KENWOOD NXDN HELPING TO SUPPORT SAFETY AND SECURITY AT A RENOWNED UNIVERSITY IN JOHANNESBURG.

Global COMMS HAVE RECENTLY COMPLETED THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A NEW DIGITAL RADIO COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AT A LEADING UNIVERSITY IN JOHANNESBURG.

The new system was designed to enhance the safety and security of students, educators, support staff and visitors across the sprawling 16- hectare (400 acre) campus. The old analogue radio system had evolved over time with a patchwork of infrastructure and equipment from different manufacturers. Although it had served the university well for many years, the expansion of the campus, growth in student numbers, additional halls of residence and the changing nature of threats and associated risk management measures called for a system that would not only address existing radiocommunication shortcomings, but also provide voice and data capability and the flexibility to scale and adapt the system cost-effectively.

SUPPORTING ROBUST SAFETY AND SECURITY PROTOCOLS WHILE INSTILLING A SENSE OF CALM AND WELLBEING.

While students and staff are encouraged to be vigilant and to report crime and suspicious behaviour, the university reinforces its duty of care by taking a proactive approach to crime prevention, the protection of students, staff and property and the detection and apprehension of offenders.

Security officers patrol the entire campus around the clock and in addition to maintaining safety and responding to emergency calls also offer a 24-hour escort service for all students and staff returning to halls of residence or their vehicles when working late.

The new KENWOOD NEXEDGE NXDN digital radio system was designed specifically to provide indoor and outdoor communications coverage throughout the site and employs seven repeaters in a digital conventional system architecture.

THE NEW SYSTEM ENABLES MORE ROBUST SAFETY AND SECURITY PROTOCOLS AND PROVIDE THE MEANS TO ENABLE A RAPID COORDINATED RESPONSE TO EVENTS AND TO EFFECT EMERGENCY LOCKDOWNS AND SAFE EVACUATION OF THE SITE.

The radio devices are used by managers, assistant managers, supervisors and security officers across various university departments and with compact dimensions and ease of use, were quickly mastered by all staff who are now equipped with instant and reliable voice and data communications throughout the campus.