Security camera monitoring can give employers peace of mind, but is legal?
As an employer, you want to know you’ve made a smart hiring decision. Seeing your workers in action can help you recognize hardworking, honest employees and know what’s happening when you’re not around.
Many companies use security cameras or software to prevent internal theft and keep an eye on online activities.
But this practice has legal limits you need to know about.
Let’s explore the specifics on security camera monitoring and what it means for your organization.
Security Cameras Are Not an Invasion of Privacy
To some, having security cameras to monitor employees might sound like a privacy lawsuit waiting to happen. But employers are within their rights to record employees at work.
Privacy laws allow employers to monitor work-related activity such as keystrokes, company email accounts, and online history. Some companies install monitoring software on computers to increase productivity.
However, according to the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986, federal law prohibits employers from unauthorized access or interception of electronic communications. This includes emails, phone conversations, and text messages, as well as personal devices.
Security cameras do not fall under this act unless they are being used specifically to monitor electronic communications. For example, an employer could not use security footage to view a personal email you read while on the clock.
When Is Security Camera Monitoring Illegal?
As long as a business has a legitimate reason for monitoring employees via a camera, there is usually no legal issue.
Companies may install a hidden camera in the workplace for a variety of reasons. However, despite good intentions, there can be times when a security camera isn’t in the employer’s best interest.
For example, most state privacy laws will prohibit where cameras can be placed. This includes restrooms, break rooms, or other areas where there’s a reasonable expectation of privacy.
In addition, it’s generally illegal to record oral conversions. This is why most security camera footage has no audio. Recording union activity is also a major no-go.
Privacy laws can vary by state. It’s your responsibility as an employer or employee to review these laws to ensure monitoring is within your rights.
Best Practices to Follow
Security camera monitoring can present a gray area for businesses and employees alike. Following a few best practices can help ensure a peaceful understanding of the monitoring process and avoid raising questions or issues.
For starters, let employees know why they’re being monitored. For example, if they directly face customers, you might explain that you want to monitor client interactions. It can also be useful for theft protection or deter criminal activity.
Being transparent about your security cameras and how the recordings are used can help to establish trust and goodwill between employer and employee. Plus, it also gives them a little extra incentive to remain productive and put their best foot forward every day.
Are You Using Security Camera Monitoring Appropriately?
Security camera monitoring can help you run a better business, but only if you follow the rules.
Otherwise, you put your company at risk for legal issues that could negate any benefits you see.
Check out our blog for more ideas and inspiration on how to improve your business.
