September 4, 2026
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Home Articles posted by a&s Adria (Page 81)

Adria Smart City Joins Forces with Adria Security Summit 2025

The inaugural Adria Smart City event will launch alongside the well-established Adria Security Summit 2025, taking place on October 8–9, 2025 at the Hotel Aleksandar Palace in Skopje. Jointly organized by a&s Adria and BSB Events, this new platform brings together thought leaders, technology providers, and decision-makers shaping the future of urban living.

Held under one roof, the two events will deliver a unified experience for visitors, connecting the smart city and security sectors in a shared ecosystem of innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. Participants and exhibitors will benefit from an integrated format that enhances networking and highlights the interconnected nature of modern urban challenges and solutions.

Adria Smart City will feature both a conference and an exhibition, focusing on cutting-edge smart city technologies across energy, mobility, security, digitalization, and more. It is designed for city representatives, government agencies, engineers, architects, and other professionals committed to improving the functionality and quality of urban life. Exhibitors will include companies developing advanced solutions for sustainable, efficient, and secure cities.

The addition of Adria Smart City underscores the rising demand for integrated, forward-looking solutions and strengthens the Summit’s role as a key regional hub for innovation. With over 150 exhibitors and 3,000 expected participants, the combined events continue to solidify their position as the leading industry platform in the Adriatic region.

To register or learn more about the events, visit www.adriasecuritysummit.com.

Video Technology in Transition: Intelligent Cameras as Multifunctional Sensors

For a long time, video cameras were used primarily for surveillance purposes. However, with digitalisation, new technical standards, and the application of artificial intelligence (AI), the range of possible uses has fundamentally expanded. Today, cameras offer far more than traditional security functions and are evolving into valuable sensor platforms within modern building infrastructures.

While cameras still play a crucial role in enhancing security, they are increasingly used in other areas such as marketing, parking management, workforce planning, and the control of building systems. Current technological trends, originally developed for security-related applications, are now opening up new use cases.

A prime example is the continuous improvement in resolution: 4K and even 8K cameras allow for highly detailed capture of people, objects, and situations – a development that benefits both security and a variety of other applications. Key advancements include intelligent video analytics, AI integration, cloud-based storage solutions, integration into IoT environments, and mobile surveillance technologies. Modern systems no longer simply record video data passively but actively analyse it in real time – either directly on the device (“on the edge”) or via central servers. This enables automatic triggering of alarms or initiation of processes. Artificial intelligence assists with the recognition of patterns, faces, or number plates and helps in automatically reporting suspicious activities. Instead of relying on local storage media, cloud-based solutions are increasingly being adopted, offering more flexible access and better scalability. Cameras are also becoming integral components of smart building systems – such as in smart homes, traffic management, or building-wide automation. The use of camera-equipped drones is also gaining importance among security authorities and private providers.

Data protection and public acceptance

As the use of camera technologies increases, ethical and legal issues are moving to the forefront. The European GDPR, stricter regulations around facial recognition, and the requirement to label monitored areas are contributing to greater transparency and building public trust. At the same time, clear legal frameworks are essential to ensure the responsible use of such technologies.

Cameras as connected sensors

The term “visual intelligence” is increasingly replacing the traditional understanding of video surveillance. Today, cameras act as multisensory systems capable of detecting audio, temperature, or even chemical signals. Supported by AI-based analytics, they contribute not only to building security but also to the optimisation of operational processes. Close cooperation between manufacturers, integrators, and security experts is creating solutions that deliver tangible added value – from automation to increased efficiency.

New perspectives for building security

Thanks to AI-based video analytics, proactive security strategies are now possible. Cameras can detect behavioural anomalies, movement patterns, or unauthorised access and trigger appropriate responses automatically. Especially in high-security areas such as airports, these systems can flexibly adapt to emerging threats and provide targeted support to security personnel.

Early fire Detection via video

One of the major innovations in fire protection is AI-powered, video-based fire detection. Systems such as Bosch’s Aviotec 8000i IR use deep learning algorithms to detect smoke and flames in real time. They operate reliably even under challenging conditions such as darkness, humidity, or strong air circulation, often identifying hazards earlier than conventional detectors.

Added value beyond security

Intelligent cameras are also being used in sectors such as retail and hospitality. They monitor visitor flows, identify peak periods, and analyse customer behaviour. As a result, they support not only security but also provide valuable operational data for planning, marketing, and personnel management.

Building management through video data

Management software evaluates the captured information and makes it usable for operators – for instance, to determine occupancy levels, demographic structures, or traffic flows. Environmental aspects can also benefit when HVAC systems are controlled based on room occupancy or lighting is adjusted according to demand. In this way, intelligent camera technology actively contributes to sustainability in buildings.

Video technology in the spotlight: Light + Building 2026 as an industry showcase

The potential offered by modern video technology in building environments will be on full display at Light + Building from 8 to 13 March 2026 in Frankfurt am Main. In particular, the Intersec Building section will feature companies from the security and building technology sectors showcasing innovative solutions that combine security, efficiency, and intelligent networking.

The range of exhibits will cover everything from traditional applications such as fire protection, access control, and video surveillance to holistic system solutions for connected buildings. Increasing focus is being placed on protecting digital infrastructures and sensitive data. In smart homes and smart buildings, integrated system technology across various trades forms the basis for incorporating all security-relevant components. With practical innovations and in-depth expertise, the Intersec Building section offers valuable insights into the future of modern building security.

Light + Building

Light + Building, the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building services technology, will take place from 8 to 13 March 2026.

www.light-building.com

Press information and photographic material:

www.light-building.com/press

Links to websites:

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www.light-building.com/youtube

www.light-building.com/linkedin

www.light-building.com/instagram

www.instagram.com/building.technologies.messeffm

Salto Publishes Verified EPD for Its Neo Cylinder Smart Locking Range

Salto has announced that the Salto Neo electronic cylinder full range has passed a third-party verification of the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). The EPD applies to all European, Scandinavian, Swiss, and UK mortise, cam lock, and American standard lock cylinders (mortise, rim, and deadbolt).

An EPD is a third-party-verified document that provides a transparent and detailed account of a product’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle – from material extraction and manufacturing to end-of-life disposal. EPDS provide a credible and standardized means for both companies and consumers to assess a product’s environmental impact.

For architects, designers, developers, and other built environment professionals, an EPD offers critical insights that inform sustainable decision-making. It also ensures compliance with green building standards as well as eco-friendly construction practices. By quantifying a product’s environmental footprint, EPDs empower decision-makers to prioritize sustainable architecture.

A sustainable and unique compact design  

The Salto Neo electronic cylinder range combines advanced smart locking technology and a universally compatible cylinder that replaces an existing cylinder and fits any door with unlimited model options. Salto Neo cylinder smart locks are ideal for diverse applications across the residential, commercial, education, healthcare, and workspace industries.

  • Easy to install: Easy to install and retrofit, the universally compatible Salto Neo cylinder can replace an existing cylinder and fit any door – with unlimited model options.
  • Wireless connectivity: The Salto Neo Cylinder range can deliver structured, wire-free systems that enhance coverage and provide seamless, keyless access.
  • Aesthetics: Available in a variety of finishes, the Salto Neo Cylinder range offers limitless choices to customize doors. They are an excellent choice for retrofitting projects.
  • Digital and mobile credentials: Meet user, staff, and visitor security expectations across buildings with a seamless, keyless experience. Incorporate flexible access credentials – mobile, NFC and RFID cards, Wallet keys, and more – that deliver secure access to the right buildings, sites, and spaces.

Schneider Electric Bulgaria has opened the first-of-its-kind industrial geothermal system in its Smart Factory in Plovdiv

The innovative geothermal system was developed in response to Schneider Electric’s global sustainability goals and uses “dry” closed boreholes, in which a fluid circulates and is heated by the natural temperature of the earth. The heat pump units produce hot water for heating and hot water for domestic use, providing over 70% savings in electricity for heating and cooling the plant. The system does not use groundwater resources and contributes to achieving the company’s carbon neutrality goals.

“It is a pleasure and a huge responsibility for us to be pioneers in the field of carbon neutrality. Through the geothermal system we are opening today, we once again stand firmly behind Schneider Electric’s commitment to decarbonization on a global scale. Energy management, together with sustainable development, is the essence of our business and our core competence,” explained Martin Yordanov, Director of Schneider Electric’s Smart Factory in Plovdiv.

“Decarbonization is not a one-day goal. For Schneider Electric, it is an adventure in which we invest time and energy to track our consumption, analyze processes, properly manage the resources we have, and eliminate waste. The new geothermal installation is just one of the steps on our way to the goal. In recent years, Schneider Electric Bulgaria has implemented a number of projects aimed at decarbonization, which illustrate our desire, dedication and aspiration step by step to achieve carbon neutrality,” commented Mr. Martin Ganchevski, project manager for the installation of the geothermal system.

The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of national and local authorities, including Ms. Angelina Boneva, Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Mr. Ivan Stoyanov, Deputy Mayor for Ecology and Health of the City of Plovdiv, Mr. Dimitar Ivanov, Mayor of Maritsa Municipality, Mr. Yordan Dashev, Mayor of the village of Radinovo, and Mr. Plamen Panchev, Executive Director and Founder of the Trakia Economic Zone (TEZ).

Ms. Angelina Boneva defined Schneider Electric as a pioneer in the dual transition, emphasizing the importance of the company’s high ambitions for creating sustainable solutions through cooperation with universities and the use of the latest technologies. “It is an honor and pleasure for me to attend such an event. Schneider Electric Bulgaria is a large company that “swirls” its own ecosystem and raises the general standard. I am very glad that the high ambitions of Schneider Electric are transferred here – to the city of Plovdiv and among the local communities. These are the places in Bulgaria recognized as the best for investments, because the local authorities work hand in hand with business. Sincere congratulations and respect to Schneider Electric Bulgaria”, said Ms. Boneva during the ceremony.

As a representative of the local government, the Deputy Mayor for Ecology and Health of the city of Plovdiv, Mr. Ivan Stoyanov, also expressed his satisfaction at attending an event with a contribution to ecology. “I am glad that local business and business in general are helping the municipalities and the administration to introduce such successful models together. We have something to learn from you and we will be helpful in any way we can. In the person of the Municipality of Plovdiv, you have a partner and a friend,” said Mr. Stoyanov.

Last but not least, Mr. Plamen Panchev from the Thrace Economic Zone (TEZ) expressed his satisfaction with the fact that Bulgaria is leading in the implementation of modern technologies, emphasizing that partners like Schneider Electric are key to the implementation of carbon neutrality projects. “As Ms. Nikolova shared, the success of the decarbonization mission is entirely possible. Bulgaria is now not only a world-class country in this area, but is also a leading force in the implementation of modern technologies in the field. TEZ is one of the best examples in Europe for the implementation of carbon neutrality projects, and this is possible because we have partners like Schneider Electric Bulgaria, who are fulfilling the goals they have set themselves,” he shared.

The geothermal system at Schneider Electric’s Smart Factory in Plovdiv will improve its energy efficiency and help combat climate change by providing renewable energy sources integrated with digital solutions. With this innovative approach, Schneider Electric underlines its commitment to its goals of carbon-neutral operations by 2025, carbon-neutral footprint by 2040 and suppliers with zero net carbon emissions by 2050.

“The system developed by ReEnergy Engineering represents a significant step towards energy independence for the Smart Factory in Plovdiv. With this project, Schneider Electric is not only building infrastructure for the future, but also once again demonstrating its commitment to carbon neutrality and sustainability,” added the company’s team in our country.

Key Criteria to Take Into Consideration When Migrating to a New Access Control Solution?

Since the 1990s, where the RFID technology allowed the creation of contactless IP door access control systems, the installed base of access control equipment has grown hugely. There are now a lot of legacy systems in place that need an upgrade to more secure, reliable technology and to take advantage of additional functionality.

By Thomas Napora, Vice President & General Manager EMEA, ICT

The need to deploy newer technology has to be balanced out by budgetary constraints: many companies and public organisations can’t afford to change the whole system in one go and need to proceed with a phased migration.

So, what are the main considerations an end-user should have when embarking on an upgrade to their access control?

Like every journey, there is a starting point and a destination. The starting point is the current equipment and dependencies – such as existing card readers, cards and tags used by employees / contractors, integration with existing operational systems and databases like time and attendance management etc.

The destination is what the system should ultimately provide: should it combine access control and other security or operational systems such as intrusion detection? And are integrations with video surveillance, lift, number plate recognition, or building automation required?

A major consideration is to use open protocol access control systems. This means an access control solution which can work with third party readers using either Wiegand or OSDP protocol. Or vice versa – card readers which can work with third party controllers.

Additionally, the ability for an end-user to keep their existing credentials and gradually upgrade to a more secure communication protocol is not to be underestimated. It’s a considerable operational challenge to issue new credentials to hundreds or thousands of people at once. Card readers which “out of the box” can read many different communication protocols are an advantage here, as well as the capability to issue mobile credentials.

A first phase of the migration path, could be to keep the legacy controller and legacy readers, add a new access control server and controller such as the Protege GX platform and use a Data Sync license to synchronise the database between the two systems. New, more secure readers can be added in areas needing more stringent security. Then, gradually, the system can be updated in phases without interruption to service.

A second consideration when migrating to a new access control platform is the need of interoperability. With more and more systems converging, and being managed centrally, it is crucial for security and building management solutions to work together and improve the user experience. This can be achieved through open application programming interfaces (APIs), a fundamental tool that allow systems to connect with third-party technologies.

This can also go even deeper through the technology partnerships between manufacturers to achieve a higher level of integration. Depending on operational requirements, end-users should look at the list of integrations provided by the access control manufacturer, whether that’s biometric readers, video management systems, lift management, or building automation etc.

Finally, a must when considering any system sitting on an IT network is cybersecurity. Cyber threats are omnipresent and constantly evolving. The cyber risk is present at every level: from each stage of the product development to the system deployment and maintenance.

From a manufacturer perspective, we at ICT, perform thorough testing on our Protege platforms, regular updates to address emerging vulnerabilities, and we adhere to stringent security standards like ISO/IEC 27001, which ensures a robust information security management system.

It is essential that cybersecurity doesn’t stop with the manufacturer but carries on with the way the system is deployed and used daily by the end-user. Education is key here and end-users should work with installation companies adhering to these high cybersecurity standards and should apply them internally as well.

ICT has helped thousands of companies to migrate in a phased approach to a secure unified access control and intrusion detection, respecting budget constraints and operational requirements to achieve a successful solution.

ČETRTA POT successfully upgrades Access Control and Time & Attendance Systems at Otto Austria Group

Cross-border, complex, and fast.

Slovenian company ČETRTA POT successfully implemented a modern access control and time & attendance system for Otto Austria Group across three locations in two countries, in just two months – ensuring full compliance with top security system according to EN-60839-11-1 up to Grade 4 standard and seamless API integration.

A cross-border project, multiple locations, multilingual environments, and strict security standards – Slovenian company ČETRTA POT has successfully completed a comprehensive modernization of the access control and time management system for Otto Austria Group at tree of their key Austrian locations, two in Graz and one in Salzburg.

Strategic transition driven by relocation

As part of their move to new premises, Otto Austria Group made the strategic decision to replace their outdated access control system, which was no longer able to meet their operational, cost, and security requirements.

“We were working with a legacy system that no longer aligned with our expectations – technically, financially, or in terms of compliance with EN-60839-11-1 up to Grade 4 security standards. Staying locked into the old system would have meant long-term limitations. The relocation was the right moment to make a full transition,” explains Marko Puncer, Lead of IT Infrastructure at Otto Austria Group.

Slovenian expertise – international standards

Otto Austria Group selected ČETRTA POT as their technology partner.

“Their strong presence across facilities in Slovenia, along with references from international implementations, gave us confidence. Looking back, we can say with certainty – it was the right choice,” adds Puncer.

The new solution is based on a modular system with an open architecture, allowing for high adaptability and seamless integration. The previous “hub-and-spoke” model – where a single terminal controlled multiple access points – posed technical constraints. The new setup is flexible, modern, and fully integrated with Otto Austria Group’s existing infrastructure.

By the numbers: High complexity, fast execution

The project spanned two countries, three locations, three languages, and two time zones, and involved coordination across nine partner companies, multiple suppliers, and various internal IT departments.

Despite this complexity, implementation was impressively fast – only two months passed from contract signing to full deployment.

“ČETRTA POT’s team was highly engaged, solution-oriented, and flexible. Every single request – from custom API fields to a screen saver function – was implemented. Integration with our internal systems was smooth, which is not a given in cross-border IT environments,”
Puncer notes.

Key solution features:

  • Advanced access control with centralized management
  • Automated time tracking and absence management
  • Seamless API integration with existing systems
  • Full compliance with top security system according to EN-60839-11-1 up to Grade 4 standard
  • Multi-language support (English, Slovenian)

International validation of Slovenian expertise

The Otto Austria Group project is a strong case that Slovenian tech know-how can successfully meet the demands of complex international environments. With this implementation, ČETRTA POT has reinforced its position as a reliable partner for digitizing access control and time management – even in highly regulated, multi-site setups.

“We gladly recommend ČETRTA POT to any organization looking for a strategic, technically mature, and responsive partner. Their solutions are more than just products – they are the result of understanding the complexity of each environment, its people, and operational needs,” concludes Puncer.

Learn more about ČETRTA POT’s solutions: www.cetrtapot.com/en

Contact our experts for presentation: 📧 prodaja@cetrtapot.si | ☎ +386 4 280 66 60

Revolutionary Safety and Efficiency in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Research and development of new active ingredients and dosage forms are of central importance in the pharmaceutical industry. It is equally important for pharmaceutical production to obtain active ingredients from microorganisms or mammalian cells in large fermenters. The addition of bacteria, fungi or enzymes produces organic substances that are further processed in various steps such as grinding, granulating, coating and tableting.

The risks without gas monitoring

Imagine a pharmaceutical plant releasing a toxic gas such as carbon dioxide (CO2 ) or a combustible gas such as methane (CH4 ) during a fermentation process. Without reliable gas monitoring, this gas could escape unnoticed into the environment, which could have catastrophic consequences. Employees would be at risk, production processes could be interrupted and the financial losses due to necessary repairs and downtime would be enormous. Recognising such dangers at an early stage is virtually impossible without adequate monitoring.

The DGC-06 digital gas controller: a game changer in gas monitoring

With the DGC-06 digital gas controller, MSR-Electronic GmbH has developed a ground-breaking solution that masters the challenges of gas monitoring and at the same time significantly secures production.

The state-of-the-art measuring, warning and control controller system continuously monitors and analyses up to 128 gas sensors. Flexible, freely adjustable alarm thresholds recognise dangerous gas concentrations immediately. Appropriate countermeasures are then initiated.

The DGC-06 impresses with a number of remarkable features:

Reliability and availability

One of the outstanding features of the DGC-06 is its high reliability and availability. The system is equipped with self-monitoring and can optionally be connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). This ensures that the system remains fully functional even in the event of power failures.

Versatile application possibilities

The DGC-06 is suitable for more than 50 different gases and can be used flexibly in various areas of gas measuring technology. This makes it an ideal solution for the various requirements in the pharmaceutical industry.

Simple operation and configuration

The operation and configuration of the DGC-06 is extremely simple. The intuitive menu navigation and the option of parameterisation via the PCE06 software enable quick and uncomplicated commissioning without the need for special programming knowledge.

Seamless integration

The controller can be seamlessly integrated into existing control systems. Thanks to various interfaces and protocols, centralised monitoring and control is possible, which further increases the efficiency of production processes.

The difference the DGC-06 makes

By implementing the DGC-06 digital gas controller, pharmaceutical companies benefit from a significant increase in safety and efficiency. The system not only ensures the protection of employees and systems, but also optimises production processes. Unforeseen breakdowns and faults can be minimised and operating costs sustainably reduced.

The DGC-06 was developed for large systems, tunnels or even for extensive connections. Everything is possible, from complex garages to access functions that are switched by gas alarm.

The DGC-06 gas controller series can monitor and evaluate up to 128 gas sensors, including 96 digital and/or 32 analogue sensors (4-20 mA). There are 4 freely adjustable alarm thresholds per sensor.

For alarm signals, the controller system has up to 128 relays with potential-free change-over contact and up to 16 analogue outputs with 4-20 mA signal.

Future proofing mobility in cities

Keeping public transport and mobility services fit for purpose is a principal challenge for city authorities. Recent studies show that leading cities take important steps to develop people- and planet-centric transportation options. Surveillance technology plays a vital role in delivering the high quality, efficient, and safe services these cities provide. Here’s how.

ThoughtLab’s recent From Future Vision to Urban Reality report, sponsored by Axis, explores the most effective strategies and digital solutions city leaders are using to prepare for the future. When it comes to urban mobility, the importance of real-time data is front-and-center. Surveillance technology provides much of this data as well as valuable insights used to power services. Transport authorities use it to enable systems such as traffic management, parking, public transport, and digital payments.

But knowing where and how to invest is a challenge in itself. Fortunately, the nature of surveillance technology means that any pilot scheme or local initiative immediately provides a feedback loop of learning, improvement, and verification ahead of major city-wide investments thanks to their rich, real-time data. This is also what makes surveillance technology such a vital component of digital twin initiatives. In fact, traffic management is the leading use case for digital twin modelling, with cities across the world already benefiting from their application.

Here are just a few examples of the top ways future-ready cities are leveraging surveillance technology to enhance their urban mobility, taken from our latest ebook, Surveillance technology for future-ready cities. Our report supplements the ThoughtLab study, providing further context, example use cases, and tangible next steps for city authorities through the lens of surveillance technologies.

Smart signaling 

Getting traffic light signaling right can be the difference between gridlock and free flowing traffic. Surveillance systems are used to collect queue length data at these hotspots. By collating data and identifying patterns over hours, days, and weeks, systems can present optimized signal timing profiles. Similarly, real-time data can also be used to control variable speed limits or open and close lanes, using pre-set rules.

Identifying the causes of accidents 

Understanding how and why accidents occur requires data. Surveillance footage provides you with detailed accounts that enable forensic levels of analysis into driver behavior trends. You can identify dangerous behavior patterns such as sharp lane changes or stops, drivers heading in the wrong direction, as well as speeding hot spots and red-light violations. You can then use this analysis to inform new policies and preventive measures, and then use it to gauge their effectiveness.

Rapid incident response 

In the same vein, surveillance systems can provide automatic incident detection. Cameras can detect unusual or sharp changes in direction, or when a car stops in the middle of a road. When an incident occurs they can then trigger escalation protocols, such as notifying staff or first responders. Smoke and heat detection provides further valuable information. All of which helps expedite response times and can save lives.

Intelligent parking 

Surveillance data supports many functions vital to parking systems. As well as spotting spaces to inform availability signage, license plate recognition enables frictionless automated payment systems. Both of these help to reduce bottlenecks at entrances and make journeys smoother.

You can also use these cameras to spot parking violations, such as identifying double parking, overtime, illegal parking, and even measuring whether vehicles have parked far enough from corners, as well as your typical security functions.

Encouraging alternative travel 

One of the most frequently cited deterrents to using alternative forms of travel is a lack of safety, especially at night. In-vehicle installations on trains and buses make real-time, multi-camera, interior and exterior footage readily available to security personnel, even while vehicles are in motion. This enables virtual patrols of vehicles, proactive monitoring during busy periods or known events, and quick reactions to security alerts.

Outside, in parks and on main pedestrian routes, smart poles, equipped with lighting, cameras, speakers, and intercom help points can provide much needed assurance to the public, helping create established safe walking and travel routes.

Learn more 

Surveillance technology doesn’t only help cities tackle mobility challenges. Axis-powered solutions are supporting local authorities across the world drive new efficiencies, productivity, and save money, while improving sustainability, safety and the lived experience of citizens.

Interview: Mihai Brana, Managing Director and Site Leader, Honeywell Romania

a&s Adria: Can you please tell us about your background and career journey, and what are your primary responsibilities as the Managing Director and Site Leader at Honeywell Romania?

Brana: I am an automation and industrial informatics engineer, as well as a passionate sales leader, specializing in electrical installation, automation, and electronic safety and security solutions for buildings and infrastructure. I have more than 20 years of experience in the field. In 2008, I joined Honeywell as the Country Sales Manager for Honeywell Life Safety Solutions in Romania. In 2014, I became the Commercial Leader for Fire and Public Address Voice Alarm (PAVA) Solutions in Southeast Europe. That same year, I was appointed Managing Director of Honeywell Romania SRL and served as the Site Leader for the Bucharest office.

When I joined Honeywell, the local Bucharest organization was relatively small. I had the opportunity to be part of, and to contribute as Site Leader to, the growth and development of the local team, which has since evolved into a large engineering, customer, and business support site. It is a privilege to represent Honeywell in interactions with third-party stakeholders—such as local authorities, professional associations, and academic institutions—to position our company as both a technology leader and a top employer. Most importantly, my responsibility as Site Leader is to ensure that our colleagues return home safely every day.

a&s Adria: Can you provide an overview of the fire alarm industry? What are the key factors driving its growth, and how do you see it evolving in the coming years?

Brana: The fire industry is constantly evolving, driven by global trends and challenges such as urbanization, digital transformation, the transition to green energy, a shortage of qualified workers, and an aging population. These trends are introducing new materials and technologies, which in turn are creating more complex fire risks and regulatory requirements. In response to these challenges, Honeywell’s primary goal is to shift from traditional fire detection to proactive fire prevention.

a&s Adria: How do trends in safety regulations and technology adoption impact the fire alarm industry globally and in Southeast Europe specifically?

Brana: Safety regulations must continuously adapt to evolving and increasingly complex risks, requirements, and innovative fire safety technologies. Ongoing dialogue among all industry stakeholders is essential to ensure improved fire safety and the effective adoption of new technologies. Equally important is the need for clear, proven, and indisputable compliance with existing norms and standards for any fire safety solution implemented in a given building.

Honeywell has developed an innovative all-in-one cloud platform—Honeywell Connected Life Safety Services (CLSS)—designed to help facility owners maximize the performance and uptime of Honeywell’s trusted fire detection and alarm systems. With CLSS, facilities can be made safer through real-time event notifications that support timely and accurate decision-making.

Digital records of all events and activities are generated to assist with compliance and insurance claims. Real-time visibility and remote connectivity help reduce unnecessary site visits and improve first-time fix rates. CLSS also enables faster, more efficient testing, maintenance, and reporting—boosting productivity and optimizing the use of a qualified workforce.

a&s Adria: What distinguishes Honeywell’s fire alarm systems from other players in this industry? How does Honeywell stay ahead in this highly competitive space?

Brana: Honeywell has long been an innovative and trusted player in the fire and safety industry. We leverage a multi-brand, multichannel approach to meet diverse market needs. In Southeast Europe, we promote a comprehensive portfolio through well-established brands such as XTRALIS, ESSER, Gent, NOTIFIER, and Morley-IAS. We have built a strong network of certified, long-term system integrators and distributors. Together, we deliver competitive technology solutions and localized services across a wide range of industry verticals—from ensuring the highest levels of safety and integrity in critical infrastructure to providing simple, easy-to-install fire detection and alarm systems for low fire-risk buildings.

In this competitive environment, maintaining long-term partnerships with professional system integrators and distributors is essential. Equally important is continued investment in innovative technologies that address the evolving challenges faced by our end users.

a&s Adria: Honeywell is known for its technological advancements. Can you share some of the latest innovations and products in your fire alarm systems?

Brana: Our technological advancements are continuously addressing the evolving challenges within the fire safety industry. For example, an aging population and individuals with limited mobility—such as patients in hospitals—often require more time to evacuate during a fire. This makes very early detection essential for enabling a quicker and more effective response. Aspirating smoke detection systems provide a critical advantage by continuously sampling the air in a room and detecting smoke particles far earlier than traditional detectors, which only activate once smoke reaches the ceiling. Early detection is also vital for protecting lives, assets, and data—particularly in environments like large data centers or expansive distribution facilities, which are increasingly common due to digital transformation and the relocation of manufacturing to Eastern Europe.

Another game-changing technology is the Honeywell Self-Test Detector. These detectors help reduce maintenance time by automating the testing and inspection process. Honeywell’s Self-Test Detectors feature an internal module that generates real smoke and/or heat to perform functional testing of the optical sensor. In an industry facing a shortage of qualified professionals, this innovation—especially when used alongside CLSS—helps ensure buildings remain compliant while optimizing the use of available personnel by reducing the need for traditional manual testing.

a&s Adria: What technologies do you use, for instance artificial intelligence, to enhance response times and reduce false fire alarms?

Brana: Honeywell has been integrating various advanced technologies into its fire safety systems to enhance response times and reduce false alarm incidents. We utilize smart sensors that combine multiple detection methodologies (heat, smoke, gas) into a single device. This multi-sensing capability reduces the chances of false alarms caused by isolated factors. The sensors are equipped to evaluate the context of the signals they receive before triggering an alarm, ensuring that alerts are timely and relevant.

a&s Adria: What technological advancements in PA/VA systems is Honeywell focusing on to improve safety and communication during emergencies? How are advancements in technologies like digital signal processing and directional speakers enhancing the effectiveness of these systems?

Brana: Honeywell has been at the forefront of technological advancements in public address (PA) and voice alarm (VA) systems, particularly with a focus on improving safety and communication during emergencies. These advancements are critical in enhancing the effectiveness of emergency response protocols and ensuring clear communication in high-pressure situations. Digital signal processing (DSP) plays a crucial role in modern PA/VA systems. Utilizing DSP significantly enhances sound quality and intelligibility. Some major benefits of DSP in these systems include three key features: sound clarity, adaptive equalization and advanced audio routing. DSP allows clear audio reproduction by minimizing background noise and maximizing voice clarity. It can analyze the acoustic environment in real-time, adjust the audio output accordingly, and enable efficient routing of audio signals to specific areas. This helps ensure that people in critical areas receive timely information. Honeywell’s advancements in directional speaker technology have significantly improved the effectiveness of PA/VA systems. Directional speakers are designed to emit sound in a specific direction rather than dispersing it in all directions. This focused projection reduces sound attenuation and helps ensures announcements reach the intended audience clearly. Directional speakers have proven effective in penetrating noisy environments like construction sites or crowded public spaces by concentrating sound in a way that allows messages to be heard clearly despite other disturbances.

a&s Adria: How does Honeywell’s portfolio of public address and voice evacuation solutions meet the evolving needs of businesses and public buildings?

Brana: Honeywell’s portfolio is evolving from providing traditional public address and voice evacuation solutions to a more complex and comprehensive approach that better addresses the needs of today’s modern buildings. By leveraging cloud connectivity, real-time notifications, and information sharing, facility managers, first responders, and firefighters can receive critical data to support a more effective emergency response and communication strategy.

a&s Adria: With the increasing demand for public address and voice alarm systems across industries, how does Honeywell ensure its PA/VA solutions integrate seamlessly with other security and communication systems, such as fire alarms and access control, to provide a comprehensive emergency response?

Brana: Honeywell is also focused on integrating PA/VA systems with intelligent building management systems. This integration facilitates automation and enables a coordinated response during emergencies. For example, when an emergency is detected (such as smoke or fire), the PA system can automatically issue warnings and provide real-time instructions, leading to immediate actions—such as evacuations or lockdowns.

a&s Adria: Where do you see your opportunity for regional expansion? Do you plan to exhibit at the Adria Security Summit, the largest regional exhibition and conference?

Brana: Our new technologies are helping address challenges across multiple sectors of the fire safety industry. Facility managers and system integrators have provided very positive feedback and are showing strong interest in testing and adopting these innovations. The Adria Security Summit serves as an excellent forum for promoting new technologies and standards. I expect that, like previous editions, this year’s event will be another memorable milestone for the industry. I look forward to seeing you there.

ISSUES

Global Security d.o.o.

Hasiba Brankovića c, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosna i Hercegovina
Tel: +387 (0)33/788-985
Fax: +387 (0)33/788-986
Web site: www.asadria.com
Marketing: marketing@asadria.com
Subscription: pretplata@asadria.com
VAT no: 201142740001
ID no: 4201142740001
ISSN 1986-5

a&s Adria – professional security magazine for providing total security solutions is a monthly circulating publication and a licenced representative of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media for Adriatic region, which consists of following countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, FYR Macedonia, Slovenia and Serbia.