| Data Protection Act 1998 |
Data Protection Act 1998This Act of Parliament is an important item of legislation that helps to protect personal data. The Act requires any business or person who handles personal information to comply with certain principles or rules. These are that personal information (Data):
Personal Data is defined as - information about a living individual who can be identified from that information. The Information Commisioner's Office is an independant authority set up to protect personal information as well as promoting access to official information. The ICO also has powers to ensure that organisations comply with the requirements of the Data Protection Act. The following checklist will help you to comply with the Data Protection Act. 1. Do you need to keep information about your clients? Yes you must keep information about your clients that will help you to determine the best type of treatment to meet their needs. 2. Do your clients understand why you will keep personal data? Yes because you will provide a detailed consultation part of which consists of filling in a record card and obtaining your clients' signature 3. Should I pass on personal information to other people? No all information should remain confidential and only be viewed by those people who need access to it when providing treatment 4. Will the information be secure? Yes you must make sure that paper record are filed securely in a locked filing cabinet, drawer or room and computers are password protected 5. Are you sure the information is accurate and up to date? If you refer to your clients' record cards at each appointment you can update the information and make sure it is current and relevant. If a client no longer attends your salon or spa, the records must be shredded or deleted 6. Do all staff understand the implications of the Data Protection Act? Yes you must ensure they are informed of their responsibilities in relation to the Data Protection Act and training provided if necessary
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