The Hidden Value of Audio in Security

Why audio — for security? Hearing is key to everything we do, and audio and voice communications are changing the way we view and enhance security across many different settings. The Security Industry Association (SIA) advocates for a holistic approach to security through the integration of audio and intelligent communications with other systems, including video cameras, access control and intrusion detection.

In a new video from the SIA Audio and Intelligent Communications Subcommittee, SIA member experts discuss the ways in which adding audio to your customers’ security solutions suite can get them more insights and actionable intelligence.

Here are some top takeaways:

With video alone, you’re missing half the picture. Audio tools can pick up threats like the sound of a hammer as someone tries to break into an ATM, or the sound of a power tool being used to get access to a site, or the sound of someone yelling in a threatening manner on your property, and help give a more comprehensive understanding of the security landscape. Audio intelligibility and clarity are key when it comes to informing people of important events, like emergencies or just daily communications.
Audio helps businesses and facilities deescalate. If a property manager needs to deescalate a situation happening on a video-only security system, they are limited to using a radio and a security officer. But having a two-way audio device on the edge can allow customers to deescalate situations before they become problems and avoid major conflict.
Audio is quickly advancing thanks to AI. Conversational artificial intelligence is innovating so quickly that computers in audio security systems can now talk to humans just like humans talk to each other.
Adding audio transforms your security system. Including audio features takes a security system with access control and video recordings of events that happened and makes them interactive — by adding voice and the ability to hear and enabling security to mitigate problems before they even happen.

For even more on this topic, check out SIA’s audio and intelligent communications videos, publications and other resources.

Read More SIA Waypoints Columns.

KEYWORDS: audio video

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Adom Yusuf is the senior manager of standards and technology for the Security Industry Association (SIA). She is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor of Science from Towson University. With a robust background in membership management, Yusuf has held significant roles as a senior manager for membership and meetings at the American Iron and Steel Institute and as a specialist at the Association of Public Health Laboratories. She is passionate about fostering collaboration within the industry, promoting volunteerism and mentoring professionals in SIA’s efforts.