CCTV

Use of CCTV in Engineering Department

There are CCTV cameras installed throughout the Engineering Department to help to ensure the safety of those in the Department and the security of their and the Department’s property. There are signs at all the entrances to the site informing those entering that CCTV systems are in operation. All the external cameras and some internal cameras are connected to the University’s Security Control Centre system. The majority of the internal cameras are connected to the Department's own system which is operated by its Security Office. Both systems are subject to the University’s CCTV Code of Practice.

This Code of Practice reflects the spirit and guidance issued by the Information Commissioner’s Office as documented in the CCTV Code of Practice (revised edition May 2015) and the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice (June 2013) issued by the Home Office and will not be used to invade the privacy of any individual, residence, business or other private premises, buildings or land. The University is committed to complying with the requirements of the Data Protection Act 1998 and operates its CCTV systems in accordance with the eight data protection principles. Individuals have the right of access to information about themselves held on CCTV recordings.

All members of staff involved in operating CCTV systems are made aware of the following objectives and are permitted only to use the system to achieve these objectives:

1. Assist in providing a safe and secure environment for the benefit of those who might work, live in or visit the University.
2. Reduce crime and the fear of crime by reassuring students, staff and visitors.
3. Deter and detect crime, public disorder and anti-social behaviour.
4. Identify, apprehend and prosecute offenders in relation to crime, public disorder and anti-social behaviour.
5. Assist in the monitoring and deployment of security staff during normal duties and emergency situations.
6. Protect security staff from undue threats and violence whilst going about their duties.

The University particularly recognises the importance of strict guidelines in relation to access to and disclosure of recorded images. The Department maintains a written record of accesses to recorded images on its system including why the access was required and by whom it was authorised. Recorded images are kept for a maximum of 30 days.

The University’s Code of Practice requires that a privacy impact assessment is completed before a new camera is installed. In practice this means that it is primarily public areas which are covered. The main exception is where there are particular security or health and safety risks; those working in such areas will always be consulted before a camera is installed.

The staff of the Department’s Security Office are happy to answer questions about the use of CCTV in the Department and may be contacted via security-admin@eng.cam.ac.uk .