In addition, these elevated spaces frequently house expensive equipment such as HVAC units, solar panels, and valuable metal components like copper – making them a prime target for theft and a key area to protect against intrusion.

Due to the complex and often exposed nature of these spaces, roof intrusion detection presents some unique challenges. Environmental factors such as wind, debris, wildlife, and changing weather conditions can trigger false alarms, overwhelming security systems with nuisance alerts. Meanwhile, the varied architectural designs of roofs – with multiple levels, HVAC units, solar panels, and other structures – create complex environments which limit the field of view, making it a difficult environment for video surveillance alone.

Highly sophisticated, intelligent sensing technologies, such as Lidar, are gaining increased popularity for securing roofs and ceilings as they are capable to cover wide areas (up to 50x100m) and accurately distinguishing between genuine intrusion attempts and natural environmental variations.

Redscan roof protection

A compelling example of roof security vulnerability emerged with a major North American retail banking franchise. Criminals executed a sophisticated intrusion strategy by cutting a hole in the roof during operational hours when security systems were deliberately deactivated, and then returning later on when the bank was closed to steal critical assets. With hundreds of sites across the US, each with varying security systems in place, the customer wanted the most effective form of detection for the required distances.

The system integrator recommended and installed Optex Redscan RLS-2020S Lidar detection sensors, which provide up to 20x20m coverage with just one unit. In total, 180 Lidar sensors were installed across 150 of the bank’s locations. These intelligent sensors create a virtual ceiling on the roofs, effectively, according to Optex, transforming it into an impenetrable security barrier. Lidar technology allows the precise target size to be defined, eliminating false alarms caused by small wildlife or falling leaves blowing in the wind. In addition, Lidar is not affected by light or temperature changes, therefore allowing a very stable and accurate operation. Multiple detection zones can be set, allowing the ability to track intruders’ movement and precisely identify where they are.

According to Optex, the results have been dramatic – with a near-total elimination of unauthorised roof access attempts.

Similar long-range Lidar installations have proven very effective in museums, warehouses, office buildings, retail stores and other large flat-roof locations.