the critical importance of ports in world
trade, and the sensitivity of some of the materials involved, the threat of
terrorism is a serious concern. Comprehensive video surveillance is vital
in thwarting terrorist plots.
- Enhance
container security – 6 million containers are processed through our
national ports each year. Close monitoring of these containers is extremely
important. IP cameras can greatly increase the level of security surrounding
containers.
- Prevent
theft of goods – Another important aspect of port security is the
protection of cargo. IP cameras, such as those equipped with video analytics,
can spot potential acts of theft and suspicious activity as it happens.
- Protect
cruise ships – Cruise line security is another concern related to
ports. The level of safety for passengers and vessels can be significantly
enhanced by positioning security cameras to closely monitor activity around
these ships.
- Identify
threats – The latest IP camera technology, such as video analytics,
make video surveillance increasingly effective in pinpointing potential threats
before they happen. Motion sensing, behavioral recognition and other intelligent
camera features help in this regard.
- Improve
the flow of trade – With a high level of security reducing vulnerabilities
at our ports, it's easier to enhance cargo flow. Thorough video surveillance
that utilizes the most powerful IP camera technology can play a significant
role in providing this level of security.
Risks of Maritime
Port Video Surveillance
- Tampering
– There's always the threat that security cameras could be vandalized or tampered
with. Tamper-resistant cameras and properly positioned cameras help to solve
this problem, but in the instance that a camera is damaged, the signal could
be lost. It's important to have other security measures in place to compensate
for a lost signal.
- Only
part of the puzzle – Surveillance cameras are a critical element
in a much larger effort to protecting our ports. In order to properly protect
such vulnerable areas, thorough surveillance is crucial, but should not supplant
other necessary forms of security.
Configuration
of Port Security Cameras
- The following
factors should be considered when configuring a maritime port surveillance
system:
- What are the
port's highest risk areas?
- What type of
cargo passes through the port?
- Are cruise
ships stationed there?
- What security
systems does the port currently have in place?
- How does the
port handle container security?
- Have there
been reported incidents where the port's security has been breached?
- What level
of physical security patrols the area?
- What is the
size of the port?
- How vulnerable
are the ships and cargo entering the port?
Maritime Security
Camera Setup Advice
- Position cameras
in all loading and unloading areas to monitor the flow of cargo.
- Utilize security
cameras to provide views of vulnerable container areas.
- Provide comprehensive
surveillance of all ships so that all activity around the vessels is closely
watched.
- Consider IP
network cameras equipped with video analytics in order to more intelligently
detect suspicious activity and potential terrorist threats.
- Monitor areas
where cruise ships are stationed.
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