For Swiss SMEs, security and data protection are two sides of the same coin. Modern video surveillance does more than prevention of break-ins, vandalism and theft. It also bolsters peace of mind and supports the resolution of incidents. At the same time, businesses are subject to strict statutory obligations. Since 2023, the revised Data Protection Act (revDSG) and employment law define precisely where surveillance is permitted, and where it is not. This article gives practical guidance on how SMEs can comply with the law and how Sheriff Security supports you at every step, from planning to maintenance.
Legal Requirements Under the Data Protection Act
All relevant provisions stem from the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (DSG, SR 235.1). Key articles for video surveillance include:
- Art. 6 DSG: Fairness and proportionality
Personal data must be processed lawfully and proportionately. Video surveillance is only permitted if truly necessary, not merely for convenience or excessive monitoring. - Art. 4 DSG: Purpose limitation and data processing
Data must be collected for a set, transparent purpose, understandable to those affected. Surveillance may only be conducted to safeguard people and property, not for monitoring employee behaviour or tracking performance. - Art. 19 DSG: Duty to inform
Individuals must be notified before any data processing occurs. Practically, this means clear signage near all cameras, indicating the purpose, the controller and the retention/deletion period. Required information must be accessible and transparent (Art. 13 DSV, SR 235.11). - Art. 31 DSG: Infringement and justification
Workplace surveillance involves processing personal data and can infringe privacy. It is only permitted where overriding interests exist, such as security or crime prevention and with minimal impact. - Art. 26 ArGV3 (Regulation 3 to the Labour Law, SR 822.113): Employee monitoring is prohibited
Systems that monitor staff behaviour are generally forbidden. Exceptions only apply to genuine operational requirements with minimal intrusiveness.
Other essentials:
- Coverage: According to Switzerland’s Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner, camera coverage must be confined to one’s own premises. Public spaces or neighbouring properties are strictly off-limits.
- Retention periods: Images must only be kept as long as strictly necessary, typically no longer than 24–72 hours (Art. 6, Art. 4 DSG).
- Access rights: Only authorised personnel may access footage (Art. 7 DSG: Data Security).
- Access & deletion: Individuals have the right to know what data is held on them (Art. 25 DSG) and to request deletion (Art. 15 DSG).
- Publication: Video recordings may only be published after gaining consent; recordings of offences should be passed directly to the police (Art. 6 s.3 DSG).
Practice – Sheriff Security Solutions for SMEs
Sheriff Security supports Swiss SMEs through every phase of video surveillance deployment: planning, installation, compliance and ongoing support, ensuring all solutions remain fully compliant.
1. Needs Assessment & Planning
Sheriff Security works closely with clients to clarify which areas may be monitored, in accordance with Art. 6 DSG and Art. 26 ArGV3. Consultation and risk assessment guarantee that all systems meet legal requirements.
2. Technology & Installation
Sheriff Security delivers bespoke solutions for SMEs, including:
- High-definition IP cameras and digital network recorders
- Data protection features, such as privacy masking and role-based access control (Art. 7 DSG)
- Official signage satisfying the requirements of Art. 19 DSG
- Seamless integration into existing IT infrastructure or cloud-based solutions with Swiss hosting for enhanced data security
- Integration of video cameras into general building and property security infrastructure
3. Documentation & Compliance
On request, Sheriff Security will prepare comprehensive video surveillance regulations for your business, in line with the Data Protection Act and Labour Regulations, including all necessary technical and organisational protective measures (Art. 5 DSG).
4. Maintenance & Service
Regular maintenance, software updates, compliance checking, and legal adaptation of your system guarantee sustained data security and regulatory compliance.
Costs and Value for Money (Sheriff Security Offering)
Sheriff Security provides transparent and bespoke quotes, tailored to your individual protection requirements.
As stated on Sheriff Security’s “Video Surveillance Systems” page:
- Entry-level packages with a few cameras and compliant setup begin at CHF 590 per camera, including installation, configuration, data protection guidance, and documented deletion processes.
- Expanded solutions with multiple cameras, access control, alarm systems, and cloud integration can be scaled for SMEs of all sizes.
- The Sheriff Starter Package includes:
- Three full-HD IP cameras
- Network recorder and storage media
- All required data protection notices and regulations
- Personalised installation, staff training, and compliance checking
- Support contract and system maintenance for compliance and updates
Precise costs are provided after risk assessment and according to individual need, ensuring your investment remains affordable and efficiently meets your security requirements.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Video surveillance is a valuable tool for Swiss SMEs. But it must always be used in line with statutory provisions (Art. 6, 19, 31 DSG; Art. 26 ArGV3) and for a clearly defined purpose. Sheriff Security offers expert advice, certified technology, and fully customised service packages, enabling you to ensure both compliance and effective security.
Recommendations:
- Before installation, review and document the precise surveillance purpose and coverage areas (Art. 4, 6 DSG).
- Use certified technology enabling deletion and controlled access (Art. 7 DSG).
- Make your workforce and third parties aware of all systems, using clear notices (Art. 19 DSG).
- Consult with professionals to avoid mistakes and costly fines.
For further details or personalised advice, visit Sheriff Security’s website for insights into video surveillance and data protection, or explore our in-depth blog articles.
FAQs
Who is permitted to install video surveillance in Switzerland, and what must be observed?
Video surveillance may be installed by owners or operators of business premises, providing there is a legitimate and clearly defined purpose (e.g., staff protection, crime prevention). According to Art. 4 para 1 DSG, monitoring must only cover your own property. Public spaces or neighbouring premises are prohibited to monitor.
What is the duty to inform employees and customers?
Under Art. 19 DSG, anyone affected must be informed prior to data being processed. This is achieved through readily visible signage in all monitored areas, detailing the controller, the purpose of surveillance and the retention period. Employees must be informed in full via separate channels.
How long may video footage be retained?
Retention periods must be kept to the legal minimum (Art. 6 DSG: proportionality). As a rule, footage may be kept for up to 24–72 hours unless a specific incident justifies longer retention. Once the purpose lapses, recordings must be deleted immediately (Art. 15 DSG).
May staff or customers be subject to continuous monitoring?
No, continuous surveillance is prohibited. In accordance with Art. 26 ArGV3 and Art. 31 DSG, monitoring which invades personal rights is only permissible for genuine safety reasons and with minimal intrusion. Employees must not be filmed for performance assessment or behavioural control.
What does a professional video surveillance system for SMEs cost?
Costs depend on the number of cameras, installation complexity and the chosen technology. Sheriff Security’s starter package, including three HD cameras and installation, costs approx. CHF 1,770–2,000. Bespoke systems with specialised functions or higher capacity will be priced according to specific requirements, with all fees transparently calculated.
What rights do individuals have regarding video recordings?
Under Art. 25 DSG, anyone recorded has the right to know what footage exists and why. They may also request deletion under Art. 15 DSG, unless a legitimate purpose remains. Recordings may only be published with explicit consent.
