CCTV Rules and Regulations
As mentioned above, CCTV usage is governed by the Data Protection Act 1998, Human Rights Act 1998, and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000. These laws are needed as the UK has almost 2 million CCTV cameras in use, equating to one camera per 32 people.
For guidance, you should always refer to The Surveillance Camera Commissioner. The commissioner gives updated guidelines and advice to those who use CCTV cameras. While these guidelines do change slightly every year, they broadly advise for the use of clear signs and respecting the rights of others to privacy.
CCTV cameras will almost always accidentally capture images of people outside of your property. This means your cameras must:
- Put up signs that state CCTV is currently in operation
- Store images securely and only use the footage for security purposes
- Protect footage and data from third parties
Find out more in our in-depth blog on the subject ‘CCTV: What The Law Says About Declaring Surveillance’.
When it comes to employees, they have the same rights. They must be informed when and if they are under CCTV surveillance, and they also retain the right to see footage of themselves upon request.
Overall, if you want to make sure you’re within the rules, then you need CCTV camera signs.
How to Use CCTV Camera Signs
Just having a CCTV sign isn’t enough. You need to know how to use the signs, too. If the signs cannot be read or are obstructed, you will still be legally liable – they must be readable.
To achieve that, place the CCTV sign at eye level. Usually, signs are placed on the wall underneath the camera.
For larger premises, it is beneficial to have a CCTV system & a series of CCTV camera warning signs around the camera, just so everyone can see it. It is also a decent courtesy to give people plenty of warning before being recorded. Other security signs also help give notice to approaching visitors.
