The Problem with end users: Disclaimers and Warnings

PAHU security is not without hazards.  The device could be misused and could cause harm to the user.  The number one hazard would be using the device without observing local, state and federal laws that controlled when, where, and how a person may be videotaped.  This could result in legal action against the user and possible incarceration.  As with any electrical device, PAHU security poses a risk of electrical shock.

Other Minor hazards include improper use of the system.  These include improper installation and setup, improper analysis of results from the camera, possible wireless frequency interference, and inappropriate use of the system, such as use of the client software while driving.  These minor hazards can be easily avoided by instruction on proper use of the camera through user documentation.

The following are links to possible warning images to use in the instructional booklet:

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2d/Warning_for_police_brutality.svg
http://images.cryhavok.org/d/2411-1/Warning+Ubiquitous+Surveillance.jpg
http://jaypgreene.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/shock-warning-logo.jpg?w=450
http://www.diy-alarms.co.uk/catalog/images/haydon_warning_sign.jpg
http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/251239/251239,1235344621,8/stock-vector-caution-high-voltage-25439188.jpg

The following is a disclaimer and warning sheet, which could be useful in manufacturing a disclaimer and warning sheet to package with the PAHU security system, provided by FLIR for one of its cameras:

http://www.che.utah.edu/department_equipment/Projects_Lab/A_IR_Camera/MAN_Important_Information.pdf

The following is a user manual, which also may be useful in compiling a disclaimer and user packet for PAHU, provided with Trailer Eyes, a wireless camera system for use in mobile animal trailers:

http://www.batterybarn.com/te0811%20manual%20s%20.pdf

Possible sample disclaimers for PAHU would look as follows:

Safety Disclaimer

This product should not be used by the driver of a motor vehicle while driving. Always keep your hands free to operate a vehicle while driving. Obey all local laws. Your first consideration while driving should be safety. Follow all instructions provided with the camera system. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, PAHU Security, its subsidiaries and licensors hereby disclaim all liability arising out of any use of this product and its contents.

Safety Warning

·         This product should not be used by the driver of a motor vehicle while driving.

·         Electrical Shock can occur while using this device.  Do not open camera housing or tamper with camera.  Follow instructions provided in section X on powering the camera carefully.

·         Before installation and use ensure all local, state, and federal laws governing the video taping of individuals are understood and followed.  Failure to follow these laws could result in legal action and incarceration.

·         This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual may cause interference to radio communications.

·         Do not disassemble or modify the battery pack or power source on the camera.  This could cause damage to the camera and could result in explosion or exposure to hazardous chemicals.  In the event there is exposure to liquids from the battery pack wash the exposed area thoroughly with water and seek medical attention immediately.

Additional disclaimers:

·         PAHU Security Systems reserves the right to gather anonymous usage statistics to help maintain and improve the quality of our software systems.