So the debate goes on. Is CCTV out of control is a question asked in the recent security briefing from IFSEC. References to government legislation that seem to be pointing to far greater control over CCTV in public places is a highly contentious issue. We already have the data protection act and this has served us well over a number of years. Do we really need more CCTV regulation?
CCTV by its very nature is always going to rile certain individuals and human rights groups. It has always been a mystery to us why but the fact that you can be caught committing a crime and taken to court as result of cameras seems to offend certain types. It seems that those going about their business in a normal way and actively steering away from anti-social activity, vandalism and theft are not those who seem to complain. Perhaps the reason is that CCTV is perceived as poor quality and on many occasions useless. It fails far too often to pick up vital clues such as facial recognition and number plates, simple things that would make all the difference to convictions as a result of CCTV images.
We believe the reason that their is a fuss building now and more CCTV regulation being demanded is the quality of pictures are about to get a whole lot better. HDcctv and HD IP cameras are of such good quality that images captured are now irrefutable . Faces are easily recognized and number plates are captured. As a result more convictions are beginning to follow.
We have no issue with proper CCTV regulation. It favours good installers who invest in training, accreditation and sell quality equipment. It helps our industry and it only hinders those who seek to take short cuts. We do though feel very strongly that if a camera is in place it should be fit for purpose and now the technology is available all cameras should be upgraded to an HDcctv standard image of at least HD quality. This will help the industry , reduce crime , increase convictions and lead to a safer environment for us all.