Software & Technology

Fingerprint Scanner

What Is a Fingerprint Scanner?

A fingerprint scanner is a biometric authentication device that identifies and verifies a person’s identity based on the unique patterns of their fingerprint. In workforce management, fingerprint scanners are commonly used for employee time and attendance tracking, helping businesses ensure accurate payroll, reduce time theft, and streamline clock-in/clock-out processes.

Fingerprint scanners are especially popular in industries like hospitality, retail, manufacturing, and construction, where reliability, accountability, and speed are essential.

How Fingerprint Scanners Work

Fingerprint scanners capture an image or map of the ridges and valleys on a person’s fingertip. The data is then matched against stored records to verify identity. There are several types of fingerprint scanning technologies:

  • Optical Scanners: Capture a visual image of the fingerprint.
  • Capacitive Scanners: Detect ridges and valleys using electrical currents.
  • Ultrasonic Scanners: Use sound waves to create a 3D map of the fingerprint.
  • Thermal Scanners: Detect heat differences between fingerprint ridges and valleys.

When used in workforce settings, employees clock in by placing their finger on the scanner, which identifies them and logs their attendance in real-time.

Benefits of Fingerprint Scanners for Workforce Management

Eliminates Buddy Punching

One of the primary advantages of fingerprint scanners is their ability to eliminate "buddy punching", a form of time theft where one employee clocks in or out for another. Since fingerprints are unique and non-transferable, this method ensures the person clocking in is physically present.

Increased Accuracy and Accountability

With biometric clocking, every entry is tied to an individual employee’s fingerprint. This reduces payroll discrepancies, ensures accurate time tracking, and strengthens compliance with workplace agreements and Fair Work requirements.

Streamlined Payroll Integration

Fingerprint scanners used in conjunction with time and attendance software like Microkeeper feed clocking data directly into automated timesheets, payroll processing, and even award interpretation, saving administrative time and reducing errors.

Low Ongoing Costs

Once installed, fingerprint scanners generally require minimal upkeep. There are no swipe cards to replace or PINs to reset, which means long-term cost savings.

Limitations and Considerations

While fingerprint scanners offer numerous benefits, there are situations where they may not be the best fit:

  • Hygiene Concerns: Shared touchpoints can pose health risks, particularly in medical, food, or post-pandemic environments.
  • Dirty, Wet, or Gloved Hands: Workers in trades, kitchens, or cold environments may struggle to get consistent reads.
  • Wear and Tear: Over time, some devices or employees' fingerprints (especially in manual labor) may degrade scanner effectiveness.

For more hygienic or touchless alternatives, explore Facial Recognition Clocking.

Fingerprint Scanners vs Other Clocking Methods

Clocking Method Pros Cons
Fingerprint Scanner Secure, reliable, eliminates buddy punching Touch-based, issues with dirty or wet fingers
Facial Recognition Touchless, secure, fast Requires iPad investment, lighting-dependent
Swipe Cards/NFC Easy to use, no biometrics needed Cards can be lost, damaged, or shared
PIN Code Low cost, no hardware Prone to buddy punching and forgotten codes
Mobile App / GPS Great for remote work, flexible May allow off-site clocking without restrictions
Paper Timesheets No tech setup required Prone to manipulation, errors, manual processing

How Microkeeper Supports Biometric Clocking

Microkeeper integrates biometric hardware with its all-in-one workforce platform. If you use a compatible fingerprint scanner with Microkeeper, you’ll get:

  • Automated clocking synced to timesheets and payroll
  • Award-compliant shift calculations
  • Real-time access to employee attendance and punctuality
  • Integration with leave management and job costing features

Microkeeper also offers alternative methods, such as facial recognition, mobile app clocking, and NFC key tags, giving businesses flexibility based on their industry and workplace needs.

Learn more about Microkeeper's clock-in methods

FAQs About Fingerprint Scanners

1. Is fingerprint data secure?

Yes, reputable systems encrypt fingerprint data and store it in a hashed, non-reversible format, meaning it can’t be reconstructed or used outside of the system.

2. Can a fingerprint scanner work offline?

Yes. Some devices can store clocking data locally and sync once back online, ensuring reliability even during internet outages.

3. Is it legal to use fingerprint scanners for clocking in Australia?

Yes, but under Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), you must obtain informed consent from employees and handle biometric data securely. A clear biometric privacy policy is highly recommended.

4. What happens if a fingerprint can't be scanned?

Some systems allow secondary clocking methods (e.g. PIN entry or supervisor override) if fingerprint scans fail.

Final Thoughts

Fingerprint scanners offer a reliable, secure, and cost-effective method for managing employee attendance, especially in industries where fraud prevention and accurate time tracking are paramount. While newer technologies like facial recognition provide touchless convenience, fingerprint scanners remain a solid, proven option for many Australian businesses.

With Microkeeper, integrating biometric attendance into your workforce management is simple, compliant, and customisable.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or privacy advice. Please consult a legal expert for guidance specific to your organisation’s obligations under privacy laws.