University of Exeter - Safe and intelligent engineering workshops

Competency-based access control for secure learning

Access control

Presentation

The University of Exeter, located in the South West of England, has recently refurbished its engineering workshop within the Harrison Building to support tomorrow's engineering education - ensuring students have access to the best possible facilities.

Solutions implemented

Scutum has implemented a skills-based access control system designed to make the workshop both safe and efficient. Key elements include:

1 - Skills check :

Each student is assigned a skills profile based on his or her training and certifications. Machines are configured to allow use only by students meeting the required skill levels. The system ensures that untrained students cannot access dangerous machines, thus reducing the risk of accidents.

2 - Secure machine activation :

Students badge on a reader to verify their identity and skills. The machines activate only when the card is inserted into the holder, and deactivate automatically when it is removed. This prevents the machines from being left running, eliminating potential risks.

3 - Real-time supervision

Staff can monitor machine activity in real time, with clear indicators showing which machines are active or inactive. Large audiovisual screens on the shop floor provide instant visibility, while the visual layout of the machines allows quick reference.

4 - Audit and reports

The system records all machine usage, enabling staff to track activity, generate reports and maintain a complete audit. This ensures compliance, accountability and a simple means of verifying training effectiveness.

5 - Simplified management

Centralized control allows all machine access points to be managed from a single interface, reducing complexity for staff. The solution is flexible and scalable, adapting to new machines or changing training needs.

The Challenge

The University of Exeter's new engineering workshop is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery - from milling machines and lathes to complete workshops for the assembly of Formula Student vehicles. With such advanced equipment, ensuring student safety while enabling hands-on learning was essential. The University needed a solution for :

Restrict machine use to trained students.

Avoid dangerous operations or machines left running.

Provide real-time supervision for staff.

Results

- Enhanced safety: machines can only be used by trained students.
- Hands-on learning: students gain real-world experience in complete safety.
- Total visibility: staff monitor machine use in real time.
- Simplified management: easy-to-use system with full auditing capabilities.

The University of Exeter now has a modern, safe and fully monitored engineering workshop, preparing students for the demands of industry while giving staff peace of mind.