What is the primary role of surveillance cameras in a security setting?

Surveillance cameras are primarily utilized in security settings to monitor activities and deter crime. Their presence in an area serves as a preventative measure against potential criminal acts or unauthorized behavior, as individuals are often aware that they are being recorded and may think twice before committing an offense. Additionally, these cameras enable security personnel to observe live feeds or review recorded footage for suspicious activities, thereby enhancing overall safety and security. The ability to monitor various locations remotely improves response times to incidents and aids in evidence gathering, should an investigation be necessary.

In contrast, the other options focus on administrative or operational roles rather than security. Maintaining personnel records or assisting in employee management is not a function served by surveillance cameras. Similarly, while cameras may indirectly support access control through monitoring, their primary purpose is not to physically restrict access but rather to provide visual oversight in an area.