In our latest industry interview episode, we speak to Esther Cottrell of STI (Safety Technology International) about the new G3 video buttons.
Where did the original idea for integrating a camera into an emergency push button come from?
“With over four decades of experience in manufacturing protective covers and alarm systems, we’ve seen the landscape shift. Today’s challenges—false fire alarms, unauthorised fire door access, equipment tampering, and operational disruptions—demand more than just alerts. They demand accountability.
Our customers in fire safety, healthcare, and security made it clear: they needed a smarter way to monitor and respond to misuse, especially in high-risk or frequently targeted areas. The feedback drove the development of our G3 Multipurpose Button with integrated camera—a solution that combines trusted activation hardware with real-time visual verification.
The result? A single, intelligent device that not only triggers alerts but also provides immediate context—helping teams respond faster, investigate smarter, and reduce repeat incidents.“
Which applications do you see having the most traction?
“Lockdown Activation – Compliance Meets Readiness
In line with Martyn’s Law (Protection of Premises Bill), our lockdown feature enables instant response to threats in schools, venues, and healthcare settings—supporting both compliance and life safety.
Emergency Exit Monitoring – Deter Misuse, Maintain Control
Real-time alerts help prevent unauthorised access and repeat violations, without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Power Shut Off – Controlled Response with Full Visibility
Quickly isolate power to critical areas like server rooms or factory floors. The integrated camera captures who triggered the shutdown—ensuring transparency and reducing downtime.
Evacuation Initiation – Smarter Safety Protocols
Trigger evacuations while monitoring the source of activation. Ideal for high-traffic environments where false alarms can be costly and dangerous.
These are just a few examples. With customisable colours, labels, and activation types, the G3 is adaptable across sectors—from education, hospitals and transport hubs to industrial sites and public venues.”
What solutions do companies currently use to verify emergency button activations?
“Without video, most organisations rely on layered systems—two-way audio, motion sensors, or multi-factor confirmation. It works, but it’s fragmented and often reactive.
The G3 simplifies this. One device delivers both activation and visual verification—no extra hardware, no complex integrations. Just clear, actionable insight when it matters most.“
Were there any engineering challenges in combining traditional push button reliability with modern IP camera technology?
“Absolutely. Integrating IP camera tech into a legacy push button system wasn’t simple. But our focus was clear: seamless compatibility with existing infrastructure.
The payoff? Customers report smooth integration with their NVR (Network Video Recorders) and are consistently impressed by the clarity of the footage. The early engineering effort has translated into real-world reliability.“
How has the product been received since launch?
“Since launch, uptake has been strong. Fire safety officers, security managers, and healthcare facility teams are recognising the value of combining visual verification, intrusion detection, and access control in one compact, intelligent device.
It’s not just a button—it’s a smarter way to protect people, assets, and operations.“
