SIA Operation Targets Unlicensed Public Space Surveillance CCTV Activity at Shopping and Retail Outlets
8 January 2007: The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has now released the latest results of the activity under Operation Cornflower - the ongoing SIA action targeting non-compliance of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (PSIA) at public space surveillance CCTV suites covering shopping and retail outlets.
In three separate operations during the autumn, SIA investigators visited 25 CCTV suites in England and Wales, which were run by operatives from 17 private security companies.
Following the operations SIA investigators issued 3 warnings for offences relating to Section 3 of the PSIA (engaging in licensable conduct without a licence), 15 warnings for offences relating to Section 5 of the PSIA (providing unlicensed operatives) and 9 Improvement Notices to security companies.
Further action may be taken under Sections 3 and 5 of the PSIA.
Poppy Saunders, an SIA Head of Investigation, said:
"I'm aware there have been some claims of confusion over the legal definition of those who require an SIA Public Space Surveillance CCTV licence. However, the definition is clear (see notes) and managers and directors should ensure they fully understand the legislation and seriously consider the consequences before deploying unlicensed CCTV operators."
Notes for Editors:
The SIA started Public Space Surveillance CCTV licensing in June 2005.
A Public Space Surveillance (CCTV) licence is required when manned guarding activities are undertaken, except in relation to licensed premises, involving the use of closed circuit television equipment to:
- monitor the activities of a member of the public in a public or private place; or
- identify a particular person,
including the use of CCTV in these cases to record images that are viewed on non-CCTV equipment, for purposes other than identifying a trespasser and protecting property. |