Video Surveillance Guidelines Issued By Privacy Commissioners

The Federal, British Columbia and Alberta Privacy Commissioners have jointly issued new Guidelines for the use of video surveillance by private sector organizations. While recognizing that there are legitimate reasons for private sector organizations to use video surveillance techniques, the Commissioners note that privacy laws impose restrictions on the collection and use and disclosure of personal information, and that video surveillance involves the collection of personal information.

The Guidelines are directed to organizations subject to the Personal Information Protection and 'Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), which applies to organizations carrying out commercial activities in all provinces except BC, Alberta and Quebec; to all organizations carrying out commercial activities where personal information is transmitted across an international or provincial border, no matter where the