Surveillance Cameras

smkrause

We have installed surveillance cameras on the outside of our building and in three main areas of the interior. The cameras were installed because the general crime in our industrial are has risen recently and we have experienced a break-in and property damage.

We have set up the cameras to constantly record, this is beneficial for after hours, and we can access the live pictures via the internet. This was done so that when we receive notice that the alarm has been triggered we can check the video and advise if police should be discpatched (unfortunately we have had many false alarms resulting in fines from the police dept).

When speaking to our Cummunity Awareness Rep with the Sherriff Dept we mentioned that we have installed the cameras and that they record. We offered to provide copies of any external video that our cameras may get of criminal activity. When he learned of our ability to access the video from the internet he asked if we would provide the Sherriff Dept with access to the live video. He said that it may help when they have criminal activity nearby to monitor areas where the suspects(s) may run.

We have no problem with allowing access to the external live video, however I am concerned about any liability in allowing access to the interior video. All the cameras are set up on one system.

Does anyone have advice?

Thanks,
Shannon

System

My gut tells me no. I'd be creeped out to know that the police could be watching me while I'm working inside the building. Too Big Brother. I think you'd have a moral obligation (and maybe a legal obligation) to notify your ees about this new twist, and I think some would share my feelings.

I'd feel a little better if you were only talking about the parking lot.

James Sokolowski
HRhero.com

Paul in Cannon Beach

Assuming your cameras record activity, I think it would be OK to let the police look at those recordings if a crime had been committed. I think that is pretty standard procedure.

I would not give access to the real time viewing of the cameras without thoroughly discussing the matter with your employees and legal counsel.

lorrie

I agree. Providing previously recorded tapes to help in a specific situation is different than allowing real-time, all-the-time viewing. I would not do it.

smkrause

Thanks! You helped confirm my own thoughts.