Jans Maid & Employment Agency’s standing guidance: do not take photographs or videos inside the employer’s home unless the employer has clearly approved the specific purpose.
What must remain private
Do not photograph, film, livestream or make an audio recording of an employer, child, elderly person, visitor or another worker without permission. This is especially important in bedrooms, bathrooms and other private spaces, and during bathing, dressing, medical care or personal conversations.
Household documents, identity cards, medical information, addresses, access codes, keys, CCTV screens and financial information must also never appear in a post or message.
Social media and messaging are both forms of sharing
Posting to TikTok, Instagram or Facebook is not the only risk. Sending media through WhatsApp, Telegram or a private group also creates a copy outside the household. A recipient may save, screenshot or forward it without the sender’s control.
When a family requests an update photo
- Confirm who or what the employer wants photographed.
- Check that the person being photographed is appropriately dressed and comfortable.
- Keep documents, addresses and other private details out of the background.
- Send the image only to the approved person and do not repost it.
A Singapore case helpers should understand
In January 2022, CNA reported that a domestic helper was jailed after recording a vulnerable elderly man during private acts and distributing clips through TikTok and WhatsApp without his consent. The report illustrates that recording and sharing private household moments can cause serious harm and lead to criminal consequences. Read CNA’s report.
A rule is easier to follow when it is discussed early
Employers should explain their household’s photography, video-call and social-media rules during the first days of employment. Helpers should ask whenever they are unsure. A clear question before taking a photo protects the family, the helper and the working relationship.