Thermal imaging technology for port security

Thermal imaging cameras produce high-quality video in challenging lighting conditions. [Picture: Pelco-Schneider Electric]

Millions of tonnes of cargo and billions of Euros in goods value represent the activity of a small city with miles of perimeter fencing, uneven infrastructure, blind spots and ever-changing weather conditions. Port security is no small task yet increasingly, security operators are asked to assume more responsibilities with static, if not shrinking, budgets. As drivers of a global economy, the demands placed on port security continue to grow and with it, the challenges and complexity increase exponentially.

Unlike traditional retail, commercial, and many industrial applications, ports present unique security issues that must be anticipated and addressed. Typically, high security installations rely on a variety of solutions, including – and often heavily relying upon – video security and surveillance. The combination of legacy analogue and more modern IP-based video cameras, recording and video management systems, Physical Security Information Management (PSIM), analytics and more provide a digital extension of security personnel.

Once restricted to the military due to prohibitive cost, thermal imaging is an increasingly relied upon technology for an ever-growing array of security – as well as process and operations management applications. As price points have dropped, integration of thermal technology into today’s video security and surveillance camera systems has become more prevalent, providing a wealth of information and functionality previously unavailable.

Port security however is anything but typical. From miles of unguarded, unlit perimeters to ever-changing lighting and weather conditions, traditional video security has a difficult time providing the comprehensive intelligence demanded by such a high-security facility. For more details read the full article at Port Technology International, by clicking the hyperlink.