The surveillance systems in fleet companies have helped operations in many ways. As technology advances, new devices with impressive capabilities continue to emerge. For instance, some camera companies have developed technology that enables one screen to be used for up to four cameras. Also, internet-connected and GPS-enabled fleet cameras are now becoming very popular because they can show the location of the fleet vehicles and because their footage can be accessed in real time.
But as fleet companies focus on surveillance, there is one concern about the camera inside truck; many drivers are against them claiming that they infringe on their privacy while in the cabin. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome these concerns and work in harmony with drivers while enjoying the benefits of the camera inside truck.
Have a Camera Footage Policy
A written policy should be established after the drivers and the management agree on a couple of things: how the footage will be recorded and how it will be used. The aim of writing a policy is to have a reference especially when there is a dispute or when recruiting new drivers. It shows who is authorized to access the footage in a case where it is needed. Policies also indicate the expected behavior of drivers during work. With this, everything about the camera inside truck will not be challenged.
Make the Drivers Aware
It is the right of every driver to know that a camera inside truck is being used. These cameras are also known as cabin cameras, and they might not be visible to the drivers. And recording them without their consent is illegal in many countries.
As soon as they know, the next step is to get consent. If a driver or cabin crew does not consent to the presence of camera inside truck, it is better for you to employ another one. Otherwise, you will always have problems.
Exercise Privacy
When you need to use footage from camera inside truck, you should only allow the authorized person to access it. The footage should not leak into the social media arena even if an employee was in the wrong. After all, this is a breach of law, and you can be sued for it.
The occasions when you can use the footage and how it is to be used are clearly covered in the policy, and this should remain the case. If an employee is not comfortable, seek legal advice from the company lawyer on how to go about this.
Include It in the Contract
When dealing with matters related to a camera inside truck, it is good to be clear from the beginning. So, when employing a new driver, there should be a clause about the cabin camera. In fact, you should mention during the interview that it is your company policy to have these cameras in all fleet trucks. If the driver is comfortable, include it in their contract.
Final Word
Having a camera inside truck has numerous benefits to your fleet company, and you cannot afford to miss out on them. But to be in harmony with the law and employees, you should use the above insights to implement a camera inside truck policy.