It just shows there’s a whole untapped security knowledge bank out there, so thanks to all those who responded.
Since then, we’ve started to get more questions from CCTV users with problems and we’ve been passing them on to our resident ‘CCTV Doctor’ Jon Hill of Siemens for his advice.
Gary Benson of Stoke on Trent has a query about camera positioning –
“Hopefully you can help with a question over whether we should be licensing our CCTV system – ie, does it come under a public space CCTV system?
“Our system is used primarily for security and H&S of our employees.
“We have numerous PTZ cameras situated all around the property. Their home positions are all pointing within the confines of the ground, however, they are capable of being able to view public areas and neighbouring business property should the camera be rotated.
“Do we require licensed operators because of this?”
CCTV Doctor, Jon Hill replies –
“Operator licensing is still a bit of a grey area as many of the details have yet to be fully ratified on a national basis.
“Generally speaking, all security staff should be vetted in some way to eliminate any security risks, but this does not necessarily mean full operator licensing which can prove quite onerous.
“I would say that where operators are managing high security applications such as government buildings or prisons, or perhaps managing town centre facilities, licensing should be investigated.
“For general commercial applications as per Gary’s enquiry, licensing is not needed at this time. Having said that, it’s important to liaise with local police authorities and county council advisors to ensure that there are no ‘local’ licensing issues.
“What is needed if cameras are capable of viewing public areas are effective privacy masking facilities for each affected camera position, and effective signage on site to inform all employees and visitors etc.”
Well, do you agree with the Doctor’s assessment? We’d like to hear your views too. Add your comments below.
Remember, all our CCTV Doctor columns are collected together on i4s – and, coming very soon, “Access Control Doctor” with Paxton’s Adam Stroud.
