USE OF SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS

• 1.0 Purpose
• 2.0 Policy
• 3.0 Definitions
• 4.0 References
• 5.0 Approvals and Revisions

1.0 Purpose

This policy describes the general guidelines for the use of surveillance cameras.

2.0 Policy [Top]

The University of Virginia uses technology to improve security on Grounds. University Police install video cameras in several parking lots and public areas. Additional cameras may be installed in the future. Security cameras will be connected to a central control room operated by the Police Department in the new Central Grounds Parking Garage. The purpose for using the cameras is to reduce incidents of crime while limiting the need to expand the Police Department.

The increased surveillance has raised questions about University policies and the use of surveillance cameras, particularly in the workplace. The following policy statement outlines where and when the University may employ surveillance cameras. These uses do not apply to legitimate academic uses of video cameras for instructional or research purposes.

• Surveillance cameras may be used in parking lots and other public areas for safety and security purposes. The University Police will decide where cameras will be installed and will monitor them from a central control room. The cameras will be in plain view. Parking lots and building areas will be marked with appropriate signs.
• Cameras shall NOT be used to observe employee work areas without prior notification of employees, with the exception of police investigations of criminal activity. An employee work area may be observed for a work-related purpose, such as to study a work process or to observe financial transactions or cash handling. Any surveillance of an employee work area must be approved in advance by the Executive Vice President.
• Surveillance of any location on University Grounds may be conducted, in accordance with state and federal laws, to detect and observe criminal activity. Such surveillance shall be coordinated and conducted ONLY by the University Police or other law enforcement agencies.

Questions about this security program or the law enforcement elements of such plans or policies should be directed to the University Chief of Police. Inquiries about the use of cameras to observe employee work areas, as outlined above, should be directed to the Office of the Executive Vice President.

3.0 Definitions [Top]

4.0 References [Top]

5.0 Approvals and Revisions [Top]