Texas Law On Video Recording In The Workplace. When it comes to getting rid of multiple vulnerabilities in a business in the state of Texas, there are all kinds of practices and solutions that are available. Some, such as a first-class video surveillance system, are absolutely critical when it comes to keeping all of your assets as secure as possible both from internal and external threats.
It’s also important to note that there are specific laws regarding video surveillance in a workplace that are required to be followed in Texas as well.
What is Considered Illegal Surveillance in Texas?
In the state of Texas, if there is only video that is being recorded in a workplace, it is not mandatory to require both consent and/or notice; however, it is suggested that both be utilized. On the other hand, if audio recording is being included alongside video recording, then both consent and notice are required and would otherwise be illegal to record. Customers should also be made aware of the surveillance via the openly on-site posting of signs.
Property owners and managers must also include a clause in rental agreements regarding video surveillance as well. Additionally, employers will also need to keep their employees informed in regards to video surveillance in specific areas, which employees will need to provide their written consent for. This will help to provide more clear expectations regarding any and all possible allegations of invasion of privacy.
Video Recording Without Consent Texas
Other equally important Texas state laws regarding workplace video surveillance include the following:
*According to Sec. 21.15, an offense will have been committed if an individual broadcasts, records, or transmits a visual image of specific areas, such as a dressing room or bathroom, where it is already known that employees may be undressed on a routine basis and is done so without their consent and/or with the intent of invading an employee’s privacy. These are considered to be serious offenses in the entire state of Texas.
*In terms of public spaces, there is absolutely no expectation of privacy. In fact, courts have rarely found that there is a reasonable expectation of privacy in any and all public areas, regardless of exactly how private such a public space may appear to be.
*Typically, video recording without sound is considered to be acceptable, even if the camera itself is hidden. The only exceptions are if the individual being recorded has a reasonable expectation of privacy, someone trespassed to record the video, or if the recording is done with some form of illegal purpose in mind.
*Texas Law On Video Recording In The Workplace. Authorized personnel are the only ones who should be able to view any and all surveillance tapes. Lawsuits involving invasion of privacy and/or defamation can happen in the event that tapes are shown to any unauthorized party.