New CCTV guidelines for gyms to protect privacy announced

The data protection commissioner’s office announced on Monday new measures and guidelines for the use of CCTV cameras in gyms.

In a statement, Data Protection Commissioner Irene Loizidou Nicolaidou said it is important to have a balance between security and privacy, adding that the operation of CCTV must be done with respect for the rights of the subjects.

The audits carried out aimed to assess the legality of the establishment and operation of the CCTV in gyms and focusing on the rights of customers and employees.

According to the announcement from Loizidou-Nicolaidou’s office, the operation of CCTV should be limited exclusively to securing the premises, without unduly interfering with the privacy of individuals.

CCTV is permitted in specific areas such as at the entrance and exit of the gym, in the parking lot if it is under the responsibility of the gym, around the perimeter of the gym, the reception area, focusing exclusively on the cashier.

CCTV is not allowed in areas where recording would violate the privacy of individuals, such as in areas with machines and where customers exercise, in the kitchen, in toilets and changing rooms and in offices.

The announcement said that audio recording is not permitted under any circumstances, as this would constitute an excessive intrusion into the privacy of individuals.

Access to audiovisual material must be strictly limited to monitors or computers within the gym premises, to which only the director or other authorised person has access. Access to the material from personal devices or on an ongoing basis is not permitted.