Amey scoops BIFM award for use of cutting edge technology

Following the successful installation of the world first biometric palm vein scanner device in a school at Todholm Primary, Renfrewshire, Amey Business Services have won the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) Technology Award 2007.  This public recognition of commitment in the area of Technology in the FM field is judged and awarded by industry peers. 

The Amey team travelled to the BIFM Awards at The Grosvenor Hotel in London on 8th October 2007 to learn that they had won the award.  It is a triumph for Amey and the PPP contract in Renfrewshire reflecting a dedication to being placed at the cutting edge of technology and exceeding the expectations of the client.

The drive behind installing the Palm Vein Scanner was to introduce cutting edge technology while at the same time addressing the stigma felt by kids who were getting free meals.  Amey made contact with Yarg in 2006 and discussions resulted in the Palm Vein Scanner being developed with technology from Fujitsu and Yarg.

The system reads the pattern of the veins in the pupil’s hands.  This pattern is totally unique to each pupil and will remain with the same throughout their life.  Unlike finger print scanners there is also no contact with the unit itself making it a very hygienic tool. 

When Amey decided to integrate the palm vein scanner into the school lunch service, several focus groups were held between Amey, Yarg, School Staff, Parents and of course the pupils to discuss the technology and it’s application.  It was of the utmost importance to Amey that all parties involved were informed and reassured that there were no civil liberties implications due to the minimal information retained on a secure local server. 

Amey hopes to build on the success of this pilot project by introducing it in places that currently require a person to have an activation or ID card.  This could link in the future to pupil registration, absenteeism systems, door openings and other secure applications to improve the FM service being provided.

Commenting on the award on behalf of Amey, Bobby Hughes, Head of Facilities, Amey Business Services said;

‘It is a great honour for us to have won this award.  Amey is always looking for new ways to improve the services we provide and the use of the palm vein scanner represents our real commitment to innovation and new technology in the delivery of services.  This is a truly unique system and the first of its kind in the world.  The installation of the palm vein scanner at Todholm has been extremely successful and we are thrilled to have been recognised and rewarded by our peers at BIFM.’

For further information, quotes or interviews please contact:
Scotland Press office, Lisa Watt and Flora Martin, Flora Martin PR on 07903206615 or email lisawatt3@hotmail.com or
Gemma Anderson on 0141 810 9563 or email gemma.anderson@amey.co.uk

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