CCTV and the law

Two recent cases in the Unichef office have highlighted the growing use of surveillance in kitchens so we thought we would take this opportunity of inform you more on the subject.

Firstly is it legal to have CCTV inside your kitchen?

The simple answer is yes,HOWEVER…

There is a massive range of rules that govern its use and its these rules that employers tend to ignore.  They involve rules on the Data Protection Act and also The Human Rights Act.The reasons why they are installed and used are strictly enshrined in these acts and the penalties for ignoring their governance can be hugely damaging to both the employee and the employer.

Installing CCTV on premises is a very serious thing to do and should never be taken lightly. There is plenty of evidence and reports that show that long-term use of CCTV in enclosed spaces can have a psychological and physical effect on employees.

The long-term use of surveillance can have serious consequences on the employee and should never be used without consultation with the employee and guidance from The Information Commissioner.

Without a doubt, constant use of CCTC in any one place could be a Violation of your Humans Rights and should be investigated and complained against.

The uses and benefits of CCTV are seldom of any major significance and are rarely if ever used in the Employment Tribunal, and should never be used in evidence against someone unless there is clear and indisputable evidence of a crime.

Unichef have long fought against Cameras in kitchens. We see little point or justification and the disadvantages far outweigh the advantages and we deplore their use if the only reason is that the employer is paranoid about his staff and wants to “keep an eye” on them??

Say NO to CCTV..it is your human right.

 

Photo by

Juan Ignacio Rodriguez Moronta