Are you thinking about installing CCTV in your home or business? Have no idea where to start? Well, in that case, this is the guide for you. Here, we’re going to break down the basics of CCTV and how you can make it work for your home or business.

CCTV is one of the most effective ways to secure your property, helping to prevent the recurrence of crime and monitoring the things you value most.

What Is CCTV & How Does It Work?

Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) is a system that uses security cameras to monitor key areas for the sake of surveillance and security. It is typically used in public and commercial spaces, such as shops and town centres. But it has increasingly been used in domestic properties to help deter crime and monitor people accessing your home.

Home CCTV Systems

CCTV in and around your home is an ideal way of protecting your home against burglaries and vandalism by keeping your property monitored. Break-ins and property damage are unfortunately more common than you may think. As a homeowner, such events can be incredibly distressing and costly in more ways than one. If you believe that your home is at risk, then installing CCTV may help alleviate some of these worries.

CCTV for your home can come in many forms, from a camera-integrated doorbell to night vision and motion-detecting systems. There are also different setups you can take into consideration. DIY CCTV kits are a cost-effective and easy-to-install way of getting some basic protection. However, they will likely not have the same features that you could typically expect from a professional installation.

While you can use CCTV to protect your home, there are legal and ethical factors you may need to consider. You can read all about that in our blog post here. However, if you follow those rules, you’ll ensure that your home is secure. Your best options for placement would be at the common entry points to your home, including doors, windows, and driveways. When you’re installing your CCTV, just remember to take your neighbours into consideration so you’re respecting their property while protecting yours.

Business CCTV Systems

Today, installing CCTV for your business should be one of the early considerations for any business for several reasons. While it may seem obvious that it will ultimately help prevent the risk of shoplifting and property damage, it’s especially important for the safety of your customers and employees. 

As with home CCTV, you should install your CCTV cameras to face key entry points and vulnerable areas. If you’re in a retail environment, then cash registers and point-of-sale areas are essential, as well as storage areas and production or shopfloors.

There are also several areas of compliance you need to take into consideration when installing CCTV in a business or public place. For example, CCTV installation in schools will widely differ from CCTV in a shop, so it is important that it is sign-posted that your property is monitored and adhering to privacy rights.

If you found this guide helpful, you’ll be ready to find the best CCTV solution to keep your home or business safe. If you’re looking for even more advice, get in touch with our friendly team at Access Control Solutions and call 0116 236 6044.

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How Do Automatic Doors Work?

Automatic doors use a sensor to detect when the door needs to open. The sensor sends a signal to the door operating mechanism, which then opens the door. This can work in one of four ways;

• Motion detection sensors: Automatic doors fitted with microwave beam motion detectors or passive infrared (PIR) sensors detect movement, triggering the door to open when a person approaches.
• Pressure sensors: A mat or pad on the ground in front of the door detects a change in pressure when a person steps onto it, causing the door to open automatically.
• Access control system: Using a signal from a keycard, fob, smartphone, or other device, the door only opens to those with authorised access. An automatic door can also be controlled via a smart video intercom which allows visitors to be verified before entry is granted.
• Automatic door openers: Push or touch to open buttons can be used to make an entrance more accessible to all users.

What Are Different Types of Automatic Doors?

There are two key types of automatic door: sliding and swing. Both are commonly used to improve accessibility in a variety of public and commercial settings, including shops, schools, and hospitals.

• Sliding automatic doors: The doors slide neatly to the side when open. This solution works well where there is limited space in front of the doorway, as the door doesn’t need to swing into the room.
• Swing automatic doors: The doors swing to open, typically swinging inward into the building. These doors can be easier to operate manually if required.

What Are the Benefits of Automatic Doors?

Automatic doors have many advantages over manual doors, including;

• Accessibility: A building can be accessed without pushing or pulling a door, making entry safer and easier for all users.
• Energy efficiency: Doors which close automatically after use can help prevent heat loss, which in turn improves energy efficiency.
• Convenience: When approaching the doorway while pushing a trolley or carrying a heavy load, there is no need to have a hand free to open the door.
• Hygiene-friendly: Users can enter and exit a building without touching door handles or push plates, preventing the spread of germs in busy areas.

Can I Choose How Long Automatic Doors Stay Open?

The time that automatic doors stay open can be adjusted to suit each individual entrance. Automatic doors should remain open for 2 to 3 seconds to allow users to safely pass through the doorway before it begins to close, however an automatic door sensor should prevent the door closing if it detects something in its path.

Are Automatic Doors Safe?

Automatic doors can be safer than manual doors, as there is no need to push or pull a heavy door, which can be difficult for those with limited mobility. Automatic doors are also fitted with safety sensors which detect an obstruction on the door track and prevent the door closing if there is a person or object blocking the doorway.

Can Manual Doors Be Automated?

It is often possible to automate an existing set of manual doors to improve accessibility, energy efficiency, and convenience. A number of factors will affect whether a manual door can be converted into an automatic door, including;

• Door construction
• Door hardware
• Locking mechanism
• Nearby power source
• Space for mounting automatic door operator

How Long Does an Automatic Door Last?

Automatic doors generally undergo less wear and tear than a manual door, as it is impossible for the door to be slammed or forced, and the door will always open at a controlled speed. However, routine servicing will ensure that an automatic door will have a longer lifespan and continue to work safely and reliably for up to 20 years.

How Often Should Automatic Doors Be Serviced?

To comply with BSEN16005 and BS7036 2014, automatic doors should be serviced at least once a year and a risk assessment document issued. To prevent faults, most maintenance contracts include a service twice a year. The door manufacturer may also specify if parts need to be replaced after a certain number of uses.

Upgrade To Automatic Doors with Access Control Solutions

Installing automatic doors for a variety of commercial clients, Access Control Solutions specialises in making every building secure and accessible. To enquire about upgrading to automatic doors, call 0116 236 6044 or complete our contact form to get in touch.

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What Causes Automatic Door Faults?

• Wear and tear: The more frequently automatic doors are opened and closed, the more wear and tear the doors will experience.
• Intentional damage: Attempting to force the door to gain unauthorised access to a building can cause a fault.
• Accidental damage: Hitting the door with a trolley, wheelchair, or other object could damage it.
• Dirt: Dust and grime can obstruct the automatic door sensor, while a large build up of dirt in the components of the door could prevent it opening or closing.

Why Does an Automatic Door Keep Opening?

If an automatic door keeps opening when no one is trying to enter or exit the building, a problem with the sensor is likely to be the culprit. The sensor might be positioned so that it detects other moving objects, like passing vehicles or trees in the wind, or it might be directed too far down, causing the moving door itself to trigger the door to open again. The sensor may also need cleaning.

Why is an Automatic Door Not Closing?

If automatic doors won’t close, check the sensors first. If there is a threshold sensor to keep the door open while pedestrians are in the doorway, check this too. Some automatic doors have a hold open switch, so ensure this isn’t on. Automatic doors that remain open could also indicate a loss of power, so check the power supply to the doorway.

Will a Power Outage Affect Automatic Doors?

Automatic doors require electricity to operate, however many are supported by a battery back up to allow entrance to or exit from a building in the event of a power outage.

Why is an Automatic Door Making Noise?

If an automatic door is noisier than usual, the door track may need cleaning or lubricating. This could also be a sign that the track is misaligned, which can occur if the door has been damaged by excessive force.

Can Automatic Doors Be Opened Manually?

Many automatic doors are fitted with a manual release mechanism which allows the doors to be operated manually if automation fails. This ensures the doorway can still be used to enter or leave the building if necessary.

How Can Automatic Doors Be Repaired?

With many years of experience installing automatic doors, Access Control Solutions have helped hundreds of customers make their buildings more accessible. Our team also has the expertise to carry out a wide variety of door repairs, fixing a range of common faults to get your doors back up and running. To help you meet the requirements of EN 16005, we can also carry out regular servicing of automatic doors to ensure the doors are working safely. Find out more by calling 0116 236 6044 or by completing our contact form.

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Can CCTV Cameras Record Sound?

Both traditional analogue CCTV cameras and modern IP cameras (which use the internet to record, store, and send data) can record audio. IP cameras capture higher quality audio than analogue models as the sound is automatically digitised, instead of being converted from analogue to digital.

A CCTV camera will either have an integrated microphone or an input for an external microphone.

Can I Use Audio CCTV in My Business?

In some scenarios, using CCTV to record audio can keep your employees or customers safe. Call centres also use audio CCTV as a training tool. Wherever audio CCTV is in use, employees should be aware that they are being recorded and how their data is used.

Workplace audio, including conversations, cannot be recorded without everyone being aware of the presence of audio CCTV. It is also important to ensure that the CCTV system you choose has the ability to record high quality audio.

What Are the Regulations Around Using Audio CCTV?

Any business using CCTV must inform the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) and pay a data protection fee of either £40 or £60 a year. You must state the purpose of having a CCTV system in place, whether it records audio or just video.

It is also essential that signage is clearly displayed to make people aware that they are being recorded. This should specify that both video and audio recording is in operation and should include your contact details so people know who is responsible for the CCTV.

CCTV should not be installed in areas considered private, including dressing rooms and toilets. All footage should be stored securely and only kept for as long as it is required, which is generally a maximum of 31 days.

Do I Need To Record Audio Using CCTV Cameras?

It is important to consider whether it is necessary to record audio using CCTV cameras, even if the cameras offer the functionality to capture sound. Recording audio can be intrusive and impact the privacy of the people using your premises. In many cases, it is difficult to justify recording audio with CCTV cameras.

A CCTV system remains a highly effective deterrent to crime, even without capturing sound, and the video footage recorded will still be useful if it doesn’t have audio.

Is Any Documentation Required When Using CCTV Audio?

Whether your CCTV cameras capture just video or both video and audio, it is important to carry out a data protection impact assessment (DPIA). All organisations should have a DPIA in place before installing CCTV, which should detail the reasons for using CCTV and how this will impact people’s privacy.

Access Control Solutions install CCTV systems for businesses in a wide variety of sectors and can recommend the right cameras for your requirements, whether you want to record video and audio or just video footage. Thank you for reading and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

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Handy when arriving or leaving home in the car, this allows the gate to be operated remotely – so no getting caught in the rain, or leaving the comfort of the driver’s seat.

Designed to improve accessibility by removing the need to manually push or pull the gate, which is safer for those with mobility problems, this also boosts security by ensuring that the gate can only be opened by authorised visitors.

What Triggers an Automatic Gate to Open?

Most automatic gates open when a signal is received from the remote control. This is typically a handheld remote or fob which is small enough to keep alongside your keys or in the car.

Alternatively, automatic gates can be operated by a loop detector, which is concealed beneath the driveway. This generates a signal when a vehicle drives over a specific spot and enters the magnetic field of the loop detector, which triggers the gate to open.

Why Do Automatic Gates Need Sensors?

Automatic gates need sensors to prevent accidents involving vehicles, pedestrians, or pets. Most electric gates use infrared safety photocells to prevent the gate moving if an object is blocking its path, so you can rest assured that no accidental damage or injuries will occur.

How Do Automatic Gate Sensors Work?

Automatic gate sensors work using infrared safety photocells. A beam of light is transmitted across the gate opening between the two photocells, and if this beam is broken by a car, person, or any object that could block the progress of the gate, the gate will stop moving.

Some automatic gates are fitted with safety edges to prevent accidents or injury. These sensors are mounted on the edge of the gate and if contact is made with an object or person, the gate mechanism will stop.

Which Frequency Do Automatic Gates Work On?

Automatic gates work on one of two frequencies in the UK, 433MHz and 868MHz. Transmitters and receivers need to be on the same frequency to work, and any new remote control added to the system needs to match the same frequency.

Which Type of Gates Can Be Automated?

There are two types of gate that can be automated – sliding gates and swing gates. Both are popular options for securing a premises and making it more convenient to access a property.

Sliding automatic gates

Sliding automatic gates run along a track in the ground and are a good option where driveway space is limited, as the gate opens sideways rather than inwards. This is a handy space-saving solution and also makes sliding gates difficult to force open.

Swing automatic gates

Swing automatic gates consist of two separate leaves which rotate around hinges on the gate posts. Swing gates have a more traditional appearance, making them a good choice for period properties or heritage areas. Sufficient space is required in front of the gates to allow the leaves to swing open, so swing gates are less suitable in restricted spaces.

Can Existing Gates Be Automated?

Existing sliding or swing gates may be suitable for automation, depending on the condition of the gates. Where possible, this is a smart way to enjoy automatic gates on a budget, as it will cost less than investing in brand new electric gates.

Can You Open an Automatic Gate with a Mobile Phone?

Developments in technology mean that many automatic gates can now be operated from your mobile device, removing the need for a separate remote control or fob. However, automatic gates are more commonly operated using a remote control.

Can Automatic Gates Be Forced Open?

Automatic gates are designed with security in mind and provide a visual deterrent to would-be intruders. Automatic gates are unlikely to be forced open, particularly if you have sliding gates, however for added peace of mind, the gate can be secured with a magnetic lock, which will increase the amount of force the gate is able to withstand.

Can Automatic Gates Work Without Power?

In the event of a power failure, most electric gates can be opened by hand using a manual-release key and mechanism. This ensures that you can always enter or exit your property should a power cut occur.

Enquire About Installing Automatic Gates

To find out more about protecting your property and making access easier with automatic gates, speak to the team at Access Control Solutions. We specialise in supplying and installing secure, sturdy gates that can be easily operated at the press of a button, with a wide selection of styles and colours to match every home. Complete our contact form to get in touch, or call 0116 236 6044 to arrange a home visit from our team.

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What Are the Benefits of CCTV in Schools?

There are a number of benefits to installing CCTV in schools, including;

• Deters theft and vandalism.
• Indicates areas for improvement.
• Improves teacher safety.
• Reduces bullying and anti-social behaviour.
• Protects against unauthorised visitors.

Deters theft and vandalism

CCTV cameras are an effective visible deterrent that can make would-be thieves think twice before committing a break-in, particularly when installed around the perimeter or at the entrance to a school. During evenings, weekends, and holidays, CCTV cameras can help to protect both the premises and its contents, which will often include high-value items like computers and other technology.

CCTV can also help deter vandalism, whether from pupils or from outside individuals. Prominently placed cameras will ensure that the potential perpetrators know that their actions are being monitored and recorded, discouraging graffiti or intentional damage.

Indicates areas for improvement

A CCTV system can highlight potential safety hazards, including busy corridors with steps and heavy doors, allowing changes to be made to protect students. In this way, CCTV can be an effective tool in identifying positive improvements that can be made to the operation of the school.

Improves teacher safety

As well as providing the peace of mind for teachers that their workplace is protected from unauthorised visitors, CCTV can enhance security when an incident occurs with a student. CCTV cameras can allow other staff members to be alerted when assistance is required due to anti-social behaviour in the classroom or common areas.

Reduces bullying and anti-social behaviour

The deterrent provided by CCTV cameras extends to students too, and the presence of CCTV can help reduce bullying and anti-social behaviour, including theft, smoking, and drug use.

Protects against unauthorised visitors

Using CCTV to monitor the entrances to a school premises will ensure that unauthorised visitors are quickly identified and removed from the site, providing peace of mind to teachers, students, and parents.

What Are the Drawbacks of CCTV in Schools?

Although installing a CCTV system in a school has many advantages, there are some drawbacks too. These include;

• Privacy concerns.
• Cost.
• Will not prevent every incident.

Privacy concerns

There are often privacy concerns around the use of CCTV cameras for surveillance in schools, so it is important to be transparent about where cameras are located and how footage will be used and stored. Students, teachers, and parents should all be aware when CCTV is in use.

Cost

Installing a CCTV system can be a big investment, particularly for schools or organisations on a budget. School premises often cover a large area, meaning that multiple cameras may be required to effectively monitor the entire site.

Will not prevent every incident

CCTV is primarily a deterrent. While installing CCTV cameras can discourage would-be intruders or vandals, and help reduce anti-social behaviour, CCTV alone will not prevent every incident. CCTV is most effective when used as part of a wider security set-up, for example when cameras are paired with a monitored alarm system.

Is It a Legal Requirement for Schools To Have CCTV?

Schools are not legally required to have a CCTV system in place, however many Local Authorities or educational organisations may choose to have CCTV installed.

Where Can CCTV Be Used in a School?

Although there is no definitive list of where CCTV can and cannot be used in a school, cameras are most commonly installed in corridors, entrance ways, communal areas, and rooms containing high value items, like a computer suite. It is generally recommended that CCTV is not used in areas considered private, including toilets and changing rooms, and it is unusual for cameras to be installed in classrooms.

Who Needs Informing Before Installing CCTV in a School?

Unlike using CCTV at home, when CCTV cameras are installed in a school, the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) must be informed of the purpose of the cameras and who is responsible for managing the CCTV system. The ICO must also be informed if the way the cameras are used is changed.

Most organisations, including schools, that use CCTV will need to pay a data protection fee, which is either £40 or £60 a year.

What About Data Protection and CCTV in Schools?

CCTV footage should not be kept for longer than it is required. The ICO recommends that footage is only stored “for long enough to allow for any incident to come to light (eg for a theft to be noticed) and to investigate it.”

Footage should be stored securely to prevent a breach of personal data. Most CCTV systems have an overwrite feature which automatically and securely deletes footage when it is no longer needed. Generally, footage should be deleted within 31 days, unless it is being used as part of an ongoing investigation.

CCTV footage is also covered by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), meaning that data must be kept secure and only accessed by authorised individuals.

Can CCTV Cameras Record Audio in Schools?

Although many CCTV cameras have the option to record audio, it can be difficult to justify recording sound in most settings, including schools. Recording audio is generally considered intrusive and there is rarely a lawful basis for listening to the people being recorded.

Do School Policies Need To Mention CCTV?

When installing CCTV in a school, it is important to complete a data protection impact assessment (DPIA) which outlines why you have chosen to use CCTV and how it impacts privacy within the school. This document should be kept on record.

In addition, school policies should be updated to include a separate CCTV policy, detailing the reasons for using CCTV, staff responsibilities, and the measures taken to keep footage secure. This information should also be added to the school privacy notice.

Is Signage Required When CCTV is in Use?

Signs should be clearly displayed so people understand that they are being filmed while on school premises. Any signage should make people aware that CCTV is in use, should be displayed in a place where it is clearly visible, and should include your contact details.

Signage can also provide an additional deterrent to would-be intruders or vandals when displayed in windows.

Can I Request CCTV Footage From My Child’s School?

Anyone can ask for a copy of CCTV footage in which they or their children are present. It is important that schools know how to access and provide recordings when requested, whether for parents or for public authorities like the police. Choosing a CCTV system that makes it easy to retrieve and edit footage will help you meet this requirement.

Whether it is CCTV at home or within an education setting, Access Control Solutions has years of experience installing CCTV systems and can provide further expertise depending on the particular setting. If you have any further questions or need any further advice then call us on 0116 236 6044 to discuss your requirements.

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The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008

Automatic gates are considered machinery and as a result fall under the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008. These regulations set out the requirements to be met before machinery can be sold or used in the UK, ensuring that manufacturers show how their machinery meets essential health and safety requirements.

BS EN 12453:2001

Automatic gates are also subject to BS EN 12453:2001, which are the safety standards for powered gates, doors, and barriers. Under these standards;

• The installer must have the necessary equipment to measure the closing and opening forces of the gate, which should be limited to British standards.
• The gates should reverse if they hit an object or pedestrian.
• The gates should feature sensors which detect an object or pedestrian blocking the path of the gate, which can be light beams or rubber safety edges.
• If there are areas where someone could become trapped or crushed by the gate, these parts should be protected. E.g. where a sliding gate passes the gate post.
• All automatic gates must have an emergency release mechanism in case someone becomes trapped.

CE Marking for Automatic Gates

A CE mark demonstrates that the product bearing the mark complies with relevant European standards. Automatic gates are covered by the Machinery Directive and should have a CE mark applied once installed in line with standards. CE marking is still in use in the UK until January 2023, at which time it will be replaced by the UKCA marking.

Automatic Gate Installation Tests

When installing automatic gates, two separate tests should be completed by the installer to check that the gates can be operated safely.

• Risk assessment. A risk assessment will identify any risks associated with the use of the automatic gates in the specific site of installation.
• Force testing. Force testing checks that the gate has been installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The gate should be pushed with increasing force until it triggers the safety mechanism to stop and reverse.

The results of both of these tests should be provided to the customer by the gate installer. Any risks that cannot be removed must be highlighted and the installer should advise how to use the gate safely in light of these risks. The risks should also be recorded in an installation and maintenance log.

Declaration of Conformity

After installation, you should be provided with a Declaration of Conformity which confirms that the gates adhere to the Machinery Directive.

Automatic Gate Maintenance

Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure that automatic gates continue to work safely after installation. Most installers will also provide a maintenance service to check for any potential faults or new risks and ensure the gates continue to adhere to all relevant safety standards.

All maintenance should be recorded in the installation and maintenance log.

User Instructions for Automatic Gates

Make sure your gate installer provides you with instructions for how to use your gates safely to prevent any avoidable accidents when operating the gates.

Planning Permission for Automatic Gates

Generally, planning permission is not required for new automatic gates or automatic gates which are replacing an existing gate, as long as;

• The gate does not exceed one metre in height if it is next to a highway.
• The gate does not exceed two metres in height if it is elsewhere.
• No part of the site is listed.
• The gate does not form a boundary with a neighbouring listed building.
• The right to put up gates has not been removed by a planning condition.

In a conservation area, you may need planning permission to replace an existing gate, wall, or fence.

Find Out More About Automatic Gates

To enquire about upgrading your own property with automatic gates, speak to Access Control Solutions. Working with a reputable installer will ensure that your new gates are installed in accordance with all relevant rules and regulations, so you can enjoy the peace of mind that your property is secure and your family and visitors are safe.

Complete our contact form to get in touch, or call 0116 236 6044 to arrange a site visit.

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Are You Allowed To Install CCTV Cameras at Home?

If you own your property, you are allowed to install CCTV cameras at home. It may be possible to install CCTV if you are a tenant of a rented property, but speak to your landlord or letting agent first.

How Can I Use CCTV Responsibly At Home?

Before installing CCTV at home, consider why you need CCTV, and whether there are other steps you can take to improve security, like better lighting or an alarm system.

If CCTV is right for you, think about how to set up the system without intruding on the privacy of those in your neighbourhood, for example by positioning cameras away from neighbouring properties or shared spaces.

Where Should Home CCTV Cameras Be Placed?

You can install CCTV cameras anywhere on your property, however the position of your cameras can affect whether the footage is subject to data protection laws. If anything beyond the boundary of your private domestic property is recorded, like a neighbour’s garden or the street, then data protection laws will apply.

For this reason, it is simpler to ensure that cameras only cover the area of your own home and garden, meaning that only the privacy of your own household is impacted.

Can CCTV Record Audio?

Most CCTV cameras can record audio via a built-in or external microphone. If your CCTV cameras have the facility to record audio, think about whether this is necessary, as recording audio is more intrusive than just capturing video. With this in mind, consider disabling audio recording when installing your cameras.

Should I Tell My Neighbours I Am Installing CCTV?

It might be useful to speak to your neighbours before installing a CCTV system to explain your reasons for having cameras. You may want to show them the footage that has been recorded so they understand which parts of their property are covered by your cameras. This could help avoid future disputes or complaints being made.

Having a good relationship with your neighbours can be an effective security measure in itself. They can keep an eye on your empty property while you are away and can also keep you informed of any local security concerns.

What Are Data Protection Rules For Home CCTV?

CCTV cameras which only capture footage within the boundary of your private domestic property – i.e. your home and garden – are not subject to data protection laws. If your cameras also record images beyond the boundary of your private domestic property, including on a public street or in a neighbour’s home or garden, CCTV and data protection regulations will apply.

Installing CCTV at home which records footage outside of your own home or garden is subject to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA18).

You are permitted to capture images outside of your own private domestic property, but need to demonstrate that you are complying with data protection laws and upholding the rights of those whose images you capture.

What if My Cameras Record People Outside of My Home or Garden?

If your CCTV cameras capture footage from beyond the boundary of your property, you should have a justifiable reason for this. An individual or the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) may ask you to explain why you have a CCTV system in place, so make sure you are able to explain your reasons.

The footage you capture should be stored securely and only for as long as needed – make sure footage is deleted regularly. Only use CCTV as it is intended and ensure that those you live with know not to misuse the cameras. This includes sharing footage publicly by uploading or streaming it.

How Do I Protect the Data of Those Recorded by Home CCTV?

In addition to regularly deleting footage and only using CCTV as intended, you should also respond to any subject access requests (SARs) that you receive from your neighbours. Anyone has a right to access the data you hold about them, which includes CCTV footage. If someone makes an SAR, you must provide a copy of the data within one month.

If someone asks you to delete footage of them, you also have to do this within one month of their request. If individuals are uncomfortable with being recorded or have made an objection, consider whether you should reposition your cameras to avoid recording a neighbour’s home or garden in future.

If You Have CCTV Do You Need a Sign?

When CCTV cameras are recording beyond the boundary of your property, whether that is a neighbour’s garden or the street, you should inform people that CCTV is in use with clear signage in a noticeable place.

CCTV signs are a legal requirement if your cameras record an area outside of your private domestic property. It is also courteous to let people know that their privacy is being impacted by the presence of your cameras.

Do I Need To Pay a Fee For Home CCTV?

Homeowners are no longer required to register with the ICO or pay a data protection fee. However, the ICO has the authority to request records of how and why you are capturing CCTV images and how long they are stored for.

Can CCTV Cameras Record the Street or Road?

CCTV cameras are permitted to record the street or road, including both pedestrians and traffic, but the footage will be subject to both the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA18).

Can CCTV Cameras Record My Neighbour’s Property?

CCTV cameras can record your neighbour’s property, including their home and garden, however data protection regulations will apply.

Do Video Doorbells Count As CCTV?

ICO guidance around domestic CCTV systems covers any video surveillance equipment attached to your home, including cameras fitted to doorbells.

As video doorbells grow in popularity, both for peace of mind when away from home, and for convenience when receiving deliveries, it is important to remember that this is a form of video surveillance. As such, the footage captured by a video doorbell is subject to the same CCTV regulations in the UK.

What is Privacy Masking?

Some CCTV systems support privacy masking, which allows a specific area of the camera’s view to be blocked. Static masking can block certain things from view in any recordings, like a neighbour’s garden for example, while dynamic masking can block moving objects or people from view.

If available, this can be used to protect the privacy of your neighbours or the general public when CCTV cameras cover an area outside of your property boundary.

Access Control Solutions can install home CCTV systems to protect your property and the people you love while advising you on data protection laws and privacy considerations. To find out more, call 0116 236 6044 or complete our contact form to get in touch.

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Why Are There Regulations For Automatic Doors?

The moving components of automatic doors mean that users could potentially be at risk of injury if struck or trapped by the door. Regulations ensure that automatic doors can be used safely by all visitors to a building, including those with disabilities.

Automatic Doors and EN 16005

European Standard EN 16005 has been in force since 2013 and is designed to protect pedestrians from accidents relating to automatic doors.

Injuries can occur at the point where the two leaves of automatic sliding doors join and at the two closing edges. Sensors which detect an obstruction can help prevent accidents, while pocket screens – a pocket into which the door slides when it is open – can also minimise the risk to users.

A combination of safety sensors and controlling the speed of opening and closing will ensure that automatic swing doors are safe to use. Danger points include where the door fits to the frame and the closing edge when the door pivots open.

Clear signage should also be displayed so that users understand how the door operates and can safely enter and exit the building.

EN 16005 also dictates that automatic doors should be serviced at least once a year by a qualified company, in line with the manufacturer’s guidance, and this service should be detailed in a logbook. However, servicing automatic doors twice a year will ensure that any faults are found and fixed quickly, maintaining safety and accessibility.

Automatic Doors and The Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 requires public buildings to provide easy access for those with disabilities. Building owners must ensure it is safe for all users to access and move around a building, and automatic doors have a key role to play in this.

Heavy doors that need to be manually operated can present a physical barrier to people with disabilities who need to access your building. Under the Equality Act 2010, you should make reasonable adjustments to your building to remove this physical barrier and enable all users to easily access your premises.

This can include painting the door or door frame to contrast with the surrounding wall, making it easier for those with visual impairments to identify the doorway. Push buttons used to operate an automatic door should also be placed at a comfortable height that can be reached by wheelchair users.

Speak To the Experts

For expert advice on the regulations for automatic doors, speak to Access Control Solutions on 0116 236 6044 or by completing our contact form. Our team install automatic doors in a wide variety of settings, so we have the experience and expertise required to answer any questions you have about the safe use of automatic doors.

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