Use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) in the Workplace

Use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) in the Workplace

Introduction

The next generation approaching adulthood has a new challenge; growing up during the technological revolution and believing being monitored is way of life. Generation Y, as they are termed, will grow up thinking it is normal for video cameras to be on every street corner, at work, automatic teller machines, and one day in every home as a security device. They may grow up having “Big Brother” in the workplace applying constant pressure on them to prove they are productive. A 1998 survey of 1,085 corporations conducted by the American Management Association shows more than 40 percent engaged in some kind of intrusive employee monitoring. Such monitoring includes checking of e-mail, voice mail and telephone conversations; recording of computer keystrokes; and video recording of job performance (Doyle p. 1). My goal is to inform the working population about electronic monitoring. The question I strive to answer, “Will employees be monitored on closed circuit television (CCTV) to determine their productivity or worth to the company and does this violate their privacy?”

Information needed to understand the problem “Big Brother in the Workplace”

“Big Brother” is the term used to describe the intent to monitor individuals for any potential wrongdoing. See Philip in Figure 1, who voluntarily installed a web cam in his office. What will it be like to live in a future where this is the norm? It is important to understand what closed circuit television is, what video surveillance is, and who is using the technology.

What is closed circuit television (CCTV)?

“Closed circuit television is defined as a television system that transmits images on a ‘closed loop’ basis, where images are only available to those directly connected to the transmission system. The transmission of CCTV images may involve the use of coaxial cable, fiber-optic cable, telephone lines, infrared, and radio transmission systems” (CCTV – Definitions).

What is video surveillance?

“Video surveillance is defined as surveillance by CCTV for direct visual monitoring and/or recording of activities on premises or in a place” (CCTV – Definitions).

Why is video surveillance used in the workplace?

Most companies implement video cameras to prevent theft or corporate espionage; avoid legal problems due to employee actions, or to raise employee productivity. However, the potential for misuse is huge if the security staff does not implement guidelines. We rarely notice video cameras mounted near the entrances or exits of our offices, above coffee machines, or near copiers until we enter the security office and see the CCTV’s monitoring the places we frequent during a regular business day.