Correct training can combat CCTV misuse

18 Apr 09

UK CCTV compliance watchdog CameraWatch believes that fears over the wrong use of CCTV could be allayed by proper operator training.

By Brian Sims

Following the Home Secretary’s announcement of a review of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), CameraWatch’s compliance director Paul Mackie feels that it’s vital public confidence in the use of CCTV cameras is maintained.

“It’s extremely important that the public don’t lose confidence and faith in CCTV,” urged Mackie. “The problem with the current use of CCTV, whether it’s monitoring public spaces or those that are privately-owned, is that it has not been regulated correctly in the past.”

Mackie went on to explain: “This has allowed rapid expansion and dependence on CCTV systems where in fact CCTV might not even be the correct choice. The use of CCTV falls under the Data Protection Act (DPA), of course, and the powers being reviewed – the RIPA – are supposed to control ‘exceptional’ situations.”

Implementing the ‘Snoopers’ Charter’

Public bodies in England and Wales have been accused of using CCTV systems to implement a so-called ‘Snoopers’ Charter’ in the pursuit of bogus benefit claims, and even dog fouling. Mackie believes that if operators are aware of their DPA responsibilities, then the use of CCTV for this type of ‘monitoring’ is far less likely.

Mackie continued: “The Data Protection Act is basically a standard that must be reached when CCTV is used to collect and manage images from the public which can be used for identification purposes. Put simply, this should ensure that the CCTV system is not used for any other reasons than those registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office.”

He went on to say: “The practical problem is that, having invested in a CCTV system, organisations seem to think that they can take advantage of all the technology at their disposal and use it for whatever purposes they see fit. There’s inadequate training and a lack of appreciation of the fact that there’s a legal obligation on those who are responsible for the system.”

Assumptions made over CCTV

Finishing his point strongly, Mackie added: “From the general public’s point of view, there’s an expectation that when we see a camera, it’s there helping us. That assumes the camera is working or that the quality of the images is good. We must make sure that assumption is correct, and that all CCTV systems do what they should be doing – and no more than that.”

CameraWatch has consistently expressed support for more responsibility and training in the use of CCTV.

On that note, Mackie explained: “There’s now a requirement for CCTV systems to go through an annual assessment or audit, like an MOT, to ensure that the system is being operated correctly, and is doing what is expected from it. Unfortunately, there are far too many systems operating way below the required standard.”

A Home Office/ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers) CCTV Strategy Report for 2007 produced a figure of more than 80% of images received by police still not being of sufficient quality. CameraWatch’s own 2006 research stated that more than 90% of CCTV systems observed by the organisation did not comply with even the most basic requirements of ensuring that images (or ‘personal data’) were correctly captured and stored.

In addition, a survey conducted in Dublin earlier this month noted that 92% of systems checked in one busy street fell way short of compliance.

Simple checklist, good management

Mackie concluded: “There’s nothing complicated in meeting these standards. We view it as a simple checklist which comes down to good management. Organisations need to take on board their legal obligations, and become responsible for all the personal information that they collecting. That’s the crux of the matter.”

CameraWatch is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, founded in May 2007 with the aim of raising awareness of CCTV DPA compliance issues. CameraWatch has conducted research into some 4,000 systems to back-up its stated claim that more than 90% of CCTV installations are non-compliant with the DPA.

The organisation has held six Forums featuring expert speakers and closed debates with industry leaders seeking views on compliance. The last of these was held in London on 6 March at HSBC’s global HQ, and featured a hard-hitting polemic presented by Security Management Today Online’s Editor Brian Sims.

Current projects for CameraWatch

CameraWatch is currently involved in project work with the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland (ACPOS), the Police Improvements Agency and the Information Commissioner’s Office.

The work carried out by CameraWatch’s Compliance and Technical Group includes nationwide university CCTV field studies, the introduction of a Lifecycle Guide to CCTV Compliance and developing a National CCTV Register. A CCTV accreditation programme and work with insurers to advance the knowledge of current CCTV compliance issues are further ongoing projects.

Non-executive director appointments

CameraWatch is also delighted to announce the appointment of two non-executive directors to the Board, both of whom bring a wealth of industry experience to the team.

The new chairman of the organisation is Pat Curran, currently executive chairman of Secure Smart Card applications (Bell ID0 and FSI FM Solutions). Pat is joined by Tom Hogg, who takes on the role of business relations manager.

Welcoming the new directors, Gordon Ferrie (chief executive and founder, who stepped down as current chairman on 17 March) said: "It's with considerable eagerness that I welcome Pat and Tom to the Board. Their established industry reputations as supplier, technology and compliance professionals will further CameraWatch's current work in promoting awareness and compliance in camera surveillance in both the private and public sector across the UK. The aim is to help in the prevention and detection of crime."

CameraWatch’s registered office address is 3 Walker Street, Edinburgh EH3 7JY. Check out the web link provided on the right hand panel of this page.