Q I
wish to install a CCTV system in my premises. How do I go about
it?
A The primary
question you should ask yourself is ‘Do I really need CCTV?’ then
‘How will CCTV assist me or the Police in managing crime or
anti-social behaviour at the premises?’ If CCTV is definitely your
preference, formulate an ‘Operational Requirement’
(O.R.) which outlines exactly what the cameras are required to see,
how it will be recorded and how the data will be stored and
ultimately copied to data disc etc for evidential purposes. This
O.R. should be provided to 3 or more CCTV Contractors who will
specify and quote for a system. It will be your decision who best
meets the requirements, and it will be advantageous to have a
contractor ‘prove’ the system prior to awarding a contract. It is
important to ensure that a maintenance contract for any system is
included to ensure it is operational when it is needed. Advice and
assistance with this can be obtained from the Force CCTV Liaison
Officer, Stuart Ward on 0845 600 5702.
Q I
have a CCTV system in my premises. Do I need to register with the
Police or Information Commissioner?
A The
Information Commissioner has indicated that CCTV systems installed
for security purposes in a public place are required to be
registered. It costs £40 and can be completed online at http://www.ico.gov.uk/. You do
not need to register your system with the police, but we will note
you have one if you wish.
Q Do I
need to display warning signs if I have a security CCTV
system?
A Yes. Signs
are mandatory for public spaces security CCTV systems; they should
contain information about the purpose of the system, the Data owner
and their contact details.
Q What
am I allowed to point the cameras at?
A Anything
within your own premises, with the exception of sensitive areas,
such as toilets or changing room facilities. You should not be
viewing adjoining property, where possible.
Q How
long should I keep recordings?
A
The Information Commissioner states that 28 days retention of data
is required or for ‘not longer than is necessary’. If you can
respond to incidents and copy / download the data within 7 - 14
days this could be considered not longer than is necessary.