It’s a case of ‘smile, you’re on camera’, whenever the general public attends a City of Onkaparinga council or committee meeting as of last week

The council has introduced a new electronic sign-in system, which includes taking a photo, replacing the previous manual sign-in process.

The system enables it to have an up-to-date record of everyone on the premises, to improve safety and security.

People can either use the on-site device to sign in or download the Sine Pro app on their mobile phones to check in.

The electronic sign-in system was introduced at the council’s Noarlunga office and Field Operations Centre in Seaford Meadows on Monday 17 February.

It will be trialled at the two sites and the council will assess the systems’ operational efficiencies and benefits prior to investigating roll out at further council-owned buildings.

A City of Onkaparinga spokesperson says using the on-site device or the app are quick and easy options, with onscreen instructions to guide the way.

“You’ll be prompted to enter your name, and either a phone number or email address. You’ll also have your photo taken by the system. 

“At the completion of check-in, the system instantly prints a visitor badge which must be worn while onsite.”

The data collected by the new system will be stored for six years, through third-party software within Australia

The council says this is for the purposes of record-keeping only and will not be shared, which is in line with the City of Onkaparinga Privacy statement and the Privacy Act 1988.

It says the system was externally funded through the Local Government Association Mutual Liability Scheme risk incentive fund for $13,156, which included initial setup costs, purchase of devices and advanced workflow system for contractors.

The Sine system is operated by Honeywell Forge Visitor and Contractor Management; more information about how it works can be viewed on the company’s website.