Having a commercial CCTV system is an essential security measure for all businesses across the UK. It will allow you to protect your premises, assets, and employees.
An often-overlooked aspect of a CCTV system is ensuring that your premises have the correct signage in place. This will help protect your business from infringing on strict privacy laws that protect the rights of individual people.
If your business uses CCTV then you must register your details with the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office, and pay a fee (unless you are exempt).
Check if you need to pay the data protection fee.
The use of prominent CCTV signs is essential when CCTV cameras are placed in areas where they are not visible or where people may not expect to be under surveillance. An added benefit of using signage is that they also act as a deterrent to potential criminals.
Below are some points you need to be aware of to ensure that you meet GDPR requirements.
- Your CCTV signage needs to be visible and easy to read. It also needs to show the organisation operating the system and the contact details in case anyone needs to contact if there are any queries.
- All staff should be aware of the correct procedure if anyone requests footage, as well as the DPO (Data Protection Officer) at your site.
- Explain what the specific purpose of the cameras is
- Be an appropriate size in relation to where it may be placed. If someone in a car needs to be able to read it then it should be a large CCTV sign. If someone is walking into your office, then you can use a much smaller CCTV sign.
- Think carefully about where you place and position your CCTV cameras. Whilst you may be using them inside your premises, they may still capture people walking past outside. If this is the case then you need to ensure CCTV signs are placed inside and outside your premises.
