Service station introduces DNA spray to deter robbers

The solution is a water-based, non-toxic spray that incorporates a UV tracer, with each batch of the solution having a unique synthetic DNA.

Z service stations are trialling an invisible liquid "DNA" they hope will deter would-be robbers and improve safety for staff and customers.

In a statement released today, Z said it would be the country's first service station to use the SelectaDNA Spray technology which it is trialling at a number of sites.

The new state-of-the-art security system enables would-be robbers to be invisibly "tagged" and therefore identifiable to police, the statement said.

The technology being used is not to identify stolen products, as has been the case in recent police-led "Safe as Houses" projects, but would identify the robber by using a high-tech spray unit installed at the doors that is activated automatically in the event of a robbery or after-hours burglary.

Highly visible warning signage is placed on the doors to alert would-be robbers of its presence, however, once there has been a security breach it is impossible to leave the scene without being sprayed with a fine DNA-laced mist. Z said the DNA solution - unique to each location - stays on the skin for up to 10 days and glows blue under ultraviolet light. The DNA within the solution provides police with a link between offender and crime scene.

Z Energy general manager retail Mark Forsyth said: "The system has already proved to be a very effective deterrent in overseas markets, and it is a measure that we can add to our existing efforts to keep our staff and customers safe.

"In reality Z only has about five robberies a year, but that is five too many when you consider the impact on staff and customers present when these incidents occur and the possible harm. If introducing this system is a deterrent to would-be robbers and burglars then as far as we're concerned this is money well spent."

If the new system was introduced across the company's network, it would complement existing security measures, including digital high definition CCTV; virtually no cash kept on site; remote alarm alerts to security staff security staff; and staff training to ensure employees and customers remain as safe as possible during an incident, Mr Forsyth said.

SelectaDNA director David Morrissey said the solution was a water-based, non-toxic spray that incorporated a UV tracer, with each batch of the solution having a unique synthetic DNA that is registered to a location.