Workplace Privacy

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Workplace Privacy

Privacy is something everyone should have the right to. In fact, the First and Fourth Amendment protects this right. As defined by The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition, privacy is the quality or condition of being secluded from the presence or view of others. A major issue evolving in today’s workplace is the invasion of employees’ privacy by the employer. “Everyone has a right to privacy at home, but this right does not include the workplace” (Lokie, 2002, para 3). Many employers have started monitoring the actions occurring by the employees of their company while at work. The main form of monitoring being used today is electronic monitoring. There are three forms of electric monitoring being used by employers; computer-based, telephone, and video surveillance. Other forms of monitoring include genetic, psychological, and drug testing. The following discusses all forms of monitoring as well as what can and cannot be done when dealing with workplace privacy.
Electric Monitoring
Since the ‘80s, electronic monitoring is rapidly becoming popular in today’s workplace. “According to a survey by the American Management Association, 78% of major U.S. firms reported active surveillance of employee activities during the year 2000” (“More Companies,” 2001). Technological advances are key reasons for the uprising in electronic monitoring. Monitoring telephone conversations has become more advanced. Employers can also purchase software that can monitor employee E-mail use, web sites visited, and what computer files the employee has accessed. Video surveillance is also becoming more and more hi-tech. Cameras are so small and easy to install that they may be hidden anywhere and in anything. Electronic monitoring of employees actions may be used in nearly all companies today.
Telephone monitoring. Telephone monitoring is one of the most common forms ...