Tony Weeks
The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) has launched a new edition of its CCTV code of practice – for the design, installation and maintenance of CCTV surveillance systems – NCP 104 Issue 3.
This edition includes guidance on protecting systems from cyber risks, and emphasises the importance of thoroughly assessing customer security risks and requirements when developing CCTV system design.
Customers buying CCTV surveillance systems designed, installed and maintained to comply with this latest edition can be assured of:
- security needs being fully assessed, documented and agreed prior to any design work
- system design addressing agreed security needs, usability and operating requirements including network (cyber) security
- thorough validation and testing of the CCTV system
- appropriate user training
- fully documented maintenance requirements
The new NCP 104 provides installers with detailed recommendations and guidance to be followed as part of delivering a CCTV system design and ensures the sustainability, functionality and effectiveness of a system. Notable points for installers are that the Code:
- is in line with the latest standard BS EN 62676-4:2015, (the current application guidelines for the use of video surveillance systems in security applications), but simplifies the process of system development and testing, by omitting specific requirements regarding system grading and the use of some specific image testing requirements
- introduces requirements for design areas such as network (cyber) security, detectors, video analysis, audio and cabling, that are not covered by in BS EN 62676-4 and also covering current technologies and terminology
- stands alone from BS 8418 which relates to the installation of remotely monitored detector activated CCTV systems.
NSI’s Head of Technical Services, Tony Weeks (pictured) said “Customers can rely on installers working with the new Issue 3 of the NSI Code to fully document and understand their requirements, so that CCTV system design is fit for purpose. The ‘scale-ability’ of the Code means it can help deliver best practice from the smallest to the most complex of installations.”
The new edition supersedes NCP 104 Issue 2, which will be withdrawn from use on 30 April 2019. Customers seeking the compliance with the new Code prior to this date should check with their NSI approved installer.
