I confirm that Ordnance Survey does hold some of the information you have requested. Where the information is not held or exempt from disclosure this is stated.
1. What brand of CCTV cameras are in use? If there are multiple please provide a list
See the response to question 2 below.
2. How many cameras are in list across the estate? (If there are multiple vendors please could you provide a breakdown of how many devices per vendor)
The information you requested at question 1 and 2 is exempt under section 31(1)(a) (Law enforcement) of the FOIA and is therefore withheld, as explained below:
Section 31(1)(a) exempts information if its disclosure would or would be likely to prejudice the prevention and detection of crime; the CCTV cameras at our premises help to ensure the security of our premises and the safety of our staff and visitors; by disclosing this information it could be used by hostile attackers to support an attempt to build up a picture of how OS protects itself against such attacks. Attackers would have knowledge which would assist them in identifying any potential vulnerabilities in the cameras, by revealing the brand and number of cameras, this would enable them to make a targeted attack.
This is a qualified exemption, and we are required to consider the public interest.
OS recognises the need for transparency; and that there is a public interest in knowing that OS has measures in place to prevent crime; however, confirming the number of cameras and the brand could be used to facilitate crime as it would be likely to assist someone in determining the effectiveness of our security systems in place, and could enable them to identify possible vulnerabilities in the cameras, making us vulnerable to a hostile attack on our building, staff and visitors.
Section 31(1)(a) is a prejudice-based exemption, and there is a public interest inherent in avoiding the harm specified. OS considers that the prejudice would be likely to occur. We are not aware of a significant wider public interest in the information requested. As such, we are satisfied there is a greater public interest in protecting our premises, and the safety of our staff and visitors, by withholding the information under this exemption.
3. What is the annual spend on new CCTV cameras?
The annual spend on new CCTV cameras is not held. However, under the duty to provide information and assistance in accordance with section 16 of FOIA, we can advise that the average annual spend is around £3,000.
4. Who is the senior officer (outside of procurement) responsible for this?
The senior officer (outside of procurement) who is responsible for the CCTV cameras is the Security Lead.
5. When did you last replace the cameras?
We do not hold this information. However, under the duty to provide information and assistance in accordance with section 16 of FOIA, we can advise that the cameras are replaced as and when required, following regular maintenance visits by our contractor.
6. When are the existing cameras due to be replaced?
We do not hold this information. However, under the duty to provide information and assistance in accordance with section 16 of FOIA, we can advise that the existing cameras are replaced as and when required following regular maintenance visits by our contractors, who programme the work as and when needed.