The introduction of biometric time clocks has revolutionized the way employers track employee attendance. Many consider it to be a brilliant innovation in workforce management.
A brief history of biometric time clocks
Biometric time clocks made their major debut in the 1980s. Initially, these systems were rudimentary, relying on basic fingerprint recognition. However, in recent years, technological advancements expanded the scope of biometric identification to include facial recognition, iris scans and even voice recognition. While in the past, these types of biometric scans were only seen in movies like Mission Impossible or James Bond, they have now become a reality for many workers..
Navigating the legal landscape
When it comes to the legality of using biometric time clocks, it largely depends on jurisdiction. In the United States, for instance, there is no federal law specifically regulating biometric data. Instead, the legal landscape is a patchwork of state-specific regulations. Employers must navigate these legal nuances carefully, ensuring compliance with state regulations to avoid legal consequences.
Illinois’ biometric privacy laws
In Illinois, there are biometric data laws in place to regulate how employers are allowed to use and store data collected from their employees. Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) sets forth rules that employers are required to follow.
Employers must obtain written consent from employees before collecting data, and that written information must include the employer’s policies about the creation, management, storage and disposal of biometric data. The employer cannot sell or profit from private information.
Employees who work for Illinois businesses can take legal action
BIPA is a unique law that allows employees and consumers to collect financial damages from businesses that have violated their biometric privacy rights.
Illinois employees who are concerned about their privacy should reach out to an employment attorney who specializes in biometric privacy cases like those at USA Employment Lawyers.
Call USA Employment Lawyers today to see how we can help protect your privacy rights.
