International. One way to help the physical security of manufacturing operations is from digital transformation and giving greater importance to cybersecurity, to avoid failures and get the most out of automation. The Genetec brand provided some guidelines in this regard.
According to Genetec, physical security has always been one of the main concerns of the manufacturing industry, along with the challenges of the supply chain, the hiring of labor and the uncertain economic environment.
"That's why implementing robust safety management and control is critical for companies in the industry to protect their assets, improve workplace safety and reduce the impact of accidents."
According to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) report, global manufacturing output, in general, has been growing at a steady pace over the past few quarters and is now well above pre-pandemic levels.
That's why Genetec shared in an article physical security recommendations for manufacturers, as well as innovative solutions that can improve the security landscape from digital transformation.
Digital transformation and the importance of cybersecurity
In 2022, 45% of manufacturing executives surveyed by Deloitte said they anticipate further increases in operational efficiency as a result of current investments in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
In that sense, for Genetec "the goal is to reduce operational interruptions by taking advantage of the benefits of connected machines and automated processes." This is because greater connectivity and automation can also increase the amount of data manufacturers can access, as most IoT and IIoT devices are transformed into sensors for data collection.
Hence, manufacturers can use this data to generate real-time information to increase their competitive advantage.
Using a unified security system, such as Security Center's, to collect and analyze data from multiple sources, can give manufacturers a more complete view of their processes and help them make key decisions about how to improve efficiency.
Genetec adds that they can use the data to develop accurate forecasting and planning models, improve strategic decisions and perform predictive maintenance, reducing unplanned downtime and extending machine life. Data that can additionally contribute to manufacturers complying with regulations in the countries where they are located.
For example, monitoring the levels of regulated chemicals in manufacturing facilities, such as HFCs for cooling and refrigeration, can be done through data collection and analysis. While failure to comply with any regulations can result in hefty fines, as well as costly downtime and production delays.
"It's important to remember that greater interconnectivity can make organizations more vulnerable to disruptions caused by cyberattacks. Data breaches can have a significant impact on production. In addition to losing valuable data and intellectual property of manufacturers that are at risk of their operations being completely stopped." As Genetec assures.
So, to help mitigate these risks, manufacturing companies should adopt cyber-bolstered physical security recommendations, as part of their comprehensive approach to cybersecurity.
Genetec says cyber-hardened security solutions, such as those offered by its brand, can reduce vulnerabilities and protect against threats that could lead to costly and damaging data breaches.
The cost of unplanned outages
The biggest risk and loss of money for manufacturers are interruptions, whether due to theft, perimeter violations or cyberattacks. Because they can lead to massive production delays, depending on the industry, unplanned downtime can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars every hour. According to Forbes, industrial manufacturers can lose between 1% and 10% of available production time at a total cost of up to $50 billion per year.
Genetec's recommendations for manufacturers to reduce disruptions are to track materials and products; use and protect data more effectively; extend perimeter security; and ensure the safety of its workforce.
Finally, a unified physical security solution, such as its Genetec Security Center, can help reduce the frequency and duration of outages while also leading manufacturers into a new era of digital transformation.
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