Covert surveillance cameras used to spy on staff at SA Pathology were inappropriate but no laws were breached, an independent investigation has found.
SA Health admitted in December it had been using cameras hidden in smoke detectors to monitor its staff at an Adelaide premises.
Two cameras were installed in October at offices in Frome Road as part of an investigation into processing delays for pathology reports.
The cameras were dismantled in December, and regular cameras were installed.
At the time Health Minister Jack Snelling said the decision was a lapse in judgement by SA Pathology management and asked its chief executive David Swan to investigate.
Mr Swan said while the investigation found the use of the surveillance cameras may not have been appropriate, no laws were breached.
“The investigation has found that the camera equipment was installed due to suspicion of tampering with pathology results, therefore putting patient care at risk,” Mr Swan said.
“The cameras did not have the capability to record audio and therefore did not breach the Listening and Surveillance Devices Act 1972.
“However the decision to use covert surveillance equipment was made without consultation or approval from executive level management or human resources.”
Mr Swan said whatever the intentions behind the surveillance activity, it was ill-advised.
“We’re now in the process of developing a new policy governing the use of surveillance equipment across SA Health to ensure this kind of situation does not happen again,” Mr Swan said.
Under the new policy, any cameras installed in the workplace must be clearly visible and staff must be aware of their presence.
In future, if criminal activity or misconduct is suspected covert surveillance will only be undertaken following guidance from SAPOL, and the SA Health chief executive’s authority.