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Home > Security cameras in the workplace guidelines -- helpful tips about implementing a successful employee surveillance policy
July 23, 2008
By: Lynn Bryant
More and more employers are implementing security cameras
as a way to boost security around the office. Installing
surveillance cameras can be an effective way to monitor
behavior, obtain performance feedback, reduce theft, as well
as enhance security. However, it is important that formal
security cameras in the workplace guidelines be established
and followed to ensure that no privacy rights are being
violated.
The purpose of this article is to review the workplace
video surveillance rules that apply to the work environment.
Carefully planning your strategy at the outset will ensure
your company accomplishes the security goals you have set,
and will help protect you from any potential legal actions
in the future.
Video surveillance can be a touchy subject. While it
definitely has its positive benefits, many individuals view
video surveillance as a violation of their right to privacy.
While there are laws governing what constitutes a violation
of an individual's privacy, they are somewhat limited in
scope. It is always best to err on the side of caution at
the outset and make sure you have a clear strategy in place
that will help you avoid the pitfalls that can often
accompany a surveillance installation. The following are
some of the most important workplace guidelines to consider.
- Be knowledgeable of the specific laws governing
your state -- Before you take any steps towards
installing surveillance equipment, you should consult
with legal council to ensure you are completely aware of
all of the laws that govern the use of surveillance
equipment for your particular state.
- Know what constitutes a reasonable expectation of
privacy -- Every individual does have a right to a
reasonable expectation of privacy. However, when it
comes to interpreting what constitutes a reasonable
expectation, problems can arise. When cases of this
nature have been tried in court, it has generally been
determined that individuals cannot reasonable expect
privacy in a public setting. Therefore, it is critical
that video surveillance is only conducted in those areas
that are accessible to the public. Installing
surveillance cameras in places like restrooms or
dressing rooms would be clear violations of an
individual's right to privacy. Violating this standard
will leave your company open for legal action against
you.
- Never utilize an audio recording device on
installed surveillance cameras -- While video
surveillance can be conducted in most states without the
consent of the monitored party as long as it takes place
within a public setting, audio recording cannot be done
legally without consent. Currently, most states do not
allow eavesdropping on conversations without the consent
of at least one, sometimes both parties. Never install a
video surveillance camera that actively records audio
along with video, especially if you are using a covert
camera. Most companies will not even sell hidden
surveillance cameras that record audio sounds because of
this fact.
- Properly notify every employee of your
surveillance plan and policies -- This is probably
the most important element of any surveillance
installation in the workplace setting. Make sure you
make it a point to periodically issue each employee a
formal written copy of your company's video surveillance
plans and policies. It is also a good idea to publicly
post notices throughout the office that detail your
surveillance practices as well. Proper notification is
the key to avoiding any legal repercussions relating to
your video surveillance activities.
The recommendations here are a good starting point to
begin your planning. It is critical however that you consult
with the laws that govern your state before you proceed with
an implementation.
About the Author
Lynn Bryant is a successful freelance writer and contributor
to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your definitive guide to
video surveillance equipment, CCTV cameras and wireless
security systems for home and business.
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