Caesars Palace Security Bets on Hand Readers

Jul 1, 2004 12:00 PM

Caesars Palace in Las Vegas has saved more than $170,000 in key management and replacement costs by integrating hand geometry readers into its security operations.

The readers, from IR Recognition Systems, Campbell, Calif., the biometric component of Ingersoll-Rand's (IR) Security & Safety Group's Electronic Access Control Division (EACD), take a three-dimensional reading of the size and shape of an employee's hand to verify the user's identity.

“We wanted assurance that the correct people were gaining access in and out of highly secured areas and checking out keys,” says Frank Guckin, locksmith foreman for access control at Caesars Palace. “Biometrics was the only way to ensure this. We chose hand geometry because of its reliability and low false-read ratio.”

Caesars Palace, which employs 5,500 people, initially installed one standalone HandReader at the main cage four years ago. Since then, two additional networked Hand-Readers are located at satellite cages and used in “mantrap” areas. Here, individuals gain access with the Hand-Reader, are then additionally verified with a camera, and only then let through the door.

“We have many people access these areas 24 hours a day and, so far, we have not had one false read,” Guckin says. “Even if the hand were severed from the person and used by an imposter, the imposter could not gain entrance. Blood pressure, shape, and fluids all affect the geometry of a hand.”

At the slot operations area, a networked HandReader ties into a Morse Watchman Keywatcher key box, which is designed to prevent lost or stolen keys. The system has resulted in an estimated recoup of $170,000 previously lost in key administration, Guckin adds.

Guckin is recommending that casino management also use the HandReaders for time and attendance.

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