Radar Tech Monitors Inmates Remotely

A new radar-based technology, VisionRF, developed at Heriot-Watt University, promises to enhance the safety of prison inmates by remotely monitoring their vital signs. This innovation uses low-power radar to detect subtle chest movements, allowing healthcare teams and officers to assess an individual's breathing and heart rate from several metres away. The device can be discreetly mounted within a cell and autonomously alerts staff to any irregular patterns, offering an early intervention for potential health emergencies.

The development comes amid a concerning rise in deaths within correctional facilities. In Scotland, 2024/25 saw a record 64 deaths, a 60% increase from the previous year. Similarly, England and Wales reported 401 deaths in the year to June 2025. Current prevention strategies, such as frequent physical checks, can be disruptive and distressing for inmates. VisionRF provides a privacy-respecting alternative, avoiding cameras, microphones, or wearables, thereby preserving dignity.

Professor Dimitris Anagnostou, leading the project, stated the aim is to strengthen healthcare support in custody settings and prevent tragedies. The technology's low-cost and low-power design also positions it for wider applications beyond prisons, including at-home care and nursing homes. The project has received funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to support its development and eventual commercial rollout.