Video surveillance at the Spa of Bad Steben.

In the 1800s, Steben transitioned from a mining village into a health resort area. The mineral springs of the area were first mentioned 500 years ago, but it was not until 1838 that the first bathhouse was built. Today, Bad Steben is one of the Bavarian State Spas. The heart is the Spa of Bad Steben, which opened in 2004 and houses a health and wellness center and a swimming and sauna complex under one roof. 

Robin Fröhlich, Project Manager at ProComp, quickly chose cameras from the market leader Axis. The excellent image quality combined with the Lightfinder technology delivers impressive and convincing images in all light conditions, despite the reflection of light sources in the surface of the water and the complex physical conditions at the spa. For an excellent audio and sound quality, an audio system specially designed by Axis was implemented.

With a rare combination of natural remedies such as natural mud, radon and carbon dioxide, the Bavarian State Spa in the north of Franconia holds a special place among the health and wellness resorts. With over 180 years in operation, the spa has acquired its high level of medical and therapeutic expertise over centuries. However, a person cannot relax completely unless there is a sense of security. Being able to move freely despite physical restrictions and knowing that personal items are safe and secure enable the guests to reach the height of rest and relaxation while enabling the staff feel like they have everything under control.

The old, analog video system with black and white cameras was no longer able to deliver usable images, particularly in the areas with water. Modern, scalable IP video technology is in demand here. Cameras with high detail accuracy and outstanding light sensitivity are required in order to deliver high-quality images. Use in the spa also requires robust cameras that can handle factors such as moisture, difficult ambient light conditions, and dark areas while still providing convincing image quality.

Data protection is another challenge. The operators therefore proceeded very carefully with the conversion to IP video. Since analog cameras were already in use in the spa for quite some time, the concept was not entirely new. The works council received detailed installation planning well in advance, with information on the precise locations for camera installation along with specification of each camera’s range of functions. Test images were created of all areas where surveillance was planned to show the later installation. This enabled the data security officer and all stakeholders to get a comprehensive picture before implementation.

AXIS P3364-LV Network Cameras will be used in extremely dark areas of the spa, like the salt-water floating pool and the Echo Tower. These are fixed dome cameras with day/night functionality and outstanding video performance. The integrated infrared lighting ensures high-quality video images even in complete darkness. Axis’ Lightfinder technology provides outstanding light sensitivity and helps to reproduce colors clearly despite extremely poor light conditions. This can prove essential for the identification of an individual.

Network camera AXIS M3007-PV has been installed in the health club of the spa’s sports area. This offers a 360/180 degree panoramic view with a resolution of up to 5 MP. This was particularly important in the health club in order to have a full view of everything going on. A video management system is also crucial for the success of a video installation. Here, the choice was the SYMPHONY video management system from the Axis partner Senstar –intelligent, highly scalable and ready-to-use video management software. It can be used for installation with a server as well as for multi-server application. The deciding factor was ease of use by security staff.

For outstanding audio and sound quality, the exterior areas were supplemented with 6 AXIS C3003-E Network Horn Speakers and the changing rooms and medical interiors in the interior with 9 AXIS C1004-E Network Cabinet Speakers. This allows the visitors of the three swimming pools and the sun terrace in the outdoor area to enjoy a trouble-free audio system and at any time to be supplied with all necessary announcements. The bathing staff is provided with two integrated SIP microphones from 2N, which provide the possibility for live announcements at any time. Even background music is possible, separately controlled per room or divided zone.