Glossary > Employment Law > Employee Privacy > Workplace Surveillance And Monitoring

GPS Tracking

GPS tracking in the context of employment law refers to the practice of using Global Positioning System technology to monitor the location and movements of employees during work hours. Employers may use GPS tracking devices installed in company vehicles or mobile devices to track the whereabouts of employees.

Example #1

A delivery company installs GPS tracking devices in their delivery trucks to monitor the routes taken by their drivers and ensure timely deliveries.

Example #2

An employer requires employees to use company-provided smartphones with GPS tracking enabled to track their movements during working hours.

Misuse

Misuse of GPS tracking in the workplace can lead to privacy violations and potential abuse of employees' personal information. For instance, an employer using GPS tracking to monitor employees' movements outside of work hours without their knowledge or consent can infringe on their privacy rights. It's crucial to safeguard against such misuse to protect employee privacy and autonomy.

Benefits

One of the benefits of GPS tracking in the workplace is the ability to optimize operations and enhance efficiency. For example, a transportation company using GPS tracking can better coordinate routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve overall delivery timelines. This can lead to cost savings and improved customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

GPS tracking can be a valuable tool for businesses to enhance productivity and streamline operations, but it's essential to balance its use with respect for employee privacy and rights. Protecting against misuse of GPS tracking is critical to upholding transparency, fairness, and integrity in the workplace.