Privacy in the Workplace

    This notice by the State of Connecticut (https://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/wgwkstnd/laws-regs/statute31-48d.htm) mandates that all employers inform employees of the kinds of electronic monitoring of their activities and communications that may be undertaken at work, and the responsibilities of an employer. Read the notice and decide whether you think it is a reasonable policy. Would it make sense to the average worker? Do you think it is unfair to either party? Security versus Privacy You manage a large, high-end jewelry store with an international clientele. Your workforce of 150 is demographically diverse, and your employees are trustworthy as a rule. However, you have experienced some unexplained loss of inventory and suspect a couple of employees are stealing valuable pieces, removing them from backroom storage safes and handing them off to another person somewhere in the store who leaves with them or to a third person pretending to be a customer. To prevent this, your assistant managers are urging you to place discreet cameras in the restrooms and break rooms, where these exchanges are likely occurring. Some managers might be concerned about using cameras at all due to privacy issues; others might want to use them without notifying employees or putting up signs because they do not want to tip off the suspects or deal with the negative reaction of the workforce (although that brings up invasion of privacy issues). You are weighing the pros of catching the thieves against the possible loss of other employees’ trust. Critical Thinking 1. What issues must you confront as you decide whether you will take the recommendation of your assistant managers? 2. What, ultimately, will you do? Explain your decision.