A LIVERPOOL company is playing a key role in ensuring tight security at the huge 2012 Olympics construction site in London.
Human Recognition Systems' eye identification technology is being used to screen workers as part of stringent anti-terrorist measures.
Around 8,000 workers are engaged on the £9bn project – Europe's biggest construction site.
The Government has insisted on the tightest possible security and is employing both hand and iris biometrics systems.
Neil Norman, chief executive of Wavertree-based HRS, said: “Working with our project partner Reliance Hi-Tech, we recently successfully completed this project for the supply and installation of a biometric access control system for the construction phase of the 2012 Olympics. This included the biometric enrolment of over 8,000 workers over a month period.
“To date, more than 20 people at HRS have worked on this project including software developers, biometric installers and specialist consultants.
“Hand geometry and iris technologies were selected as they are proven on construction sites – they provide accurate and consistent biometric captures for the typical worker and also work effectively within the harsh outdoor environment.
“This is the first site in the UK to use a combination of hand geometry and iris technologies and the only project which stores biometric templates securely on workers’ cards.”
Olympic Delivery Authority chairman John Armitt said: “As the big build accelerates, we are phasing in robust plans to ensure the security and safety of both the Olympic Park workforce and the surrounding communities.
“Access controls utilising the latest technology will enable properly authorised, equipped and trained workers to enter and leave the Olympic Park as quickly and safely as possible.”
Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell said: “Ensuring the construction phase of the Games is safe and secure is a key part of our preparations for London 2012.
“We are using cutting-edge technology to make sure that, as activity on the site increases, the workforce and infrastructure continue to be protected without affecting progress.”
