Q: Employer monitoring in Georgia. Are they allowed to stare at a security camera to see what is said and write up employee
I feel as if my employer goes on security cameras in a medical office to just monitor what is going on and being said without previous complaints of harassment over months and maybe years. What is employer required to tell the employee in regards to such surveillance? What questions can I ask to ascertain if this is the case? This involves at least 2 employees at this time. This is also occurring in a medical office.
A:
In Georgia, employers generally have the right to monitor employees using security cameras, especially in common areas like offices or lobbies. However, this right is subject to certain limitations. For instance, surveillance in private areas such as restrooms or locker rooms is typically prohibited.
Regarding audio surveillance, Georgia law requires at least one party in a conversation to consent to being recorded. This means in a workplace setting, if the employer is a participant in the conversation, they may record it. However, if they are not a part of the conversation, they cannot legally record audio without consent from at least one of the participants.
Employers are not always required to notify employees about video surveillance, but they are generally advised to do so to avoid privacy infringement claims. The specifics can vary based on the nature of the surveillance and the layout of the workplace.
To ascertain if surveillance is taking place and its extent, you can ask your employer directly about their surveillance policies. Inquire about both video and audio surveillance, and whether employees have been informed about these practices. This direct approach is often the most effective way to gather information.
If you have concerns about the legality of the surveillance practices in your workplace, you might consider consulting with an employment attorney who can provide guidance specific to your situation and ensure that your rights are protected.
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