cctv4u Blog

CCTV systems have a controversial reputation, and have become iconic representations of the establishment at its most intrusive. In a way, however, it is wrong to project our political worries onto a blameless piece of technology, and surveillance is much more than a potential tool for oppression. Instead CCTV systems can actually have some ingenious and often even amusing applications.

Traffic Safety

On a serious note, CCTV has become an instrumental tool in a variety of safety applications. For example, it is used now to monitor accident black spots and even during Formula One events to monitor any potential safety risks.

Creative Industries

CCTV as a visual medium has also become the tool of choice for a variety of creative applications. For example, it can be used in an ironic way by artists such as Manu Luksch, or it can be used for its functionality, e.g. it is perfect for documentary making when your subjects happen to be elusive animals.

Solving Problems

In terms of its practicality, CCTV systems can also be used to solve a variety of logistical problems. In theatre productions cameras can be used to view occluded parts of the stage or can look inside hostile environments such as fridges or ovens.

Home Security

In regards to home security CCTV is perhaps at its most creative, and IP cameras, which can transmit video straight to a webpage, and can therefore be viewed from an iphone for example, have become an affordable and effective solution to the age old problem of household safety.

CCTV represents the ultimate in a home security solution, acting not only as a deterrent for any potential burglar or vandal, but also as an important source of evidence should the worst happen. CCTV remains a controversial security measure, however, and its improper usage could do more than just annoy the neighbours, and could potentially put you on the wrong side of the law. So, what exactly are the legal requirements for CCTV systems?

In line with the Data Protection Act of 1998 if you’re using CCTV on behalf of an organisation, you will need to register with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner. If on the other hand you are using CCTV for home security then you will most likely be exempt from the registration process, specifically the Data Protection Act states “personal data processed by an individual only for the purposes of that individual’s personal, family or household affairs (including recreational purposes) are exempt from the data protection principles and the provisions of Parts II and III.”

This apparent leniency in the law for home CCTV users is should be taken with a pinch of salt however, and you should still be conscientious when positioning your CCTV systems. Basically, you should keep the field of view to within your property, as indirectly or directly filming your neighbours by be seen as an infringement of their human rights, ironically maybe even landing you in court.