How to Install a CCTV System in New Zealand and Stay Compliant with the 2020 Privacy Act

Installing a CCTV system can significantly enhance the security of your property, whether it’s your home or business. However, in New Zealand, it’s crucial to ensure that your CCTV system complies with the Privacy Act 2020. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to install a CCTV system compliant with the New Zealand 2020 Privacy Act.

1. Understanding the Privacy Act 2020

The Privacy Act 2020 regulates how personal information is collected, used, and disclosed in New Zealand. When installing a CCTV system, the footage you capture is considered personal information if it can identify an individual. The Act aims to protect individuals’ privacy and ensure you handle their personal information responsibly.

Key principles to keep in mind:

• Purpose: Collect only for a lawful purpose connected with your business or personal use.
• Notification: Inform people that they are being recorded.
• Access: Allow individuals to access footage of themselves.
• Security: Securely store the footage to prevent unauthorized access.
• Retention: Do not retain footage longer than necessary.

2. Planning Your CCTV Installation

Assess Your Needs

Identify the primary purpose of installing a CCTV system. Is it for deterring crime, monitoring employees, or ensuring safety? This will help you determine the type and number of cameras you need.

Choose the Right Equipment

Select cameras that meet your requirements. Options include:

• Dome Cameras: Discreet and often used indoors.
• Bullet Cameras: Visible deterrents typically used outdoors.
• PTZ Cameras: Pan, tilt, and zoom features for wide coverage.

Consider cameras with high resolution, night vision, and motion detection for better performance.

3. Legal Considerations and Compliance

Notification and Signage

Inform people that you are recording them. You can do this through clear signage at the entrance of your property and within the area you monitor. Signs should be easily visible and state that CCTV surveillance is in operation.

Privacy Impact Assessment

Conduct a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) to evaluate the potential effects of your CCTV system on individuals’ privacy. This helps identify and mitigate any privacy risks.

Positioning Cameras

Install cameras in locations that maximize security but minimize intrusion on privacy. Avoid placing cameras in areas where people expect privacy, such as bathrooms or changing rooms. When positioning cameras, consider:

• Entrances and Exits: Monitor who comes in and out.
• High Traffic Areas: Capture activity in common areas.
• Perimeter Security: Ensure your property’s boundaries are covered.

4. Installation Process

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Decide whether you will install the system yourself or hire a professional. DIY installation can save money in the short term, but professional installation ensures that cameras are optimally placed and the system is correctly configured.

Setting Up the System

Follow these steps for installation:

1. Mount Cameras: Use appropriate brackets and ensure cameras are securely fixed.
2. Run Cables: If using wired cameras, run cables through walls or ceilings to the recording device.
3. Connect to Recorder: Connect cameras to a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) or NVR (Network Video Recorder).
4. Configure Settings: Adjust camera settings for resolution, motion detection, and storage.
5. Network Integration: If applicable, integrate the system with your network for remote viewing.

Testing the System

Test each camera to ensure they cover the intended areas and that the footage is clear. Check night vision and motion detection features to ensure they function correctly.

5. Managing and Storing Footage

Secure Storage

Store footage securely to prevent unauthorized access. Do this by:

• Using Encrypted Storage: Encrypt data to protect it from unauthorized access.
• Physical Security: Keep DVRs or NVRs in a locked, secure location.
• Access Control: Limit access to footage to authorized personnel only.

Retention Policy

Set a clear retention policy for how long you will store footage. The Privacy Act 2020 stipulates that you should not keep footage longer than necessary. Typically, retaining footage for 30 days is considered reasonable, but this can vary depending on your specific needs and circumstances.

Responding to Access Requests

Prepare yourself to respond to requests from individuals who wish to view footage of themselves. Under the Privacy Act 2020, individuals have the right to access personal information held about them. Develop a process for handling these requests, ensuring that you can locate and provide the relevant footage without undue delay.

6. Regular Maintenance and Updates

Routine Checks

Perform regular checks to ensure all cameras are operational and that the system is recording correctly. This includes:

• Cleaning Lenses: Keep camera lenses clean for clear footage.
• Checking Connections: Ensure all cables and connections are intact.
• Updating Software: Regularly update firmware and software to protect against vulnerabilities.

Privacy Reviews

Periodically review your CCTV system and privacy practices to ensure ongoing compliance with the Privacy Act 2020. Update your PIA if there are significant changes to your system or its use.

Conclusion

Installing a CCTV system in New Zealand involves careful planning, understanding legal requirements, and ensuring compliance with the Privacy Act 2020. By following these steps, you can enhance your property’s security while respecting individuals’ privacy rights. Proper notification, secure storage, and regular maintenance are crucial components of a compliant and effective CCTV system.

Please contact Teltrac now to talk about conducting a PIA and check your compliance.