Equipment Problems
Equipment Problems, Malfunctions
By Jim Goding
Any time there is a major problem with the switcher (computer or keyboard), cameras or recorders, Surveillance employees must notify the Supervisor or Director immediately. This includes specifically all dedicated cameras and especially any coverage required by Gaming regulations.
Examples would include power outages, where everything goes out, or if one of the drivers blows a fuse and a whole section of cameras dies, or cameras or VCRs go down on required coverage such as intercasino linked slots like Megabucks.
Make sure you notify the affected department so they can take appropriate action. For example, if our recorders on MegaBucks should malfunction, the Slots Manager must be immediately notified until something can be done to cover those machines. This is Gaming required coverage, and if coverage is interrupted, the casino is in non-compliance with applicable Gaming regulations. (See also “Murphy’s Law.”)
Also, games such as Caribbean Stud which have a progressive jackpot must be covered at all times, so if for some reason (cameras die, lights go out on the floor, etc.) they can’t be recorded, the Casino Shift Manager should be notified immediately. This applies as well to any pit areas, especially those games (roulette, baccarat, mini-baccarat, high-limit Blackjack) that are recorded at all times.
Other departments will ask you almost every time if they should shut down the affected games. You must ensure they understand that there is no coverage until repairs are made, and that this situation entails non-compliance with Gaming regulations and a potential situation of a non-verifiable win. We do not order into other departments, and the decision is not ours to make. The managers of the other departments should know the regulations, and it is their job, not ours, to assess the risk and take action.
If a problem occurs with an isolated camera or recorder and we can provide video coverage using other equipment, make an entry in the DSR describing the problem and corrective steps used. A report is required so that the Director or Supervisor can make appropriate entries in the required Maintenance Log. Ensure that the Supervisor is notified, and that the Investigators and/or Supervisor of the next shift is also notified of the problem. The Supervisor will write a work order, advise the Director, and record the problem in the Equipment Repair and Maintenance Log.
If you have any questions as to what to do, call the Supervisor or Director.
