Did you know that in your home or place of work you can be exposed to natural and artificial forms of radiation?

The study of influence of the environment on the well-being of the occupants of a place is called geobiology. It explores the interactions between local energy, magnetic fields, telluric currents, and other natural elements. Some practitioners of geobiology claim that harmony with these natural forces can contribute to the health and well-being of people living or working in a given space, in contrast to unwanted radiation.

Geopathology is the term used for diseases caused by that exposure. They can range from arthritis and asthma to cancer. Some people have reported the development of electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) which can result in dermatological symptoms as well as tiredness, concentration difficulties and heart palpitations. Although the World Health Organization has stated there is no clear link between EHS symptoms and exposure to electromagnetic waves.

What are the causes?

There are a number of natural causes including:

Magnetic fields: Some geobiology practitioners examine variations in the earth’s magnetic field at a given location. High levels or magnetic anomalies can be considered potentially influential.
Telluric currents: It is sometimes believed that certain natural telluric currents (electrical currents flowing through the ground) can influence the energy of a place. Some practitioners suggest that crossings of these currents could have an effect on health or well-being.
Underground water sources: The presence of underground watercourses is also being studied. Some believe that the quality of groundwater can affect the energy of a place, and that areas where these water flows cross could have implications.
Hartmann and Curry networks: Some geobiology practitioners refer to the Hartmann and Curry networks, which are hypothetical networks of energy lines that cover the Earth’s surface. Some claim that these networks can influence health and well-being.

There are a number of artificial causes:

High, medium and low voltage lines.
Defective electrical installations in homes.
Power stations.
Nuclear power plants.
Transformation posts.

More prevalent in everyday life are radio and television transmitters that power wireless devices such as mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, and radios. They emit radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF EM waves) and over time the human body absorbs the energy. The effects depend on the frequency range and intensity of the individual’s exposure. In some circumstances people might be considered as unwanted radiation.

What are the differing approaches to unwanted radiation?

However, there is no conclusive evidence of the significant effects of non-ionising magnetic fields present in everyday conditions and normal levels of the Earth’s magnetic field are not generally considered as unwanted radiation, and certainly not as harmful to health.

Geobiology, as a discipline, is often criticised for the lack of a solid scientific basis for its claims. There are differing perspectives on the effectiveness of geobiological measures, and it is advisable to adopt a critical and balanced approach when evaluating these concepts. As a result, architectural professionals may have differing views on the incorporation of these concepts into building design. Some may adopt a more scientific approach and be sceptical about the concepts of geobiology in the absence of solid scientific evidence, or focus on concrete evidence based on established standards and peer-reviewed scientific research. Others may take a more nuanced approach, choosing to incorporate elements of geobiology selectively, for example by considering the building’s orientation to the sun or other environmental features or concentrate on occupant satisfaction and well-being with the aim of creating more pleasant living spaces.

Differing points of view often reflect differences in beliefs, scientific approach, and preference for more traditional or more innovative design methodologies in architecture.

How can we protect ourselves from unwanted radiation?

There are a number of ways we can protect ourselves against the perceived effects of magnetic fields including:

Commission a geobiological survey to assess the energetic characteristics of the environment, including magnetic fields.
Place resting areas, such as beds or relaxation areas, in places where the potentially harmful influences of magnetic fields are reduced.
Use specific materials in building construction to reduce the effects of magnetic fields. However, these recommendations are not universally accepted in the construction field.

Architects can also consider optimising the comfort and health of the occupants by incorporating geobiological principles into the planning of buildings, taking into account, for example, the orientation of the building, the quality of the soil, or the presence of underground watercourses.

Solutions can be installed too, that deliver superior shielding performance such as WAVETRAP . The transparent glass product from WAVE by AGC prevents the transmission of unwanted electromagnetic radiation to indoor environments. Invisible to the eye and featuring high coating technology, it ensures best protection by preventing electromagnetic radiation from entering a building and reducing radiation pollution. It can be used indoors to provide shielding between separate spaces. It also blocks waves without losing light and does not affect the insulating or thermal performance of glazing.

There are other ways we can improve our protection and look after ourselves. For more information visit https://wavebyagc.com/wavetrap/.

Are you aware of the healthy approach to connectivity you take in your day-to-day work? Arriving in a new city and trying to navigate in an unfamiliar location, trying to upload information at a busy event or suddenly experiencing a signal loss: there are few things more frustrating than waiting for your phone to connect to a signal strong enough to access the information you need right at that moment.

At the same time the constant searching and reloading increases the phone’s energy consumption, using up its battery and, in some cases, causing the phone to heat up.

This just adds to the increasing amount of time we spend online – reportedly up to 400 minutes or six hours and 40 minutes per day. And the more time we spend connected, the more we consider how much of an impact the technology may potentially have on our health. Hence the importance of a healthy approach to connectivity.

Wireless devices such as mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, and radio and television transmitters emit radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF EMFs). Over time the human body absorbs energy from RF EMF waves and the effects depend on the frequency range and intensity of the individual’s exposure.

According to the Risks to Health and Well-Being From Radio-Frequency Radiation (RFR) Emitted by Cell Phones and Other Wireless Devices, 32 countries or governmental bodies within these countries have issued policies and health recommendations concerning exposure to RFR (which includes radio waves). Three US states issued advisories to limit exposure to RFR and in France Wi-Fi has been removed from pre-schools and ordered to be shut off in elementary schools when not in use. Also, children aged 16 years or under have been banned from bringing cell phones to school. However, the research did note that there were gaps in the current body of evidence and made a number of recommendations about collecting accurate data.

Some people have also reported the development of electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS). It is characterized by dermatological symptoms as well as fatigue, tiredness, concentration difficulties, dizziness, nausea, heart palpitation, and digestive disturbances.

But the World Health Organization has stated EHS has no clear diagnostic criteria and there is no scientific basis to link EHS symptoms to exposure to electromagnetic waves. It has said EHS is not a medical diagnosis and it is not clear that it represents a single medical problem. This does not exclude opting for a healthy approach to connectivity.

There are dedicated solutions to ensure enhanced signal performance in the appropriate locations and guarantee adequate indoor connectivity to minimize overexposure to waves.

WAVETHRU from WAVE by AGC improves the transmission of radio frequencies with a glass surface treatment. More signal enters the building, resulting in improved communication between the base station and the phone. It uses less power so fewer waves are generated. According to a study by Ghent University, offices with WAVETHRU saw a significant reduction in exposure to radio frequency waves – for a 2G call exposure was 75% lower, for a 4G video call it was 58% lower and for a 4G FTP file upload it was 36% lower. It was also found that the combined effects of the improved connection were also highly beneficial for a mobile-phone user’s RF exposure. On average (considering all user scenarios), WAVETHRU glazing decreased the total absorbed whole-body dose of a user by 76%.

WAVEANTENNA provides large scale Wi-Fi coverage using the mapping of signage. The easy to install, barely visible aesthetic antenna solution can integrate with functional or mandatory signage (emergency exit sign for example). Through logo printing, the antenna can be part of the branding experience of the company too. It can also enable FWA (Fixed Wireless Access) that solves the challenge of transmitting a high-quality signal for insulated buildings, with a non-intrusive, simple, and clean installation.

Just as there are several ways we can protect against exposure to electromagnetic waves and minimize their impact starting with the digital deter.

How? WAVETRAP enables to achieve superior shielding performance preventing electromagnetic radiation from entering a building. Invisible to the eye, and featuring high coating technology, it can also be used indoors to provide shielding between separate spaces.

These solutions can help us look after ourselves, our colleagues, and the environments we live and work in.

For more information visit https://wavebyagc.com/wavetrap/

Loss of critical business information and client privacy plus the threat of wider attacks and identity theft are among the far-reaching implications of an eavesdropping attack.

What does eavesdropping really mean?

Eavesdropping attack is the act of listening to, recording or intercepting private communications. It can apply to verbal conversations (phone calls or people talking face-to-face) and data communications (email, text messages, video conferences, fax transmissions, internet of things data streams or any other type of data that’s transmitted over a network).

Hackers can intercept communication between two devices, enabling easy access to private information. Devices like laptops and mobile phones with microphones can be remotely accessed and hacked, and an attacker can send data to anyone. Individuals or organizations can eavesdrop for various reasons such as cybercriminals trying to steal sensitive information and businesses trying to gain a competitive advantage. Attackers can eavesdrop on the conversation of apps that users often expect to be secured. They can also gain access to critical information to steal credentials or undertake identity thefts.

An eavesdropping attack, if undetected and not stopped early, can result in data and confidentiality security issues, the loss of crucial business information, and privacy. Sensitive company information, such as business secrets or user passwords, can be accessed and illegally exchanged. This can result in significant financial impact and damage the company’s reputation, too.

There are five main types of eavesdropping:

Being close to people – attackers use audio or video gadgets to record sounds or images and turn them into electrical configurations for eavesdropping on the target.
Interception of electronic communication – a transmission link or interface between two devices (sender and recipient) is tapped to eavesdrop.
Image reconstruction – the display image of a PC can be reconstructed by using radio frequency emanations.
Pertubation of the WiFi sytem – also referred to as data sniffing. It is used to target organizations and businesses whose communications within the network are sent to network ports. Hackers access the system and steal data.
Pertubation of Digital Asset

Passive vs. active eavesdropping – preventing the man-in-the-middle attack

Eavesdropping can be passive, where the attacker listens to digital conversations – for example VoIP or Voice over IP calls can be recorded and stored using protocol analyzers and converted audio files.

It can also be active. Hackers imitate websites where personal data and information is shared by online users – for example an MITM attack or man-in-the-middle attack. Data is captured, modified and sent to other devices without anyone noticing. Communication systems are hijacked and control over the transport of data is taken. Independent communications can be created with the users acting as if the conversation between users is private. MITM can also be referred to as lurkers in a social context. Lurkers gain knowledge by observing online. They rarely or never post. But like eavesdropping, lurking into other users’ private information is a privacy violation.

How can you keep your data safe?

Prevention is better than cure.

Unfortunately, it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to detect and prevent passive network eavesdropping attacks. There are no tell-taledisruptions or changes to the network. Active attacks are easier to detect, but often, data is already intercepted by the time network changes are noticed.

Eavesdropping detection is difficult. That is why, with eavesdropping, prevention is better than cure. It is why it is important to maximize cyber security effectiveness.

For best protection you could firstly:

Consider what data you should store on your device as attackers can use sophisticated hacking apps to access your mobile stored information.
Be cautious when installing applications – research them and check what permissions are required. Malicious apps are often disguised to look like an attractive package but carry Trojan horse virus code.
Avoid connections to unknown WiFi networks, and not using public WiFi networks. Fake WiFi hotspots can be created to hack mobile phones.
Enable encryption on your WiFi network.

Secondly, choose a solution such as WAVETRAP from WAVE by AGC. The transparent glass product from WAVE by AGC can help support best cyber security practices by serving as a physical barrier that prevents digital eavesdropping while also ensuring compatibility with sensitive and even critical electronic systems. A physical firewall can be added as an additional and tailored layer of protection against commonplace threats and multi-stage attacks. It can ward off unwanted visitors.

With WAVETRAP, operations can introduce best practices, elevate their protection against eavesdropping, and be confident in the increased safety and security of their communications.

Here are some other articles that might be of interest to you:

The Physical and Virtual Cybersecurity Conundrum – a Q&A on accountability and responsibility with cybersecurity expert Denis Boudy

Why it might be time for a digital deter

Are you protected against eavesdropping attacks?

Welfare concerns over electronic wave emissions are often featured in the news and many people have voiced complaints about the development of electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS).

More recently, we have seen articles on Apple iPhone 12 sales being stopped in France over fears they are emitting high radiation levels.

While a number of studies do exist, like the ones recently published by the Belgian BioElectro Magnetics Group (BBEMG), there has been no conclusive cause and effect evidence documented.

The World Health Organization has even stated EHS has no clear diagnostic criteria and there is no scientific basis to link EHS symptoms to exposure to electromagnetic waves. It has said EHS is not a medical diagnosis and it is not clear that it represents a single medical problem.

However, there are a number of ways we can protect against exposure to electromagnetic waves:

1. Digital Detox

This could include scheduling time away from screens throughout the day, taking periodic technology breaks, adjusting the phone to limit apps and schedule downtime, turning off your phone or placing it on do not disturb at certain times and creating no phone areas in the home.

2. Digital Minimalism

This is a strategy that helps people optimize their use of technology to keep from being overwhelmed by it. This can be employed both at home and at work. We are all increasingly encouraged to accept more and more online interaction – emails, banking and shopping are all available in quick to access apps. Notifications arrive and messages pop up frequently throughout the day which can be demanding, distracting, and diverting. By focusing time on a small quantity of optimized activities we can approach technology with a set intention for using it. This can have beneficial effects on digital well-being with regards to using these tools in a healthy, manageable way, by reducing anxiety, stress, and burnout.

3. Digital Silence and Digital De-Connectivity

There is also the option of considering ways to embrace digital silence where we take a break completely. Or we can digital de-connect regularly as we check in with how we are feeling in our connected worlds.

These all sound like great ideas and with the best of intentions we may be able to introduce some elements of them into our daily professional and personal lives. But in today’s heavily connected world, when the average time we spend online is estimated to be 6.35 hours, that is a big ask.

It is also true to say that every aspect of our society is impacted by digitalisation and over connectivity. And, with regards to ongoing IoT developments, the landscape is not likely to change much. In fact, the number of internet-connected devices is projected to reach almost 55.7 billion by 2025.

One answer is the Digital Deter.

This is where we can shield our environment from undesirable radio frequency signals and microwave radiation for various frequency ranges and application types. This helps reduce and minimise their impact.

How?

One solution is WAVETRAP, a transparent glass product from WAVE by AGC that prevents the transmission of unwanted electromagnetic radiation to indoor environments. Invisible to the eye and featuring high coating technology, it delivers superior shielding performance preventing electromagnetic radiation from entering a building. It can also be used indoors to provide shielding between separate spaces. Our customisable solution enables clients to choose which type of signal they want to protect against the most. It can help with best cyber security practices by serving as a physical barrier that prevents digital eavesdropping while also ensuring compatibility with sensitive and even critical electronic systems. It also blocks waves without losing light and does not affect the insulating or thermal performance of glazing.

Connectivity is part of our everyday lives and can be used to make things quicker simpler and easier. The good news is that there are numerous ways we can look after ourselves and actions that can be taken to improve our protection, with tailor-made versatile solutions that are adapted to our environment such as WAVETRAP. For more information, visit https://wavebyagc.com/wavetrap/

Contact us for more information
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WAVE by AGC sets its sights on clearer and simpler representation of electromagnetic shielding

WAVETRAP is committed to looking beyond the glass and we are excited to share how we are putting those words into action with the development of a new potential market standard – the Electromagnetic Shielding Index (ESI).

What is AGC’s role in Electromagnetic shielding?

The importance of connectivity in our society has been continuously increasing with the advent of technologies like 5G, WiFi networks, connected buildings, and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, In this age of unparalleled connectivity, it is crucial to recognize concerns about the potential impact on overall health on the one hand, more particularly for individuals that suffer from Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS), and on critical security precautions on the other hand, such as securing network spaces against cyber threats, keeping data safe in an environment marked by heightened competitiveness and geopolitical tensions, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations such as NIS II. In response, AGC developed a product range of special glazing engineered to protect against to electromagnetic waves from the surrounding environment.

How is the Electromagnetic Shielding (EM) performance determined?

The electromagnetic shielding performance of a material or structure is determined through standardized testing procedures, such as IEEE-299. These tests involve subjecting the material or structure to a range of electromagnetic waves in different frequencies and measuring the difference in electric field levels in decibels (dB) between the source side (where the EM waves originate) and the receiving side (where the EM waves is being measured) of the material or structure. The results, referred to as the shielding effectiveness (SE), quantifies how in decibels much a particular material or structure can reduce the amount of the electric field that passes through it. A higher SE value indicates better EM shielding performance.

DB	Power transmission in %
0	100
2	62.80
5	31.60
10	10.00
15	3.13
20	1.00
25	0.31
30	0.10
35	0.03
40	0.01
45	0.003
50	0.001
55	0.0003
60	0.0001

Table – Illustration of the relation between the SE value in dB and the percentage of EM power transmitted through the material or the structure. As an example, a material with an SE value of 40 dB reduces the penetrating EM power to only 0.01%.

What is the ESI and what problems have been overcome?

Shielding effectiveness (SE) quantifies the ability of a material or structure to block outgoing waves or attenuate the electromagnetic waves, which is crucial for protecting sensitive equipment, data, and individuals from electromagnetic interference. When planning construction or renovation projects that involve EM shielding, architects and designers traditionally use the SE values to select appropriate materials and construction techniques to achieve the desired level of EM shielding. However, understanding shielding effectiveness can be quite challenging for non-technical individuals such as architectures and marketers due to its dependence on intricate electromagnetic principles and the fact that it varies significantly across different frequency ranges. It often requires a deep understanding of physics and engineering to grasp how materials or structures perform in shielding against electromagnetic waves effectively.

To alleviate this problem, AGC introduced the Electromagnetic Shielding Index (ESI) as a simpler measure of how effective a building material or assembly is at reducing the transmission of electromagnetic waves through it. The ESI gives a single number that summarizes the effectiveness of a material or structure in reducing electromagnetic transmission across a range of frequencies. It is derived from the SE measurements taken across multiple frequencies and is post-processed to provide a simplified, single value for easy comparison.

This means that instead of considering how a material performs at each individual frequency, the ESI value condenses this information into one number, allowing for straightforward comparisons between different materials or structures. In this way, it removes the need to depend on specific frequency details and simplifies the assessment of EM shielding, making it easier to evaluate and choose the right materials or constructions. The ESI value is also expressed in decibels (dB).

How has the Electromagnetic Shielding Index (ESI) been designed?

The definition of the ESI was inspired from the definition of the acoustic Rw, a recognized and widely used parameter in the field of acoustics and construction, providing a standardized way to quantify and compare the sound insulation performance of building materials and structures. Similarly, the ESI computes how much the material or the structure outperforms the reference (which was assumed to be an open aperture) in terms of the EM shielding over a frequency range. This is achieved by determining the highest whole number that ensures the average of the sum of the undesirable deviation from the measured SE and that particular whole number across the frequency range does not exceed 2 dB.

To best support the different use cases and potential applications for AGC’s EM shielding products, three different frequency ranges were preselected for the computation of the corresponding ESI values. The three frequency ranges are:

Sub-1 GHz range includes the frequencies from 200 to 1000 MHz, and covers UHF broadcasting, TETRA, LoRa, SigFox, and low-band cellular.
Cellular range includes the spectrum assigned for 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G (sub-6GHz) cellular communications, i.e. 690-960 MHz, 1710-2170 MHz, 2500-2690 MHz, and 3300-4200 MHz.
WLAN range includes the spectrum assigned for wireless LAN in the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz ranges.

Why is a standard important?

Developing and adopting an industry standard enables:

Interoperability: With different products and solutions from various manufacturers working together seamlessly, customers can choose from a wide range of options without being tied to a specific vendor, promoting healthy competition and innovation.
Consistency and Quality: Specific requirements and performance criteria for products are defined. Adherence ensures consistency in product quality and performance, giving customers confidence that the shielding glass they are purchasing meets certain minimum requirements.
Regulatory Compliance: Manufacturers can ensure their products comply with regulations, avoiding potential legal issues and market restrictions.
Customer Trust: Companies can demonstrate their commitment to quality and best practices. This fosters trust among customers as they know that the products they are buying have met certain industry-wide benchmarks.
Facilitating Research and Development: A common foundation for research and development efforts is formed. Engineers and scientists can then create new and improved shielding glass solutions.
Simplified Product Selection: With standardized products and testing methodologies, customers can easily compare different offerings and choose the most suitable solution for their specific needs.
Global Reach: Collaborative development and adoption by experts from various countries and regions can help manufacturers reach a broader market and simplify international trade.
Cost Efficiency: Manufacturing processes can be streamlined and the need for custom engineering and testing reduced, leading to cost savings.

How is the market responding?

Interest in a standard that produces an easy-to-read data sheet is high from all sectors. Potential clients are particularly interested in the interpretability possible. The ESI can provide the ability to choose from a different range of options without needing to go into too much detail.

Encouraging cross sector harmonization

We hope our competitors will join us in developing this highly transparent approach that enables non-technical clients to understand and engage with the data. We want to them make sense of the numbers and use that newfound knowledge to make the right decisions.

Ideally, we would like to develop a harmonious approach that empowers ease of understanding and enables confident decision making. This in turn will support the meeting of robust KPIs that will deliver solid return on investment and demonstrate clear effectiveness.

In Conclusion

There is a need for a more user-friendly approach to collating and sharing important technical data. We believe this goes a long way to achieving that and look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure it meets all required standards. We welcome their feedback and look forward to sharing this essential tool.

Contact us for more information
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Cybersecurity expert Denis Boudy joins Caroline Zigrand, New Business Developer at Wave by AGC, and the WAVETRAP team to discuss why businesses across the EU need to consider how vulnerable their workspaces are to hackers in regard to the NIS2 regulation. And more importantly, why they should contemplate all the different ways to protect them.

Caroline – What was the tipping point that lifted cybersecurity awareness out of the shadows and made it a mainstream concern?

Denis – It wasn’t one single event that turned the tide on this topic, but rather several key factors that brought the topic of cybersecurity into the spotlight. Over the last years, there’s no denying the steep increase of cyber-attacks in various markets worldwide, the relentless small-scale phishing scams in our personal lives and the large-scale ransomware threats in our professional lives. The desire and need for a solution that provides a secure collaboration, where data could be handled, stored, or even manipulated in a safe environment, has never been greater.

The ratification of the NIS2 Directive in November 2022 – something France pushed hard for to address growing concerns over the evolution of cyber threats – has also proved to be a catalyst in this process, with a planned implementation for 2024 across the European Union.

Collectively, this represents the ‘tipping point’ where member states and the organisations within them began to see both the moral obligation (accountability) to address these concerns and the legal obligation to prepare and apply the appropriate security measures throughout the supply chain.

Everyone is a potential target. It concerns us all.

Caroline – Does protecting digital assets include also protecting everything which generates data, such as the devices and the buildings they are located in?

Denis – Indeed, it really does concern every kind of device or piece of connected hardware within a building that generates or processes digital assets. It covers everything relating to an information system, ranging from buildings and production lines to stationary and mobile devices.

The building itself and its infrastructure already offer a serious security perimeter – from CCTV systems to IoT (Internet of Things) devices connected to the network, there are so many different points across the network that process or store sensitive data.

For me, there are three key levels of information:

The main IT system – This extends to my desktop working space (laptop, mobile device, etc) that I used to work on a day-to-day basis, accessing company data.
Building operating system – Smart buildings offer an amazing way to empower staff and create more energy-efficient works spaces, with IoT devices across its infrastructure feeding into a centralised management and operation system.
Production operating system – This extends to everything linked to a production line, including power supplies and production information linked to a network.

All three levels of information here must communicate with one another so organisations can gain a realistic insight on the real-world global stakes facing the cybersecurity community. If this type of communication and transparency isn’t forthcoming, then the threat of cyber-attacks will only grow.

This is why we must all consider a building’s digital permeability. If we do not, we open ourselves up to attack.

Ajouter Un Sous Titre 2 — Shielding Set-up WAVETRAP by AGC

Caroline – What would be your top recommendations on how organisations can increase their cybersecurity protection?

Denis – Beyond the NIS2 regulation, there is a plethora of precautions and proactive actions you can take to address these issues from both a digital perspective and a physical one.

Whether you’re looking at this from a virtual or physical perspective, there are some key recommendations you should always consider:

Stakeholder responsibility – Ensure that everybody knows that every member of the team has a role to play and a responsibility when it comes to upholding cybersecurity best practices.
Establish the right systems – To ensure these policies are followed, you must establish a workflow of recurrent risk analysis and resilience systems.
Sensibilise all stakeholders – Ensure that all teams, at all levels throughout the organisation are educated to better understand the importance of responsible cybersecurity online.
Familiarise the technology – Your digital policies and procedures are powered by the right technology, so ensure all members of the organisation are on side.

For example, on a dedicated project, we found a BIM (Building Information Modelling) convention that contained a directory of sensitive stakeholder information including:

Name
Address
Phone number
Company
Location of the building
Planning information
CCTV information
Power and energy details
Cloud information
The digital platform in use

All this information was and remains highly attractive to hackers. This binding document could be the perfect treasure trove of information as it already details who works on which project when and where. This is the type of information you do not want to fall into the hands of hackers. Limited protection might lead to maximum exposure with extreme reputational, financial, and judicial repercussions.

Even from a physical perspective, we can take the same example. For instance, we might decide to print the above BIM convention then take a copy with us to an in-person meeting to share it with project stakeholders. However, if I forget to take it with me or let it linger somewhere on the table, then there’s a huge physical data breach. It may have been left behind by accident, but you can no longer afford to take that risk.

Sometimes you see people typing away on the train without shielding the contents of their laptop screen. They might be working on their grocery list, or on their defence in a high-end lawsuit. Just imagine you maliciously take pictures of the latter and sell this valuable information to the other lawyer. You’ve lost an entire case because of your own carelessness.

That’s what I meant earlier with everyone being a target. Data is the new currency, and information can secure hard cash. The hacking equipment is getting smarter and cheaper by the day. And so is the business approach of some hackers, I have even seen cases where they offer a gold/premium/freemium business model – where you are taxed on response time.

We must be always aware and accountable.

Caroline – What about NIS2?

Denis – NIS2 is a much broader directive than its predecessor, extending its legislation to a larger number of companies (such as SMES with 250 employees and sales starting at 10 million euros) and there are now steeper penalties for non-compliance (including fines of up to 10 million euros or the equivalent of 2% of its turnover).

There are 23 business sectors now affected, covering both essential and other important businesses. Behind them, the supply chain itself is likely to host subcontractors with their own responsibilities (such as in France, where changes to military programming law in 2024 will have a considerable ripple effect).

IT managers are going to have to re-evaluate how they process, store, and manage sensitive data both physically and digitally and how these policies are developed and followed. There are still plenty of grey areas not covered by this new directive, so there is plenty of work still to be done.

Caroline – Can smart buildings meet the challenges of NIS2?

Denis – Yes, but indirectly. We need to make as many people as possible aware of the challenges of cybersecurity. Not only the terms of the NIS2 regulation.

If we build an intelligent building, information will circulate so we need to set up automated tools to help with navigation and IoT connectivity, but if cybersecurity isn’t a core consideration for the network, these devices could present a devastating means of access for hackers to exploit.

In 2022, the Smart Building Alliance in France published a white paper that discussed cyber risk at the building level and the challenge NIS2 presents for companies when it comes to making their smart buildings fully compliant.

Caroline – How can glass impact the protection effort against cyber-attacks?

Denis – There are many ways glass as a material can be used to protect smart buildings from external cyberattacks. A good example is La Poste in France, which developed a data backup storage unit for SMEs that utilised a glass wall for adding an additional layer of protection against electromagnetic waves.

Cybersecurity is a lot like an onion – the harsher the winter, the more layers are required! The same concept applies to cybersecurity. The more layers of protection we apply to a building or a server room, the more resilient it is to attacks.

Specialised glass solutions are just one of the ways we can proactively protect our businesses (and our homes) against hackers.

Caroline – How can we best support our customers with this global cybersecurity issue?

Denis – There are three core tenets you need to take into consideration:

We need to raise awareness among our teams.
We need to develop strategies.
We need to involve central management and everyone responsible for information.

We should look at the process as a series of levels of responsibility, accountability, and proactive action regarding cybersecurity in a smart building:

First level – To maintain a regular watch on risk as individuals, remaining vigilant for us and our customers.
Second level – Applying cybersecurity policies to the design of projects, whether industrial, infrastructure, etc.
Third level – Providing and developing turnkey solutions that automate, facilitate, and simplify day-to-day cybersecurity.

Caroline – What advice would you give in terms of cybersecurity for non-experts and experts, especially in regard to the NIS2 regulation?

Denis – It’s up to all of us to play our part in cybersecurity. We need to involve everyone, not just IT, but all stakeholders from every department. It’s a team effort and it requires everyone to commit the process and share their insights. It is a long-term investment, supported by the NIS2 regulation.

A great piece of advice is to ask questions surrounding the lifecycle of any data in your organisation. What information is being processed? Which platforms are being used? Which countries is that data being accessed in? What risks of data leakage are there?

We have an interesting case in France where a region is launching a vast energy renovation program for the secondary schools. There is no data available on the schools, so all this information needs to be collated and gathered. Not a problem with the high-performance tools in the market. Not a problem to collate this vast wealth of school information in a digital model. We issued an invitation to tender to which private companies and surveyors are responding. The thing is, we’re not only looking at their offer and pricing, we are also investigating how and where they are using and disseminating this information. We don’t want to risk malicious minds using these plans to meticulously plan a school attack.

On that note, the risks of physical attacks are just as real as digital ones. It could be as simple as stealing or tapping into a simple piece of equipment left unattended. One moment of carelessness is all it takes.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to question the criticality of the data being processed, beyond tacit and unchecked trust.

Knowing is caring, caring is securing. Know how to always be secure.

Caroline – Where do you find your inspiration? Which sites, books, or podcasts would you recommend?

Denis – I try to keep my eyes, ears, and mind open at all times, but I have these sites bookmarked:

https://www.welcometothejungle.com/fr/companies/anssi

https://secnumacademie.gouv.fr/

https://www.youtube.com/c/CyberVox/videos

https://www.holiseum.com/cybervox-by-holiseum

https://www.cert.ssi.gouv.fr/

About Denis Boudy :

Picture Denisboudy 50 1615982571123

Denis has been with Ingerop since 2019 and works on the SreedIn project, aimed to integrate an incubation program with a project linked to the cybersecurity of the engineering data. Professionals can get certified in this field by following an ANSSI (Agence Nationale de Sécurité des Systèmes d’informations) training.

This project is evolving into a commercial brand known as ScredIn. It encompasses the creation of an application and a service package aimed at providing guidance and training related to the application’s usage. Additionally, it aims to raise awareness about cybersecurity risks and NIS2 compliance within the engineering, construction, and industrial sectors.

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With so many smart devices and connected hardware in every facet of our lives, it’s no wonder we’re being bombarded with radiation and waves. In some instances, those signals are a good thing – we want to be able to connect with the world and access data and information with the highest speeds, but on the other hand, we also want to be able to protect ourselves against potential cyberattacks and limit our personal exposure to these waves.

It’s quite the balance to maintain, and a paradoxical one at that (something we touched on in a recent blog). It’s this dichotomy that eventually led us to create two forms of shielding glass: one that’s formulated to block these signals (WAVETRAP) and one that boosts and accentuates them (WAVETHRU). These solutions may offer opposing benefits, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be used in the very same building to help create environments that are free from external signals and settings that boost incoming waves.

[WAVETRAP] Why would you want to block?

Indeed, why would you actively want to block out all these signals in a world that’s become so dependent on them for connectivity? For both the home and the workplace, we need a safe space where we can disconnect from the outside world for a much-needed digital detox. WAVETRAP by AGC offers that one single solution. This shielding glass helps those with EHS (Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity) become more resilient to accidental or intentional EMI (electromagnetic interference, it will also work wonders for those craving digital silence (or isolation even) and those who have concerns over data security. For those that seek to block, WAVETRAP offers plenty of benefits, including:

Improve the overall quality of life – EM wave shielding glass addresses concerns over exposure to unwanted signals.
Add a physical firewall – activate a transparent but highly effective layer of protection against multi-stage hacking attempts.
Secure EM shielding – WAVETRAP enables professionals to achieve the best level of Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC).

[WAVETHRU] Why would you want to boost?

On the other hand, you may also want to actively improve the signals that are being sent into your smart building. Certain materials and densities can actively impact the strength of an outside connection signal, which may in turn affect the effectiveness of the systems and technologies operating on your premises.

A quick-to-apply retrofit and immediately effective glazing solution such as WAVETHRU is suitable for boosting the signals of 2G, 3G, 46, 5G, Bluetooth, and many more. No need to replace your old glazing solution, you just get a professional crew on site to get the existing glass surface treated.

Some key benefits to boosting include:

Transparent, non-invasive surface treatment – WAVETHRU by AGC is a transparent laser surface treatment that’s directly applied to your existing office windows. You can’t see the mesh, but you’ll immediately notice a drastic improvement in signal connectivity.
Avoid unnecessary drop-outs – invest in a solution that boosts signals to avoid dropped calls, slow downloads and apps not responding.
Fully sustainable solution – A passive solution that’s environmentally sustainable as it requires no power or additional maintenance.

The morale of the story? Understand if, when, where, and why you need to boost or block.

Leveraging the benefits of different types of shielding glass and hitting the right solution consensus comes down to what the people in your building would benefit from the most. In most cases, we see three options:

Do they need a space that’s free of outside signals to help alleviate the impact of hypersensitivity or protect sensitive data?
Or would their quality of life and work be actively improved by boosting those external signals?
Or would you require both functionalities within the same building? There are plenty co-existing examples of areas where connectivity needs both blocking and boosting.

So, it’s doubly important to define exactly what function you want your building to serve, especially before construction begins. Define the purposes of the different areas so you can factor in a glazing solution that addresses those needs.

The WAVE by AGC tagline is ‘High-tech glazing solutions to master your connectivity’. Any construction professional who’s designing smart buildings should be looking into smart concepts that will not only fill the need now, but also anticipate what might come next. Whether you need a building to be a haven of digital serenity or an enhanced environment that’s fully connected, WAVE by AGC offers the glass solution that solves the paradox for good.

More on this topic? Head on over to our YouTube channel – it displays several explainer videos on the different functionalities we offer and the numerous customers we have helped so far.

What does your connectivity need? Reach out if we may help: https://wavebyagc.com/contact/

In the last twenty years, the internet has become a utility. Like tap water, the internet is always available – at home, at work, during everyday activities, whenever, wherever. The WiFi networks in homes and offices, and mobile network options outside make sure everyone stays connected. This wave density around us is known as “electrosmog”.

The incessant growth of these mobile networks also comes with relentlessly increasing connectivity. The question is, how does this effect affect our everyday life? Because even if we don’t want to be reached, we’re surrounded by the networks of others all around us.

People Hands Using Mobile Phones. Multiple Exposure

Electrosmog: The Why of a Conscious Mindset

The industry group GSMA reports that 474 million people in Europe (86 percent of the population) subscribed to mobile services. This number is expected to grow to 480 million by 2025. The GSMA notes that the expansion of mobile networks is vital to the digital transformation process across Europe. As more and more people access the internet, their connectivity target of ‘Gigabit for everyone, 5G everywhere’ has never felt more urgent.

This market-driven demand is accelerating the advancement of the internet at unprecedented speeds, notably transforming how we communicate. And by extension, how we live, work, and overall move forward in life. But sometimes, being always “on”, can feel very “off”. We need to be mindful about how we further steer this evolution. And make sure we offer people the option of being ‘on or off’ when and where they choose so.

Electromagnetic Waves Drive Growth – and Concerns for Privacy, Security, and Well-Being

The expansion of mobile networks in Europe has tremendous economic importance. However, the raises new concerns about personal well-being, privacy, safety, and security. The most common pain points include:

1. Increasing “electrosmog” concerns

The Swiss-based Federal Office of the Environment uses electrosmog to describe technically generated electrical and magnetic fields. These low-frequency electrical and magnetic fields arise wherever electricity is generated, transported, and used. Mobile telephone base stations, radio transmitters, and other radio applications generate non-ionising radiation (NIR) in the high-frequency range.

The organisation notes that critical drivers of “electrosmog” are the growing mobile communications sector, digitalisation, and increasing electricity consumption. For some people, particularly those suffering from Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS), electrosmog may create health concerns.

2. Ensuring Privacy in a Time of Connectivity

Our mobile devices have become a vital resource for interacting with the world. These devices enable us to work, shop, connect with friends and family, access products whenever and wherever we want.

But just as this idea of continuous connection is ingrained in our everyday life, it is equally important to secure the alternative of desired disconnection. Some people crave personal digital silence, digital isolation even. They want to secure their personal perimeters, control who can access their information, and limit the possibility that their personal data will be exposed.

3. Keeping Data Safe and Secure

In this connected world, where cyberthreats and geopolitical tensions are rising, ensuring the safety of data – and compliance with the NIS2 directive – is increasingly challenging.

Staying safe from these threats is imperative to any business. When customers trust an organisation to keep their data safe and secure, any breach in that trust will devastate the brand’s reputation and business.

There is no denying that this increasingly connected world brings many benefits. But as more people become aware of the potential hazards that come with electromagnetic (EM) radio frequency (RF) exposure and the security risks of increased connectivity, they demand solutions that can protect them from potential harm.

Today, people can find this protection in the places where they have always found safety: the buildings in which they work and live.

Security and Connectivity: Creating the Best of Both Worlds from the Inside Out

To better manage this connected world, more individuals and organisations want to take control of when and how they participate in that connection. Today, people and businesses demand the confidence of knowing they are doing all they can to protect their sensitive information from unwanted intrusion.

Window glazing may not be the first thing that comes to mind. And yet, recent advancements in this technology field gives businesses and consumers a new view on security and safety.

When building their new corporate headquarters, AGC discovered that their newly installed glass façade was impacting the signal waves. As glass experts, they seized the moment to explore the connectivity issues and opportunities associated with glass buildings.

They found that by treating the window’s glass with a dedicated process, they could actually facilitate the passage of waves, enhancing connectivity to the expansive 5G, WiFi networks, connected buildings, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This treatment is called WAVETHRU.

But equally interesting was how glass could control the increasing density associated with this connectivity.

The result of this research is WAVETRAP, a specialised glass designed to reduce EM/RF wave exposure from the surrounding environment. The WAVETRAP glazing solution lets anyone choose how to participate in connectivity:

1. At work

The WAVETRAP transparent ElectroMagnetic shielding glass provides a physical firewall with an additional protection layer. WAVETRAP doesn’t impact the appearance of the widows, yet it keeps a business safe from commonplace cyber threats, proximity attacks, and multi-stage attacks.

2. At home

In residential buildings, WAVETRAP helps to block out unwanted outside factors that can threaten any personal data and identity, giving residents the additional reassurance that what is meant to stay private stays in their home.

3. Everywhere else, with electrosmog in mind

Finally, regardless of its installation purpose, WAVETRAP provides the comfort of knowing that everyday exposure to the radiation and magnetic fields associated with electrosmog has been reduced. So, everyone inside can breathe just a little bit easier knowing they are safe and secure(d).

Selective Settings for Selective Connectivity Purposes

With so much to worry about, it is good to know that while windows provide a great view, they also keep people and their information safe, healthy, and protected so they can go about their connected life worry-free.

Each WAVETRAP glazing is selectively tailored to the settings and requirements of the owner or tenants of the building. That’s what makes the glass exceptionally attractive for construction professionals regardless of its installation location. Made to fit for every purpose. That’s how it fits any purpose.

Want to make this glazing solution – and increased safety, privacy, and well-being can be part of your next home, building project, or business?

Reach out to our team for a chat on what you’re looking for. We just might be able to help:

Cyberattacks are on the rise. Ransomware and malware are an ever-present threat. Phishing scams continue to grow more sophisticated and invasive. In a society that’s become so heavily reliant on the virtual world, the pressure on the cybersecurity community to evolve and respond continues to mount. To instill more awareness on the impact of cybersecurity threats on today’s society, the European Parliament launched the NIS directive, urging companies of all sizes across different markets to improve how their data is collected, collated, deployed, and secured.

In this blog, we’ll be discussing why this new piece of legislation is so important, how it will have wide reaching effects on the cybersecurity community and how professionals can take steps to improve the integrity of their data while ensuring full NIS2 compliance.

What is the NIS2 Directive?

The NIS2 Directive, a piece of legislation from the European Parliament, aims to address this issue by raising the threshold of compliance and refreshing the protections required to mitigate these seemingly unending cyber threats.

Back in 2016, the European Union passed the Network and Information Security (NIS) Directive, a new piece of lawmaking designed to address the security requirements for companies and organisations operating within the critical infrastructure of its member states. While it purely focused on the digital security integrity of ‘essential’ sectors such as aviation, telecoms, and energy, it established a core framework that addresses the importance of strengthening connectivity and the storage of sensitive data.

On the 28^th of November 2022, the EU ratified the next stage of its plan to combat growing cybersecurity concerns with NIS2. With a timeline of two years for its member states to bring themselves into compliance, the race is on to introduce new technologies and innovations that not only meet the standards of this law but help establish confidence in the collective cybersecurity. NIS2 is less of a legislative replacement, and more of a progression, extending this framework to a much wider group of organisations that need to deal with the threat of data breaches.

Who needs to follow the NIS2 Directive?

The NIS2 directive is mainly aimed at both:

• essential entities in numerous sectors, such as companies generally accounting for 250 employees, an annual turnover of € 50 million or a balance sheet of € 43 million

• important entities in numerous sectors, such as companies generally accounting for 50 employees, an annual turnover of € 10 million or a balance sheet of € 10 million

Why should everyone be looking at being NIS2-compliant?

Consumer data itself is new bitcoin, and the value of that data continues to drive the frequency and sophistication of these seemingly unending digital attacks on both a small and larger scale. And scammers and hackers will use any technology, physical or digital, at any scale to get ahold of that data. What sort of attacks can we expect?

1. Big scale hacking – the use of Intentional Electromagnetic Interference (IEMI)

Watch any film or TV show involving a heist or a hacking attempt, and there’s a good chance some form of electromagnetic device will be used to disrupt some form of electrical security device. Like most fiction, these devices are inspired by real live hardware, and the reality is much scarier. These devices are used for Intentional Electromagnetic Interference (IEMI) attacks, where an external source is used to halt, hamper, and affect the flow of binary data within the circuits of a physical device.

Since all circuits give off a natural electromagnetic field, practically every form of circuitry is susceptible to this kind of attack. From the smallest devices to hardware that forms part of critical national infrastructure, the potential for these far from fictional electromagnets is truly terrifying. Don’t believe us? Just rewatch Ocean’s Eleven and Goldeneye in the James Bond series.

2. Small(er) scale hacking – employee networking hacking

One of the easiest and most exploited ways to access sensitive company (and personal) data is through your employees. It’s estimated that the majority of cyberattacks rely on some form of social engineering, whereby human error is exploited to reach sensitive data and information. New employees are at a far higher risk of being targeted in this way, so implementing much swifter training and IT awareness procedures is vital.

Phishing attacks have never really gone away, and these scams continue to grow more and more convincing in their resemblance to real emails and messages. Ransomware attacks are also a prevalent threat to your employees and the integrity of your business data, so there’s always some form of threat lurking in the digital shadows.

The NIS2 directive provides a clear outline on the cybersecurity precautions you should be taking to mitigate and minimise these threats, but what about from a physical point of view? Developing, testing, and implementing effective cybersecurity strategies is a complex task that takes plenty of investment of time. And let’s not forget, it takes hackers far less time to crack a measure or protocol than it does to create it in the first place.

So, how should professionals prepare for NIS2?

Preparing your cybersecurity protocols to comply with NIS2 requires both a physical and virtual approach. These preparations can be far reaching depending on the extent of your business operations, and with everything from server capabilities and disaster recovery planning to evaluating cryptography and encryption integrity, there are lots of factors to consider.

Here are a few simple suggestions for your IT department to consider when it comes to portable devices:

• Make sure they are fully secured to negate the impact of hacking attempts.

• Adding layers of additional security makes these defenses even more robust.

• Brief employees to always log out from workstations in the workplace and lock them to ensure no one can simply plug in a USB and start downloading any locally stored data or even connect directly to the network.

• Even printers can store data locally, so securing this kind of hardware is just as important.

The key is to protect what matters – your data, and the connectivity that proliferates it across your network. That’s why C-level conversations are needed to ensure compliance is followed across an entire organisation so that data protection laws are fully addressed. It’s about warding off any form of electronic eavesdropping, while helping to prevent any potential human errors that compromise the integrity of your data.

That calls for more cybersecurity professionals who can help create and implement these cybersecurity strategies. But with the ongoing “cyber poverty” crisis, not all companies will have the luxury to find and hire dedicated professionals to look into the matter. In which case, it is better to broaden the company scope and explore physical measures that will help prevent human and virtual vulnerabilities.

Mind you, The European Commission set the goal of reaching 80% of adult EU citizens with basic digital skills and 20 million employed Information and communications technology (ICT) specialists by 2030. That is why they launched a Cybersecurity Skills Academy on April 18^th, 2023 to close the cybersecurity sector’s ongoing skills shortage and develop the EU’s cyber resilience.

What kind of physical measures can you implement?

The whole is always greater than the sum of its parts, but big journeys always start with small steps. When it comes to physical locations, we recommend you look into:

• Server rooms, the heart of your business data. Establishing a faraday setup is one such safety strategy, providing an incredibly secure ‘cage’ for your data, but bunkering it in also limits how easily your own employees and systems can access that information as part of your normal business practices.

• EM/RF shielding glass is another protective option and one that can be far more flexible in how it secures your sensitive data. It can be tailored to your unique security policies and settings, offering a fully transparent protective layer. It’s not impact proof, but it can be combined with other glass properties (such as fire-resistant and anti-burglary materials)

Why not involve your architect, contractor, office facilities manager to look into the matter and ask them which preventative measures might contribute to a bigger (cyber)security scope?

How can companies avoid vulnerabilities from a structural perspective?

Adopting a holistic approach will be crucial. The entire workforce will need to keep the helicopter overview while enforcing a very practical can-do mindset. The only way to hold everyone accountable is by following pointers like these:

1. Align all stakeholders

All stakeholders in the business need to be aligned and on the same page when it comes to addressing security concerns and how this brings the company into compliance with NIS2. This includes C-level management and IT managers but also project managers, architects, contractors and more.

2. Ensure the right training is in place

All these new security measures might make sense to you or the team that’s procured and implemented them, but that won’t come into their own unless all members of staff in the workplace (both on-site and remote) have completed the relevant training to ensure these updated IT and security policies are understood.

3. Establish the right setup

Unsurprisingly, having the right settings in place to apply these best practices is a must. Be proactive and install both physical and virtual firewalls to protect your data at both levels. A technology such as EM/RF shielding glass is ESI-compliant, making it an ideal solution for businesses looking for a tailored glazing solution.

4. Be bold and ‘go beyond’

Never, ever settle, just because a potential solution seems easier or more cost effective. As cliche as it may sound, you simply cannot put a price on the integrity of your business data. Hackers are constantly evolving their means of attack, so you can’t afford to rest on your laurels. Minimise the risk by maximising your security options.

Conclusion

There’s unlikely to ever be a watertight solution that fixes every cybersecurity issue or woe, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to ensure you’re NIS2 compliant. As with any ISO standardisation method out there, ensuring you’re fully compliant is the safest bet.

With WAVETRAP EM/EF shielding glass, you can leverage a fully ESI-compliant solution that’s been trialed, tested, and validated by the KU Leuven.

If you would like to learn more about NIS2-compliant security measures, such as EM/RF shielding glass, contact one of our experts today.

Head of Wave, Bernard Monville, answers 5 questions on the latest innovation in radiation shielding glass: WAVETRAP

Over the years, we’ve all become more and more connected via screens. Research shows that we spend up to 50% of our hours awake in front of screens. At the office, at home, wherever we go – we’re surrounded by radiation and waves. Health and Social Care (HSC) professionals everywhere alert our society to the effects of this elevated connectivity and increased interconnection on our professional and personal lives. So, how do we deal with this inside out? And how do we let this impact us outside in? And can we do both at the same time?

People have grown weary of enclosing Faraday bunker situations that make them feel trapped. Above all, they want an open and transparent view on the world that still makes them feel safe, secure, and sane. Glass seems to be the answer, but your run-of-the-mill glass panels won’t cut it.

AGC has a lifelong tradition and reputation for developing and creating all types of glass. When the R&D department developed the Wave solution line, they focused on market-changing qualities that might be just what the manager (and healthcare professional) ordered for the cybersecurity, residential, and facilities markets.

Here to shed some light on the why and how of WAVETRAP, Head of Wave by AGC, Bernard Monville, voices the answers to some key questions.

1. What is WAVETRAP and how did it come to be?

WAVETRAP is the result of an extended R&D exercise in connectivity at the AGC Europe facilities. The AGC glass expertise spans over four decades in automotive glass and integrated antennas; and few years ago, we encountered a network coverage and communication disruption in AGC’s newly constructed corporate headquarters. As it turns out, we realized that the newly installed glass façade was both attenuating and disrupting the signal waves.

We wouldn’t be glass experts if we did not seize the moment to explore the connectivity issues and opportunities associated with glass in buildings. At first, we developed glass that either facilitates the passage of waves or enhances wave transmission through integrated antennas. This made most sense, considering the rising significance of connectivity in our society, including the advent of 5G, WiFi networks, connected buildings, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

However, the increasing density of this type of connectivity has equally raised concerns about the potential impact on overall health on the one hand, more particularly for individuals that suffer from Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS), and on critical security precautions on the other hand, such as safeguarding networks against cyber threats, protecting data in an environment marked by heightened competitiveness and geopolitical tensions, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations such as NIS II.

So, as we were rolling out a glass solution that facilitates connectivity, we also developed a type that blocks it entirely. That is how WAVETRAP came to be, a groundbreaking and specialised glass designed to reduce electromagnetic wave exposure from the surrounding environment.

The Wave by AGC Connectivity Solution line consists of three products:

GLASS ANTENNA – this solution activates wave amplification within a building through the integration of relay systems within glass elements.

WAVETHRU – This glass type lets radio signals pass through the waves and ensures optimised indoor coverage. To establish this, we grid the coating, tailored to the measured settings as directed by the customer.

WAVETRAP – This glass panel solution blocks waves entirely, as the customer demands, tailored to any settings. Fit for both indoor and outdoor purposes, this glass minimises impact on aesthetics and is perfectly compatible with other glass features such as anti-burglary, flame-retarding features, UV-blocking,….

The Wave solution line is part of the overall AGC glass group. The company vision is to “Look Beyond” and that means we go beyond the glass. We’re on a daily mission to create unique materials and solutions that improve the everyday life of people worldwide on a daily basis. That’s the spirit that generated the Wave solution line, and WAVETRAP specifically. We know glass better than anyone and what it can (and should) do for various markets.

With the Wave line, you can decide what connectivity you want to let through, what you want to block, and what you want to optimise how.

2. Is that the “why” of WAVETRAP?

A more conscious market approach to how we handle the ever-increasing connectivity is indeed an accelerator for us to promote the benefits of WAVETRAP to numerous markets. We wanted to supply the market with a solution that would allow them to determine how much this heightened connectivity impacts them, and not the other way around. Wherever we are, we should be setting and defining the barriers, not undergo them.

In business, heightened connectivity calls for better security in both the office and home office environments. Proximity attacks via the employee WIFI network are one of the biggest threats in cybersecurity attacks. By using Radiation shielding glass you cannot only keep the view, but also blocks out unwanted visitors trying to tap into your network outside in. The beauty is, that WAVETRAP can be fully tailored to your connectivity frequency and settings and stop these breaches from happening entirely.

In the personal atmosphere, there is a growing health concern for electromagnetic sensitive people, who suffer from a condition most often referred to as Electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS). Obviously, these people want to protect themselves against increasing allergies due to outdoor pollution, such as Electromagnetic (EM) smog. Radiation shielding glass will protect what matters most to you in life, without compromising anyone’s view.

For overall facilities management and professionals overseeing Electromagnetic compatibility, the WAVETRAP glass prevents EM interference. Crucial in the healthcare market for instance, where machine operators cannot afford any interference between machine rooms, causing data distortion or pollution.

Whether you want to secure any professional space inside and out, have allergies, crave digital silence, or want to safeguard your overall sanity, WAVETRAP has got you covered.

3. What could be common misconceptions, and can you counter them?

Innovation always benefits from a healthy amount of critical thinking. We’ve tested this solution extensively and have talked to many market stakeholders. From these conversations we learned most people asked following questions:

Will the view through the glass be distorted?

Not at all, WAVETRAP is the most discrete shielding glass ever. Our goal was to strengthen the virtual firewall with a physical, yet invisible, firewall. No one will even see that WAVETRAP is installed. You keep the view, we block the rest.

Will this impact the stability of the glass?

No, quite the contrary, WAVETRAP enables you to protect what matters, however you want that protection to happen for people, buildings, data, sensitive information, or networks. That’s why

WAVETRAP is designed so it can still be combined with other glass qualities people want to embed. It enforces the quality settings you want and can be strengthened with others.

Will this take ages to get delivered and installed?

No, the regular AGC delivery and installation expertise applies.

Is this for new buildings only?

Preferably, but it can be retrofitted. That means replacing the glass and making sure WAVETRAP fits the right window frames. We have a solution to any situation.

How does this fit the bigger picture?

Together with our customers, we want to go beyond the glass. The glass is part of an entire shielding solution and we make the glass fit the vision of the architect, engineer, and customer. That’s why we always try to look at the bigger picture in collaboration with our customer, and advise them on the best way to create an entirely shielded zone, factoring in other elements like walls, the floor, and the ceiling. WAVETRAP as a selective glass shielding solution is not a standalone solution, it is an integrated one.

How do you technically validate the qualities of WAVETRAP?

To validate the technical excellence of this product, AGC developed the Electromagnetic ShieId Index (ESI) – a electromagnetic shielding benchmark standard that’s been created by the AGC R&D team based on measurements done in university laboratories.

There is no overarching market standard that serves as the benchmark reference. But still you need to be held accountable for the performance of your product. That is why we created this ESI standard.

That’s how adamant we are to get our clients the best possible solution out there.

4. What is the market feedback so far?

It looks very promising. We launched WAVETRAP at the right moment in time and are currently implementing the first WAVETRAP glass panels at sites and homes everywhere. No one has to take my word for it, so I asked the team to share the feedback from the people we’re working with, and this is what they were sent:

For cybersecurity:

Proximity attacks are on the rise and could potentially cost you big time. WAVETRAP allows us to factor in an extra, physical cybersecurity barrier that blocks off attacks, without compromising the view. The advanced shielding layers in this glass are tailored at an unparalleled level.

For EHS mindful surroundings:

People want environments that are as secure as fortresses but still feel as homely as possible. WAVETRAP is the perfect glass solution to ward off outdoor pollution, without compromising the view. Invisible Faraday protection for the digital minimalists and those who suffer from sensory overload.

For EMC professional settings:

WAVETRAP is a transparent way for any facilities professional to keep in what they don’t want to get out and vice versa. The shielding layers are selectively made-to-fit for our facility’s properties so zero electromagnetic interference and full compatibility are ensured.

These customer statements prove that we are onto something here. Our team perfected the technical excellence of this product to be compatible with different glass qualities, and we are ready to tackle the markets by storm.

BONUS REMARK – Is this not a solution paradox – boost and block? Can these co-exist?

It may seem a paradox that we offer two solutions that either enhance connectivity or ward it off entirely. What is to be done for those who do not want to choose?

What if you want a great mobile connection in the house, but no influence from power pylons?
What if your employee network needs to be 100% stable inside the building, but you don’t want anyone to be able to access it outside in?
What if your operating systems need to be operate independently in some areas, but you still want optimal connectivity in others?

Luckily, you don’t have to choose. Both solutions can be combined. You can incorporate WAVETRAP in the structural work of any building to block connectivity outside in. And use WAVETHRU in indoor frames where applicable.

You no longer have to choose if you want to be safe or secure or sane. You can be it all.

The WAVETRAP solution is currently rolled out in projects all over Europe.

The team will be visiting key events to evangelise the WAVETRAP qualities.

Make sure to follow the LinkedIn company page to stay up-to-date on their whereabouts: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wave-by-agc/

Are you visiting the PROVADA 2023 show in Amsterdam (NL) June 13-15? Make sure to plan in a chat with our team – they’ll be on site.

Yes, I want to meet at PROVADA!