OPPORTUNITY
The client owned a coal-burning power plant in the Mid-Atlantic Region. The plant had been closed down for production, except for secondary hydroelectric operations. However, due to the size of the facility, along with a long list of potential risks, they needed to keep the facility secured 24/7. Nestled close to a residential area, the facility was surrounded by public parks, a jogging path, and other recreational lands. There were concerns that people, particularly children in the area, could get on to the property, creating enormous liability issues. Lastly, the facility had several large smokestacks. Though they were no longer in use, the client had to comply with strict “lighting check” requirements set forth by the FAA. Using a staff of six full-time security officers, the client was spending in excess of $700,000 each year. These staggering costs soon became unsustainable, prompting them to seek out alternate solutions.
solution
A server capable of running advanced video analytics was installed and tied into an existing CCTV system. Additional cameras were installed in key spots. Audio capability was also added. Using the existing cameras resulted in significant savings for the client versus the cost of a new installation. Once the work was completed, the site went live for monitoring.
results
Immediate success, both in terms of security and the client’s bottom line. Using a hybrid alarm/patrol-based service model, all incidents of trespassing were quickly eliminated. There were zero incidents involving potential liability issues. Manual patrols allowed Viewpoint agents to comply with the site’s FAA requirements for verifying that smokestack lights were functional, including detailed documentation for reporting purposes, and the implementation of customized protocols in case there were any problems.
In addition to the operational success, the client has been able to save over $600,000 annually, even when factoring in the capital investment made in system improvements. Monitored CCTV provided not only a more affordable solution, but also a better one. FAA requirements for verifying that smokestack lights were functional, including detailed documentation for reporting purposes, and the implementation of customized protocols in case there were any problems.