The project connects historic and modern buildings under a single system, improving both security and operational efficiency. The Icelandic parliamentary complex presents a unique challenge, combining buildings dating back to 1881 with much more recent ones. This architectural diversity required a solution capable of adapting to different environments without compromising security.
“Our oldest building dates back to 1881, which presents a security challenge,” explains Omar Orn Hauksson, head of security at Parliament. “Now it’s much easier to manage the entire system. It’s large, but it’s far simpler to work with a single platform than with three or four separate systems.”.
From isolated systems to unified management: Before implementation, Parliament operated with multiple independent solutions for intrusion, fire, access control, and video surveillance. Following an initial pilot phase, the integrator Hafnes carried out a complete overhaul.
“We started with a few doors and cameras to test the system. Then we demonstrated its full potential and completely replaced the existing infrastructure,” says Haflidi Jonsson, CEO of the company. “With Genetec, Parliament realized it could unify all systems under a single environment and greatly facilitate the work of security personnel.”.
The solution integrates multiple technologies within the Genetec Security Center platform, including: IP video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, fire alarm systems, and IoT sensors (water, temperature, motion). IoT and advanced visualization for a more efficient response. One of the key aspects of the project has been the integration of IoT sensors, which allow for real-time monitoring of multiple variables within both historic and modern buildings.
“All the sensors (water, temperature, motion) are integrated into the IoT plugin, allowing us to visualize their exact location and facilitate intervention by security personnel,” Jonsson adds. Furthermore, the Parliament uses advanced tools such as Genetec Mission Control for incident management, Genetec Sipelia for communications, and Genetec Clearance for information sharing between entities.
An open and scalable ecosystem
The platform also stands out for its ability to integrate with multiple manufacturers, including STid access control technologies and IP video surveillance systems, which has allowed it to leverage existing infrastructures.
“Genetec has been a real game-changer. It has opened our eyes to everything that can be achieved with security systems when they are integrated into a single platform,” says Jonsson. “The ability to work with different manufacturers and evolve the system is key for our customers.”.
Benchmark security in Iceland
Thanks to this transformation, the Icelandic Parliament has positioned itself as one of the most advanced institutions in terms of security within the country. “We want to be at the forefront of security in Iceland, and I think we can say that we are at the highest level,” concludes Hauksson. “I have complete confidence in Genetec. It is a robust, versatile system with excellent support.”
