Is it legal for a company to set up cameras to watch their employees?

Question

The company that I work for is setting up a security camera that could serve no purpose than to watch us work. Is this legal?

Answer 1

If you live in the united states, yes it is very legal. The only place in a work facility cameras are not allowed are in restrooms.  

Answer 2

Yes, within reasonable limits (i.e., not locker rooms or bathrooms). In MA there have been court statements that the employer has a valid property interest in its business, which can be protected using cameras or monitoring phone conversations and computer usage.

Answer 3

Absolutely legal, and footage from them may be used as they see fit, since you are aware of them.  Also be aware that any work equipment you are using is solely for work.  E-mail is tracked, as are phone calls.  Remember e-mail records are permanent.....(retired IBM exec mgr)

Answer 4

Yep.  Get used to it.

Answer 5

Welcome to George Orwell's 1984 > even if it is 2008!

Surreptitious surveillance is everywhere > you're phone calls are taped, your moments are watched & your email is subject to monitoring at any time.  

When you're on the company time, you owe your soul to the mysterious monitors > & they could be anyone, anywhere.  

And then people wonder why is anyone paranoid?  

Answer 6

I'm going to go ahead and say yes, it is legal.  I've worked for numerous companies with security cameras everywhere.  I currently work for an installer of those cameras and we install cameras everywhere.  We even have one in our kitchen (there's nothing in there but a fridge).

Answer 7

It's legal, but the footage can not be used in court unless the person being filmed was aware of them. So if a company is using a nanny cam, the information coming from it really isn't helping.

Answer 8

Yes, it should be.  You are working for the employer, they have a right to set up security camera's as they see fit (just not in the bathroom stalls).