Clarification on the Law regarding internet monitoring in the workplace
According to Part 3 of the Employment Practices Code, issued by the Information Commissioners Office employers who can justify monitoring on the basis of an impact assessment (identifying the purpose behind monitoring etc) will not generally need the consent of individual workers.However, to be able to act on information collated it is important that employees have (and are made aware of) a clear internet use policy which unequivocally states what is expected.
Further to this and to ensure that no lines are blurred with the Human Rights Act, it is recommended that before a Web Filtering solution is put in place a web use policy is circulated informing employees that their internet activity will be monitored to ensure that the policy is being adhered to.
See Also
PC & Technology Acceptable Use Policy - (Word Doc)
