Security without the Guards

In many strata buildings security needs and costs are in constant conflict.

Everyone wants more security but the cost is high (and increasing) … so generally there’s less security in strata corporations than is desirable and paid for.

But a few buildings and business in the USA have introduced un-manned security kiosks to get more security for less money.  It’s an interesting idea and I’m sure it will become more and more popular.

A virtual access control kiosk is installed at entry points and visitors are connected via phone with an operator. They scan their driver's licence, and the operator confirms with the resident that the guest should gain entry.  The technology prints a parking tag that contains identifying information, such as a license plate number, that visitors must hang on their rearview mirrors.

The entry process takes about 30 seconds, and guests visiting for several days can get parking tags with radio frequency identification, which is a type of tracking bar code, so that they don't have to dial the operator every time they enter.

The kiosks monitor how often guests visit, while the driver's licence scan allows follow up with background checks if any issues arise.

Kiosks range from US$12,000 to about US$20,000, depending on features, which can include cameras to capture license plates and faces, as well as intercom systems.

About 50 percent of Whitestone's clients didn't have any security in place prior to purchasing its kiosks, Clark said.

They're produced by the Whitestone Group, a Colmbus Ohio based security company.

Interestingly, Whiteston says that about 50 percent of Whitestone's clients didn't have any security in place prior to purchasing its kiosks.

Francesco ….