i-PRO, known for its edge computing camera solutions, is on track to become the first company in the physical security sector to achieve ISO/IEC 42001 certification—an international benchmark that governs the ethical management of artificial intelligence systems. The announcement marks a milestone in the evolution of AI deployment within security and public safety, with i-PRO moving into the final stages of this rigorous process.
ISO/IEC 42001, published in December 2023, is the first global standard dedicated to AI management systems. It was developed jointly by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The standard lays out structured principles for the development, deployment, and oversight of AI systems, with emphasis on risk management, transparency, and continuous improvement. For physical security—where AI is increasingly used for surveillance, detection, and behavioural analysis—this sets a new benchmark for ethical technology governance.
AI Accountability Becomes Tangible
i-PRO’s decision to pursue ISO/IEC 42001 reflects a deliberate move toward embedding AI accountability at every stage of its product lifecycle. From initial development to real-world deployment, the certification demands detailed documentation, risk assessments, and demonstrable procedures to ensure ethical handling of AI technologies.
The process has been independently audited by the British Standards Institute (BSI), which assessed i-PRO’s internal workflows, governance models, and technical safeguards. The company’s AI systems are used across various sectors, including security, healthcare, and public safety. Certification at this level positions i-PRO as a leader in not just AI capability, but AI responsibility.
CEO Masato Nakao emphasised the importance of ethical AI development, stating, “AI is transforming the way security professionals operate. We believe it’s our responsibility to ensure these technologies are developed and deployed ethically, transparently, and in ways that respect human rights.” This approach is expected to resonate strongly with clients who face increasing pressure to meet regulatory compliance, particularly in sectors such as critical infrastructure, transport, and healthcare.
Industry Recognition from BSI
The certification process led by BSI adds a further layer of credibility. Tim McGarr, AI Market Development Lead at BSI, described i-PRO’s move as “demonstrating leadership in ethical AI development.” He noted that achieving this standard sends a clear message about the company’s commitment to building safe, responsible AI into its products from the ground up.
McGarr added that frameworks like ISO/IEC 42001 provide reassurance to all stakeholders—from integrators to end-users—that AI systems are governed appropriately and safely. In practical terms, this certification can offer procurement teams and regulators a defined measure of due diligence when evaluating technology partners.
What This Means for the Market
As AI becomes increasingly central to physical security—shaping everything from facial recognition to predictive analytics—the pressure to ensure it is deployed responsibly is mounting. ISO/IEC 42001 provides a common language and framework for AI ethics in this fast-evolving space. i-PRO’s near-completion of this certification gives it a first-mover advantage, especially in markets where public trust, compliance, and data protection are essential.
For manufacturers, the announcement may signal a new standard in product accountability. For customers, particularly those operating in regulated environments, it could become a key differentiator when selecting AI-enabled surveillance systems.
By aiming to become the first certified under ISO/IEC 42001 in physical security, i-PRO is not just advancing its product offering—it is establishing a model for others to follow.