More Biometrics in the Workplace

Technology has radically changed our perceptions of privacy. This change is evident with the manner we see Gen-Xers and Millenials treat their personal information on MySpace and Facebook. That same level of comfort with technology and openness with private information has entered the workplace.

Employers from McDonalds franchises, to Hilton hotels, to municipalities and to the U.S. Marine Corp are using biometrics to keep track of their employees' time. The information is then automatically sent to the payroll department. From the employer's perspective this can be a valuable tool in that it assures accurate payroll records are kept and, hopefully, minimizes their exposure to wage and hour claims. One employee's reaction, in an article published on www.wcbstv.com, was, "Psychologically, I think it has had a huge impact on the work force here because it is demeaning and because it's a system based on mistrust." (To read more click here)

Although I have read that some employers have taken biometrics to a new level. Apparently, these employers have installed biometric locks on the bathroom doors to monitor the amount of time employees spend in the bathroom. I would love to hear from employees and employers that use biometrics in your workplace and how you feel about it.

The Bottom Line: Technology is going to impact our lives whether we like it or not. The same technology that some find incredibly intrusive also makes it possible for individuals to telecommute and web conference. This is an exciting time in employment law because we are witnesses to a revolution in the workplace. As lawyers and human resources professionals, our world is being rocked as we grapple with new ways to address the issues created by the introduction of technology. I predict this will continue for some time.

Nothing in this Blog should be considered legal advice or to form the basis of an attorney client relationship. Every legal matter can turn on specific facts. Nothing can substitute for the advice of a seasoned legal professional.