Tracking vehicles using GPS systems can improve business efficiency by improving performance and reducing the cost of insurance, and can make fleet management much easier. Typically the tracking systems will record information such as times, date, location and speed. This information may be analysed immediately or when the journey is over, depending on the type of tracking system installed. This allows employers to review their employees’ daily efficiency.
However, it is imperative to ensure that any tracking system implemented is compliant with the law. GPS tracking systems can contravene the Data Protection Act 1998, or the Human Rights Act if not implemented correctly.
The Law Explained
This Act applies whenever collecting data that is considered personal. If the data has an impact or could have an impact on the employee personally or professionally and can be linked back to them, it is personal. Personal data must be processed fairly and lawfully, should never be kept for longer than necessary and should only be obtained lawfully. The data that is collected must be relevant to improving business performance or it may fall foul of the Data Protection Act.
Employers must discuss their plans to implement tracking devices on vehicles with their employees, and obtain their prior approval for the system. It is extremely important for employers to ensure that their employees are aware of the tracking devices being installed, what data is being tracked and for what purposes.
Employers can legally install a tracking device on business vehicles that are also used for private purposes, but the Human Rights Act means that those tracking systems must have a privacy button which allows the individual to turn off the data collection outside of working hours.
Reducing Fleet Costs and Performance Legally
Tracking systems can only be used to help companies increase their revenue and prevent accidents. They are not a tool to track employees or their activities. They can assist with the reduction of accidents and reduce fuel costs due to the ability to carry out better route planning and evaluations. There are a number of different products on the market providing a wide range of choice, such as http://www.vehicle-accessories.net/Driver-Recording-Systems.
Tracking systems are an invaluable tool for many companies, but employers are obliged to ensure that they are legally compliant.