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New guide gives practical help on workplace privacy issues
24 August 2008
Employers and employees facing difficult and potentially contentious workplace privacy issues can find useful guidance in a new book launched today by Privacy Commissioner Marie Shroff.
The release of Privacy at work: a guide to the Privacy Act for employers and employees marks the beginning of Privacy Awareness Week (24-30 August).
“The book offers much needed guidance about applying the Privacy Act in the workplace”, said Ms Shroff. “Privacy issues at work affect most of us, one way or another, and it is an area that generates a great range of questions.
“For example employees may be concerned that CCTV cameras have been installed at work, or that they have been asked to undergo workplace drug testing. Employers may be unsure about whom they can contact as a referee when processing a job application, or may want to know how long they can keep personal information.”
The book gives tips on use of technology in the workplace, such as monitoring staff email and internet use, or GPS tracking and finger-scanning. It also offers guidance about handling personal information on databases – including unauthorised employee “browsing” of client records.
The book is A5 (44 pages; colour). It is $20 (plus p&p) and is available through the Office of the Privacy Commissioner, 09-302 8680 (ph) or 09-302 2305 (fax), PO Box 466 Shortland St, Auckland, or by email: enquiries@privacy.org.nz.
For more information see www.privacy.org.nz or contact:
Katrine Evans tel 04 474 7590 or 021 509 735 or enquiries@privacy.org.nz