Security Cameras--Business Use

Video surveillance is not a “one size fits all” industry. Determine your business’s needs, and then look for security cameras that match those needs. 

·        Crime Prevention: According to a 2005 American Management Association survey, fifty-one percent of companies reported using video monitoring to prevent crime. If companies in your area suffer from vandalism or theft, place security cameras and signs stating that you use security cameras.

·        Apprehending Criminals: Security cameras can help you apprehend and convict criminals by providing pictures of criminals and video evidence of the crime. 

·        Employee Monitoring: If you have had complaints from employees about harassment, or if you are afraid of workplace violence, you can use security cameras to monitor employees. In addition, you can use cameras to monitor employee performance, though you need to warn employees in advance that you will be using security cameras. Be careful, though—videotaping employees implies a lack of trust in employees, and that implication can destroy employee morale. 

 

Regardless of your reason for using security cameras at your business, make sure that you comply with federal privacy laws. You cannot record audio footage, and you can only use security cameras in public places, not dressing rooms or bathrooms. 

 

The larger and more dangerous your workplace is, the more security cameras you will want to use. If you are concerned about crime, focus your cameras on entrances, exits, parking lots, and the most likely spots for crime. If you are monitoring employees, on the other hand, put the cameras in common work areas.