On-board security in radar

The Swiss-based MSC Cruises has now deployed a new intelligent video surveillance system that offers even greater on-board security for passengers and crew alike.

MSC Cruises has announced the launch of a new vanguard video surveillance system offering even greater on-board security. In another industry-first, MSC Cruises has developed this highly-sophisticated advanced system in collaboration with global leaders in security technology, Bosch and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. The system is now operational on MSC Meraviglia and is a first of its kind in the industry. Over time, similar integrated systems will be developed and deployed across MSC Cruises’ global fleet.

The integrated system is part of a bigger MSC Cruises operation to further optimise security monitoring on board the ship and will allow, among other features, for the speediest intervention in the unlikely event a person or object falls overboard.

The new intelligent video capturing and analysis system consists of a comprehensive shield of intelligent optical and thermal video cameras which provide non-stop comprehensive surveillance alongside the relevant exterior parts of the ship. All captured video images are streamed in real-time to a Central Security Room where the video stream is monitored together with all other inputs from the 1,200 HD CCTV cameras on board the ship.

MSC Cruises Security Department and experts from Bosch and Hewlett Packard Enterprise have worked over 14 months to create the setup. This double security system has allowed to significantly lower the error margin for false alerts– typically caused by natural movements such as waves, reflection of sun or moon, or a bird triggering the alarm. These ordinary interferences usually pose significant challenges for current shipboard CCTV technology. Through over 25,000 hours of video analysis, extensive software testing and continuous algorithmic updates, the system has now reached a confirmed accuracy level of 97 per cent.

In case of alarm, an acoustic signal and light will alert the ship’s Security Officer in the Central Security Room who can immediately connect to the system and acquire all images and data and, if necessary, retrieve or review the relevant video images. The Security Officer has direct access to the ship command at the Bridge to allow for immediate action.