While it may be a controversial issue among staff members, workplace monitoring is a legitimate and legal method that employers can implement to protect their staff and business.  Permitted methods of surveillance include maintaining CCTV systems, monitoring internet browsing history, inspecting email traffic, listening in on telephone calls or conducting employee bag searches.

If implemented correctly, effective systems which monitor employees' activity can help safeguard against harmful work practices and encourage higher levels of productivity within an organisation.  Employers, however, must be mindful that any such monitoring activity should be proportional to the employment risks requiring surveillance.

An employer must be particularly mindful of data protection considerations. Caselaw to date has confirmed that monitoring staff through the use of