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Prepare or Beware as Data Protection Laws Change

11 August 2017 | Updated 01 January 1970
 

With the countdown to the new European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and their enshrinement in UK law (via the proposed Data Protection Bill)  well underway, audit, tax and consulting firm RSM is urging FM, construction and other service companies companies to complete their preparation to avoid the risks arising from non-compliance.

The regulations, which come into force on 25 May 2018, will transform how contractors store and manage personal data.  Failure to comply with the new rules could see them face significant penalties of up to four per cent of annual global turnover.

The new legal framework is the biggest change to data privacy legislation in over two decades and aims to protect EU citizen’s personal data, regardless of borders or where the data is processed.

An important factor is to ensure a company’s data processes protect the rights of individuals. Therefore, an organised data protection programme will need to be established, with all data activities accurately recorded. This obligation extends to any third-party contractors or partners working with a business and will present companies with much greater legal liability in the event of error.

A specific sector issue brings additional complications surrounding Joint Ventures, raising uncertainty around who is responsible for managing and protecting stored and shared consumer data. Sufficient GDPR protocols such as clear data sharing agreements must therefore be established by cooperative business entities in advance of undertaking projects.

Steve Snaith, technology risk assurance (TRA) partner at RSM, said: "In a growing digital economy, where data can be collected and stored within seconds, there is more risk of cyber security breaches. Therefore it’s increasingly important to make sure clear processes and safeguards are put in place to protect both clients and suppliers.

"Although GDPR is a welcome attempt to curb growing fears around how companies use and manage personal information, the new framework will drastically affect the future of stored personal data and increase company accountability. Service businesses, which are vast employers, must make sure they are ready for what lies ahead and not get caught out, as the financial and reputational risk could be significant.’

Picture: On Aug 7, the government committed to updating and strengthening data protection laws through a new Data Protection Bill which will see UK law fall in with the European General Data Protection Regulation

Article written by Cathryn Ellis | Published 11 August 2017

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