Safety is always a big concern in any workplace. You want your employees and clients to feel they’re in a safe, reliable environment and you want to protect against any unnecessary safety risks. Some of these risks may be able to be reduced through using security cameras. However, installing cameras comes with some disadvantages along with the benefits. Here are the pros and cons of security cameras you should be aware of:
Pros
- Crime Reduction: Having security cameras around your workplace deters individuals from stealing, breaking in, or other illegal activity.
- Prevents Harassment: Employees are much less likely to harass or harm their co-workers if they know they’re being watched. Though this hopefully isn’t an issue in your workplace, video surveillance can allow victims of harassment to come forward with the support of video evidence.
- Productivity Increase: When employees know someone or something is watching them, they’re likely to have better work habits. This can include employees coming in and leaving on time as well as wasting less time throughout the workday.
Cons
- Invasive: Video surveillance can be seen as invasive or a sign of your mistrust to your employees. This can cause stress, burnout, and discontent in your company.
- False Security: Though cameras can discourage crime, they don’t guarantee your company’s safety. Having video surveillance devices can give business owners a false sense of security that can hurt their safety in the long run.
- Expensive: Installing security cameras is not a cheap process. The expense can put a real burden on a small business’s finances.
Installing security cameras has pros and cons. If you decide to get security cameras, make sure to communicate with your employees to help them understand the reasons behind your decision. Contact Helpside with any questions you have on relevant employment laws or HR implications.