Is CCTV Monitoring at Business Premises Legal in the UK?
One aspect of running a business is protecting your premises, assets, staff and customers and along with having insurance and an intruder alarm, many companies will choose to install a CCTV system. Not only does CCTV act as a deterrent for burglars and shoplifters but it can be used to protect your staff and customers. Having a camera above the reception or cashier area, protects these staff from abuse and harm.
But is it legal to film people?
The rules in the UK are quite specific and clear.
All CCTV, whether in a domestic setting, a public place, or commercial premises must comply with the relevant laws or you will be facing huge fines. For commercial premises, you must follow Data Protection Laws and rules under the Human Right Acts 1998.
The UK Government Website states that you must:
- Put up a sign to let people know CCTV is being used and why.
- In most circumstances, be able to provide images within 1 calendar month to anyone you’ve recorded.
- Share images with the authorities, such as the police, if they ask for them.
- Keep images only as long as your business needs them.
- Pay a data protection fee.
You can read more about the rules in, ‘Can I Install CCTV at my Business Premises?‘.
How to Install CCTV
Should you decide to install a CCTV system, the best way is to contract a specialist security company who carry out commercial CCTV installations. A reputable company will know where they can legally position the cameras.
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