You may already be aware of the benefits of having a commercial security system installed in your business, but what you may not have taken into account are the legalities surrounding such a system. In today’s litigious world, it’s critical that businesses take every precaution to avoid falling victim to a costly lawsuit. If you’ve got CCTV, access control or another type of security system installed at your company, here are some tips to help you avoid any potential legal liabilities.
Position Cameras Properly
When selecting the placement and angles of your CCTV cameras, keep in mind the many laws in place that protect the privacy of your customers and employees. Avoid placing cameras in, near or facing areas such as bathrooms, dressing rooms and locker rooms, where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Be Careful with Audio
Each state has its own laws surrounding the capture and usage of audio recordings. In many jurisdictions, it is illegal to record anyone without first making them aware (obtaining consent). In some instances, this can be avoided by placing notices around your business, but you should do your due diligence to find out exactly what your rights and legal requirements are first.
Work with a Reputable Provider
When it comes to commercial security, there are certainly plenty of options to choose from. Not all providers are created equal, however. Choosing to work with a company that not only offers quality security products, but is backed by extensive experience and training in security and law enforcement can help strengthen your protection against liabilities and other potential issues.
Invest in a Quality Product
Security systems for business use can provide your company protection against liabilities such as personal injury or workers’ compensation claims, but only if you’ve got a quality system installed. For instance, quality video footage of a supposed fall or injury on your property can help prove you are not at fault, provided it’s captured on a high definition security camera. Without this type of quality, you could be left holding the bag.
Of course, it should be noted that the suggestions provided here are not meant to take the place of professional legal advice. To ensure that your business remains protected against potential legal action, you should always seek the guidance of an attorney or other legal expert. Taking a proactive approach like this, and considering every angle as listed above can dramatically improve your chances of remaining lawsuit-free for many years to come.
