What happens if we lose power during an emergency – is the visitor data still accessible?

The Time and People solution

Visitor data accessibility during a power outage in an emergency relies on the system’s architecture and data backup procedures, operating under workplace safety regulations like OSHA in the US and WHS legislation in Australia as of December 2025.

Most modern visitor management systems (VMS) now utilise cloud-based storage, meaning visitor sign-in information, emergency contact details, and evacuation status are not solely reliant on on-site servers. In the event of a power loss, a cloud-hosted VMS remains accessible via battery backup at the facility (for limited functionality) or remotely via mobile devices with internet connectivity. Data is typically replicated across multiple data centres, ensuring redundancy. US systems must adhere to record-keeping requirements outlined by OSHA, while Australian PCBUs have similar obligations under harmonised WHS laws. Data privacy is also a key consideration; systems must comply with regulations like CCPA/CPRA in California and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). As of December 2025, many VMS platforms include automatic data syncing and offline capabilities for basic sign-in/out functionality, though full feature access requires power and internet. Emergency services integration, where implemented, often relies on cloud access for real-time data.

Therefore, while on-site access may be limited during a power outage, visitor data is generally still accessible through cloud-based backups and remote access, supporting emergency response and post-incident reporting requirements.

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