Most places of business at this point have some form of CCTV installation, and it is important to work with security experts to ensure that it is an effective solution to reduce crime, intruders, misuse of equipment and other forms of malfeasance.
As closed-circuit television can be vital for safety, security and auditing, it has seen increasing use not only in buildings, dockyards and retail parks but also in vehicle fleets, lorries and taxis.
In recent months, momentum has built for proposals to install CCTV in all registered taxi and private hire vehicles and make it a legal requirement for it to be on and constantly recording when the taxi is in use.
It is a rather complex debate, one that could potentially be a game-changer for the transportation sector if done right, but with some serious privacy and practicality implications which need to be considered.
Why Do Some Councils Require CCTV Installations?
Every council manages the registration of taxis and private hire vehicles, and outside of a set of minimum standards, each local authority has a lot of scope to set its rules when it comes to the implementation of CCTV.
A small number, most notably Rotherham Council, require drivers licensed in that area to install CCTV systems, dashcams and in some cases audio recording equipment that either always records or can be activated using a panic button.
Other councils allow it to be installed, but it must be a model approved by the council, it will generally not be allowed to record audio continuously (with a panic button exception to record evidence in emergencies), and drivers may need to register with the Information Commissioner’s Office for data protection reasons.
It must also be clearly signposted when CCTV is in operation.
Where In The Country Is CCTV Required In Taxis?
- Rotherham, seen as the gold standard for vehicle licensing in the UK.
- Southampton And Portsmouth, although not including continuous audio recording.
- Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire.
- Craven District in North Yorkshire.
- East And West Sussex.
- Brighton And Hove.
- Fareham and Gosport.
What Are The Benefits Of Using CCTV?
The biggest reason why some councils and many drivers like the idea of CCTV being implemented is that it helps keep both drivers and passengers safer and helps to reduce crime.
Even the existence of a camera can provide some sense of peace of mind due to the Hawthorne or observer effect; people behave differently if they believe they are being watched and are far less likely to act out.
As well as this, there is evidence for insurance claims in the event of an accident or issue within the taxi, and it can help resolve customer complaints by providing clear evidence.
Why Is It Not Used Everywhere Already?
There are a few big issues surrounding CCTV, particularly if universally mandated, with concerns that it could be a huge blunt instrument that may fix the issue at the expense of providing a disproportionate burden of constant surveillance.
High-quality CCTV systems are a worthwhile investment, but they are an investment, and if they become a legal requirement, there are concerns from drivers that it could be an onerous additional cost.
Passengers will no longer have privacy whilst riding in a taxi, particularly if audio as well as video is recorded.
Finally, there needs to be a nominated data controller and a policy to enable timely access to footage when it is needed.
Leave A Comment