CCTV is a key part of security of any business, big or small.
CCTV can have many advantages in keep your premises safe and your assets, not to mention your staff and customers, secure. On the other hand, they can also involve challenges and disadvantages, such a legal requirements.
If you’re weighing up whether you should install CCTV in your business, read on for some important advice that will help you to make the right decision for you.
Requirements for Installing CCTV Cameras at Workplace
If you are planning to install CCTV in your business, it is important to be aware of the relevant laws and guidelines in your area. If you are running a business in the United Kingdom, you must follow UK CCTV Laws in addition to the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).
Here are some requirements for installing CCTV in your business in the UK:
- The employer must state the purpose of CCTV in a notification to the ICO. If everything is properly presented, the ICO will register the employer as a data controller. Using CCTV footage for a purpose other than stated in the notification is illegal.
- The employer must inform all employees about the installation of the CCTV cameras, for example by using visible signs in the workplace.
- No CCTV camera should be installed in any place that requires complete privacy such as a dressing room or toilets.
- If for any reason, a person wants access to the CCTV footage that recorded of them, the employer must provide them with access to the footage within a month.
- The employer must nominate an individual who is responsible for storing, reviewing, and dealing with system procedures related to the CCTV system.
It is important keep an eye the latest regulation as they are updated regularly. Be sure to track changes and updates, so you’re not caught out!
5 Reasons Why your Business Needs CCTV Surveillance
Security is a primary concern of any business. These days, it is important for almost all businesses to make the most of the latest technology to identify and minimise security risks. Continuous monitoring not only helps to identify offenders in the event of a crime, but more importantly, it helps to keep intruders at bay. The productivity of the employees can also improve since they know they are monitored.
Here are five key reasons why your business needs CCTV monitoring:
1. Deter Burglars and Intruders
CCTV cameras act as a deterrent that keep thieves at a bay. If a potential thief or intruder is considering targeting your premises, when they note your CCTV system, they’re likely to move on to another target. Equally, if a malicious staff member is thinking about stealing from your business, they will think again if they know the cameras are watching. Furthermore, the risk of data violation is reduced. Companies’ assets are safer and chances of duplicating confidential information are reduced in the presence of CCTV cameras.
2. Increased Productivity
Under the watchful eyes of CCTV cameras, employees are more likely to avoid wasting time on unnecessary talks. Everyone will do their best to meet the deadlines since there will be a little chance to defend themselves if deadlines are constantly breached. This is not only because the employees are aware of the watchful technology but also because the managers have the tools to be more effective.
3. Important Criminal Evidence
Courts often accept CCTV footage as reliable evidence in the event of a crime. In some cases, judges even base their entire decision on the video evidence from CCTV cameras. Hence, CCTV cameras not only help to prevent crimes from occurring, but also help to identify the guilty party and secure a conviction if a crime does occur.
4. Prevent Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment can be a huge problem in the workplace that threatens the wellbeing of your staff. However, CCTV monitoring can be an effective deterrent of sexual harassment, as well as useful evidence if allegations are made.
5. Customers Feel More Comfortable
CCTV cameras not only help to protect your business and its assets, but they also protect your clients and visitors, so will help to attract more customers to your business. Even though some customers won’t like to be monitored in are retail store, generally they’ll be happy to know that the business is well-run.
Key Takeaways
CCTV cameras provide a range of benefits to businesses, from security to productivity. This high level of monitoring alows managers and business owners to rest assured that their business is well protected. Make sure to stay updated with the Upcoming Security measures, monitoring techniques, and reviews of different solutions. Most importantly, be sure to comply with the rules by fulfilling all legal requirements before installing security systems that involve surveillance,as they are generally subject to data protection and privacy laws.