The Video Security/Access Control Specialist Conference organised by the BHE Federal Association for Security Technology has once again established itself as a key platform for professional exchange within the security industry. On 21 and 22 April 2026, around 260 participants gathered in Brücken to learn about the latest technological developments, regulatory requirements and practical applications. Both the accompanying trade exhibition and the conference seats were fully booked – a clear sign of the continuing high relevance of integrated security solutions.
The two-day programme focused in particular on the increasing convergence of video security and access control, as well as their integration into overarching security architectures. In two parallel lecture tracks, the topics of ‘video security including perimeter protection’ and ‘access control’ were examined in detail, whilst also being considered within the context of networked systems.
The range of presentations spanned from modern, AI-supported video analytics and networked perimeter solutions to scalable access and visitor management systems – with a particular focus on requirements in critical infrastructure (KRITIS). It became clear that technological development is advancing faster than ever before, yet is increasingly shaped by regulatory frameworks.
Among other things, the focus was on the new application rules of IEC 62676-4:2025, which serve as a reference for the planning, operation and quality assurance of video security solutions.
In parallel, the practical implementation of the Cyber Resilience Act was discussed – particularly with regard to manufacturer responsibility, updatability and security requirements throughout the entire lifecycle of networked systems.
Legal issues surrounding AI-supported video applications also gained prominence. Topics such as data protection, transparency and the traceability of algorithmic decisions were examined in depth against the backdrop of current European regulation.
A particular added value of the congress lay in its strong practical focus. Numerous presentations showcased concrete project examples from industry, retail and critical infrastructure sectors where integrated security solutions have already been successfully implemented. It became clear that modern security concepts are increasingly understood as part of holistic resilience strategies – with close integration of physical security, IT security and organisational processes.
Dialogue-oriented and networking
The event concluded with a panel discussion on the prevention of burglary in industry, retail and critical infrastructure. Experts discussed with the audience the capabilities of modern technologies – but also their limitations, for example with regard to legal restrictions or economic scalability.
The congress was accompanied by a trade exhibition featuring 22 suppliers, who presented the latest solutions in the fields of video surveillance, perimeter protection and access control. The traditional industry get-together on the evening of the first day of the event also provided an opportunity for informal discussion and networking.
With its clear focus on technological innovation, regulatory developments and practical application scenarios, the BHE specialist congress reaffirms its role as a key driver of the industry. The next edition of the event is scheduled for 2028.
