Public Bodies

Tools for public agencies

The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) regulates the information and privacy practices of "public bodies" including provincial government ministries, local governments, crown corporations, local police forces, schools, and hospitals to name a few. FIPPA requires public bodies to have privacy management programs and to report to affected individuals and the OIPC any privacy breaches that might reasonably be expected to cause significant harm.

Read on for information about FIPPA and how to comply with the law.

Accountable privacy management for BC's public sector

An effective privacy program is comprehensive and consistent, with clear evidence of how your agency complies with the law. This guidance document will help public agencies build a privacy program step by step.

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Privacy breaches: tools and resources for public bodies

What should you do after a privacy breach? When and how should you report a privacy breach to our office and affected individuals? This guidance document answers these pressing questions.

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Disclosure of personal information of individuals in crisis

BC's privacy laws authorize public bodies to disclose an individual's personal information in emergency situations. This guidance document details the circumstances under which these disclosures can be made.

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Time extension guidelines for public bodies

Submitting a time extension? Use this guide to make sure your application includes all the information we need to review your request.

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Video surveillance guidelines

The OIPC has updated surveillance guidance for the public sector. This is a must-read for any agency considering video or audio surveillance.

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Policies and procedures (FIPPA)

The core policies and procedures of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner are laid out in this handbook, including time extensions, complaints, reviews, and deemed refusals.

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