What was involved?

The project involved the full integration of the existing Analogue and IP CCTV systems into one full IP CCTV system with additional cameras to enhance the overall CCTV coverage. This was a challenging project as Scan had to comply with strict equipment specifications outlined via the CPD tender specification, and balance performance with the harsh marine environment the system would be operating in.

Scan Alarms operated as the primary contractor, it was the responsibility of Scan to source, employ and manage specialist subcontractors for building and electrical works. Scan then managed the entire program of works to ensure the project was delivered on schedule to the pre agreed timetable with the CPD.

The first phase involved testing and certifying all the existing cables and fibres that would be retained as part of the upgrade. After all the testing was carried out the refit and expansion could progress. During this second phase we had to keep the existing CCTV system operational, this was managed by replacing the control end equipment with two new American Dynamics Video edge NVRs, enabling us to move the existing IP cameras onto the new system seamlessly. Once this was complete Scan could then work on replacing camera by camera with Panasonic SUD 638 Marine grade PTZ cameras. This resulted in little to no downtime of the CCTV system which is critical to the safe operation of the Weir and surrounding areas.

Replacing the cameras had its own complications as three of the cameras were located on the river Lagan and could only be accessed by a boat with a custom purpose scissor lift onboard. When all the cameras were replaced, we could then concentrate on the Control room. We installed a video wall consisting of four 32” mounted monitors as well as four 24” mounted monitors to show individual images required by the weir staff located in the weir’s operations office. The final phase was installing and commissioning the enterprise VMS server and 21” touchscreen which the Weirs CCTV operators use for day-to-day operation of the system.

When the new system was fully commissioned Scan then arranged several training sessions with the Lagan Weir staff to ensure they had the user knowledge to truly benefit from all the new features of their new and technically advanced CCTV system.

With the system now fully operational and the staff fully trained the CCTV system has been successful in helping the weir staff patrol the Lagan, improving safety in the area and assisting the PSNI with several convictions.

Scan currently maintain the CCTV for the Lagan weir on an ongoing basis.