Security project challenge

C3 Shared Services (Pty) Ltd has been appointed by Bombardier Transportation to supply and install a combination of two military grade technologies, namely Opgal's thermal cameras combined with ioimage intelligent video analytics, to monitor the tracks and tunnels of the Gautrain rail.

Due to the emphasis on a very high level of security along the Gautrain rail and in the tunnels, the main criteria was to select a combination of technologies that shall provide detection of human targets even in no light conditions. Opgal's thermal cameras combined with ioimage intelligent video analytics were selected for their high probability of detection and low false alarm rate. This decision was not taken lightly and was only decided upon once rigorous and extensive testing had been conducted between different brands of thermal cameras and video analytics. The test results were then sent over to France for final scrutinizing, which was based on the performance of the technologies to comply or excel the high criteria of user requirements set by Bombardier as part of their security methodology.

Security project solution

C3, specialists in the design and implementation of high-end perimeter security solutions and military grade intrusion detection systems, was appointed as the preferred vendor. Nick Grange, technical director of C3 says, "We are honoured to be appointed to supply and commission our solution for such a prestigious and important project. Once again it is proved that the higher sensitivity of the detector and higher resolution combined with a faster frame rate makes the Opgal cameras a superior product which is hard to beat by the competition". Nick Grange goes on to say, "Our cameras also had the leading edge over the competition because of the wide range of lens selection available which was necessary due to the nature and layout of the Gautrain track".

To date, C3 has had enormous success with numerous installations of thermal cameras combined with high performance video analytics at various sites in South Africa including residential estates, refineries, correctional facilities and National Keypoint's. Brendon Cowley, business development Director of C3 says, "It is of tantamount importance, that when implementing this type of technology, a very high level of expertise and experience is required. C3 has been implementing this particular security solution at numerous high risk and high value sites throughout Southern Africa with great success and we look forward to providing the Gautrain Project with the same level of commitment and expertise".

Security project extra information

The C3 solution shall integrate with Bombardier's high-tech video management system enabling operators of the system to monitor unauthorized access to the rail and making it a much safer environment for both Gautrain personnel and commuters alike.

Security project challenge

C3 Shared Services were contacted by an armaments development and defence organization to showcase our various technologies for a perimeter intrusion detection system. Multiple technologies were considered, including radar, fence detection systems, seismic detection systems and video analytics utilizing thermal cameras. In-field tests were requested by the defence organisation and conducted at its high-risk facility for a period of approximately 12 months, to see how the different technologies would perform in adverse weather conditions and to determine which technology would best fit their unique site requirements. The facility is built on a high-lightning belt, which poses a threat to the sustainability of the security solution.

Security project solution

Having considered all the various technologies available on the market, the defence organization opted for thermal imaging cameras, combined with video analytics, as their perimeter intrusion detection system. Throughout the proof of concept, the Opgal thermal cameras outperformed all its competitors due to the fact that these thermal imagers are robust and can function in the most daunting environmental conditions. Needless to say, C3 was awarded the contract to install, configure, test and optimize the perimeter intrusion detection system via thermal cameras with analytics. The project also included the designing of the control and server rooms according to international best practice. C3 chose to customize the entire control room to ensure perfect working conditions, taking into account the ergonomically correct establishment for operators, as well as light levels and user interface. Along with the complexities of installing the security equipment, designing the most effective protection system to mitigate lightning risk presented a new challenge. The project for this military facility took more or less a year to complete, with the client challenging the systems, trying to breach the perimeter on a regular basis to ensure its effectiveness. The perimeter has, however, remained un-breached to date, and the detection system is still functioning optimally.

Security project challenge

C3 Shared Services (Pty) Ltd and a local SA engineering firm assisted in designing the security solution at Durban's Pier One terminal. The upgrade of the security at Durban's port was imperative in order for the port to comply with the International safety regulation code.

The port of Durban handles the greatest volume of sea-going traffic of any port in southern Africa. Durban's Port operates on a common user basis and consists of five business units managed by SA Port Operations (SAPO) - Durban Container Terminal (Africa's busiest), Pier 1 Container Terminal, Multi Purpose Terminal (also known as the City Terminal), Durban Car Terminal (three berths), and Maydon Wharf Terminal.

The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code is an amendment to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention (1974/1988) on minimum security arrangements for ships, ports and government agencies. Having come into force in 2004, it prescribes responsibilities to governments, shipping companies, shipboard personnel, and port/facility personnel to "detect security threats and take preventative measures against security incidents affecting ships or port facilities used in international trade". The IMO states that "The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) is a comprehensive set of measures to enhance the security of ships and port facilities, developed in response to the perceived threats to ships and port facilities in the wake of the 9/11 attacks in the United States" (IMO).

Seaports face a daunting challenge - to protect our ports' seaside and landside areas from unauthorized intrusions and potential terrorist activities. For freight seaports, this means monitoring containers, maintaining fence protection systems, ensuring cargo remains safe and sanitized, and controlling incoming rail and truck traffic. These challenges had to be overcome in order for the Port to comply with the International Safety Regulations code. The security threats were identified as the following:

Cargo theft

Illegal or undocumented immigrants and stowaways

Vehicle theft

Drug smuggling

Trade fraud (such as under-valuations and sale of counterfeit goods)
Firearms smuggling



Security project solution

Given that seaports cover expansive areas, live security personnel are unable to monitor all locations at all times. But "intelligent video analytics" can. The wide-area surveillance and perimeter protection solution at Durban Port is comprised of an 'intelligent' command and control system that transforms a network of cameras into intelligent object detection, tracking and recording sensors. Through advanced video scene analysis and an algorithm-based detection and tracking system, the intelligent video analytics system identifies when designated security parameters have been violated, notifies security personnel with an alarm, tracks and records the intrusion and provides operators with the information they need to orchestrate an appropriate emergency response. Ideal for seaport security, intelligent video analytics technology can be integrated to monitor seaside perimeters, enforce proper passenger and baggage screening protocols, supervise the unloading of freight containers, and guard fences on a port's landside perimeter.

The powerful detection and tracking capabilities of intelligent video address the specific security challenges faced by seaports. At Durban's Port over 120 cameras were placed on the perimeter with the addition of 13 PTZ cameras. Any breach in the perimeter or suspicious behaviour detected by the cameras sets off an alarm in the control centre via the command centre software enabling the security personnel can react accordingly.

Security project challenge

First Quantum Minerals Ltd, a British Columbia based mining and metal's company have appointed South African company, C3 Shared Services, to design and install a tailor made state of the art "intelligent" security surveillance system to protect the highly sensitive areas at their Zambian copper mine.

Theuns Claasen, Security Manager for the mine says, "C3SS was chosen after a due diligence process was carried out on a group of suppliers bidding for our contract to install a CCTV monitoring system. The decision to appoint C3SS was unanimous in terms of their superior product and after sales service. Pre-installation was conducted professionally in terms of product packaging and care for the long delivery trip and the installation process was extremely professional."

Security project solution

C3 Shared Services, specialists in intelligent video and perimeter security solutions, have designed and installed a unique solution incorporating CCD cameras, high speed domes and ioimage intelligent video analytics to protect the perimeter and to effectively monitor all processes within the plant. The intelligent video analytics are programmed to detect and alert the control room operators to any intrusions on the perimeter, whilst the high speed domes allow for the finer details within the plant to be monitored. "This particular surveillance system has a very high probability of detection with a very low false alarm rate" says Gary Egan, Senior Technical Consultant for C3. Gary goes on to say, "C3's custom designed solution offers FQML the ability not only to monitor all security sensitive areas from a single control room in real time, but to be notified automatically in the event of a security breach."

C3 had the task to not only protect the perimeter and internal processes of the gold plant, but also to provide superior surveillance at the external main gate and the plant gate. Security at these entrances is also integrated with the advanced video management system situated in the control room. The control room, also designed by c3, is the heart of the security system. Operators in this state of the art control room have access to all the cameras on the perimeter as well as the internal cameras. The intelligent video analytics will automatically alert the operators as to the exact location of any attempted breaches on perimeter. This automated 'intelligent' ability prevents operators getting fatigued by having to watch numerous cameras as they can confidently rely on the analytics to monitor the perimeter effectively.

Security project extra information

C3 has deployed a tailor made intelligent surveillance solution which will provide FQML with a future proof security system and a high return on investment. The solution installed is a fully integrated IP open based platform allowing for expansion and growth and for the integration of future cameras, access control systems, etc.

Security project challenge

Southdown's Residential Estate is a unique residential development capturing the very essence of Irene's natural beauty and incorporating 50 hectares of farmland within the Estate. Developed by Centurus Property Developers, the estate's vision is "to be the premier residential estate in Gauteng offering a unique lifestyle in an environmentally sustainable manner".

Like many other residential estates, Southdown's had implemented conventional security measures, such as electric fencing with zone indication of intrusion detection, roving guards, reaction vehicles and a central control room. Whilst these are traditional methods of security, many estates are finding that these methods are NOT sufficient when it comes to detecting and preventing intrusions. The perimeter, approximately 6.5 km's, needed a system that would give instant visual verification as to the cause and location of any perimeter breaches without the need for additional lighting. The homeowners felt strongly about not erecting additional lighting as the estate is centred on the old Irene Dairy Farm and the aesthetic 'eco-friendly' nature had to be preserved. The Northern boundary has river frontage and dense vegetation making it the type of landscape difficult to erect and maintain electric fencing on.

Security project solution

C3 was the integrator of choice to provide Southdown's with an impenetrable and robust perimeter security system, whilst keeping with the 'eco-friendly' nature of the estate. In order to do this, a combination of two military grade technologies were selected - namely OPGAL FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) thermal imaging cameras and intelligent video analytics. Not only are OPGAL FLIR thermal cameras 'eco friendly' as they drastically cut down on power consumption but lower monthly maintenance costs also make them an attractive option for estates. Southdown's achieved what it set out to achieve: a virtual perimeter that allows for instant visual verification of any intrusions day or night with no additional lighting. Now 20 thermal cameras with 20 channels of intelligent video analytics continuously monitor the Southdown's perimeter. Furthermore, 30 Analogue cameras are used to monitor the gate houses where number plate and facial recognition systems are in use. An additional two day/night cameras with IR illuminators and intelligent video analytics are used to alert guards to all movement at the two farm gates. "C3's emphasis is not on selling a system but rather a working solution that delivers immediate benefits to the client. As a result Southdown's has agreed to let us use their site as a marketing tool for other estates" says Nick Grange technical director of C3, "This gives us great pride as it depicts the client's level of satisfaction with the security solution implemented".

Security project challenge

Xanadu Eco-Park is an upmarket residential estate surrounded by 8 km's of indigenous bush. The South Eastern perimeter borders an informal settlement. The park had unsuccessfully used traditional methods of security, eg: electric fencing, CCD high speed dome cameras, solar power, etc.. These methods proved inadequate and insufficient resulting in numerous breaches of their perimeter.

C3's expertise was required to design and implement an impenetrable and robust perimeter security system in order to keep the residents of the estate and their belongings secure. In order to do this, a combination of two military grade technologies were selected - namely thermal imaging cameras (OPGAL) and intelligent video (ioimage). The advantages were that the perimeter security system could now detect intruders in pitch black darkness at distances of up to 350 meters and enable the control room operators to make the correct and speedy decision to alert a designated armed response team to the area where the intrusion was detected.

Security project solution

The 8km perimeter is secured by a combination of two military grade technologies - 'Opgal's' thermal imaging cameras and 'ioimage' intelligent video devices. Both these technologies are endorsed by the Israeli Defence Force. This system enables instant visual verification of every alarm, even in pitch black darness, and requires no floodlights, thus maintaining the estate's eco-friendly nature. Control room operators can view the location of every alarm from the command centre control room and are able to make the necessary decisions to to send a response team to the location.

Security project challenge

Named for the blue skies and open country of its surroundings, Blue Valley Golf and Country Estate is a perfect blend of hospitality, sport and nature. Situated conveniently between northern Johannesburg and Pretoria, this Gary Player residential golf estate offers a location second to none in the Gauteng area. Recently, the estate has chosen to implement a combination of thermal cameras and intelligent video analytics, technology endorsed by the Israeli defence forces, as their perimeter security solution.

Like many other residential estates Blue Valley had implemented conventional security measures to secure the estate, such as electric fencing with zone indication of intrusion detection, roving guards, reaction vehicles and a central control room. Whilst these are still standard and traditional methods of security, many estates are finding that these are NOT sufficient when it comes to preventing and detecting intrusions. The perimeter of Blue Valley is approximately 7 km's and they needed a system that would give instant visual verification as to the cause and position of any breaches in the perimeter day or night without the need for additional lighting to be erected.

Security project solution

C3 Shared Services, specialists in the design and implementation of high-end perimeter security solutions and military grade intrusion detection systems, has been appointed as the preferred vendor to supply and commission the new state of the art perimeter security solution. Mark Cowley, Chairman of the Blue Valley Security Sub-Committee, says "After many years of deliberation and 'shoot outs' between potential vendors over which camera system to install, we finally settled on C3 who were able to demonstrate excellent product knowledge and solutions. We have not been disappointed since installing the first phase of a trial of their solution". The first phase has comprised of a total upgrade of the existing control room and the implementation of EVT IP video management platform of which the existing analogue cameras have been integrated. The EVT video management system will be integrated with the thermal cameras and analytics on the perimeter making for a very high end and sophisticated command and control room.

Security project extra information

A combination of static and PTZ thermal cameras combined with analytics will be strategically placed along the perimeter as part of Phase two. Once complete, Blue Valley will be equipped with one of the most advanced and sophisticated perimeter security systems in the country. Nick Grange, Technical director of C3 says, "We are truly honoured to have been appointed to install and commission our security solution for this prestigious Gary Player golf estate. Once again, our technology has proved to be superior in performance, quality and also flexibility in catering for the client's requirements". Nick goes on to say, "In South Africa there are many estates claiming to be 'secure' whilst they employ outdated methods of security. Blue Valley will be able to advertise a truly secure environment for their residents once our system is in place".

Security project challenge

Unlike airports, seaports and utilities which need security to keep the bad guys out, prisons require security measures to keep the bad guys in. For this reason, prisons face challenges that are wholly unique. The typical challenge of this site was to find a reliable, accurate and simple perimeter security system that would integrate with a video management system. The system had to be one that would be user friendly and easy to operate by security officers / control room operators that are not trained in computers or IT.

As the location (been in Botswana) was fairly remote and in a harsh weather environment, the client needed a system that would be able to work efficiently under these conditions.

Security project solution

Once again ioimage was the intelligent video system of choice. C3 managed and co-ordinated the entire project with local partner, Standby Power Systems. The solution incorporated intelligent video perimeter security integrated with kinetic energy detection sensors resulting in a "double knock" detection system. In other words, a convict would have to successfully get passed two separate leading technologies in order to escape. Additionally, the solution also incorporated biometrics access control and an overt digital management system.

Security Project Challenge

The nuclear facility* in question had a specific requirement for the best technology available for their perimeter intrusion detection system. The client enquired about various technologies available to determine the best fit for their unique premises, with one specific criteria: the systems must provide the command control room operators with a high level of situational awareness.

C3 conducted in-field tests with the client to illustrate the performance of thermal cameras combined with military-grade video analytics versus conventional visual spectrum cameras that depend on the presence of light to operate.

Thereafter, the client acquired the services of an internationally recognized security systems consultant to facilitate the final design and implementation of their perimeter security solutions. C3 tendered, along with various companies offering different technological options, and demonstrated our best-breed technology for their specific requirement. The thermal cameras with video analytics proved, as usual, top of the list for their capability to function in the absence of light.

Security Project Solution

The contract was awarded to C3 Shared Services and took approximately 7 to 8 months to implement, test and optimize to the client’s specifications. The design had to comply with international best practices and tests were done to ensure the solution complied with the client’s security standards seeing that the project was funded by an international firm.

C3 received international recognition for exceptional project management and project implementation. The project was also completed within budget, on time and according to international best practice standards.

Security project challenge

The High Security Area (HSA) of a South African Based Platinum refinery required an edge technology that would provide them with a high probability of intruder detection with a low false alarm rate. Their current intrusion detection system was proving to be ineffective as the amount of false alarms were very high on a daily basis, resulting in the control room operators losing interest as to the cause of each and every alarm.

Security project solution

Challenge The High Security Area (HSA) of a South African Based Platinum refinery required an edge technology that would provide them with a high probability of intruder detection with a low false alarm rate. Their current intrusion detection system was proving to be ineffective as the amount of false alarms were very high on a daily basis, resulting in the control room operators losing interest as to the cause of each and every alarm. Solution ioimage was strenuously tested over a two month period against two other similar products. Ioimage was specifically chosen over the other two competitors for its 99% probability of detection whilst maintaining an extremely low false alarm rate and withstanding the harsh environmental and poor lighting conditions of the site.

In order to protect the mine's precious metals, C3 implemented more than 96 channels of intelligent video on site.

Security project challenge

Porsche have implemented ioimage intelligent video analytics to secure the perimeter of their car showroom in Sunninghill, Gauteng. The perimeter is approximately 650 meters in length and surrounds the car showroom and dealership, the contents of which are of an extremely high value with the average car having a value of R1.2 million.

Porsche needed an accurate and reliable intrusion detection system. The accurate detection of intruders was extremely important without the frustration of unnecessary false alarms. Changes in the environment and weather conditions are the often the cause of false alarms - Porsche needed a technology that would accurately detect breaches of their security, eliminate false alarms and allow their guarding manpower to be able to view the location of the breach. They also required a flexible IP solution but with the stability of an embedded DSP. ioimage intelligent video analytics was the solution of choice.

Security project solution

3 and applied business partner, Goodman security Technologies, installed 16 channels of ioimage intelligent video on site. The intelligent video was implemented in conjunction with the CCTV system to give the client a high end solution as opposed to using conventional alarm detection equipment. The HTML version of the ioimage product range was chosen for this site. This allowed greater flexibility for networking, thus allowing for a better interface with Porsche's existing VPN. The system also interfaced with the existing analogue cameras and matrix switcher. Porsche's perimeter is now secured with automated surveillance and intruder tracking with immediate notification and instant visual verification on any security breaches.

Gary, from Goodman Security Technologies, says, "In our vast experience with perimeter detection systems the ioimage video analytics system has even far exceeded any of our expectations. The reliability, ease of use and simplicity of implementation has made this an extremely effective and efficient solution for our organisation".

Security project extra information

The C3 solution shall integrate with Bombardier's high-tech video management system enabling operators of the system to monitor unauthorized access to the rail and makinThe ioimage intelligent video system has been recommended to Porsche SA for implementation at their new dealerships in Kwa -Zulu Natal and Cape Town.

Security project challenge

One of our latest projects is the phenomenal estate, Steyn City.

It is a one-of-a-kind residential estate that offers various lifestyle activities within a safe and secure environment.

Security project solution

This estate prides itself on its world-class electronic security systems for the peace of mind of their residents.

C3 Shared Services, as systems provider, supplies only the best thermal vision equipment to Steyn City, ensuring word-class security at all times.

Security project challenge

Waterfall Hills Mature Lifestyle Estate is situated in Kyalami adjacent to the prestigious Waterfall Equestrian Estate. The development features 198 luxurious freestanding homes surrounded by generous stretches of impeccably landscaped, indigenous gardens. Voted the Best Retirement Development in the world in 2009 by CNBC Property Awards, and again in 2011 by Globals Over 50's Housing, Waterfall Hills embodies the very essence of the phrase, "Golden Years". C3, specialists in intelligent video and perimeter security solutions, was awarded the tender to install a perimeter surveillance system as well as an access control solution for this prestigious estate.

Security project solution

The perimeter surveillance system is comprised of a combination of monochrome CCD cameras and military grade thermal cameras combined with intelligent video analytics which alert the control room operators to any unauthorised activity day or night. The two kilometre perimeter has long straight lines bordering on open spaces as well as shorter sections with more curves, and for this reason a combination of camera technologies was chosen. The CCD cameras ,combined with long range infrared illuminators, are installed at points along the perimeter that are shorter with more twists which is where they are most efficient and cost effective. Thermal cameras are used to monitor the areas along the perimeter that border the open spaces of the neighbouring polo and equestrian fields which can become quite vulnerable for security breaches. Thermal cameras need no ambient light in order to detect intruders and have a very long range of detection which is perfectly suited for monitoring large open areas. Both the CCD cameras and the thermal cameras are combined with DVTel's ioimage intelligent video analytics in order to detect any attempted breaches of the perimeter.

Security project extra information

In addition to installing cameras on the perimeter, C3 had the task of installing an access control solution which will monitor all traffic at the four entrance and exit lanes into and out of the estate. C3 installed a combination of sophisticated technologies which will ensure a secure and efficient access control solution for the estate. Biometric fingerprint readers are installed at the entrance to the estate as well as facial identification cameras which take clear pictures of all persons entering the estate. Dedicated number plate identification cameras, which specifically block out the glare of the vehicle's headlights in order to capture the number plate, are mounted on stainless steel poles below the access control booms.

The perimeter cameras as well as the access control cameras are linked back to a sophisticated but easy to use DVTel video management platform which enables the control room operators to monitor all cameras on the perimeter and the cameras at the entrance. The intelligent video analytics will alert the security personnel to any attempted breaches of the perimeter as well as the exact location of the attempted breach day or night. The result is that the control room operators are always aware of any unauthorised activity and can respond with the necessary action resulting in a secure estate. Nick Grange, technical Director of C3 says, "This project is another successful IP surveillance system utilising the latest technology and integrating back to a very simple to use but sophisticated video management system. DVTel's video management platform effortlessly integrates with a variety of technologies making it a very powerful tool for the control room operators and an effective tool in crime prevention. We really enjoyed the flexibility and stability of DVTels' product and its ease of use which is unsurpassed".

Security project challenge

Zwartkop Golf Estate, situated in Centurion, is positioned around the prestigious Zwartkop Country Club offering an exceptional quality of life in a pristine environment. The perimeter, which is four kilometres in length and has numerous twists and turns, is also intercepted by the Hennops River. C3 Shared Services were commissioned to design and install a full turnkey perimeter security solution to secure this prestigious estate

Security project solution

C3 installed forty analogue Monochrome CCD cameras with IR Illuminators on the four kilometre perimeter. An additional three thermal cameras were also installed to monitor the fairways of the golf course and inner perimeter where the Hennops River enters the estate. The analogue cameras on the perimeter and the thermal cameras monitoring the golf course and river entrance are combined with intelligent video analytics and integrated onto a very 'simple to use' video management platform. This solution allows for instant visual verification as to the cause and location of any alarms relating to an attempted breach of the perimeter.

Zwartkop's four kilometre perimeter includes numerous curves and twists which dictated the need for C3 to design a cost effective solution that was still reliable and efficient. C3 opted to use analogue security cameras with high power infra-red illumination which would ensure a good quality video image and consistent light levels throughout the scene of activity. Thermal cameras would have been the technology of choice however they are better suited to medium to longer distances exceeding sixty meters in a straight line. It must be noted that in order for infra-red Illuminators to be effective in conjunction with video analytics the LUX (measure of the total "amount" of visible light present) levels in the region of interest (ROI) should not measure below three LUX and this was strictly adhered to throughout the design of the system. These cameras continually monitor the perimeter and should any human targets be detected the video analytics will alert the control room operators by visually and audibly signalling an alarm. The area where the alarm has occurred is easily visible and armed response can be dispatched to the appropriate area.

The Hennops River runs through the estate and its entrance is monitored by a static thermal camera. Thermal cameras require no illumination in order to detect intruders and are perfectly suited to dark areas with no ambient light and for this reason a thermal camera was chosen to monitor the area where the river enters the estate. Three more dual Field of View PTZ thermal cameras combined with intelligent video analytics are strategically placed along the fairways of the golf course. The PTZ Dual FOV function enables these cameras to zoom in and out and move left to right and should an intrusion be detected these cameras can be used to monitor the direction in which the intruder is moving and armed response can easily intercept the perpetrator.

Morne Lindeque, Operations Manager for Zwartkops Estate, says "C3 was commissioned for the full turnkey operation and we are more than happy with the end result. The company has been a pleasure to work with and has showed great professionalism throughout the whole project. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend their services as not only are they very professional to work with but they have a very comprehensive understanding of the various security technologies on the market today."

Security project extra information

The forty analogue cameras and three thermals were installed over two phases and were financed through a reputable financial institution which resulted in an even greater cost effective solution for the estate. C3 has a comprehensive Service Level Agreement (SLA) in place, ensuring that Zwartkop's system will be well maintained and consistently able to perform to maximum efficiency.