Couple weeks ago we had new CCTV cameras installed in our office. There is already cameras at the exits of the building, and 2 in the warehouse area, which I think is fairly common and reasonable, for security/insurance purposes. Now we have 9 new cameras installed, all at work stations or inside an office, watching people, not stock or products.
We each received a memo saying that the new cameras were for protection of the stock, since the warehouse is becoming busier and more full of products, and such holds more value. This is a pitiful excuse anyway since cameras already all the entrances/exits and the warehouse area, but to claim this while a camera now stares at me all day in an office, with no stock being held at all is just lying.
For the first week or two nothing happened besides a few comments about “big brother” and a general feeling of distrust towards the owners. Now however the cameras are being used to watch all of us and critique our work. “Work faster, less wasted time” etc.
I get that cameras and security measures are needed in case of the robbery or something from the owners perspectives but he's blatantly lied to everyone about the intent of the cameras, and it's just sewn more distrust and further drawn the line between employees and the owners. In some ways I should be thankful as it's radicalised more people in my office, but no one loves being micromanaged all day by a millionaire who never actually visits the place.
Just a rant/vent really, but surveillance in the workplace never helps as it always makes people distrustful and annoyed.