Requirements

  1. A simple, completely secure system
  2. Easy-to-manage user enrollment
  3. Reporting of user location within multi-story buildings for staff flow management

Challenge

“The NAS operations are critical and we rely on technology to ensure we are in a position to deliver,” said Niall Bowen, Project Manager at HSE Estates. “We required a secure access control solution that best reflected our business ethos and did not leave us in a position where we relied on other consumables. We also needed to eliminate the ongoing costs, wasted time and security issues that come with dealing with lost cards.”

Solution

24-7 Security, the lead security provider on the project, recommended a biometric solution from BioConnect. The overall look and cost of the readers made them a much more appealing proposition than those considered earlier in the process.

“Compared to the alternative products we considered, the Suprema biometric readers provided the aesthetics required for a new, clean-looking building,” said Stephen Graham, Technical Sales Consultant at 24-7 Security. “ …in addition to their high-tech look, they also ended up being the most cost-effective option.”

The customer service and technical support provided by BioConnect’s UK distribution partner, Norbain SD Ltd, gave 24-7 Security complete confidence in the system.

4-7 Security installed Suprema BioEntry Plus and BioLite Net biometric readers throughout two NAS properties, one in Dublin and another in County Donegal, with fingerprint authentication for full access control on exterior entrances, lifts, multiple floors, corridors, car parks and more.

Results

“The Suprema biometric devices have more than met our requirements. We now have true identity management and an integrated access control system that makes our environment more secure and functional.”

The BioConnect and Suprema solution met all the NAS expectations, including eliminating card costs, and being able to manage user identity across multiple sites using a true identity credential. They were especially pleased that the use of a biometric technology meant staff could no longer forget keys or cards limiting access to their workplace.

“Having a large number of rooms across multiple sites and high usage by staff meant it was important for NAS to manage the true identity of all who used the facility,” said Bowen. “The Suprema biometric devices have more than met our requirements. We now have true identity management and an integrated access control system that makes our environment more secure and functional.”

Feedback from 24-7 Security has been positive. “The level of customer service and technical expertise from BioConnect and Norbain SD Ltd has been responsive and in-depth,” said Graham at 24-7 Security. “We would recommend them again to other clients.”

About National Ambulatory Services

The National Ambulance Service (NAS) continually works to improve the care provided to HSE patients and provide faster access to care. Innovations in ambulance service provision, such as the Advanced Paramedic Training Program and a system of up-skilling for paramedics have produced significant improvements in patient care. The dedication and skill of all NAS staff have made it possible for the organization to provide the quality of service patients expect today. For more information, visit www.hse.ie/go/ambulanceservice/.