In short, the answer is yes, CCTV camera systems are designed to record audio in conjunction with images. However, whether or not an employer or a retail location is allowed to record audio is another matter entirely.
Does CCTV camera capture sound?
Are CCTV Cameras Capable of Recording Sound – Yes
Your CCTV system is fully capable of recording sound. Most cameras are either equipped with microphones or have an input for an external mic. For commercial cameras, it's typically the latter. Many CCTV microphones can record quality audio up to six metres away.
How do I know if my CCTV is recording audio?
If you want to tell if a security camera has audio, one of the easiest ways about it is to look around it. Though usually small, the microphone in a camera is generally very easy to spot. It should be around the camera's housing and is most likely a small black dot that is used for picking up sounds.