From choosing the right cameras to data protection – the key points for effective and legally compliant video surveillance in your business.

Modern video surveillance protects your business against burglary, vandalism and theft – and provides valuable evidence if an incident occurs. However, for a surveillance system to be truly effective and legally compliant, there are several important aspects to consider. This guide summarises the key points for Swiss SMEs.

1. Define the Purpose First

Before purchasing cameras, determine exactly what you want to achieve. Is the aim to deter intruders, monitor entrances, protect an outdoor storage area or secure evidence in the event of an incident?

The intended purpose determines the number, type and positioning of the cameras. Careful planning saves both money and potential problems later on.

2. Choose the Right Camera Technology

Not every camera is suitable for every location. The following criteria are particularly important:

  • Resolution: Sufficient image detail is essential for identifying people or reading licence plates.
  • Night vision: Many incidents occur in low-light conditions. Cameras with high-quality night vision – such as DarkFighter technology – provide usable images even in very low light.
  • Field of view: For large areas, panoramic cameras can be more efficient than installing multiple individual cameras.
  • Intelligent analytics: Modern systems can automatically distinguish between people and vehicles and trigger alarms only when relevant events occur. This significantly reduces false alarms. Find out more about intelligent solutions.

3. Plan Camera Locations Carefully

Critical areas typically include entrances, access roads, storage areas and checkout zones. Make sure cameras are not affected by glare or backlighting and that important areas are covered without gaps.

For property boundaries, perimeter protection can provide early detection and trigger an alarm as soon as an intrusion is detected at the outer boundary.

4. Consider Data Protection and Legal Requirements

In Switzerland, the revised Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) applies. For businesses, this means in particular:

  • Information requirements: Video surveillance must be clearly indicated with clearly visible signage.
  • Proportionality: Only areas that are necessary for the intended purpose may be monitored. Surveillance solely for monitoring employees is particularly sensitive and is generally not permitted.
  • No surveillance of public areas: Pavements, public areas or neighbouring properties must generally not be captured.
  • Limit the retention period: Recordings should only be stored for as long as necessary for the intended purpose and should then be automatically deleted.

This information is intended as general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. If in doubt, we recommend obtaining advice from a qualified specialist.

5. Consider Maintenance and Storage

A camera provides little value if its lens is dirty or recording has stopped. Regular inspections should therefore be scheduled, and recordings should be stored securely using appropriately sized storage capacity.

Conclusion

Effective video surveillance is about much more than simply installing a few cameras. A professional system is carefully planned, technically appropriate and implemented in compliance with applicable legal requirements.

As a certified Hikvision partner, we provide manufacturer-independent advice, plan your surveillance system and take care of installation and maintenance – all from a single source.