Video Access Security Technology Team
The Video Access Security Technology Team (VASTT) coordinates the installation, maintenance, and operation of a variety of specific forms of campus security technology. This includes the campus-wide Video Security System (VSS) and the electronic card access systems. Additionally, the team supports the public safety officer and parking attendant body-worn camera program and video systems in public safety patrol cars. The group is also responsible for in house development and support of campus safety applications and services other information technology project management and implementation for Campus Safety and Emergency Services.
Year Highlights:
- Campus-wide electronic access control conversion project to Genetec is underway. Currently completed 16 of 22 buildings planned for year one.
- Building Online Security System (BOSS) upgraded to a new version that is fully integrated with Genetec. BOSS is an internally developed system by VASTT that provides building coordinators and building supervisors access to a single user interface to update their building unlock/lock schedules and grant access for University students, faculty, and staff to their building areas.
- Testing and evaluating options for biometric access control for the University athletic facilities. This will allow athletes to move between the athletic facilities without needing to carry an SUID card to gain access. Access will be granted via the use of a fingerprint reader.
- Upgraded the Intrado call logging and handling system for the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Emergency Communications Center to a new version that provides enhanced features and upgraded security.
- Rath Elevator accessible two-way communication for hearing impaired is required by code for newly installed elevators. Software has been installed in 113 Euclid Ave and Barner-McDuffie House elevators that will allow DPS to communicate with elevator occupants via text messaging in the event of an emergency.
- Developing a new application for managing CSEMS system access requests. The application will be similar to the functionality of the University FAST system but tailored to the evolving growth and access needs of CSEMS technical systems.
- Now that buildings have the Genetec access control system available there are more options for accessibility. One option is the use of mobile credentialing. This allows a smart phone to act as a SUID card for access control. A test case was installed and configured at the Schine student center where VASTT worked with a student with a disability in a wheelchair to get in the building without having to try to swipe a card or get near a card reader. Setting the student’s phone up with a mobile credential allowed Bluetooth on the phone to trigger the card reader on the building from 10 feet away. The end result was that the student got near the reader, and it granted him access and opened the door without any intervention making it much easier to get into the building.
- Partnered with the University’s InclusiveU program to work with students with intellectual, or developmental disabilities to offer opportunities to participate in campus safety work. Trained a inclusiveU student to monitor cameras for abnormal camera image issues.
Important Statistics:
- 163 new access control doors were installed in Genetec this past year and 89 new cameras installed.
Communications Team
The communications manager provides internal and external communications support to all departments within Campus Safety and Emergency Services. This includes department websites and social media accounts, campus wide email communications, public safety communications, and collaborating with the Division of Communications.
Year Highlights:
- Made the transition from LiveSafe to the Rave Guardian safety app. Guardian offers all of the same features as LiveSafe but has a seamless integration into the department’s emergency communications system, Rave.
- Rolled out new branding guidelines, including new patches for the department. Collaborated with various units to assist with this transition.
- Launched a monthly email from the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
- Hired a social media specialist to focus and enhance DPS’s social media presence.
Important Statistics:
- From March 2021 through March 2022, we saw an increase in followers for the Department of Public Safety:
- Instagram: 9% increase
- Facebook: 7% increase
- Twitter: 4% increase