Appendix 1: Context and relevant provisions - Standard 25 – Surveillance

Surveillance may be used to gather information to inform decision-making with respect to liability and other entitlements.

Surveillance plays a small but important role in the workers compensation scheme; however, it can significantly erode worker trust and must therefore be used judiciously.

Surveillance refers to the covert monitoring and recording of behaviour using photography, video recording, direct observations and social media monitoring.  Surveillance is used to observe and record a worker’s activities and capabilities.

Surveillance services should only be used when information is required that cannot be obtained from other, less intrusive, means. The insurer is to rely on sound information when identifying the need for surveillance and is not to rely on hearsay, innuendo or rumour.

Surveillance is to be conducted in an ethical manner and any information obtained is to be used and stored appropriately.