ExMesh™ shares security expertise at IAASF conference

We demonstrated our security solutions – and provided advice on safeguarding arts and cultural assets – at a major industry conference this month.

The International Arts and Antiquities Security Forum (IAASF) Conference, which took place at the Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel, was themed around ‘Protecting Cultural Heritage in a Global Pandemic’.

Running from 1-2 September, the event was arranged in direct response to the challenges faced by the arts and culture sector in protecting their assets.

The ability to maintain and protect collections and venues has been made harder through the pandemic because of restrictions, loss of revenue and reduced staff numbers. This has increased the likelihood of collections, venues and sites being targeted by criminals.

Our ExMesh™ team shared their expertise around security risks in the arts and cultural sector and advised on solutions – such as Securilath™ – which can help venues protect their buildings, staff and priceless assets.

ExMesh™ Securilath™ security mesh is a discreet method of reinforcing walls, ceilings, roofs and windows. LPCB tested and accredited*, Securilath™ is a versatile material which can be easily fitted during construction or retrofit, and can strengthen storerooms and partitions.

The IAASF, headquartered in North East England, is dedicated to supporting and educating a global audience in the protection of arts, antiquities and cultural heritage. It aims to provide those involved in the protection and safeguarding of cultural and heritage sites with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to play a proactive role in the protection of the venues, artefacts and visitors to the sites.

The ’Protecting Cultural Heritage in a Global Pandemic’ conference was a great success, and featured a range of speakers including IAASF chair and managing director of Trident Manor Andy Davis, William Brown, National Security Adviser for the Arts Council England, and Sophia Stovall, Head of Development at Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums.

As well as exhibiting at the conference, ExMesh™ also sponsored the evening drinks reception.

Philip Astley, Managing Director, The Expanded Metal Company, said: “It was fantastic for our team to be able to meet delegates and network with professionals from the security, law enforcement, arts and heritage sectors.

“We were proud to sponsor the event and our ExMesh™ team greatly enjoyed demonstrating the capabilities and quality of our physical security products to delegates from across the UK.

“After all the challenges created by the Coronavirus pandemic, it was particularly pleasing to attend a ‘face to face’ event.

“Our thanks go to the IAASF team for hosting the conference and for bringing such a globally important event to our home region.”