Employee Surveillance

Author: Anna Hollisey

Caught on candid camera? If your employer uses CCTV in the workplace take care what you say – Big Brother’s watching.

Am I Being Watched?

Employers are increasingly turning to surveillance to keep an eye on staff. Concerned about productivity and efficiency, big companies are using highly invasive techniques to monitor their teams. And even if you do no wrong, working in a company which uses these methods can put you at a disadvantage. Growing evidence shows that surveillance and monitoring causes relationships between an employer and employees to disintegrate: an insecure, nervous workforce is the price to pay for picking off the time-wasters.

However, many employers have good cause to monitor premises using a video recorder or similar. Petrol stations and customer care units, often targeted by fraudsters or perpetrators of abuse, are commonly filmed – to protect staff as much as spy on them.

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The History of Employee Surveillance

A number of high-profile surveillance cases have been in the news. BT’s infamous ‘Project Orwell’ was designed to monitor employees in and out of work, ensuring sick days and extended leave were justified. CCTV was supplemented by a squad of private detectives who followed employees home, taking secret photographs. Naturally, BT was severely lambasted for this project.

The line between acceptable and unacceptable surveillance is far from clear. For instance, an employee of Scottish Water lost a court case after he was fired for faking his time-sheets. The company had obtained secret video footage which proved that he wasn’t working the hours he claimed. Although the recording of this footage wasn’t in line with the Human Rights Act, the court ruled that it was reasonably undertaken in the circumstances.

Then there was the council worker whose home was watched by private detectives – to make sure that her injuries were real. How did she sustain these injuries? She was attacked at work by a person who had previously made threats to the council. She won £20,000 compensation.

Hearing all the stories about CCTV being installed in locker and changing rooms, microphones in petrol stations and telephone tapping, you’d be forgiven for thinking that British employees have fewer rights than convicts. What does the Human Rights Act say about all this?

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

What are my Rights?

Your employer is perfectly entitled to record your actions and conversations. The only provison is that they must have good cause for doing so. Your employer must tell you that you are being videoed – secret cameras are not legal! They are not entitled to use the footage for any purpose that infringes your right to privacy. But they can use the footage to show that you are not carrying out your job properly – in other words, it could be used against you.

Concerned About Employee Surveillance?

If you believe that your employer is monitoring you without notification, take action.

Ask your employer to make their surveillance policy clear. Precisely where, when and how are you being monitored? Your employer should provide a clear policy setting out the nature of any monitoring and (most importantly) exactly what is seen as a breach. If you aren’t aware of a policy, then ask – they must comply.
If your employer denies monitoring you at work but you suspect foul play, you should contact your trade union. Cameras in changing rooms, toilet rooms and private offices are forbidden; cameras in a communal office or customer area are permitted, but you must be informed of their existence. If you aren’t a union member, call the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas).

The Next Step

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141 questions

Ask Your Privacy a Question

Uncomfortable 10/12/2020 at 3:11 pm

My Dental practice has a camera fitted in the changing room and this make me feel very uncomfortable, my employer said that the camera actually doesn’t work but I’m wondering why would he fit a camera in the changing room if then he won’t even use it?
I understood by reading the article above that it is illegal to have a camera in the changing room, could you please advise me what’s the law on this and which action can be taken as I feel very uncomfortable to go every day at work and get change knowing that he could possibly watch me while I get change . Many thanks

Concerned 02/11/2019 at 6:00 pm

My company has installed CCTV cameras with microphones in the staff changing rooms (Male and female). I this forbidden? I feel like it’s a breach of privacy but apparently it’s the same in all branches across the uk

Gavlar83 28/08/2019 at 3:29 pm

My employer has recently fitted a microphone in our small office which has a maximum of 2 people working in there at any one time. They already have 4 cctv cameras trained on us and our screens and record calls for quality purposes. Which means this mic is for private conversations. Is this legal? Can anything said privately between 2 colleagues recorded by this mic be used for disciplinary action?

Gavlar83 28/08/2019 at 3:25 pm

My employer has fitted a microphone in our office. We already have 4 cameras pointing at us and our screens in this small office where only 2 people maximum work at a time. They already record calls for quality purposes, which means the microphone is only for recording personal conversations between colleagues. They put this up without informing us and have not placed any signage. Is this legal? And can any private conversation we have be used in disciplinary actions?

Bertie 22/08/2019 at 12:03 pm

My company has installed cameras in the warehouse, outside the premises AND in the offices. Nobody has spoken to us about them they just appeared.

In the main office there is a large 50 inch display panel mounted on the wall which has a split-screen showing a live feed from the five cameras. This can be seen by everyone in that office not just the Manager.

I work in another office with around 10 people which has a camera recording us as we work. This means that everything we do can be seen by all the staff in the other office which I cannot see is acceptable.

Can you please advise teh law on this and what we can do as it is uncomfortable knowing you are being watched all day by everyone.

Thanks

Scott 18/07/2019 at 10:14 am

Please give me a ring on
0428543907
I have a question about a camera from next door.
Thanks

Dan 10/06/2019 at 12:57 am

Can another employee at work record you without your consent to prove you are breaking the workplace rules?

Mimi 30/05/2019 at 6:58 am

My son recently had a fall at work. Initially he laughed it off due to embarrassment as anyone would who falls over. The cctv was watched back by employees/ management and also was laughed at then sucked up by my son who excepted that and moved on. Then unbeknown to my son a recording of this video was captured on a phone and uploaded to a social media site. It was posted in a work affiliated group with around 550 members a group that my son was not a member of. A friend/ work colleague let this slip screen shot all the information and forwarded this to my son.
When calling the store manager was then under the impression that they were also privy to this information. Where do we go with this? My son has been made to look like the village idiot by people who are in a position of authority. The person who uploaded this was a manger!!

wacker 20/05/2019 at 4:20 pm

Hi can a member of our security team look to see if we are doing our patrols this person is not a supervisor or been asked to do this where do we stand on this

Hgvdriver 31/03/2019 at 11:57 pm

I work for local council who recently fitted all trucks with cameras we were told that it was to protect us from false claims from the public. We have now been told the footage from the cameras are being used against us for malpractice reasons is this allowed...???

Jomesie8 25/03/2019 at 5:43 pm

Hi

My employer has put cctv behind the bar and inside the social club I work at monitoring employees and customers as well the Secretary watches the club live from her house we now know this as she rang up and asked where one of the bar staff was as she couldn't see her on her screen at home is this legal

Irene 24/03/2019 at 8:12 pm

My employer and another staff member jave been showing cctv footage of me to customers in the shop where I work. The other staff member has also done this previously with other staff who have made mistakes on the till etc and telling customers why staff have lost thier jobs

Work hard 23/03/2019 at 1:40 am

My employee put hidden microphone in kitchen. They know what we are talking.
Can't talk anything private things.
If we do she asked us. We didn't know first why she knows.
We can't say anything.
Can they do spy our private.
We can say how bad my owner's are.

philipo 22/03/2019 at 3:23 pm

I think we are entering the age of Orwell's '1984'. How did we manage before all the tech? All this just to squeeze the very last drop of juice from the employee's. I'm sure what the companies where losing due to odd naps etc was minimal. I would even bet that the amount all the tech costs, costs more than what they would have lost. This, for a smaller businesses is more about power over the employee's.
For Corporations, it's more about making a few extra pennies for the damn shareholders.
Either way this SHOULD be illegal unless to protect life (e.g. prisons)
Bosses can be unethical too, just as dirty and untrustworthy as employee's can be... Don't forget that!

Concerned 20/03/2019 at 3:56 pm

My employer has installed a cctv camera in the canteen at work. Is this allowed/legal?

DE1 19/02/2019 at 2:35 am

I was assaulted at work by a member of the public, and the situation wasn't handled very well. I've asked my management to see the footage of what happened but they won't let me see it because of GDPR. Do I have a right to see it?

Dazza 06/02/2019 at 9:36 am

Can a employee put a secret camera up at work without consent

Fat head 05/01/2019 at 12:52 pm

I work for the local council as a security guard, we have been issued with body cameras. The cameras fall off and are very unreliable, so we offered to buy our own but were refused. Could I still buy and wear my own even of they say no?

Wizard 13/12/2018 at 5:56 pm

Hello my name is Harry I work for a Roofing Supplies company can they have a camara where we have get changed and have our lockers ????

8R34THL355 11/11/2018 at 8:29 pm

covert camera hidden in toilet cubicle at my employers factory,when challenged about it they said it was to catch those responsible for writing on the walls.

leonardo229 09/10/2018 at 5:19 pm

Employee monitoring is a routine. The important thing is that the tracking of the actions of the staff was loyal to them. I use monitoring software, SoftActivity. During work, the productivity of my company is growing, and the efficiency of employees is very pleased. So the main thing is to see the line in this case.

Concerned 10/09/2018 at 12:33 am

My girlfriend works in a laundry shop where she is watched by cctv cameras & listened to by the owner & her sister who doesn't have nothing yo do with the business. They listen to her have private conversations on her mobile phone then phone her up mentioning what's been spoke about and even speaks to third parties about girlfriends conversations. She isn't allowed to leave the shop or take a break when working which is meant to be 9 till 5 but the owner always disappears just before 5 making her stay without asking or any extra pay till 9pm sometimes as she and leave the shop. She's been there 6 years without any time off as employer won't pay holiday pay and even after an operation and told to take 6 weeks off was back in work next day as employer refused to pay any sick pay. This employer won't even pay her wage in 1 payment sometimes paying small amounts over a period of 4 or 5 days (which when worked out at an hourly rate the hours worked and what's paid is well below national minimum wage) I know alot is wrong legally with this employer and her ways but girlfriend is scared of losing job. Any help would be appreciated thanks

Hgv 1 02/09/2018 at 10:15 am

We have cctv in our trucks it can only be accessible through the vehicle is it OK for the employer to carry out spot checks

Lewis 06/08/2018 at 11:07 am

If an employee accesses CCTV to collate evidence without permission against another staff member can this be used and is that employee in breach of privacy rights?

Jules 27/07/2018 at 3:02 pm

Is it legal to have microphones in the workplace

Care 04/07/2018 at 8:15 am

I work as a caregiver in home. I've worked for the same client for 3 years. It's a step mom and dad the son is who I care for he's 24 with MD and needs total care. About 6 months ago I noticed spy cams everywhere kitchen living room bed room. Spy cameras in the picture lamp shades coffee pots flowers and more places and I don't care no big deal RIGHT but one day I was using the bathroom and saw a spy cam I found a total of 5 in the bathroom now I'm up set also I found 3 in my car I went to the police and the police officer took pictures of the spy cameras I told them everything I know. The officer said that they can go to my work and see if my boss will let them in the house.the office said with out a Search warrant there's not much they can do And by the time they get a search warrant my boss can pull out the spy cameras so I started taking pictures of these things in the bathroom..so now what do I do anyone.? If I turn them in then my client will lose his IHSS and I don't have a job anymore I'm sure I'll get my unemployment but I will feel bad but I don't really think they care about me because if I ask for a day off the dad always says what about my son. I work 6days a week 12hours a day I only have Sunday off to try and get my stuff done so I don't get to rest and most everything is closed on Sunday's I do way more than what I'm Supposed to do... help anyone where do I go .....

HH Editor 25/06/2018 at 11:06 am

@Superchick- that sounds horrendous. No shirking in your salon then and adding an extra ten minutes onto your break lol. I don't think your employer has to tell the clients unless the treatment is of a personal nature

Superchick 24/06/2018 at 9:00 am

I work in a beauty salon and my manager has cameras where she watches us. She is not a qualified therapist and will watch from Home and then call the salon when she thinks we are doing something wrong.
I also cannot see any signs in the salon to say that there are cameras for your own safety (so the public are unaware) . Is this legal?

Elena 22/05/2018 at 3:25 am

Hi I am a Nurse, and I video one of my colleagues while she was sleeping on duty.
I emailed the video to my manager.
I would like to know of I can lose my nursing pin because of this issue.
Thank you

Quaysknight 17/05/2018 at 2:45 pm

We had a missing key at wrk a staff member took it home and my boss checked cctv and saw another member of staff using company pc on internet can my employer use cctv against him ????

Boris 26/04/2018 at 2:09 am

My Boss put a camera back of the chippy, so he can see everythng last one year.everytime im coming in the shop on morning after 50s is phone call, he's on the phone... i dont mind cameras at the front, because shop's at the front and that the place where custumers coming, but back of the shop when im doing a prep my self, going to the toilet, using my phone, i feell uncomfortable now, i have been watced every step.even when i shut the shop end of the night, i know he's watching.even sometimes we all staff come 2gether for a chat he phone's why r we r in the back of the shop, is that allright to work under theese rulles??

TerriM Editor 27/04/2018 at 2:50 pm

@Smelly - when you personally feel that the other person has overstepped the mark. Or you tell them they have overstepped the mark and they do not stop.

Smelly 20/04/2018 at 4:36 pm

We had some one at work filmin for perposs of how we work and what they could do to improve things. But while the filming was taking place some one was joking about banter. After the person watch the footage they decided to put a complaint in against the person who was giving the banter. This person has know been suespend for this under racists and bully terms can they do this ?

Smelly 20/04/2018 at 4:16 pm

When do you know when some one is bulling or not and do you decide if banter or not?

Sarahjones 12/03/2018 at 11:56 pm

An incident happened at my work place with another member of staff which is on cctv, I was wondering Can my employee show a person who doesn’t work for the company (a guest) cctv footage of this? As all staff members are on the footage and no one was asked if it can be shown to the guest? & I wasn’t sure if they are allowed to just show footage of people?..

sevs 02/03/2018 at 4:28 pm

My wife works in a taxi call office and there is three owners and put cctv in and they sit in there own homes and watch the staff allday

Marls 12/02/2018 at 7:17 pm

Is an employer aloud to listen in on conversations in work place using CCTV? If so what are my employer rights?

HaN Editor 02/02/2018 at 12:42 pm

@Boxer girl - there's not much you can do. The management have a right to request this, if they don't want people sleeping on the job.

Boxer girl 31/01/2018 at 11:01 pm

Recently a a member of staff who was known to sleep whilst on night shift was photographed by his colleague and has been sacked management have now sent a blanket e-mail to all staff stating the if your shift partner falls asleep whilst on duty they are to take a photo or visit and send it to the management team, is this legal whilst I don’t condone people sleeping when they should be working and believe they deserve what they have coming I am not comfortable that management have said it’s ok to take a photo and share without that persons knowledge that it’s been done.

Bad Brains. 31/01/2018 at 10:15 am

Whatever the motivation of an employer taking measures to record Staff and Member of Public on a day to day basis; And I am familiar with most of the modern methodology. The very act of doing so could drive a member of staff, at the very least, to suffer mild paranoia and behavioural changes which both affect and effect their quality of life, both in work, and out of work, whether such an employee has a very strong ethical approach to their work time, or not.
Any employer, employing such aides for surveillance should be familiar with human sensitivities, as well as human rights, per say, and should be aware that at some point that people outside their own world of Boss and ShopWorkers will find out about the surveillance, usually because it worries the shop-worker to the extent of informing customers their selves of their discomfort at working within the above 'conditions'.
Just to cite one situation, from my own experiences as a customer in such a position as above. (I), - spend a little extra time speaking to a shop-worker whom is in the middle ground, between acquaintance and friend, so to speak. I have recently discovered that the shop owner is using sound and visual recording methods, citing two main reasons to the part-time employees; 1). A very recent robbery after work hours. 2). Previous small scale fraud by previous employees.
In taking into account that one wish of the employer is that the shop door is left open so that it becomes a welcome gesture, so to speak, - which I do understand, this also affects the employees, whom get very cold, whilst at work! .... I have recently decided to limit the amount of time I spend, chatting to the employee because the employer, if so wishes, could warn 'said employee' that, "Too much time is used, chatting to customers!". The last thing I wish for is to get Any employee into trouble!
I would ask any employers out there to assess the plus's and minuses of this surveillance from the point of view (also) of the shop worker and the majority of the law abiding customers. To end, I will add that even before the employer resorted to this surveillance, - there was a very speedy 'turn-over rate'of different staff in the preceding year, obvious from public perception, because of the ever changing faces! Over indulgence with surveillance has effect and affect on many people, inside and outside of the shop, leading to decreased income within the shop and other variables outside the shop! This whole subject would not be such an issue if the employer used their empathy and skill to properly assess potential employees in the first instance. And here, I am only speaking of one hard working, honest and trustworthy employee. Best Regards To Those Willing To Prosper By Nurturing Basic Trust. 'Bad Brains' Steve.

YourPrivacy Editor 21/12/2017 at 2:42 pm

Hopefully, you will be able to find the answer you need whichOtherwise, you may have to give ACAS a ring to see whether your employer has gone through the correct process. With gross misconduct, while an employer can dismiss an employee immediately as they follow a fair procedure. The employer should investigate the incident and give the employee a chance to respond before deciding to dismiss them.

rob2811 19/12/2017 at 6:22 pm

during a shift at work me and some colleges were having a laugh and a joke which did include some swearing and other remarks however in the environment all the staff where like this and it was nothing more than banter.. somehow the conversation was recorded on a bodyworn camera that had magically been turned on/or covertly hidden by a member of staff to listen to what people are saying and then to cause issues because people have fallen out with him. this has happened a number of times and has been brought to the attention of the managers on numerous occasions by a number of staff and duty managers how ever nothing was done.... the policy and procedures state that any footage recorded should be deleted and not watched at the end of the shift unless and incident has taken place when it is then saved...

the footage in question conveniently had no images just audio and a member of staff has sat through 4 hours of audio for no reason other than to hear what people are saying. he has then used this against some staff and resulted in a number of us being sacked..... the university are saying they arent interested how it was obtained and arent prepared to listen that it was recorded illegally, covertly to cause problems for individuals...

as anyone else had something llike this happen to them or have any advice for me??

Aussie Editor 24/10/2017 at 2:27 pm

@None - employers can use any means they choose to find out if their employees are doing something they shouldn't!

None 22/10/2017 at 10:07 pm

Can employers use the reflection of a forward facing camera to catch drivers on phones or smoking?

Stu.R 18/10/2017 at 8:21 am

My employer has used dashcam footage of me reversing a van unaided several times throughout my working day and now dismissed me for causing damage to the van.
Can an employer use dashcam footage as evidence against me without my autherisation?

Rford6 10/08/2017 at 3:04 pm

Hi,

My employer (who is not the owner) has recently connected the work cameras to her phone and she watches us constantly ...
She has started to text us when she is not in about what we are doing which i feel is not right . I have no problem with the camera in the front shop at all as i know it is for our best interest but watching us from home, i am not at all comfortable with .

Please can you give me some information as to my rights on this ???

Han Editor 19/06/2017 at 3:11 pm

@Sophie - speak to your union rep if you have one.

Sophie 18/06/2017 at 6:40 pm

My employer has installed audio listening and recording in the office. Now they want us to sign its ok. We do not want it of course. Our chatting will be listened to. We dont handle valuables or work in crime related occupations. He never formally consulted or got agreement. Its invasive and inhibits us. We feel threatened.

Shots 12/06/2017 at 6:00 am

A colleague is being investigated for theft as the employer believes the items he's been accused of stealing locker has been "opened". The CCTV camera can see a bit of the changing rooms where he's allegedly stolen something, although the items was not found on him or his belongings when searched.

The company's policy clearly states that CCTV can't be used in private areas. If that is the case can they still use the images against the individual as he's adamant that he never stole and that the locker that the items are missing from has always been a bit opened?

Tina 28/05/2017 at 3:59 pm

Hi,
I dont get on with my manager and dont trust him whilst having a one to one meeting. He denies things that he has said and I can't prove it.
Am I legally allowed to take in and record our meetings without him knowing? It would only be saved for my information and to evidence anything that he may deny in the future.

Jayb118 16/05/2017 at 11:51 pm

Hi I just wanted to know where I stand regrading cctv in my work truck?? We have 6 cameras I'm fine with them all to be honest as it's good security. But they have one facing me (the driver) it's a bit uncomfortable knowing they are watching me all day. When I asked what's the purpose of the cameras and I'm not comfortable being watched all day.. I was told they are only used for insurance purposes only so if I had a accident ect then they would be checked. With this I was fine , but all of a sudden they are using them to check any old thing telling me what we do during the day.. I mean he even asked me and the drivers mate was are dinner nice from the chippy. It's getting a bit weird. I come to work just get my work done as quickly and safely as possible and get home don't want to feel like I'm being watched 24/7. Any advice would be nice

DannyB 12/05/2017 at 6:37 am

A colleague I fell out with is keeping an observation log on me, from when she sees me.., including in my private life. My employers have recorded these movements on personnel records and discussed using it in further management discussions. It is also recorded that this information will be sent to the police. My activities are normal - waiting for a bus and so on. I didn't know this was happening and I feel violated and it is making me and my partner ill. There is no police action against me. My employer has denied it but an anonymous person has sent me evidence. What options do I have?

jimboset 16/04/2017 at 11:23 pm

I was sacked for forcibly opening a door because otherwise I would been late and this was showen to me by use of a camera can they do this? as they pointed out it was grossmisconduct. someone else at work did a very similar thing and was given a warning for it . but I was fired hardly seems fair to me.

jeannie 10/04/2017 at 8:12 pm

If you have cctv at work can any member of staff come in to work and look thro the fotage
That has been recorded to spy on a nother member of staff, with out permision from the owner

Victory 11/03/2017 at 1:30 pm

Hello if may ask my employees can record voice with cctv cameras or not because i know is forbidden

Misty 06/03/2017 at 10:32 pm

My job includes not just working but living on a private estate. The cctv monitoring system has recently been installed in my own personal flat. I have had no letter explaining the reasons for cctv monitoring. There are 7 committee members and a managing agent that have 24 hours access to this cctv system, is this legal ?

Keith 03/03/2017 at 10:01 pm

Can my boss follow me home after leaving work for personal reasons after he let me go and sit out side my house and take photos as he did not believe me that o went home for personal reasons help please

YourPrivacy Editor 16/02/2017 at 12:02 pm

Your only option really is to try to sort the matter out informally in the first instance (asking for the reasons why you were moved etc). If you are not satisfied with the outcome

Mart 15/02/2017 at 6:50 pm

I reported staff theft to area manager. The staff member was caught three times stealing on cctv. The manager checked the first image did nothing about the next two. I was told to get the member of staff in as she was coming in to deal with it. She ended up not looking at it and instead of dealing with the thief she moved me instead. I am now in a different branch worse off travelling to work and the manager is saying I didn't show her any footage. Where do I go from here

Mouse 13/02/2017 at 1:34 pm

I work in a local petrol station and I have just been told that a work colleague has recorded a conversation of me talking about my manager. Is this legal?

Sam 04/02/2017 at 12:12 am

Hello my boss has got what j believe to be a camera fitted in the staff room /kitchen. When I asked if it was a camera she said no it's wasn't. And they have labelled it as co2 . But I know it's a camera ? Is this illegal ?

Andrew 27/01/2017 at 2:49 pm

My Boss has monitoring software on my laptop. I was aware of the key logging software as that was installed after a previous disciplinary a few years ago. But in a recent meeting i found out he has also been collecting a screenshot of my display every minute and transmitting it to the office. I do work from home in the evenings and am concerned he can see my personal information. He also is using my broadband without my permission while i am at home. I am now facing a disciplinary for unintentionally claiming for time that the screenshots show i have not been working. What should i do?

Healey 27/12/2016 at 7:25 pm

I work in a shopping centre and the manager of the place watches all the workers live from his pc or phone and then uses that to sack us, is that allowed?

Flossy 21/12/2016 at 12:41 am

I have asked my boss why he is watching us on camera while he is not in the work place.My answer that came from him was"that is for him to know and not me.Is this a valid answer.

nana 05/12/2016 at 6:14 pm

Somebody in my workplace is currently suspended as a result of suspected theft. I believe secret cameras have now been installed in the site office and above the cash register, also in the areas where the safes are located. There has been no notification or signage. Is this legal?.

Stefal 04/12/2016 at 1:13 pm

I work in mobile security and part of my procedures at work include calling my control during my nightshift and stating my location supposed to be for my health and safety , I have discovered that my shift controller has been calling around locations after I've left and checking my timings , he has also been doing this on weekend day shift when there I s no need for him to do so , I am the controllers line manager , I have reported this to my employer but they've tried to brush it under the carpet

Ryan 19/11/2016 at 4:15 am

My boss (who isnt the owner of the store) hooked up a camera in the backroom, and it's the type of camera when it sees or hears anything, it notifies on his phone. But that's that the problem, the problem is that he can watch live feed on the camera from his phone, even when he's not working. So my question: is it legal for my boss to watch us while he's in his bed, with his hello kitty pjs???

bonnie 15/11/2016 at 7:20 pm

Hi is it legal for my boss,to be able to listen to everything everyone says at work all the time? I work in a hotel.

jockas 31/10/2016 at 6:35 pm

Employers have put cameras in for health and safety,but the managering director
has said its to keep an eye on people not working,we have nothing in writing as yet.Some
cameras are on one to one and the rest in general distribution throughout the factory,even though there are parts of factory more dangerous that is not covered on one to one basis

Michael Brewis 09/10/2016 at 12:44 pm

Are employers allowed to view a live feed stream of customer support security cameras while they are at home. A company I work for put cameras for security and safety. But I have evidence they watch is live and call us to say what are you doing sitting there etc. The security cameras are ment to record instead a project manager will connect to http page to watch the staff live. Is this allowed under eu

Josh 03/10/2016 at 12:29 pm

Alright guys , quick question here... can my boss use a control camera against me ? Even though it's only there for health and safety?? I was caught sleeping in the control room but can he use that camera as evidence?

Gus 02/10/2016 at 5:50 am

My employer is about to discipline me, apparently I was behind a gate when a production line was powered on. I was in no danger what so ever the line was not running. They saw this on cameras that were put in place for quality reasons only not health and safety. Can they do this or is it classed has entrappment.

YourPrivacy Editor 29/09/2016 at 12:30 pm

You don't say how your employer is listening to private conversations, therefore it is difficult to answer your question.

Cricky 28/09/2016 at 1:42 pm

I have just realised that my employer must be listening to everyone's conversation at work is it legal for them to record private conversations without our knowledge .

Bratty 31/08/2016 at 8:10 pm

i work in a restaurant and just found out that our cleaning manager has been watching and going through the Cctv to see if people are working ...some people have been lazy, but we never got told that until another supervisor said they were going through the video footage...what is our rights

Kage 06/08/2016 at 2:31 am

Hi i was off with a sick note and was seeing a speciallist dr for my illness unaware my employer and employers insurance company who helps pay my sick pay hired someone to do covert surveillance they say they have evidence thay proves im faking and suspended me, said i cant appeal decision. I havent been shown the evidence but sounds weak and i think i can explain and prove evidence wro g what do i do

CharlieS Editor 04/08/2016 at 3:03 pm

@Swifty - we're being watched by big brother all the time, whether we know it or not. Many employers have CCTVs installed. For instance if you're working in a shop it can be used to keep an eye on shoplifters but your line managers can naturally see what you are doing also.

Swifty 04/08/2016 at 5:53 am

Can a manager stand and watch cctv of you whilst at work. He never even notified us he was in the building, he got a member of staff to sneak him through a fire door

ashbee 01/08/2016 at 2:08 am

hi, i was wondering if anyone could help me. my old work has some cctv footage of me and they have been showing the other members of staff, also they have shown a member of public the footage, is this against the law and if so what can i do ?

thank you

Freddy 12/07/2016 at 5:52 pm

The above article states "Your employer must tell you that you are being videoed – secret cameras are not legal!"

I believe this blanket statement to be untrue. If the employer has reasonable grounds to believe that a crime is being commited then covert recordings are legal but they must be proportionate.

This is also the case for any infringement that goes against what is in the public interest.

That is my understanding at least. Happy to be corrected.

KEN 15/06/2016 at 2:56 pm

My company has recently installed on board video recording equipment to our vans. The camera system points at the driver’s mate and the driver recording us and also our conversation at our every move. Can you tell me what my rights are concerning privacy? I have been told by word of mouth that the system is there for our safety. We were not be told of any written policy in place or to tell us what the recordings will be used for. We feel that our private conversation are our own business and should not be heard by other people is this legal? If not, can my colleagues and I refuse to allow these voice recordings, leaving the visual recordings? Thank you kindly for any advice.

Stez 15/06/2016 at 1:43 pm

Hi
My employer over the last couple of years has installed cctv all around the factory. We have never been officially told why it's there but if you ask you get told it's just for security & health & safety.
I know that it's also being used in disciplinary situations as well but like I say we've never officially been informed of this.
I have found out that it's been added to the works handbook that they can use it for that but once again we were never made aware of this.
Are they allowed to carry on like this?

J 24/05/2016 at 7:03 pm

Hi in my work place we have camera installed and we are aware of their presence as well as all signage round the workplace to say they are there. But can our manager legally watch these camera from home and does he need to have a cctv license to watch them?

Kabak 16/05/2016 at 11:14 pm

I have an argument very recently with my manager over task to be conducted, which he asked for.
On of my colleagues, who had nothing to do with argument came over to us and recorded the part of it.
Video recording was made without my consent and knowledge of it.
Following this event I was officially given an investigation for inapropriate behaviour related to the video as well.

I would like to know if such recording can be legally used as evidence. If not, is there any legislation governing it?
I would really appreciate any help.
Thank you.

YourPrivacy Editor 13/05/2016 at 11:28 am

As specified in the article, your employer must tell you that you are being videoed as secret cameras are not legal. They are not entitled to use the footage for any purpose that infringes your right to privacy. But they can use the footage to show that you are not carrying out your job properly in other words, it could be used against you. If your employer has put the camera in without your knowledge, then I suggest speaking to your employer directly.

Harry 12/05/2016 at 12:59 pm

Came into work to see a camera in the area I work alone and then went into another area of where I work to see a screen of where I work alone for all staff members to see. Is this right? Feel like I'm being watched by everyone?

Titanicmadd2 12/05/2016 at 7:35 am

I work in a care setting . My employer installed cctv cameras for the safety of th clients and staff alike. But recently are watching staff if they are working properly. Is this legal .as it's not using for what they said it was intended for? They keep saying they can legally are able to do this.

Yahya 09/04/2016 at 8:58 pm

I work as a volunteer at a charity shop. The cctv has recently been upgraded to HD cameras and a new
Hard disc recoeder with an App that allows the manager to view the cameras in store remotely. After the first instance of the off site monitoring being discovered by myself and a member of staff, the response from the Manager was 'I don't have time to sit about watching the shop on cctv'. Since this time it has been a regular occurence for the phone to ring in the shop on the Managers days off and for myself to be told about some thing happening in the shop, something I'm not doing or some other issues that come to their mind as they're monitoring the shop. As a volunteer I feel that I don't have much come back with htis and I know the employees do NOT have any thing in their contracts regarding this. No one has been informed that they will be monitored in the volunteer application forms either. No Policy doument for cctv has been made available to us either. 1984 anyone?

Krisg 28/03/2016 at 6:26 pm

My boss has cameras installed, but have never mentioned it, they are obviously placed.. I do not care that they are they, for security reasons, but it has recently been brought to my attention that the wife of the owner sits and watches the cameras as if it is a daily soap opera. This has made me feel really creep ed out knowing that some woman is just staring at me all day. Is this legal, to watch me ALL day long? I have never been reprimanded or "caught" doing something that I shouldn't. Just curious as to my rights.

Puppies 23/03/2016 at 12:47 pm

Same for me G92. It feels weird knowing I'm being watched by someone who isn't even at work that day.

Boss 22/03/2016 at 4:17 pm

can employers have cctv in store canteen or hidden camera in canteen???

YourPrivacy Editor 22/03/2016 at 2:06 pm

As specified in the article, 'your employer is perfectly entitled to record your actions and conversations. The only provison is that they must have good cause for doing so. Your employer must tell you that you are being videoed – secret cameras are not legal! They are not entitled to use the footage for any purpose that infringes your right to privacy. But they can use the footage to show that you are not carrying out your job properly – in other words, it could be used against you.' However, her employer should have provided written policy statements about the monitoring. Therefore, I suggest your sister checks her contract to see if it is included, or ask her HR department for the details.

Leslie 22/03/2016 at 3:38 am

My sister works for a tax office they have cameras but have never mentioned to them that they record. Is it legal for them to use whatever they have on tape legal??? There is no sign that they are being recorded

Themby 02/03/2016 at 7:01 pm

Is it legal for a security to send a footage of another employee buying stuff that the other employee kept to buy the next day . is it legal sending it on other employees phone.

YourPrivacy Editor 01/03/2016 at 2:21 pm

In the first instance you should speak to your employer, and you can certainly mount a collective grievance if your colleagues feel the same way, please see ACAS whichYou may also wish to speak to ACAS to see what your employer's rights are if this information is not contained in your contract of employment.

Dave 27/02/2016 at 3:26 am

Hi I was wondering if anyone can help me with this. OK. My girlfriend works at this place. This place has video surveillance. First off there has been issues with money missing, so they have been watching every second of the footage. And tonight the district manager of this pretty big company, decides to post a picture on Snapchat of my girlfriend and her Co-worker. With the caption of "No Time to Clean". I mean first and foremost it is just RUDE, but I also believe that they have invaded her privacy too. I mean why does she have the right to put a picture of them on Snapchat? And it was definitely directed right at them, because there are 27 different cameras and they were focused right on them. I just don't think it's right. Can anyone help me out? Anyone know anything about this? Is this even legal? Please help out if you can. Thanks in advance!

Kaz 26/02/2016 at 4:37 am

I have been told by other work colleagues that my boss as been secretly taking photos of me at work ,
is this illegal??
She hasn't told me or as any reason to do this ,and I feel she is breaking the law by doing this .

G92 22/02/2016 at 3:10 pm

I work in a reasonably small store witg multiple camaras. Recently my manager got an app on her phone so she can monitor the shifts 24/7 im guessing that is ok and legal but she has also given the app to my supervisor. Since getting the app the supervisor reguarly calls to ask why certain things have been done or explain actions ect. She is doing this while at home and not being paid, essentially while she is not acting as a supervisor and is off the clock. Is this legal?

Bucky 08/02/2016 at 5:58 pm

Is it legal for company management to watch live footage of a locker/changing room. I was recently cault walking into the shop floor with my phone in my pocket. Straight from the locker room as management was watching me. Are they aloud to watch live footage as I was pulled up straight away.

YourPrivacy Editor 02/02/2016 at 10:16 am

It depends how you have been 'secretly' filmed and by whom - your information is lacking enough detail to be able to advise. However, if you have been filmed by your employers and have not been told why - then you may wish to speak to your employer directly.

Furious 01/02/2016 at 4:00 pm

I have been told that I and some collegues have been secretly been filmed whilst standing outside the building smoking... is this legal?

YourPrivacy Editor 01/02/2016 at 10:30 am

As specified in the article, your employer is perfectly entitled to record your actions and conversations. The only provison is that they must have good cause for doing so. Your employer must tell you that you are being videoed – secret cameras are not legal! They are not entitled to use the footage for any purpose that infringes your right to privacy. But they can use the footage to show that you are not carrying out your job properly in other words, it could be used against you. Therefore, I suggest you look at your contract and see if it specifies anything to say that your employer has installed CCTV to monitor employees. If it doesn't and you have never previously been informed, then I suggest you give ACAS a call to see what your rights are.

pman10irish 31/01/2016 at 7:01 am

Hi I was confronted by my supervisor in an aggressive manner who said he was watching me on CCTV and also my employer was doing so. There are about 6-8 hi-tec cameras in my small working area. None of which where ever explained to me there reasons for being there. And there also is no sign above each camera stating there purpose. Have I got a case against them

Laky 15/01/2016 at 7:55 am

Hi I work for the card factory and cameras have been installed disguised as sprinklers there are three on the shop floor and one in the stockroom we have asked and been told they are not cameras!!!the cameras are pointing mainly at the tills but defiantly also pic up the public without there knowledge as well as us staff.

donald 05/01/2016 at 2:08 pm

I wear certain comfort underwear and other stuff, now nobody at wotk knows about this, but my toilet habits have been mentioned by management, so obviously there is a camera there,, how can I go about, getting it check3d out.

YourPrivacy Editor 12/11/2015 at 2:52 pm

As we are a UK-based company I'm afraid we can't advise on this as the US will have different surveillance laws.

Jay 12/11/2015 at 1:29 am

Hi, I work in a NYC dental office and my boss installed a camera in our lounge area. Is that legal?

Mermaid 05/11/2015 at 10:39 pm

I work as a swimming teacher and the pool has CCTV with a sign saying that it for public protection. A complaint was made that one swim lesson started late for a few weeks. My manager before speaking to me aabout it reviewed CCTV footage ( if he had bothered to speak to me before he did this I would have been able to explain this due to the need for a comfort break as one reason. I was extremely upset and cross about his unnecessary action and raised it with another manager. I asked to be informed of the exact reason for the CCTV, a copy of policy and why wasn't I ever made aware that CCTV could be used in such a way. After a few weeks the manager has come back and said he has investigated and it is OK to use the CCTV to verify such complaints. My immediate manager claims it was done to protect me and that it should have been included in my induction by someone who has since left and in any case started 2 years after me!. I however do not believe either of them. I have explained to them both that it has made me feel that I no longer wish to go to work and that they have lost my goodwill.Like most teachers I have put in a lot of unpaid time after lessons end. Don't want to work in such an environment any more. Want the right answer re CCTV use as don't believe this use comes under the guise of public protection. Advice appreciated and thanks in advance.

Jammy 03/11/2015 at 2:20 pm

Hi my employer has contacted me and asked if I had found a wallet and didn't hand it in. I work cleaning buses and coaches and it Is the bus company that records us whilst we work. My employer said "we'll the cameras will be checked". I asked what night and she said" I don't know". I have been with this company for 6 months.

Criss 18/10/2015 at 5:53 pm

Hi , I'm interested to know if exist some cctv inside of fittings room/changing rooms at any shops or store in uk because sometime is necessary ?! I hope to hear a good opinion from you...

melly666 30/08/2015 at 11:43 am

I'm a 24/7 live in carer and the daughter has placed a camera with audio to watch us 24/7. I heard they can film but illegal to have audio on. Is this true?

jasper 20/08/2015 at 11:30 pm

I have been suspended there was an incident involving another person . they went through CCTV and I'd had a private rant this picked up being used against me no one complaint about me

alec 25/07/2015 at 11:51 am

Are Employers allowed to look at video footage of my Cab of the lorry even without an Accident,My Employers do and tell you not to do this and that i feel we are being Spied on.

TimeLord 21/07/2015 at 1:50 am

The company i work for have installed cameras in the locker room. There are a lot of men and women who actually change clothes in there. Should the cameras be in there?

clarabelle 17/07/2015 at 10:41 am

I worked as a phlebotomist in a surgery on a fixed term contract taking many blood samples in a week. After being there about 2 months, management asked me if I minded a camera being set up in the treatment room saying it was for staff training purposes which I readily agreed to. Not a security type camera, just a video camera on a tripod. However it later turned out that the camera was there to try and gather evidence against me following complaints from two patiients who'd said I'd caused bruising on their arms. Despite taking hundreds of blood samples successfully in the time i was there and there being nothing untoward on the footage, I had my contract terminated early. Anyone who sticks needles in people's arms for a living will tell you that some patients just cannot keep still during the procedure for whatever reason, causing bruising.

jonny 15/07/2015 at 4:19 am

I work for a carer company and one of my clients son has put in cameras t watch the careers I feel uncomfortable going into this house but like the wee client her son put them up as he said the careers are stealing not true

Worker 14/07/2015 at 9:38 am

Hello, i have a question. I am a night shift restaurant supervisor. A few days ago, i wasnt feeling well at work and had a longer break than allowed. Some of the cleaning wasnt done and not checked by me. My employer used the cctv aimed at the tills to monitor cash theft to see where i was and what i was doing. He then cut my hours at work. ( i only found out from a colleague that he checked the cctv from a locked office). When i asked why he took my shift away, all he said was he doesnt need to explain himself and walked off( i have a witness to this conversation). What are my right regarding the cctv and the hours being cut like this please? Thanks in advance

Jenny 07/07/2015 at 9:50 am

My employer has installed CCTV in the office without informing us. Is this allowed? Don't they have to give us so many weeks notice?

YourPrivacy Editor 09/07/2015 at 10:14 am

@Linda - have you completed your probation period? As this will have an effect on whether you can claim unfair dismissal. I would also check your contract regarding the correct procedure over cashing up etc and whether you have done anything outside those guidelines. If you need to speak to someone directly about this issue, which often helps, then give ACAS a call via which

Linda 06/07/2015 at 6:28 am

My work place was robbed And my employer produced a baseball bat for staff as protection which was kept under the counter lucky I knew not to use it for any form of protection.He had a dog witch would growl on demand by saying certain words .however when it came to closing time and cashing up I would close the shutters before counting the takings as the till is next to a window I've done this since the shop was held up by the robber. The owner was happy with this till a week ago when he phoned the shop one minute passed five saying I had closed up early when I explained that I couldn't have as I was talking to his partner on the phone at 17.01 she then admitte that oh my clock is fast and apologised. However next day he came in and sent me Home on full pay till he decided what to do as he couldn't make up his mind. I've worked there 6months and up till then had never had a problem had a good working relationship. I'm absolutely devastated is there anything I can do
Thanks

MNS 05/05/2015 at 7:58 pm

My employer audio recorded my appeal without my consent they asked the unions consent but not mine, the union never told me, I was not aware until the end when I overheard hr asking another hr mgr how to stop it, I asked for a copy, they eventually have provided it, my concern is that had they recorded all other meetings I had it would have backed up my case but they said they haven't and only recorded for notes to be correct, they would not alow a lot of my points and reasons for appeal as they did not want to talk about the discrimination I had been put through

dolly 13/04/2015 at 6:20 pm

My employer has installed cctv at work, but watches it at home on her mobile phone. Is this allowed as I've been told it's a breach of privacy

YourPrivacy Editor 15/04/2015 at 12:13 pm

@susan - in the first instance, you really need to speak to your line manager about this. I have included a link to the Citizens Advice Bureau article; Dealing with Grievances at Work, link here which informs you what is the best course of action under such circumstances.

susan 12/04/2015 at 7:42 pm

It has come to my attention that some of my work colleagues have been taking pictures of me in the work place. They have been zoomed in as far as possibe. I was shown these pics by a loyal colleague which extremely distressed me there are five in total and theyre in a colleagues file and thw pictures are all labeled lazy.I was very upset by the coments and file wot can I do as ive been crying all the time and dread going to work.wot can I do theres a few of them involved and they treat me appallingly.please help

YourPrivacy Editor 01/04/2015 at 12:45 pm

@jake - I am not sure whether this would come under a 'subject request' . However, you can contact the ICO to see what your rights are via whichI hope this helps.

jake 30/03/2015 at 4:44 pm

Can I get a copy of cctv footage from my x employer to see if what he is saying in letter is true about my events on the day in question ?

YourPrivacy Editor 13/02/2015 at 12:49 pm

@Julie - apart from the advice given in the article which states that your employer is perfectly entitled to record your actions and conversations. The only provision is that they must have good cause for doing so. Your employer must tell you that you are being videoed – secret cameras are not legal. They are not entitled to use the footage for any purpose that infringes your right to privacy. But they can use the footage to show that you are not carrying out your job properly – in other words, it could be used against you. I'm not sure whether there will be specific legislation regarding mobile phone recording and whether it is considered a personal device. I suggest you give this TUC document a read via the link hereand you can also contatc the Information Commissioner (details at the bottom of the document) who can investigate complaints about misuse of personal information under the Data Protection Act 1998. I hope this helps.

Julie 12/02/2015 at 1:23 pm

My boss is planning to set CCTV on her iPhone. However the phone is never kept in a secure place and I'm concerned as to why and when it will be use. Comments?

YourPrivacy Editor 13/02/2015 at 12:49 pm

@James - apart from the advice given in the article which states that your employer is perfectly entitled to record your actions and conversations. The only provision is that they must have good cause for doing so. Your employer must tell you that you are being videoed – secret cameras are not legal. They are not entitled to use the footage for any purpose that infringes your right to privacy. But they can use the footage to show that you are not carrying out your job properly – in other words, it could be used against you. I'm not sure whether there will be specific legislation regarding mobile phone recording and whether it is considered a personal device. I suggest you give this TUC document a read via the link hereand you can also contatc the Information Commissioner (details at the bottom of the document) who can investigate complaints about misuse of personal information under the Data Protection Act 1998. I hope this helps.

James 12/02/2015 at 1:22 pm

My employer wants to get the cctv set up to their iPhone but I'm not sure whether this should be allowed or not. Their phones are rarely kept in a safe and secure place too. Any comments on this?

YourPrivacy Editor 30/01/2015 at 2:59 pm

@Fez - it sounds as though it would be better for you to speak with someone directly. I suggest you give Acas a call on 0300 123 1100 for some free impartial advice. I hope this helps.

Fez 29/01/2015 at 11:29 pm

hi i have been sacked from my job. I am a valet parking driver and i was driving a customers car at speed. I had a cigarette outside the car. There was a camera in the car facing outwards which i did not know. The customer complained to the company with evidence. I want to know can an employer use those evidence to sack me?

I got first suspended and while i was on suspension the company used my pics for training other staff without my consent. Can they do that?

Please help me.

YourPrivacy Editor 27/01/2015 at 2:25 pm

@Rabbit - please see the two direct comments below as they have they same problem. I hope this helps.

Rabbit 26/01/2015 at 4:15 pm

My boss wants to put a forward facing camera in my truck , which I havent
Got a problem with , the problem I have is it is fitted with a microfibres so it will
Pick up any in cab noise ie radio , fione calls , I wud like to no if this is legal
Or is it an infringement on my human rites ?

Caz 26/01/2015 at 11:33 am

My boss is installing forward and internal facing CCTV in my works vehicle - is this legal?

raz 26/01/2015 at 9:33 am

I work for Boots pharmacy delivering medication they have put cameras in every vehicle facing both in & out. Is this legal ?

GF79 13/10/2014 at 1:24 am

I have recently been house sitting which was meant to be for just over a month . but within the 2nd week the owners who were in canada sent around their son inlaw to remove me from property ( this is the second time I have looked after property, they were more than happy lst time ) however after contacting the owners via email while they still away as to what this was all about I was informed via email that the sofa was not to be used as a bed , excuse me I layed on the sofa with a duvet watching tv on my day off, also was informed that there was evidence of exsessive use of alcohol and that house sitter was to be sober at all times ( How did they know if i sober or not !! )I enjoy a drink of an evening addmittedly but i work hard !!, I was also accused of not locking doors, which when the son inlaw arrived unanounced to remove me from property , i showed him around to which he saw all doors were locked and no sign of alcohol the house was immaculate as i always keep it when i do this sort of job , the reason i am posting this is as its either the owners have put in hidden cameras which is illegal without notification or the girls who work there two days a week have seen me on the sofa with the duvet !!! whats your thoughts ?

andy 21/03/2013 at 12:31 am

i am a truck driver and my boss wants to put a camera in my cab one faceing out the way and one faceing in the way any one know the law on this as i think this is against the law with one faceing me in the cab

cess 30/12/2012 at 10:13 pm

My supervisor has gained the code to the works cctv, is he allowed to sit at home and monitor not just us but the public, he doesnt even have access too a cctv badge

sparerib 26/09/2012 at 11:29 am

I work in the hotel business the owner was having a go at me, about fire door,I was trying to tell him its not a fire door because it does not self close. since this day he his trying to sack me for arguing back with him,

GALLEYSLAVE 09/03/2012 at 7:22 pm

My boss is putting cctv into our travel vans to see if we are eating or possibly smoking. BIG BROTHER GONE MAD

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