XN000022-1996-04-03 — Page 84

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(a)

the coverage angle of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras;

(b)

vandalism of CCTV cameras;

(c)

(d)

the need to install CCTV cameras at side entrances and staircase exits of housing blocks; and

the quality of security guards.

The existing cameras use wide angle lenses of a type commonly used in CCTV systems inside lifts, and are able to capture irregular or criminal activities in lifts. Nevertheless, the Housing Department is considering installing extra wide angle lenses to improve coverage.

Activities inside lifts are constantly recorded on CCTV. There have been several cases of vandalism where the Police have been able to arrest suspects based on video tape records. As a result, the incidence of vandalism has declined. To provide added protection, the Housing Department intends to provide strengthened protective covers for CCTV cameras.

The side entrances of Harmony and Trident blocks are already covered by CCTV cameras. The Housing Department is looking into the feasibility of extending this measure to other block types. Trials are being carried out to determine the practicability of installing CCTV cameras at staircase exits.

The Housing Department promises to offer a high quality security guard service. The performance of guards is supervised and recorded by estate management staff, and a merit point system has been adopted for performance appraisal. Penalty clauses, including early termination of service, are included in security guards' service

contracts.

Stage II of the security camera installation project, covering 505 housing blocks, is progressing on schedule. Tenders are now being assessed by the Housing Department and will be awarded in May 1996. Installation work is expected to be complete by mid-1997.

End