Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Remote Access to Your Washington Security System

Whether you have a home or business, a Washington security system can provide you with peace of mind as you have an added measure of protection for property, valuables and the people you care about. With the many advances in technology, you will find a host of options to consider including in your system. Honeywell’s LYNX Touch Dealer Toolkit is a popular feature for many. Through the use of CCTV, Washington residents can have mobile access to the security system, which allows homeowners to keep tabs on their property at all times.

Access Your System Any Time, Any Place

Honeywell's Lynx Touch Dealer Toolkit will give you flexibility beyond compare. Once outfitted with mobile access via CCTV, Washington residents can use a remote keypad to perform many helpful functions. When you are away on vacation, on a business trip, at work, or out late in the evening, your Lynx Touch Dealer Toolkit provides you with access to your security system to ensure everything is in order at your home or business.

Enjoy Energy Management Features

As a component of your Washington security system, remote access provides the ability to enhance energy management. You can control the lighting, ensuring that the premises are well-lit in the evening hours. Not only will you give the impression that someone is at home, you will not have to walk into a dark building upon arrival. You can also access your thermostat, which allows you to keep the heat or air conditioning turned down low while you are away and to make adjustments, so the temperature will be comfortable upon your return. It's a money-saving feature that can be extremely convenient.

Open Doors from a Distance

Through the use of wireless keys, you can open your doors as well. With the push of a button, your garage will be ready for you the moment you pull in the driveway. You can also use the touch screen on your mobile device to make sure your garage door is open or closed. How many times have you gone to work, wondering if you remembered to shut the door? You can rest assured that everything is secure using any mobile device, such as your mobile phone, tablet or laptop.

Include a Monitoring Service 24/7

A monitoring service can be a component of your Lynx Touch Dealer Toolkit as well. Staff at a central station will stand watch over your property as well, making sure first responders are alerted immediately in the event of an emergency or intrusion. While you can control your locks and arm your system through mobile access, you will appreciate the comfort that comes with knowing someone is monitoring your premises at all times. This holds true especially when you are sleeping, when loved ones are home alone or when you are away.

Be an Active Part of Your Washington Security System

When you include Honeywell's Lynx Touch Dealer Toolkit as part of your comprehensive security system, you will feel like you are taking an active part in maintaining the safety of your home or business. You'll find that its many features have been designed for convenience to meet your needs.

Monday, September 2, 2013

Employee Privacy Concerns for Employers Who Install CCTV in Washington

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) sounds like such a great idea when you consider high-crime areas. After all, law enforcement officials are able to access a tape that will allow them to see an actual crime take place and nab the bad guys in a timely manner. As with all other states, Washington security is something both residents and business owners must consider, but now that cameras are more common in public areas, issues of privacy have started to surface.

For instance, what if your employer decides that installing security cameras will cut down on theft and minimize the amount of time employees "waste" during the day? Once installed, CCTV in Washington businesses can give employers all kinds of information including how often you stop to answer the phone, grab a cup of coffee, visit the restroom and talk to a co-worker. Nothing you do within the confines of that business is considered "personal"

By installing security cameras, businesses can not only address issues of employee literal theft and “time” theft, but also other security concerns such as shoplifting, violence and insurance fraud. At the same time, the privacy of both customers and employees should be considered.

Legal Considerations

Much like the laws governing the recording of telephone conversations, federal and state law governs the placement of security cameras. Generally, in most states all parties under surveillance have the right to know they are being recorded. Companies that do not properly inform customers and employees they are being recorded are subject to litigation.

Transparency

Communicating with employees before the installation of CCTV is important. Although this can be done effectively through email, a face-to-face meeting will help ensure employee concerns are addressed and will give the impression that your desire is to be as transparent as possible. In some states, all parties must consent to being recorded, so obtaining a written confirmation from each employee may be necessary.

In addition to informing employees they are being recorded, businesses must also place a sign in plain view informing customers if they are in an area where security cameras are in operation. Washington security companies agree that, sometimes, posting these signs in addition to placing cameras in plain view is enough to deter would-be thieves.

Privacy

When it comes to camera placement, federal law tends to follow the guidelines for wire tapping. Camera cannot be installed in places where individuals could have a reasonable expectation of privacy such as bathrooms, fitting rooms, etc.

CCTV in Washington has proven effective in deterring theft and monitoring how employees spend their time during the work day. However if you’re wondering how to handle video surveillance issues with employees and customers, perhaps the Golden Rule is the best approach. Certainly, you would want to know if someone were watching you.