Code of practice for public space CCTV cameras comes into force

The government’s new code of practice for the use of CCTV surveillance cameras and ANPR systems by public bodies has just come into force across England and Wales, following concerns regarding the abuse or misuse of such systems.

According to a news report on the matter, the new set of rules, despite being aimed specifically at public bodies, also encourages private operators to use it as a set of guidelines.

Some of the code’s most important provisions include the fact that any surveillance system should always be used for a “specified purpose which is in pursuit of a legitimate aim and necessary to meet an identified pressing need”, while in the same time clearly considering its overall effects on individuals and their privacy.

Additionally, all the surveillance systems and automatic number plate recognition systems should be as transparent as possible, provide clear responsibility and accountability for all surveillance activities including images and information collected, held and used, and also implement clear rules, policies and procedures that are clearly communicated to all who need to comply with them.

The rules provide some interesting requirements regarding the data collected by said systems, suggesting the the public bodies should have no more images and information stored than that which is strictly required and also strictly restrict access to retained images and information.

Furthermore, the surveillance systems should be subject to appropriate security measures to safeguard against unauthorised access and use and also have effective review and audit mechanisms to ensure legal requirements, policies and standards are complied with.

Finally, the systems should only be used in the most effective way to support public safety and law enforcement with the aim of processing images and information of evidential value, when used in pursuit of a legitimate aim and also be accurate and kept up to date when any information is used to support a surveillance camera system which compares against a reference database for matching purposes.

CCTV Surveillance has an extensive experience in providing customers with complete and comprehensive CCTV solutions, that adhere to the highest security standards. In fact, all of our surveillance products are fully compliant with the UK Police Requirements.

If you want to find out more about our high-end surveillance and security solutions, our dedicated product team is ready to answer all of your questions.