‘Accountability framework’ is a term often used in relation to compliance with data protection and many may wonder what it means, especially with regards to their own data protection practices.
Accountability is a key principle in data protection legislation. Complying with and demonstrating compliance is important – and using the accountability framework means compliance can be checked and demonstrated in accordance with what is appropriate and proportionate for each business and its data use, allowing risks to be accordingly recognised and managed.
What is the accountability framework?
The accountability framework is a concept designed by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). It allows organisations to self-check their accountability against the framework, identifying areas of data protection where their processes may not be fully compliant.
The accountability framework is divided into 10 categories:
- Leadership and oversight
- Records management and security
- Contracts and data sharing
- Training and awareness
- Transparency
- Individuals’ Rights
- Records of processing and lawful basis
- Breach response and monitoring
Each category offers advice on data protection elements that may be relevant to organisations dependent on their practice and use of data. Businesses may find it useful to compare the accountability framework to their own practices and consider appropriate next steps, whilst creating responsibilities or recommendations to take forward.
Who should use the accountability framework?
All organisations will find the accountability framework relevant to them and their data protection processes, whether they are an SME or blue chip corporation. It could be a data protection officer checking relevant processes, procedures and policies are in place or a member of staff with records management responsibilities wanting to be sure they are following correct advice in accordance with the legislation.
In short, the accountability framework will allow you to check your data protection processes are compliant with legislation. The ICO also offers resources such as the data protection self-assessment toolkit, which may benefit those in smaller businesses or sole traders.
Whilst the accountability framework covers a lot of ground in data protection, it does not guarantee compliance, and this can be recognised by using the accountability tracker. If any procedures, processes or policies have been highlighted in the framework and you need assistance to stay on track with legislation compliance, do get in touch with us. Our data protection remit covers all the accountability framework features and more and our expertise can help guide your organisation into remaining compliant and committed to your accountability in data protection.
