Overview of the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice

The Surveillance Camera Code of Practice, issued under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, provides critical guidance on the use of surveillance technologies, including body-worn cameras (BWCs). While primarily applicable to public authorities, its principles are relevant to any organisation deploying BWCs.

Principles of Proportionality

One of the key principles outlined in the code is the proportionality of deploying BWCs. Organisations must ensure that:

• The use of BWCs is proportionate to the problem they aim to address.
• The benefits of using BWCs outweigh any potential privacy intrusions.

This ensures that the deployment of BWCs is justified and does not infringe unnecessarily on individuals' privacy.

Transparency Requirements

Public authorities and organisations using BWCs must maintain transparency by:

• Providing the public with clear information about why and how BWCs are used.
• Explaining what happens to the footage collected, including retention and processing practices.

Transparency builds public trust and ensures compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Policies, Training, and Compliance

To ensure effective and lawful use of BWCs, organisations must implement robust policies and procedures, including:

• Clear operational guidelines for using BWCs.
• Comprehensive training for individuals operating the cameras.
• Systems to audit and review compliance with policies and legal requirements.

These measures ensure accountability and consistent adherence to best practices.

Conclusion

The Surveillance Camera Code of Practice sets out essential principles for the responsible use of BWCs, emphasising proportionality, transparency, and accountability. Adhering to these guidelines helps organisations balance the benefits of BWCs with the need to protect individuals' privacy and uphold public trust.