Public Safety Technology

At UNC Charlotte, the Public Safety Technology unit within the Department of Safety and Security drives innovation and infrastructure behind the campus’s modern security ecosystem. Our mission: to support effective, responsive and community-trusted safety systems across the University.

What We Manage:

Security Cameras and Video Analytics

We oversee and maintain the University’s campus-wide camera network, including over 2,000 interior and exterior cameras — across parking lots, decks, buildings and pedestrian areas.

Site Security Surveys

Through formal site and security assessments, our team identifies vulnerabilities in campus buildings and public areas. These surveys inform recommendations for lighting, access control design and surveillance placement to enhance overall safety.

Access Control Systems

We control and monitor access credentialing systems — including card readers and gate systems — ensuring secure entry across University facilities.

Emergency (Blue-Light) Phones

The campus is dotted with blue-light emergency phones, each featuring lights and speaker connectivity to police dispatch. These stations provide emergency contact points, especially if a user can’t access their phone.

LiveSafe Mobile App

UNC Charlotte offers the LiveSafe app free of charge. This tool effectively functions as a mobile “blue light,” with push-button access to police dispatch, anonymous tip reporting (text, photo, video) and a SafeWalk feature that allows users to share their real-time route with someone until their arrival. It also supports NinerAlerts, providing campus-wide emergency notifications directly via the app.

How It Works Together:

As the central coordinating team, we plan technology deployments, manage installations and upgrades, and oversee system maintenance — including preventative inspections and technical support across security cameras, access control and mass notification systems. We also serve as the liaison for public safety across other University projects and emergency operations.

Why It Matters:

• Crime deterrence and rapid response: The expansive camera system supports fast identification and investigation.
• Improved situational awareness: Integrations with tools give visibility into campus-wide population movement, which is helpful for timely incident response.
• Transparent and secure: All camera and access systems follow UNC Charlotte policies, balancing safety needs with privacy considerations.
  • University Policy 715: Security Cameras
  • University Policy 719: Access Control

Request a Security Site Survey

Planning a new space or concerned about existing vulnerabilities? UNC Charlotte’s Public Safety Technology team offers security site surveys to assess risk and recommend safety enhancements for:

• Building access
• Camera placement
• Lighting and visibility
• Emergency communication points

To request a formal site security assessment, complete this request form. Surveys are available to departments, project managers and stakeholders engaged in renovations, relocations or proactive safety reviews.