Taking Fingerprints in School

Though not a problem here in The Bahamas, I am aware that some schools abroad are collecting fingerprints for registration, library book borrowing and catering. It is natural that some persons may be concerned about their fingerprints being used in this way.

What does the Act say?

The Data Protection (Privacy of Personal Information) Act, 2003 (DPA) says that personal data (in this case fingerprints) must be fairly obtained. In other words, the school should ensure that pupils are fully aware of the implications of having their fingerprints taken before doing so. Depending on the level of understanding of the pupils, this may need to involve their parents.

What should I expect the schools to do?

Schools should explain the reasons for needing to collect fingerprints, and how the fingerprints and any other personal details will be used and kept safe. Schools should respect the wishes of pupils and parents who object to school fingerprinting, especially where a card can be used instead of a fingerprint.

Remember “Privacy is the Best Policy.”

Feel free to contact us at dataprotection@bahamas.gov.bs our visit our website www.bahamas.gov.bs/dataprotection to learn more about our mandate to protect the privacy rights of individuals.