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Features Continued from page 13


solutions ready to be implemented in existing and new stadiums, but optimised facial recognition, behavioural analytics and access scanning equipment are perhaps the three game changers.


Optimised facial recognition


The use of optimised facial recognition in conjunction with extremely high-resolution IP cameras can provide a smooth method of entry to the stadium by integrating with the access control system. This has the simultaneous effect of seamless entry to the venue, while images can also be matched against a watched list or blacklist of specific individuals preventing unwarranted access. This does not only apply to terrorists


or criminals, but also to crowd control and to monitor “known” individuals. This system would also learn from each event, gaining robustness and becoming smarter. For example, smart stadium security at a football match could begin to identify and recognise individuals that liable to causing trouble at the event – perhaps someone who does not warrant being banned from the event, but a person to keep an eye on. This frees up security personnel and


stadium staff to get on with their “day job”, with the system alerting and redeploying staff to deal with a potential situation if required.


Behavioural analytics


Behavioural analytics is a rapidly developing field of research and extremely useful in crowd control situations. The ability for a system to monitor and predict potential threats or crowd unrest is a key tool to help security staff and other personnel respond quickly to real-time data. Behavioural analytics software and


artificial intelligence can identify patterns of behaviour associated with violence or other activities that could compromise the safety of a crowd. This can be used to alert authorities to a heated situation before it erupts. Analytics software, running off the CCTV


System, learn and recognise the events leading up to any issues occurring. The more scenarios the software reviews, the earlier it can detect the issue, which can then be reviewed, and mitigation can take place.


Access scanning equipment


We are all aware of the obligatory walk- through metal detectors most commonly found in airports, but the technology has advanced considerably over the past 10 years. Walk-through monitors can now detect


a multitude of substances that could pose a threat in an enclosed stadium environment. In fact, the “sniffing” technology on these


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monitors can be used to detect anything from excess alcohol through to nuclear material. The access control barriers could then be


used to divert the individual into a contain- ment room away from the general public.


Considerations


While smart technology and security has the potential to improve the fan experience, there are some considerations for organisers, stadium owners, and security personnel should keep in mind. • Event organisers will need to understand the increased financial and logistical challenges and develop a strategy of how to control them.


• Education of the customer (fans/ attendees) is key so they understand that every major sporting and musical event will have heightened security procedures to mitigate risks.


• Event organisers should allow more time for customers to enter the venue.


• Event organisers should also allow time for staff to familiar themselves with the stadium, as the same teams are not always necessarily at the same stadium or event.


• The effects of slowing entry into the event will cause its own problems as crowds will gather on approach routes, presenting an alternative target. This risk will also need to be mitigated.


• The public will in turn need to understand their own risk from attending these events – organisers will need to develop an approach and response that works with the emergency services.


These considerations are a small price


to pay on the part of fans and organisers in return for a more effective security solution that protects the stadium and its visitors.


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