Struggling with Proxy Attendance in an Open Factory: How Can We Track Employees Effectively?

Dear Seniors, I need to track workers' attendance as they move out of the factory. Employees are putting proxy attendance for others. How can we track them? Currently, we use a card swap system. I have suggested an eye scanner machine and even a biometric machine, but management doesn't want to spend too much money.

We are located in an industrial estate with no security personnel, and the gates are open from both sides. We are in the process of closing gates (shutters) from one side. However, workers can still leave the factory at any time, and we are unable to trace them.

Please suggest any solutions.

Regards, Swati Sawant [Phone Number Removed For Privacy Reasons]

Make supervisors responsible for keeping track of their employees. Conduct snap checks of employees at the worksite. Reduce the number of exits (of course, keep emergency exits always in condition for use during a fire, etc.). Install a CCTV system at entry/exit points and where card swipe machines are placed. But beyond all this, your senior management must have a heart-to-heart talk with the workers and try to find out why there is a lack of commitment to work.

Dear Swati,

Looking at your situation, I suppose the biometric system is the only option you're left with. Go for a face scanner powered by a 1.2GHz processor.

Looking at absence from work as a purely technical issue will not work. Union pressure may arise if you insist on biometric scanners. Management must try to identify reasons and have a meeting with workers regarding lack of attention toward work or lack of sincerity. I know of factories/offices where workers/staff have objected to the installation of CCTVs as an intrusion on their privacy. They need delicate handling.