Hidden Camera's in the workplace

[gerry]

I work in a big stockroom .There has been a talk for sometime now that security installed hidden security cameras about the stockroom.That doesn't bother me because i have nothing to hide but it's the principle of it.Are they allowed to install hidden camera's in the workplace?.Please note to the best of my knowledge these hidden camera's were not installed because of any goings on in the stockroom.

[vicalncraig]

In short, yes they are allowed.

[woodchopper]

I know if they install CCTV they have to inform you of them - not sure if they do if they are hidden cameras - anyone else know ??

[Siamsal]

I think (not sure) that there has to be a reason for installing covert surveillance EG stock theft.

[dyli795]

How d' y know there are any if you can't see 'em. The managment won't find any problem in coming up with a bonefide reason if need be, don't worry.

[almcd007]

It's their building they can do what they want regarding cameras as long as it isn't in a toilet cubicle. A hidden camera in a stock room ? It may be a hoax but I'd put one there to catch a thief ! It's probably where 90% of thefts in the workplace are made.

[brianlong]

The answer is.... YES! They can. NO, they don't have to tell you. Some labor negotiations call for generic notification that cameras will/may be used. But they don't have to tell where. But, that is a labor agreement, not a law. The only place you are protected from video surveillance is where there is an expectation of privacy... like a bathroom. But, hold your weiners... there has been some case law that permits that as well if their is eveidence a crime is being committed. Then the only protection usually calls for m/m or f/f monitoring.

Any other place can be monitored at anytime even if there is no evidence a crime is taking place, or policy broken. Sorry, to ruin the thoughts on the jailhouse legal eagles who have posted bad advice in response to your question. In a nut shell, ask your Union rep if you work in a communist.... I mean union shop. If it is an open shop... it's their house, their rules (short of bathrooms and dressing rooms)

[ken-d-wood]

The office of the Data Protection Registrar advocates the use of signs to alert people that they are entering an area where they might be recorded - in sort - your employer must put cctv signs up. the signs must also be no smaller then A4 size