Google provides new secured Android versions against possible attacks ready and eliminates a total of 68 security vulnerabilities. The operating system versions 10, 11, 12, 12L and 13 are affected. Attackers could gain higher user rights on Android devices by successfully exploiting several vulnerabilities. Google classifies eight of the vulnerable gaps as critical. They lurk at the core level in components from Qualcomm and MediaTek. In addition, vulnerabilities in the Android Framework and the Google Play Store are also mentioned.

Perform Android update via the smartphone

The status of the last Android update can be checked in the settings. Depending on the manufacturer, you can usually find more information about this under a tab like About the device. Besides Google, manufacturers like Samsung, Huawei and Oppo distribute software updates monthly. Google Pixel devices will be able to apply the patch in the next few days.

Presumably, owners of other smartphones should receive their updates "over the air" in 1-2 months. To install Android updates, you usually open the Settings app and scroll down to a menu item called System. Depending on the manufacturer, you will usually find a submenu or an entry like Extendedto check the system for updates.

The term "high pressure" alone should be enough to treat the equipment with respect and to protect oneself as well as people in the vicinity from injury. However, it is not uncommon for the press reports following accidents with high-pressure cleaners to be reminiscent of scenes from horror movies: "Worker slashes his abdominal wall," "20-year-old fears for his eye," "Man (54) wants to clean machine - seriously injured!

It becomes particularly risky in companies and businesses when employees who use high-pressure cleaners for patio slabs, garden paths or mobile homes in their private lives use a device that is often significantly more powerful for business purposes without prior instruction. People believe they have mastered the technology and the work process and can do without protective equipment. But if you don't realize what can be done by a jet of water shooting out of the nozzle at up to several hundred or even over a thousand bars, you risk the most serious injuries. A rubber boot offers no protection at high operating pressure. Without PPE, not only the skin and tissues, but also the eyes are at high risk, and this already begins with equipment of the lower performance levels, such as those in use in many plants and companies.

Underestimated dangers

Not only the cutting effect of a water jet under high pressure is easily underestimated. Everyone who buys and uses a high-pressure cleaner should also be aware of the other risks:

• If the high-pressure water jet reaches unprotected parts of the body, this can lead to massive injuries to skin, tissue, muscles or eyes.
• When the water jet is triggered, a recoil occurs, which may cause the operator of the device to stumble or fall.
• When using hot water or hot steam, there is a risk of scalding or burns on hot parts of the unit.
• If the swirled-up debris hits people, there is a risk of injury, e.g. from small stones or broken glass. Even more treacherous are the small particles such as grains of sand or paint splinters that can penetrate deep into the skin.

It is not only when working with the high-pressure cleaner that risky situations occur; caution is also required during repair and maintenance work. The accident reports then say, for example: "While repairing a high-pressure cleaner, a screw joint shot the young man in the face." In another case, the accident analysis revealed that a colleague had previously tried to "patch the damaged pressure hose of the device with the help of parcel tape." Even for simple - and supposedly harmless - activities, such as changing the nozzle, the unit must be switched off beforehand, the water supply interrupted and the entire system depressurized.

Safety rules and protective measures

Supervisors and those responsible for safety should establish clear guidelines as to who may use which equipment when and for what purpose, and organize testing and maintenance. The storage location of the equipment should also be regulated; high-pressure cleaners must never be parked in escape routes or in front of emergency exits. A well-maintained and regularly inspected high-pressure cleaner is a suitable and justifiably popular work tool for many cleaning tasks. However, a prerequisite for safe use is that clear instructions for use exist in the company and that these rules are also controlled and enforced, e.g.:

• Only use high-pressure cleaners if you have been instructed in their use, risks and safety requirements beforehand.
• Use suitable protective equipment, depending on the equipment and its performance, liquid-tight body protection, foot protection, hand protection, face protection, do not forget hearing protection.
• Before use, check the spray gun, hose lines and safety devices for defects, also the displays for pressure and temperature, if applicable.
• Observe the specifications of the device manufacturer (operating or operating instructions) regarding the intended use, operating pressure, etc.
• Only connect the devices to sockets with a residual current circuit breaker; this is mandatory for outdoor use.
• Handle hose lines with care, i.e. avoid kinks, pinching and entanglement and do not pull the hoses over edges.
• Never move the pressure washer by pulling on the hose.
• Consistently sort out leaking or otherwise damaged hose lines; under no circumstances patch or seal them provisionally.
• Never point a pressure washer at people.
• Never hold an object to be cleaned with your foot or hand, not even with the foot or hand of a colleague.
• If necessary, cordon off working environments; under no circumstances should passers-by or children appear unexpectedly and come too close to the water jet.

The following is important for equipment checks: The trigger must always close by itself when released and should be designed in such a way that it cannot be triggered unintentionally. If this does not work properly, it must be replaced. Under no circumstances should the trigger be jammed (as some people are used to doing with the fuel lever at the gas station).

Extreme caution should be used when operating on uneven terrain, in an area that is difficult to see, or in operating areas with falling edges, e.g. on a ramp or in front of steps. Under no circumstances should a pressure washer be used from a ladder, as the recoil force threatens balance and safe working is not possible without a secure footing.

Do not forget skin protection

When working with high-pressure cleaners, it is important not to forget other health risks that exist regardless of the device's operating pressure. On the one hand, anyone working in a damp environment and using liquid-tight PPE at times should take care to protect their skin. A company skin protection plan with details of the means for protection, cleaning and care of the exposed skin motivates and supports personal responsibility.

On the other hand, working with the high-pressure cleaner can be associated with infection risks, e.g. in the sewage, waste or health industries. The water mist generated by the device should always be inhaled as little as possible. If potential sources of infection are added, suitable respiratory protection, e.g. FFP2 masks, may be necessary.

No high-pressure cleaners in case of asbestos risks!

Suva urgently advises against the use of high-pressure cleaners when cleaning fiber cement panels containing asbestos on building envelopes, such as roofs with corrugated metal sheets. This is because there is a risk of releasing and spreading asbestos fibers, which are known to cause serious illness when inhaled. Materials containing asbestos should be replaced with asbestos-free products. If cleaning with water is indispensable, special asbestos surface cleaning systems with controlled water circulation should be used.

Depending on the application scenario, full-scale intelligent access control can already be fully digital today. Let's take as our starting scenario a short business trip to Switzerland by a London businessman. A few days before his departure, he books an apartment in Switzerland for a few days on a portal like Booking.com. When confirming his booking, Mr. Smith can download an app to generate a highly secure digital token as a key certificate for access to the apartment, which is only generated locally on his device. The free app, Evva's AirKey app as an example, is intuitive and turns the smartphone into a key for various facilities. An optional PIN code further protects the app. Via online administration, the landlord can conveniently send new keys to smartphones at any time.

Only one digital key for multiple rental properties

On another booking platform, Mr. Smith has already selected his sleek SUV as a business vehicle. Each vehicle model can be booked for an individually defined period of time. The access data, also for a modern e-vehicle, is sent directly to his cell phone. Once he arrives at Zurich Airport, Mr. Smith uses the app to enter the parking garage. With another cell phone code, the Englishman unlocks his rental vehicle without physical keys. Thanks to interaction with Google Maps, the access app navigates him directly to the front door of his rented apartment. At the front door, the mobile app scans for existing locking components. For example, the Zuko app can indicate whether the access controller is within the necessary detection distance of the door. Touching the door cylinder starts the authorization check process, and without pulling the phone out of his pocket, Mr. Smith can enter the unlocked room. The parcel box and mailbox are fully automatically integrated into the process.

Mr. Smith was thus able to access several integrative and intuitive usage benefits of complete digital access control via a single digital key and his smartphone. Highly secure user identification is ensured by segmented key pairs, as a part of a key pair always remains encrypted in the locking system database when it is generated. As an additional security layer, the user must always validate himself via his uniquely generated key part, which he only carries locally on his smartphone. In principle, the range of applications in modern facility management of a multi-story apartment can easily be extended to multiple floors and apartments: from the front door to the apartment door, to elevators, attics, bicycle rooms, garages and package rooms. The tenant was spared the headache of multiple keys.

Such integrations are made possible by electronic interfaces, so-called APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). The so-called MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) as one of the best-known IoT protocols technically enables a very high response time even with restricted networks. However, the sender and receiver are never in direct contact with each other, but only interact independently of other protocols through mediation via a server, resulting in reliable, secure and high-performance communication. Integration through REST interfaces also ensures compatibility with almost all protocols and no additional software is required for development. Various residential and commercial units can also be implemented using a combination of electronic and mechanical access point security. Security risks due to lost or copied keys no longer cause costs. Data processing and storage must also be carried out in accordance with national local regulations, while log information helps to identify possible sources of error at any time. The technologies for the smart tenant and landlord of tomorrow are available. We just need to use them.

In certain concentrations, so-called precursor substances such as hydrogen peroxide in disinfectants can be used to produce homemade explosives. These could theoretically be used by terrorists and criminal organizations for attacks or to blow up ATMs. Private individuals interested in explosives and pyrotechnics could also make use of certain precursors.

Customer portal at Fedpol

A new law has now come into force as of January 1, 2023. Depending on the substance and concentration of specific precursor substances, a special permit issued by the Federal Office of Police (Fedpol) has been required since then. The special permit is valid for three years. The law regulates, among other things, the acquisition, possession, transfer and sale, but also the import and export of precursors for explosive mixtures. The provision of such substances on the market and the manufacture of explosives by private users are also regulated.

As the Fedpol said in a statement writesIn the Swiss market, around 100 products are affected that could theoretically serve as precursors for the production of explosives. Applications for licenses can be submitted via the Fedpol's customer portal, which is available on the website www.fedpol.admin.ch can be called up. According to the Federal Office, specialist stores that sell products can now also check their licenses there on an ongoing basis.

Source: Fedpol/Editorial Office

The latest generation of drones from U.S. manufacturer Skydio is in action around the clock when needed. The drones do not need human pilots or overseers. They do their jobs autonomously and fly to a recharging station when the on-board battery runs out of energy. There, it docks autonomously and continues flying as soon as the battery is full again.

"The concept of remote-controlled drones is incredibly compelling. But it will never work the way customers want it to. It's a very different story when you can trust the drone to do what it's supposed to do on its own. That's our core focus," says Skydio CEO Adam Bry.

Alternative to remote control

In 2019, the startup introduced the first automatic charging station. A mechanical arm caught the drone and placed it so that electricity could flow into the battery. Now the company presented the world's smallest and lightest docking stations. It can be mounted virtually anywhere. The control software is based on artificial intelligence and guides the drone not only during its inspection or measurement work, but also when approaching the charging station.

The larger dock is made of aluminum and polycarbonate, has a footprint of only 0.37 square meters and weighs 30 kilograms. It is robust and weatherproof for outdoor use. The "Dock Lite" has the same functionality, but is much smaller and can be mounted on vertical surfaces and installed in confined spaces.

Live info for civil engineers

Among the first users is the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)., which moves people and goods "safely and efficiently with customer focus, accountability and environmental sensitivity to improve the economy and vitality of North Carolina. With this technology, we are able to monitor construction progress more efficiently than ever before," says NCDOT Manager Thomas Walls. "We use it to record video and send it to our engineers in real time. It's a big cost savings for us."

(Press text.com)

Suisse Public in Bern, which takes place every two years, is considered the central Swiss trade fair for public companies and administrations. The focus is usually on the latest trends, developments, products and services in the municipal sector. The spectrum of products and services ranges from machines, equipment, fire rescue services and signalization tools to IT, recycling and energy generation.

Occupational safety as a separate trade fair area

This year, the focus is on occupational health and safety as well as employee well-being, as stated in a Communication of the Bernexpo event is called. Suissepublic even wants to dedicate a separate exhibition area to this topic. The topic of occupational safety will be taken into account within the framework of forward-looking innovations. In particular in areas such as "Fire brigade, defense and rescue services", "Roads, signalization and traffic" as well as "Building maintenance and industry", the topic is unavoidable.

In addition to the target groups of Suisse Public, responsible persons and purchasers from industry, the construction industry and the service sector will be addressed with the focus topic. Various lectures and presentations by experts will round off the program. Over two days, up to 60 exhibitors will present innovative products and solutions.

The Suisse Public 2023 will be held on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 and Wednesday, June 7, 2023.

Source: Editorial office

On January 3, 2023, Switzerland started its work in the UN Security Council together with other newly elected members. There was also a short ceremony to mark the occasion. According to the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Switzerland wants to actively and credibly contribute to all conflicts and issues on the Council's agenda. insert. According to the FDFA, Switzerland intends to uphold its traditional values. This involves preserving its position as an independent state, respecting the rule of law and respecting international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights.

On August 31, 2022, the Federal Council therefore also set four thematic priorities for the seat thematizes. This involves the promotion of sustainable peace, the protection of the civilian population, the strengthening of the Security Council and climate security. In May 2023 and presumably in October 2024, Switzerland will take over the chairmanship of the Council for one month and chair the Council's business. In view of the current global situation, membership of the Council is an opportunity, says the FDFA.

Source: DFA/Editorial Office

Gas and energy are needed to produce certain chemicals such as ammonia, urea, which mitigate emissions of harmful nitrogen oxides. Due to the uncertain supply situation in Europe because of the Ukraine war, supply shortages could be imminent. If these substances are missing, some plants such as wood-fired power plants, waste incineration plants or cement plants could no longer comply with their minimum emission limits.

Higher emissions only in exceptional cases

Therefore, on December 16, 2022, the Federal Council adopted an amendment to the Air Pollution Control Ordinance (LVR) adopted. This gives the cantons the possibility to increase the emission limits for a limited period of time. However, the operator must be able to demonstratethat it is currently no longer able to obtain the necessary chemicals. After that, it is always up for discussion whether a reduced operation of a plant can also be considered. The shutdown of a plant must also be considered as an option. Only if one of the two measures can no longer be implemented can cantons allow higher emissions.

Source: Bund/Editorial

In certain concentrations, so-called precursor substances such as hydrogen peroxide in disinfectants can be used to produce homemade explosives. These could theoretically be used by terrorists and criminal organizations for attacks or to blow up ATMs. Private individuals interested in explosives and pyrotechnics could also make use of certain precursors.

Customer portal at Fedpol

A new law has now come into force as of January 1, 2023. Depending on the substance and concentration of specific precursor substances, a special permit issued by the Federal Office of Police (Fedpol) has been required since then. The special permit is valid for three years. The law regulates, among other things, the acquisition, possession, transfer and sale, but also the import and export of precursors for explosive mixtures. The provision of such substances on the market and the manufacture of explosives by private users are also regulated.

As the Fedpol said in a statement writesIn the Swiss market, around 100 products are affected that could theoretically serve as precursors for the production of explosives. Applications for licenses can be submitted via the Fedpol's customer portal, which is available on the website www.fedpol.admin.ch can be called up. According to the Federal Office, specialist stores that sell products can now also check their licenses there on an ongoing basis.

Source: Fedpol/Editorial Office

Max and Manuela Keller shaped the management culture of Siaxma for no less than 25 years. As a result, the family business in the security and time and attendance industry also became a strong player in Swiss access control. Now, due to retirement, the couple is handing over the reins to their daughter and brother-in-law. With Daniela Keller and Roland Haas, the next generation is following in the footsteps of the Swiss total solution provider in the access and time and attendance industry.

New management duo with a wealth of experience

It is the famous laughing and crying eye, it says in a house message on the farewell and the new stage of life. Max Keller admits in no uncertain terms: He feels very good and is looking forward to the end of 2022, when the handover process will be completed.

Daniela Keller has already been in charge of administration, finance and human resources since 2022, while Roland Haas is responsible for projects and technology.

"Of course I have respect for the great responsibility, but that's exactly what appeals to me about the task," Daniela Keller is quoted as saying. In addition to a CAS in tax law, the certified public accountant can look back on experience in corporate accounting. Roland Haas, Daniela Keller's brother-in-law, is also optimistic: "They have a very experienced team. He is an electrical planner, project manager for safety at STFW and an NDS business economist.

Edgar Weingärtner, a man from the very beginning, will remain as the third person in the four-person management team. According to Siaxma, Weingärtner is the "brains" behind the company's proprietary software and will continue to ensure continuity over the next ten years, the statement said. The fourth man on the management board is Markus Schönberger, who has been with Siaxma since 2020 as head of sales and engineering.

Source: Siaxma AG/Editorial Office 

Managing directors André Tobler and Urs Wyss announce in a Communicationthat with Hasler + Co AG an advantageous succession arrangement has been found for the customers and employees of Tobler Protecta AG. The new owner, Hasler + Co AG, is already represented at five locations in Switzerland with its professional centers. The two family-owned companies have many years of experience in the retail trade and are professionals in the field of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Already 15 years ago, the Hasler Group from Winterthur expanded its traditional range of tools, power tools, fittings, joining techniques and access solutions with the holistic offer of personal protective equipment. Labeling and embroidery of work clothes complete the protective clothing from head to toe.

Expansion of market position

The integration of Tobler Protecta AG into Hasler + Co AG is managed by Mrs. Zena Ünes, Sales Manager of the Personal Protective Equipment Division of Hasler + Co AG, on site in Ipsach. In addition, the merger of the two companies is closely accompanied by the management of both companies.

The integration will enable Tobler Protecta AG to further strengthen its competitive position and expand its product range and services, according to Tobler Protecta AG. The company is confident that customers will benefit from the added value.

The integration will enable Tobler Protecta AG to further strengthen its competitive position and expand its product range and services, according to Tobler Protecta AG. The company is confident that customers will benefit from the added value.

The owners of Tobler Protecta AG, André Tobler and Urs Wyss, have successfully developed the company since its foundation in 2001. The merger is an "ideal solution" to ensure continuity for customers and employees. The owners will accompany the integration with their expertise in the coming months. Business activities will continue at the current location in Ipsach, BE. The well-known company name will be retained.

www.hasler.ch
www.tobler-protecta.ch

The task of NBC protection is to protect the population, animals, the environment and property from nuclear (A), biological (B) and chemical (C) hazards and threats. NBC protection includes all measures to prevent the release of hazardous substances and to minimize the effects of such events. According to a Communication of the federal government, NBC protection has become more complex and confusing in recent years.

More complex hazards

An assessment by the Swiss Security Association (PP SVS) now shows that Switzerland is basically well positioned in NBC protection in terms of the legal basis, and that the structures, processes and instruments are also intact. However, the large number of hazardous substances, scenarios and actors poses an increasing challenge for NBC protection.

In some areas, the analysis revealed significant information deficits among the stakeholders involved. This is now to be countered with the creation of an exchange platform. The APAPC (ABC of the Confederation) body would form the missing counterpart at federal level to the already existing ABC coordination platform of the cantons (KPABC).

The missing link is intended to improve overall coordination in Swiss NBC protection and close an existing gap in NBC protection. The Federal Office for Civil Protection (FOCP) has been commissioned to implement the exchange platform. Under the lead of the FOCP, a performance profile of the civil defense in the NBC area is to be developed, also with the participation of the cantons.

Source: Bund/Editorial