A guide to data protection in the workplace is being launched by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
For the first time the ICO’s Employment Practices Data Protection Code will be available in one volume. The aim, the Information Commissioner says, is to help employers understand and comply with the Data Protection Act.
The ICO says that the code aims to encourage organisations to adopt good practice when dealing with data protection issues affecting their workers. It highlights the issues employers must be aware of and includes recommendations to help ensure compliance. The new code brings together earlier guidance, online, and in hard copy. Previously it was published online in four individual parts. The code covers:
recruitment and selection – looking at job applications and pre-employment
vetting
employment records – collecting, storing, disclosing and deleting records
monitoring at work – monitoring employees at work, whether examining e-mails,
recording phone calls or installing CCTV
medical information – obtaining and handling information on workers’ health.
The code comes with supplementary guidance; and frequently asked questions. A summary guide is also available. This is aimed at small businesses, the ICO adds.
What they say
Assistant Commissioner, David Smith, said: “Developments in technology, changes in the law and new working practices are putting the spotlight on workers’ privacy. By publishing the Employment Practices Data Protection Code we are providing employers with a complete manual on data protection in the workplace. The common sense approach outlined in the code will encourage and help employers to comply with data protection requirements. The summary guide is a must-have tool for all organisations across the country. The full code is there for larger employers and those who need to know more.”
For a copy of the Employment Practices Data Protection Code go to:
