As someone who has had employees steal thousands of dollars in expensive specialized tools, I can tell you that people do behave badly behind closed doors and w

As someone who has had employees steal thousands of dollars in expensive specialized tools, I can tell you that people do behave badly behind closed doors and will lie to your face when confronted. For example, around 15 years ago we had these guys steal multiple crimpers ($400 to $800 ea.), CNC cutting tools ($100 to $400 ea.) and accessories in the thousands of dollars. Even seemingly stupid things, like 300 meter rolls of wire. We brought them into the conference room and confronted them with the situation by saying: We know you stole these items (presented a list). If you return them within the next couple of days you will be fired and no charges will be filed. They lied, said they did not steal a thing and were offended by the false accusation. We then played the surveillance videos on the conference room screen. Their tune changed dramatically to admitting what they did and asking forgiveness. Of course, this entire meeting was also recorded. They were given one opportunity to not lie, return what they stole and be fired. Instead, they were arrested. When you are working for a company, privacy isn't to be expected outside of the bathrooms. There are other issues as well. It is really unfortunate that, as a business owner, you are forced to think defensively in these matters. It really is. I am a firm believer in that people are basically good. Mainly because behaving badly in person (let's not talk about online, that's a different matter) can have serious consequences. In that category if you hire women --no reason not to-- you better have security cameras everywhere allowed by law. Why? Because of two things. First, women can be subject to serious sexual harassment. This has to be taken seriously and acted upon. Second, a woman can falsely acuse someone at work of this and absolutely ruin their lives. Video surveillance, if thorough enough, should provide one of the requisite safety layer. Of course, employees have to be made aware of these policies. I don't know if it is a legal requirement (it might be in some jurisdictions), it's the right thing to do. Sadly, we have to use such measures just because of a very small number of idiots who don't seem to have a brain.