How facial recognition can help keep a watchful eye on your community

With the next holiday period about to kick off, we know that many families will spend their holidays away on vacation. We always advise our communities to be extra vigilant during the holidays and ensure their community schemes’ safety and security.

Cameras act as effective detection and deterrent measures in the security process. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance can monitor activity in and around community schemes.

Modern security camera technology now also allows for facial and license plate recognition which can take your security to a new level. This makes video surveillance a valuable tool at entry and exit points as part of your scheme’s visitor management system (VMS).

Here are some key considerations for implementing visitor management with facial recognition:

1. Facial recognition technology involves the capturing and processing of personal data so it is important to ensure that the technology complies with privacy and data protection regulations.
   1. Also communicate to visitors how their data will be collected, stored, and used. Footage should be stored securely and accessed only by authorised personnel.
2. Factors such as lighting conditions and facial expressions can affect facial recognition technology. It is important to choose a reliable and accurate system. Also, test and update the system regularly to ensure its accuracy.
3. Integrating the facial recognition system with existing security systems and protocols, such as access control systems and alarms. This will ensure a seamless visitor management process with no reduction in security.
4. Cameras should be strategically placed:
   1. to cover the main entrances and exits to the area,
   2. to monitor any special ‘target’ areas (e.g. walls that are often vandalised, parking lots or areas where break-ins are likely to occur), and
   3. in a way that creates an opportunity to identify any offenders.

(A note of caution; cameras are not allowed to potentially infringe on an owner, visitor or tenant’s right to privacy.)

5. Visitors should find the system easy to use. Provide clear instructions and signage and train staff to assist visitors who may have difficulty using the system.
6. Staff should be trained to monitor the CCTV cameras and respond appropriately to any suspicious activity or security breaches. They should also know how to handle exceptions such as visitors not being recognised by the system or flagged as a security risk.
7. Contingency plans should be in place in case of system failures or other emergencies. These could include backup systems or manual processes.

Facial recognition as a component of your VMS can enhance your community scheme’s security AND provide a seamless and efficient visitor experience. However, it is important to carefully consider the above factors to ensure that the system complies with privacy and data protection regulations and that staff are trained to use it effectively.

Enjoy peace of mind and heightened security with our Visitor Management Solution.