The site will be the first National Robotarium in the UK and is due to open in 2022 as a world-leading research facility for robotics and artificial Intelligence.

The Biosite Facial Recognition system has been installed at site entry and exit points to provide a non-contact biometric access control solution with mandatory fever screening. It means operatives will have their facial template matched against the workforce database and have their temperature checked before access to site is granted.

The system will enable Robertson to capture and monitor workforce data on site, in real time, to support health and safety, efficiency and compliance, as well as help manage coronavirus transmission risk. It is the first Robertson project to introduce a facial recognition system with integrated temperature measurement and the first live deployment of Biosite Facial Recognition in Scotland.

The non-contact facial recognition system requires no secondary authentication such as pin entry and has been developed to prioritise data security – no worker data is stored on the camera device and the facial matching process takes place remotely, which also improves accuracy. The facial matching process is completed in <0.2 seconds for efficient worker throughput.

Richard Cairns, senior project manager at Robertson Construction (Central Scotland East), said: “We were looking for an effective access control system that would enable us to easily and accurately track critical workforce data. It was also crucial for us to have a non-contact system to comply with site safety guidance in Scotland, and that would meet our own stringent safe operating procedures in relation to the ongoing concerns around COVID-19.

“We have used facial recognition systems previously, but Biosite’s solution means we can capture and monitor workforce information whilst providing a contactless entry system with the additional reassurance of fever screening.

“Biosite worked with us to make sure we had the right solution for the project, which is also proving popular with the site team, who have found it really easy to use and have been reassured by the temperature measurement feature.” 

Joe Gribben, business development manager (Scotland) at Biosite Systems Ltd, added: “Having a biometric access control system enables contractors to check health and safety and competency information, such as whether workers have up-to-date qualifications and have completed their induction training before entry to site is granted. The system also helps safeguard against issues such as modern slavery, as the use of biometrics means you can link a worker’s facial template to their qualified biographic profile and know who’s on site at any one time.

“It was also essential that we provided a contactless solution that would meet specific site safety guidance in Scotland. It was a pleasure to be able help the team combine the latest technology with a practical and effective approach to access control.”