Contactless Access Credentials & Egress

Contactless Access Credentials & Egress 

THE business landscape changing so dramatically over the past few months — possibly irrevocably — the task for many in security, including for consultants, integrators, dealers and manufacturers. As businesses and organizations begin to reopen, many are rethinking the way they budget for security, including access control, video surveillance and intrusion Alarm.

It’s amazing that a microscopic virus from China could virtually bring the world to a standstill. The 2020 global pandemic has reshaped the way people work, learn and play on every conceivable level. In addition to the devastating impact on global health and safety, COVID-19 has infected the health of the global economy.

The growing call to return to work will surely accelerate many of the physical (not social) distancing, sterilization and occupancy issues that we are currently facing. Hopefully, modern medicine will rise to the challenge sooner than later with a COVID-19 vaccine, but this may take some time even with accelerated testing and approvals.

Commonly touched items that can cause the spread of coronavirus (and other infectious disease) can include things like elevator buttons, ATM and checkout keypads, door knobs and handles, keyboards and mice, and door/entry access control panels — just to name a few. When you think about all of the “touchable” items that you interact with each day it becomes a daunting task to stay away from them and feel safe, clean and virus-free. Well, it's no surprise that right now, businesses are feeling the need to provide solutions and upgrade their safety and security as the workforce begins to come back to the office or plan for that to happen soon.

Contactless credentials are the most common component used in an access control system and while many look alike externally, important differences exist. “Contactless credentials and touchless access control can help reduce the number of surfaces that people touch on campus and can help reduce contact transmission” said Arindam Bhadra founder SSA Integrate.

Credentials Overview

While other credential options exist, the most common choice is RFID 'contactless' types. Nearly 90% of systems use contactless cards or fobs built as unpowered devices that are excited and read when brought close to a reader unit. This 'wireless power' process is called resonant energy transfer.

In Proximity Reader technology the reader itself emits a field collected by the card, eventually reaching enough of a charge that temporarily powers a wireless data transfer between the two. The image below details typical internal components of the type, where the wire antenna collects energy, the capacitor stores it, and when full discharges ICC chip (credential) data back through the antenna to the reader:

In general, all contactless credentials work this way but the exact parameters like operating frequency, size of credential data, encryption, and format of the data greatly vary in the field. In the sections that follow, we examine these parameters in depth.

Contactless Credentials Dominated by Giants

One of the biggest differences in contactless credentials is the format of the data it contains, typically determined by the manufacturer. Upwards of three-quarters of contactless credentials use formats developed or licensed by HID Global and NXP Semiconductor.

HID Overview

Since the market began migrating away from 'magstripe' credentials in the early 1990's, HID Global gained marketshare with its 125 kHz "Prox" offerings. Now part of ASSA ABLOY, HID has become the most common security market credential provider, and OEM of products for access brands including Lenel, Honeywell, and Siemens. The company's best-known formats include:

·     "Proximity": an older 125 kHz format, but still regularly used and specified even in new systems

·      iClass: an HID Global specific 13.56 MHz 'smartcard'

HID is the most common choice for credentials in the US. Because of commanding market share, HID is able to license the use of its credential formats to a variety of credential and reader manufacturers. Even when marketing general 'ISO 14443 compliant' offerings, HID strictly follows "Part B" standards (vs Part "A" - described in more detail later).

NXP Overview

Formerly Phillips Semiconductor, Europe-based NXP offers a number of 'contactless' credential components used in a number of markets - security, finance, and industrial. With widespread adoption of ISO standards in credential specifications, NXP offers a catalog of types built to spec, including:

·    MIFARE PROX: NXP's 125 kHz format built on early drafts of ISO standards, but not as widely adopted as HID's "Proximity" lines

·  MIFARE/DESFire: an ISO Standards-based NXP 'smartcard' format, also operating on 13.56 MHz the 'DESFire' moniker was introduced in the early 2000s to distinguish the format from 'MIFARE Classic' credentials. DESFire credentials feature stronger encryption that required higher performing chips. The 'Classic' format fell under scrutiny for being vulnerable to snoop attacks, and DESFire countered this threat. Because these improvements were made only to credentials, and existing MIFARE readers could still be used, the new format became known as 'MIFARE/DESFire'.

Unlike HID, NXP's credential formats are 'license-free' and the according standards are available for production use for no cost. NXP manufacturers all ISO 14443 product to "Part A" standards. NXP's market share is largest outside the US, mostly attributed to the early (starting in ~1990's) adoption of HID Global formats inside the US, but the brand's formats are often the primary ones used in Europe and Asia for physical access control.

US vs the World

Because of NXP Semiconductor’s strength in EMEA and the lack of licensing, MIFARE, DESFire, and the associated derivatives are popular outside the US.

However, HID Global's strongest markets are in the Americas, especially in the US. Despite the additional cost of licensing compliant credentials and readers, the company also produces products that use the unlicensed NXP formats and has equal or greater operability as a result.

125 kHz vs 13.56 MHz

The credential's RF frequency factors a key role in its performance. Because readers can only scan credentials operating at specific matching frequencies, this attribute is the first to consider. If frequency and format do not match, credentials are simply not read. The chart below shows the frequency of popular formats:

Perhaps the biggest difference between 125 kHz and 13.56 MHz frequencies is credential security. 125 kHz formats do not support encryption and are easily snooped or spoofed. However, 13.56 MHz formats are encrypted (usually 128 bit AES or greater) and credential data can only be read by a device that is specifically given the key to do so. 

Deciphering Credential Types

One of the most challenging jobs for integrators and end users alike is simply identifying which credential a system is using. The market is crowded with hundreds of options with no guarantees of compatibility for items that all appear to be a blank white card. The image below details four different credential types with dramatically different performance and security characteristics, yet they all look the same to the untrained eye:

For contactless types, you must know three attributes that are not typically clearly printed or overtly labeled on the credential:

·     Format Name: This designates how and how much data the credential transmits, usually defined by an ISO standard for Wiegand formats. For example H10301 is the typical 26 bit format, H10304 is HID's Wiegand 37 bit, and so on. The best way to confirm the format used by a card is to locate a box label of existing cards (See image below 'Card Format Details') to interpret the raw hexadecimal output as a specific format. If card boxes are not available, researching the credential type used by checking the format used in the Access Control Management Software application, typically in the cardholder and reader configuration settings.

·       Facility Code: This attribute is NOT printed on the card in most cases. This piece of information is also typically found on box labels but can be decoded using the same online calculators for format name. In certain cases, access systems must be configured to accept specific facility codes and some low-end systems may limit acceptable codes to one specific number. Without knowing this code, credentials are not sure to work.

·       Card ID/Serial Number (CSN/UID): In many cases, the ID number is embossed or printed on the card. This number is the 'unique ID' that ties a user to a specific badge. While concurrent numbers are not an issue, redundant numbers are, and the same Card ID and Facility Coded credential cannot be issued twice in the same system. The image below shows.

Interestingly, the Sales Order/Batch Number information printed on the card is often not used by the access system at all and is only printed to assist in researching the origin of the card as shipped to a specific distributor, end user, or dealer.

In some cases, a card vendor or distributor will 'read' an unknown card for a fee, but turn around times may take several business days.

Often, the box for cards currently in production is often the quickest, easiest way to gather all three pieces of this information, if not a reordering part number, as shown below:

The ISO/IEC 14443 Division

Very little separates HID's iClass from NXP's MIFARE offerings, and if not for ambiguous interpretation of an ISO standard, they would 'look' the same to most readers. However, because early versions of the standard left room for differentiation, HID and NXP designed their 'compliant' standards with a different encryption structure.

The end result is both versions of credential claim 'ISO 14443 Compliance', but are not entirely interchangeable. To reconcile this difference, ISO revised 14443 to include parts 'A and/or B' to segregate the two offerings. The default, basic serial number of cards is readable in both A & B parts, but any encoded data on the card is unreadable between the two because the original standard left room for implementation ambiguity.

In general, because there is no licensing cost in using 'Part A' standards, many low-cost, non-US target market, and new reader products start here. However, readers marketed specifically in the US or from vendors with a broader global market license use 'Part B' compliance common to HID.

For example, this TSDi reader supports 14443-A, but not 14443-B, meaning in practical terms in does not support HID's 13.56 MHz iClass formats, but does support NXP's 13.56 MHz MIFARE/DESFire formats:

In contrast, HID iClass readers support both 'A' and 'B' along with the non-ISO specific 'CSN' such that either type of credentials will work with these readers:

13.56 MHz Smartcard Interoperability

While the 'Part A & B' division in ISO 14443 separates formats from being the same, it does not always mean they are unusable with each other. Portions of ISO 14443 are the same in both parts, including the 'Card Serial Number'. For some access systems, this is the unique number that identifies unique users, and because this number is not encoded, it will register in 'non-standard' readers:

·    CSN/UID String: Essentially the card's unique identifier is readable because it is not stored in the deep 'encrypted' media. Many simple EAC platforms use only this number to define a user, and instead use the internal database to assign rights, schedules, and privileges.

·    Encoded Read/Write: However, the vast majority of storage within the card is encrypted and unreadable unless compliant readers are used. Especially for access systems using the credential itself for storage (e.g.: Salto, Hotel Systems) and for multi-factor authentication (e.g.: biometrics) high security deployments, the simple CSN is not sufficient.

The CSN Loophole

In terms of security, not all credential details are encrypted. The 'Card Serial Number' (defined by ISO standards) for 13.56 MHz cards can often be read regardless of underlying format, modulation method, or encryption. The CSN may be usable as a unique ID by the system, but the full data set of the credential will not be available.

For smaller systems with only a few doors and a hundred or fewer cardholders, using the CSN as the primary ID is common due to the ease of enrollment in using CSNs as unique badge numbers. However, for high-security sites where access identity encryption is required by standard or when credentials are used for multiple integrated systems, using CSNs to identify issued cardholders is often not approved. Rather, the card's encrypted data is required instead.

Form Factor

Credential shapes are not just limited to cards or fobs. The size and method of hosting a credential can include stickers, tokens, cell-phone cases, or even jewellery.

The form factor of the credential often is an important consideration in overall durability and service life. For example, while a white PVC card may be ideal to print an ID badge on and hang from a lanyard, it can easily be bent or broken in a rough environment. A key fob, while unsuitable for printing a picture on, is designed to be durable enough to withstand abuse, harsh environment exposures, and even submersion in water.

The right form factor choice should be dictated by the user and the user's environment, and generally, all major credential types have numerous form factor options to suit.

Touchless Switches

Touchless wall switch makes opening a door simple and germ free. Blue LED back-lighting highlights the switch at all times, other than during activation. This provides a visual reference of the switch’s location in low light conditions. Its low-profile design makes it blend into your wall.

Thermal Imaging Systems in COVID-19

Thermal Imaging Systems in COVID-19

Measuring a person’s temperature can be done in several ways. NCITs may be used to reduce cross-contamination risk and minimize the risk of spreading disease. While typically 98.6°F (37.0°C) is considered a “normal” temperature, some studies have shown that "normal" body temperature can be within a wide range, from 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C). A core issue is there are no independent tests of thermal camera performance /accuracy and no independent standards to measure against. This has allowed manufacturers to tout products meant for body/fire detection as a fever solution, or falsely claim pinpoint accuracy at long distances. We urge caution against buying low-cost thermal solutions from any manufacturer. 

Thermal imaging systems and non-contact infrared thermometers (NCITs) use different forms of infrared technology to measure temperature.

Thermal Imaging Systems and COVID-19

·        When used correctly, thermal imaging systems generally have been shown to accurately measure someone’s surface skin temperature without being physically close to the person being evaluated. Thermal imaging systems offer certain benefits in that other methods need a closer proximity or contact to measure temperature (for example, non-contact infrared thermometers or oral thermometers).

·        Temperature-based screening, such as thermal imaging, is not effective at determining if someone definitively has COVID-19 because, among other things, a person with COVID-19 may not have a fever. A diagnostic test must be performed to determine if someone has COVID-19.

·        Thermal imaging systems have not been shown to be accurate when used to take the temperature of multiple people at the same time. The accuracy of these systems depends on careful set-up and operation, as well as proper preparation of the person being evaluated.

·        Thermal imaging systems have been used by several countries during epidemics, although information about their effectiveness as part of efforts to reduce the spread of disease has been mixed.

·        The FDA issued the Enforcement Policy for Telethermographic Systems During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Public Health Emergency guidance to help expand the availability of thermal imaging systems and mitigate thermometer shortages during the public health emergency. The guidance sets forth an enforcement policy that is intended to apply to all thermal imaging systems that are intended for medical purposes for the duration of the public health emergency related to COVID-19, and provides recommendations regarding performance and labeling of such systems.

Figure 1 demonstrates the proper thermal imaging setup for processing of individual people in a public area.

Benefits of Thermal Imaging Systems

·        The person who handles the thermal imaging system is not required to be physically close to the person being evaluated. In fact, the person who handles the thermal imaging system could be in a different area or room.

·        The thermal imaging system may measure surface skin temperature faster than the typical forehead or oral (mouth) thermometer that requires a close distance or physical contact with the person being evaluated.

·        Scientific studies show that, when used correctly, thermal imaging systems generally measure surface skin temperature accurately.

Limitations of Thermal Imaging Systems

·        Although these systems may be in use for initial temperature assessment to triage individuals in high throughput areas (for example, airports, businesses and sporting events), the systems have not been shown to be effective when used to take the temperature of multiple people at the same time. They should not be used for "mass fever screening."

·        These systems measure surface skin temperature, which is usually lower than a temperature measured orally. Thermal imaging systems must be adjusted properly to correct for this difference in measurements.

·        These systems work effectively only when all the following are true:

Ø  The systems are used in the right environment or location.

Ø  The systems are set up and operated correctly.

Ø  The person being assessed is prepared according to instructions.

Ø  The person handling the thermal imaging system is properly trained.

Proper Use of Thermal Imaging Systems

The person who handles the system should follow all manufacturer instructions to make sure the system is set up properly and located where it can measure surface skin temperature accurately.

The person who handles the system should be trained to properly prepare both the location where the system will be used, and the person being evaluated, to increase accuracy. For details, see the standards and scientific papers listed under References below.

Preparing the Area where You will Use a Thermal Imaging System

• Room temperature should be 68-76 °F (20-24 °C) and relative humidity 10-50 percent.
• Try to control other items that could impact the temperature measurement:
• Avoid reflective backgrounds (for example, glass, mirrors, metallic surfaces) to minimize reflected infrared radiation.
• Use in a room with no draft (movement of air), out of direct sunlight and away from radiant heat (for example, portable heaters, electrical sources).
• Avoid strong lighting (for example, incandescent, halogen and quartz tungsten halogen light bulbs).

Figure 2 demonstrates the proper thermal imaging room setup.

Preparing the Thermal Imaging System

Ø Some systems require the use of a calibrated blackbody (a tool for checking the calibration of an infrared temperature sensor) during evaluation to make sure measurements are accurate. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine if a calibrated blackbody is needed. Some devices do not require one.

Ø  Turn on the entire system 30 minutes before use to warm it up.

Preparing the Person Being Evaluated

The person handling the system should make sure the person being evaluated:

Ø  Does not have any face obstructions before measurement (such as a mask, glasses, hat, headband, or scarf), the person's hair is pulled away from the face, and the person’s face is clean and dry.

Ø  Does not have a higher or lower face temperature from wearing excessive clothing or head covers (for example, headbands, bandanas) or from using facial cleansing products (for example, cosmetic wipes).

Ø  Has waited at least 15 minutes in the measurement room or 30 minutes after exercising, strenuous physical activity, bathing, or using hot or cold compresses on the face.

Figure 3 demonstrates the proper thermal imaging setup for processing of individual people using a calibrated blackbody background.

Using the Thermal Imaging System

·        Measure only one person’s surface skin temperature at a time.

·        Position the person at a fixed distance (follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use) from the thermal imaging system, directly facing the camera.

·        The image area should include the person’s whole face and the calibrated blackbody, if using one.

·        If an increased temperature is seen using the thermal imaging system, you should use a different method to confirm a fever. Public health officials can help you determine if the fever is a sign of infection.

Thermal camera selecting guide

Unlike regular cameras, not many customers are aware of certain key factors that they need to consider when selecting a thermal camera. This is mainly because thermal cameras are still a relatively new concept for many security customers.

1.  Accuracy

In border surveillance, some thermal camera can accurately detect the people or object more than 150 meters away. Thermal imaging cameras are often not just to detect higher or lower temperatures but also the calculate the differences. This means that the readings should be as accurate as possible. Most top-end cameras provide a +/- 2% accuracy. The distance at which the camera can maintain this accuracy is also critical. 

2.  Temperature range

Thermal cameras have a range within which they can detect temperature. You should purchase a camera that would meet your temperature needs. For example, the cameras used at airports now are for human temperature monitoring. Hence their range just needs to include the highest and lowest points that a human body can sustain. However, in the industrial segment, the temperature may be higher. 

3.  Resolution 

Thermal cameras tend to have lower resolution compared to their regular counterparts, and hence this should be an essential consideration before purchase. The size of the area you need to capture and the nature of the target will decide the resolution you need. If you need to capture small objects in detail, high-resolution cameras will be necessary. 

4.  Cybersecurity  

Developments in IP has enabled thermal cameras to connect with other network devices and be part of the IT infrastructure.  You will need to find companies that provide NDAA compliant products. 

Prefer Thermal Camera brand

Avigilon H4 Thermal Elevated Temperature Detection camera is embedded with edge-based analytics to detect faces and notify operators of elevated skin temperature.

3S Vision T9078- Dome Camera, T9079- Dome Camera, T6078- Bullet Camera, T6079- Bullet Camera, T6041- Bullet Camera, T6051- Bullet Camera, T6061- Bullet Camera.

FLIR FLIR Axxx-EST series, T5xx-EST series, Exx-EST series & TG 165(Hand Held type).

AMETEK VIRALERT 3 human body temperature screening system for buildings and facilities

MOBOTIX MOBOTIX TR (Thermal Radiometry) technology makes it possible to measure thermal radiation - even from people.

AXIS Axis Q19, Q29, Q86, Q87 & Modular Camera

Honeywell HRCF-FD384H- Temperature Detecter 7.8mm, HRCF-FD640H - Temperature Detecter 15mm, HRCF-KIT-FD384H - Temperature Detection kit 7.8mm -tripod, HRCF-KIT-FD640H - Temperature Detection kit 15mm – tripod, HRCF-KIT2-FD640H- Temperature Detection kit 15mm - tripod (no laptop), HRCF-KIT2-FD384H- Temperature Detection kit 7.8mm -tripod (no laptop).

Lilin P3T6522E2 & P3T6522E2-F – Dome Camera, 

Questions about Using Thermal Imaging Systems during COVID-19

Q: Are thermal imaging systems effective for screening people for fevers in places like nursing homes, airports, and hospital emergency rooms?

A: When using a thermal imaging system, it is important to assess whether the system will provide the intended results in high throughput areas. We understand that these devices are being used for initial temperature assessment and triage of individuals for elevated temperatures in medical and non-medical environments. They should not be used for measuring temperatures of many people at the same time in crowded areas, in other words “mass fever screening” is not recommended.

Based on where the system will be used, there may be more appropriate methods to initially assess and triage people, especially if there is a risk that infected people would not be identified right away. For example:

• In a nursing home, inaccurate temperature measurement or a missed contagious person without a fever could spread infection among nursing home residents. So, in this case, other assessment options and following infection control practices may be more effective.
• In airports, workplaces, grocery stores, concert venues, or other areas where you are trying to screen large groups of people for mass fever screening, diagnostic testing may be too difficult because of the time and costs needed to screen and get results. These systems will likely miss most individuals with COVID-19 who are contagious. Thermal imaging systems could be considered as one method for initial temperature assessment in these types of settings when used as part of a larger approach to risk management.
• In a hospital emergency room, a thermal imaging system may help to quickly assess temperature and triage patients to determine who needs more evaluation or isolation.

Q: Are thermal imaging systems effective as the sole means of diagnosing COVID-19?

A: No. A fever or higher body temperature is only one possible symptom of a COVID-19 infection. Thermal imaging systems generally detect a high body temperature accurately when used appropriately. They do not detect any other infection symptoms, and many people with COVID-19 can be contagious without a fever. Also, a high body temperature does not necessarily mean a person has a COVID-19 infection.

All fevers measured by thermal imaging systems should be confirmed by another method and followed by more diagnostic evaluations for other symptoms, as appropriate.

Q: How can thermal imaging systems help with the COVID-19 response?

A: To help address urgent public health concerns raised by shortages of temperature measurement products and expand the availability of telethermographic systems used for initial body temperature for triage use during this COVID-19 public health emergency, the FDA is applying regulatory flexibility for certain telethermographic systems as outlined in its enforcement policy.

When a high body temperature is identified by thermal imaging, an additional evaluation should follow (for example, doctor evaluations or interview, laboratory testing and patient observation).

Q: Are thermal imaging systems used for body temperature assessment considered medical devices?

A: As discussed in the enforcement policy, telethermographic systems are devices when they are intended for a medical purpose. To determine if these products are intended for a medical purpose, FDA will consider whether:

1. They are labeled or otherwise intended for use by a health care professional;
2. They are labeled or otherwise for use in a health care facility or environment; and
3. They are labeled for an intended use that meets the definition of a device, for example, body temperature measurement for diagnostic purposes, including in non-medical environments.

Q: How does a thermal imaging system differ from a thermometer?

A: Both thermal imaging systems and non-contact infrared thermometers (NCIT) can measure surface temperatures without contact. An NCIT measures surface temperature in a single location, whereas a thermal imaging system can measure temperature differences across multiple locations, creating a relative temperature map of a region of the body. The enforcement policy in the guidance applies to use of thermal imaging systems to determine initial body temperature measurements.

There is a separate enforcement policy that applies to certain NCITs and other clinical electronic thermometers: Enforcement Policy for Clinical Electronic Thermometers During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Public Health Emergency.

Temperature gun uses not recommendate. 

References

Note, this information is applicable to thermal imaging systems that are intended for a medical purpose. This means that the system is intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease and, therefore, meets the definition of “device” set forth in Section 201(h) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

For more information on FDA’s policies for these devices, and recommendations on their design, labeling, and use during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, please review the following:

Enforcement Policy for Telethermographic Systems During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Public Health Emergency: Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug Administration Staff

Additional information on these devices can be found at:

IEC 80601-2-59: Medical electrical equipment - Part 2-59: Particular requirements for basic safety and essential performance of screening thermoghraphs for human febrile temperature screening. 2017, International Electrotechnical Commission & International Organization for Standardization.

ISO/TR 13154: Medical electrical equipment — Deployment, implementation and operational guidelines for identifying febrile humans using a screening thermograph. 2017, International Organization for Standardization.

COVID-19 & Surveillance

COVID-19 & Surveillance 

As nations have started to lift Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, large crowds of people have flocked to parks to enjoy spring temperatures but risking social-distancing guidelines that are deemed crucial to prevent an uncontrollable spread of virus.

In parallel shops are asked to ensure a safe reopening in adherence with the requirements coming from health authorities, e.g. that people need to maintain a social distance, compliance of protocols and health and safety guidelines will be key at every location. All stakeholders including employees will want to be sure that they are safe at work. It will therefore be important to ensure that such compliances are being stringently followed, and that reports are maintained.

State Governments and organizations are faced with the following challenges:

• Which part of my city, bus stop, shop or premises are most crowded and when?

• How do I make sure my building or shop doesn't get over-crowded?

• How do I know when people are getting too close to each other?

• How do I address people and avoid confrontation or incidents at the entrance to a store?

Yes, video surveillance hardware segment to hold largest share of the market. The hardware segment consists of cameras, monitors, storage devices, and accessories. The growth of the hardware segment is attributed to the increasing use of cameras in various security-related applications. Rising security concerns across various applications, the shift towards adoption of IP cameras, government initiatives to provide more secure environments, increasing smart city projects, technological advancements in cameras, and the availability of low-cost cameras are driving the growth of video surveillance hardware market.

Cameras is important component of hardware segment. Technological advancements have resulted in highly specialized surveillance cameras that can be programmed to zoom-in scan items such as harmful equipment. Technological advancements resulted in the availability of a variety of surveillance cameras, such as those with high resolution and better quality, cameras with more than 8 mega-pixels, body worn, mobile or spy cameras, ultra-low-light cameras, panoramic 360-degree cameras, robust outdoor cameras for harsh climates, cameras for sensitive environments, and those with integration capabilities for various applications such as people counting or retail management. In order to achieve optimal results from any technology, user 'expectations' must be in order. Technology has to assist users in performing tasks in an easier and standardized manner, leading to better decision making.

Major players in the video surveillance market are Axis Communications (Sweden), Bosch Security and Safety Systems (Germany), Hanwha Techwin (South Korea), Avigilon, a Motorola Solutions Company (Canada), Infinova (US), FLIR Systems (US), Milestone (US), Honeywell Security (US), Pelco (US), Agent Video Intelligence (US), Genetec (Canada), Nice Systems (Israel), Qognify (US),  VIVOTEK (Taiwan), CP Plus (India) and Zhejiang Uniview Technologies (China).

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented organizations of all types and classifications with a new set of challenges that impact the security, safety, and health of all individuals who enter their premises, as well as the liability and responsibility of the host. Right now, the biggest challenge is how to get people back to work, engaged in commerce, education, and all of the everyday activities that drive the economy with effective safeguards in place.

In surveillance systems

The role of intelligent video analytics software that can detect people violating health care guidelines has become important. Many solution providers of video analytics for security cameras and VMS are at the forefront of this segment, enabling authorities to use technology to avoid crowds, ensure social distancing, and wear masks. These video solutions involve a four-stage process of firstly establishing awareness of a situation, then confirming that distances are being maintained, responding to unsafe behaviour and analysing data to identify areas and activities that are proving problematic.

Here are a few examples of how video technology can contribute to a safe reopening of societies:

1. Detecting facial masks.

Masks have become an integral part of the fight against COVID-19, and facial recognition analytics solution providers are now factoring in the possibility of having to detect people who wear and do not wear masks. Detecting and identifying those who wear masks or PPE for special case could be a necessity from a security perspective, but in the pandemic, alerting authorities of someone not wearing a mask is critical for safety reasons.

2. Keeping people notified 

Both audio and visual messaging can be integrated with video, so those on a station platform can be given an audio reminder to maintain a safe distance over a PA system automatically when video identifies bunching. Screens can automatically provide notices of alternative access to buildings based on if the video system detects crowding in a particular area.

3. Crowd counting solutions

There is a danger of a fallback when COVID-19 restrictions are gradually being relaxed. So, in city squares, beaches, tourist attractions or other popular public places, social distance needs to be maintained for a longer period. Crowd counting solutions based on video analytics can help alert authorities to when these places get too crowded and social distance is at jeopardy. These alerts will be received in real-time, and historical statistics will also be available.

4. Responding to crowding

Dispatching personnel to deal with unsafe distancing and risky behaviour places these people at risk from infection, and they may face verbal or physical harassment. If they have to be deployed, however, video can support them with rules-based push notifications that send them to the place where an incident is taking place, giving them control of all the doors needed to access the area from their smartphone, and integrating with body worn video if being used.

Fever Camera Market

The market for elevated body temperature detection cameras, aka 'coronavirus cameras' aka 'fever detectors', may be worth billions of dollars this year and is certainly, by far, the fastest-growing market segment in the industry. Moreover, with physical products, including video surveillance, generally facing downward sales pressure, sales of coronavirus fever cameras will be a major factor in which companies 'win' or 'lose' over the next year.

FDA supplies this illustration showing a good fever cam setup

FDA considers body temp screening cams (paired with a thermometer to confirm the fever) to be medical devices, technically a "Telethermographic system intended for adjunctive diagnostic screening". These require FDA 510(k) clearance before being marketed, a process that takes around 130 days. On Apr 17, 2020 The US FDA has declared it will not go after the many companies marketing unapproved fever detection cameras during the coronavirus public health emergency, even though it does consider these products medical devices, it has announced 10 page new guidance (Click to get enforcement policy). The FDA recommended thermal cams are tested under following "performance specifications" including "measurement uncertainty, is less than or equal to ±0.5°C (±0.9°F) over the temperature range of at least 34-39°C (93.2-102.2°F)". The FDA says that a 'prominent notice' should be included, explaining: The labeling includes a prominent notice that the measurement should not be solely or primarily relied upon to diagnose or exclude a diagnosis of COVID-19, or any other disease. In particular, the world's two top international standards groups, the IEC and ISO, have published 3 standards covering fever (i.e., febrile) screening:

• IEC 80601-2-59:2017 Medical electrical equipment — Part 2-59: Particular requirements for the basic safety and essential performance of screening thermographs for human febrile temperature screening
• ISO/TR 13154:2017 Medical electrical equipment — Deployment, implementation and operational guidelines for identifying febrile humans using a screening thermograph
• ISO 80601-2-56:2017 Medical electrical equipment — Part 2-56: Particular requirements for basic safety and essential performance of clinical thermometers for body temperature measurement

The IEC states the inner eye is the best area for body temp readings due to it being over an important artery, stating other body areas are "unreliable".

“Facial thermography of surface areas other than the region medially adjacent to the inner canthi is unreliable, and may be complicated by perspiration, facial skin flushed from exertion, etc. The current evidence indicates that the region medially adjacent to the inner canthi is the preferred site for fever screening due to the stability of that measurement site. This is because this region is directly over the internal carotid artery.”

“The temperature LABORATORY ACCURACY of a SCREENING THERMOGRAPH, including the measurement uncertainty shall be less than or equal to an offset error of ±0,5°C over the range of at least 34°C to 39°C”.

“Camera ensure that there are sufficient IMAGE PIXELS in the thermogram of the FACE and TARGET to permit an accurate assessment. The minimum display of the workable target plane shall be 320 IMAGE PIXELS by 240 IMAGE PIXELS. In NORMAL USE, the thermogram of the FACE shall fill at least 240 IMAGE PIXELS by 180 IMAGE PIXELS.” If a face on camera needs to be 240 pixels wide and a real face is about six inches wide, effectively a 400-pixel camera should have a field of view no wider than 10 inches. The practical issue is that with fewer pixels on target it is harder to get precise readings since the readings of adjacent hotter and colder parts of a face will blend in, reducing accuracy.

The ISO/IEC standards make no mention of such AI or of anything else helping overcome these obstructions. This sets up an issue where manufacturers may argue these 2017 standards are out of date. Some manufacturers have also touted "compensation algorithms" they claim automatically adjust for the (well-known) difference between face skin temperature and actual body temperature. However, the ISO recommends that this "small difference" between inner eye temp and body temp be accounted for by adjusting the "threshold temperature".

The ISO/TR 13154:2017 and IEC 80601-2-59:2017 standards specifically state that fever screening is deployed under indoor conditions.

The RESPONSIBLE ORGANIZATION needs to be aware of the type of lighting used at the screening area. Lighting such as incandescent, halogen, quartz tungsten halogen and other type of lamps that produce significant interference (heat) should be avoided. 

The area chosen for screening should have a non-reflective background and minimal reflected infrared radiation from the surroundings. IEC recommends A/C drafts be diffused to ensure they are not blowing onto people and cooling them. The ISO adds that "sun-facing windows, radiant heaters, or sources of cold (cold windows or outside walls" can also "interfere" with accurate readings and must be avoided as well.

Controlling ambient temperature is important, as overly hot/cold people will not give accurate results, particularly if they are sweating. ISO states the temperatures measured by a screening thermograph can be influenced when the individual being screened is sweating. Sweating thresholds can vary according to a person’s fitness level, environment of residence, length of adaptation and the relative humidity. When humidity is controlled, these effects are minimized. To produce consistent and reliable results of the temperature screening process, it is imperative that the screening thermograph be situated in a reserved stable indoor environment with a temperature range of 20°C to 24°C and relative humidity range from 10% to 50%.

The ISO recommends that a "secondary screening area" be set up "removed from the general traffic flow" for people who are being confirmed for fever. The secondary screening area should be properly equipped with "masks, wipes, disinfectants".

Toilets should not be proximal to the screening thermograph area. This is to both inhibit potential cross-infection and to prevent facial washing (alteration of the thermal profile) immediately prior to entering the screening thermograph area.

ISO recommends the responsible organization should retain this information for at least one month (normal maximum incubation time for known infectious diseases). The responsible organization should be prepared to maintain the data for longer periods when deemed necessary by the public health authorities and other organizations ensuring protection of public safety. Technically, the GDPR does not apply to thermal camera readings, as it only deals with the "processing of personal data" i.e. data that can identify a specific person - which thermal readings cannot.

IPVM test Thermal Imaging Camera & IR Thermometer

Camera Manufacturers 

These companies generally released thermal temperature screening products after the coronavirus pandemic commenced:

Camera Manufacturers / OEM & Their Partner
Dahua	FLIR	Hikvision	Sunell	TVT	YCX
Altoros	Embedded Logix	ClearWay	Bolide		IVC
Amcrest	Emitted Energy	Smart CT Solutions	CBC Ganz	AvyCon	Secureye
ENS	HIS MSC	Mercury Security and Facilities Management	Dubak Electrical Group DuThermX	Johnson Controls	Tsimplifica
Optiview	Viper Imaging	Smart CT Solutions	CP Plus		CommOptics
PlatinumCCTV	Midas Touch	Remark Thermal	CohuHD / CoStar		Cyber Info
IndigoVision			EagleEye
RedSpeed			DLink
RS Tech			EOS Australia
			Flexible Systems
			CheckVideo
			Braasco
			InVid
			Novus
			SATIR
			TKH / Siqura
			Vicon
			VenueScreen
			Watchnet
			ZKTeco

A core issue is there are no independent tests of thermal camera performance/accuracy and no independent standards to measure against. This has allowed manufacturers to tout products meant for body/fire detection as a fever solution, or falsely claim pinpoint accuracy at long distances. We urge caution against buying low-cost thermal solutions from any manufacturer.

Bengaluru-based Cocoslabs Innovations will receive a loan from the Technology Development Board, under Science and Technology Department, to develop a “low-cost solution to identify persons with abnormal body temperature in a crowd and, at the same time, provide an alert system to notify about identified persons to authorities on their phones and laptops”. The product, according to TDB, includes features such as detecting and tracking a person with and without a face mask, predicting age, gender, race, temperature readings, and facial recognition in a single product that can track multiple people in a real-time environment.  “Imagine a CCTV which can take temperatures as well as carry out mask identification”.

In access control systems

Video analytics is no longer limited to CCTV systems. With cameras becoming an integral part of access control solutions for facial recognition, video analytics are now being used on them too. The consequences of COVID-19 are clear to see in the short term, but it may also drive the need for technology that will help mitigate against pandemics and the spread of disease in the long term.

Major players in the access control market are HID Corporation (US), Suprema (South Korea), LenelS2 (US), Gallagher (US), IDEMIA (France), ViRDI (Korea), DDS (Israel), CEM (US), Honeywell Security (US), SYRIS (Taiwan), Kaba (Switzerland ), Boon Edam (Netherlands ), FAAC (Italy), Mantra Softech (India), WYSE Biometrics (India) and ZKTeco (China). 

One of these technologies that offers some promise is long-range RFID. The value offered is more than just security and safety. Implemented correctly, it not only helps minimise the dangers posed to staff and patients, but also helps improve the efficiency and workflow around the facility. Hence, during the current times of peak capacity, the risk increases. The right long-range access control solution can help minimise the risk by reducing shared contact points.

Long-range RFID is gaining traction as a complete people and vehicle solution. As an ideal solution that automates vehicle access without the need for ticket stations, pin pads or manned gates, members of staff can now go from their doorstep to the room they are required in without having to touch surfaces in order to access the car park and building.

All of this can be done from a card that is transferred from a special holder in your car to a land yard for centrally managed, hands-free access around the facility. A modern access control solution using long range readers can help by keeping supplies locked in a dedicated room with access granted only for approved staff ID badges. Whilst also restricting access in staff car parks to only approved staff members.

Access control software offers a unique insight of real-time data into key staff members and their movements within the building. This software can then compile the data collected into reports which can help reveal bottlenecks in the flow of staff members around the facility.  In the case of an emergency, an access system with connections to readers and cameras, can lock / unlock certain doors, or revoke access to particular people in case their badge was stolen.

Whilst we cannot accurately predict what the world will look like post COVID-19, long-range RFID technology could prove to be a powerful tool going forward. It offers solutions that go beyond just security, and helps healthcare facilities build a better future by improving workflow, manage medical equipment, protect patients, staff and visitors from infection and future pandemics.

The turnstiles, revolving doors restrict entry to one person at a time and with the automatic systems, the entry is verified against each individual and the door is opened and closed automatically. This will ensure a contactless access control in Ireland while maintaining the same level of security.

The access control system will regulate and limit the incoming and outgoing of a pedestrian. The access control gates can be installed to stop the pedestrian movements and only allow the authorized authorities to enter. This way you can control whether the permission can be granted to the person or should be restricted. This system will regulate social distancing and safe workplace environment by ensuring only the essential personnel to enter and restrict the outdoor crowd. Public places such as stations, hotels, banks, restaurants, airports, etc. can use the access control system to ensure only the needy person gets in and the contraction of the virus is stopped.

This will not only be useful in public places, but also at community centers, apartment complexes, parking garages or college campuses. This will control the crowd in a manner will implement social distancing and will protect the entire facility.

Seos is a breakthrough credential technology that represents a new way of thinking about end-user experiences. Solutions that are powered by Seos offer the freedom to use your device of choice – from smart cards to smartphones – for secure access to more application. Solutions range from building access, computer login and cashless vending to Internet of Things (IoT) applications, time-and-attendance, secure print authentication and an ever-increasing number of other uses that are in demand. As a dynamic, standards-based technology that is already proven in the marketplace, Seos introduces a new realm of choices. End-users have the potential to use any combination of smart phones, smart cards, tablets, wearables, bank cards, key fobs, inlays and other smart devices to secure applications.

Finger technology is end now, most of end user going to nontouch based attendance system. Through iPhone & Android enabled app platforms GPS & Camera end user track there employee mainly who work from home / field technical or sales team. Employees in the field can register their attendance through a mobile app. The attendance is pushed to ADIS and it puts the data on cloud server. Tech integrates with Google Map, its Advance Geo Tagging features gets you the exact longitudinal location of the employee which verifies his presence on the client’s premises. For example, when an employee reaches a destination on time and the client keeps him waiting, the manager can intervene and make meeting on time. On the other hand when the employee leaves the premises a quick check up can be done about his performance with the client and any issues can be resolved as soon as possible.

Facial recognition is the ideal choice. Once installed and your employees are registered they merely have to look at the device and it will record them. Clocking takes a split second. But due to Mask on your face, some old face recognition system may not work.

Access Control Manufacturers / OEM & Their Partner
Mercury	HID	Proprietary
Lenel	RedCloud	Kantech
R2S	Averics	GE
Open Options	CBORD Group	Software House
Honeywell Prowatch	Genetec	Johnson Controls
Red Cloud	IDN-Acme	AMAG
S2	Imron	Keyscan
Brivo	Maxxess	Gallagher
Maxxess	Next Level Security Systems	DSX
Keri NXT	Automated Management Technologies (AMT)	RBH Access
Genetec	Johnson Controls - EDGE ONLY	Identive
Stanley	Wren Solutions	Paxton
Identicard		Infinias
RF Logics Inc
Bosch ReadyKey

Ref:

https://www.medianama.com/2020/05/223-cocoslabs-facial-recognition-tdb/

https://ipvm.com/reports/
https://ipvm.com/reports/zkteco-fda

https://www.securityindustry.org/2020/05/27/fda-issues-guidance-on-thermal-imaging-systems-and-covid-19/