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Safe haven for Cape shoppers

Plush new shopping mall opts for discreet, quality surveillance.

Cape Quarter prides itself on being ‘the only place to be in Cape Town’. As a one-stop destination for sumptuous restaurants and unique lifestyle shops, Cape Quarter offers visitors a chance to indulge in some retail therapy in the splendour of this architecturally superb shopping mall. In an environment such as this, the safety and security of patrons and tenants is essential. Cape Quarter Property Company contracted the services of security consultant, Nigel Versfeld of Diversified Security Engineering to provide a fail-safe security solution.

Versfeld enlisted the assistance of Visec International CEO, Gary Scagell, whose keen understanding of a conceptualised surveillance solution was instrumental in drafting a comprehensive tender document. Several prospective installers were evaluated in terms of their technical knowledge and pricing structures before MeyCom was awarded the security tender. MeyCom, an ISO9001 accredited security contractor specialising in the installation, management and servicing of turnkey projects, was advised at tender stage that Axis network cameras had already been identified as the product of choice. “A project of this size and scale demands an established, proven brand,” remarks Versfeld.

On a daily basis, the control room is responsible for dispatching patrollers to investigate people loitering nearby the ATMs, harassing shoppers or generally displaying suspicious behaviour. They are also able to monitor parking lot activity; this enables security personnel to record incidents that have resulted in damage to property or vehicles. The Axis network cameras are able to maintain a presence even when security personnel are not physically present.

Discreet but effective

Cape quarter’s design, best described as Cape Malay architecture, remains true to the original inhabitants of this area, paying homage to Cape Town’s colourful heritage, even going so far as to preserve the early authentic architecture and incorporate it into the development. This type of attention to detail and careful planning is maintained in the selection of a surveillance solution.

In a retail application, network cameras not only have to be able to offer a quality, high resolution image but also ensure that these images are available from an inconspicuous, discreet source. The AXIS P3301 Fixed Dome Network Camera was chosen for these attributes. With its tamper-resistant, unobtrusive and compact design, the AXIS P3301 is ideal for surveillance in exposed indoor environments.

The AXIS M3011 Fixed Dome Network Camera, specifically designed for recessed mounting in drop ceilings, is another perfect fit for this installation. Measuring a scant 9 cm in diameter and with barely 3 cm sticking out of the ceiling, the AXIS M3011 is still capable of high performance surveillance. The AXIS P3343-VE Fixed Dome Network Camera, used to secure the perimeter of the shopping centre, offers day/night functionality and a weather-proof casing suitable for all weather conditions, including those ‘four seasons in one day’ characteristic of Cape Town.

Covering all of the bases

The surveillance solution is configured in such a way that all entry/exit points and internal walkways throughout the centre, as well as stairwells between the levels, are monitored, allowing users to track the progression of suspicious individuals as they make their way through the building.

All of the network cameras, including the 32 analogue cameras from the adjacent Cape Quarter development, are monitored by Orbis Security Solutions using Visec Platinum Plus Management Software. The superior resolution of the Axis cameras ensures that security personnel are able to identify potential risks and respond accordingly. “The initial expense of a first-class surveillance solution is soon deemed inconsequential as the benefits of the equipment become evident and the investment begins to pay-off in terms of thwarting crimes and keeping shoppers safe,” says Versfeld.

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