Figures supplied to the Committee indicate that not only is the CCTV industry growing, but that the rate of growth is also accelerating. While it is difficult to determine the current extent of video surveillance in the workplace, it is clear that video cameras have become a standard feature of security systems for medium to large organisations. A number of factors help explain this development. First, the cost of video surveillance has fallen to the point where it is now affordable to all but the smallest businesses. Secondly, the range of features offered in video surveillance equipment has widened just as costs have fallen dramatically.
Cameras have powerful remote facilities to pan, tilt and zoom.
A single camera installation is now able to do the work which would once have required the installation of several cameras. Video surveillance technology at the Sydney Football Stadium, for example, is able to focus in on individual spectators within a crowd and within a short space of time generate a printed image of an individual. Many cameras are now also able to produce good quality images in minimal light conditions. Thirdly, the increasingly competitive business environment has made companies look for every possible avenue to reduce costs and improve customer service. Surveillance cameras may be used in a variety of settings to improve business practices and the quality of customer service.