Train operator Northern are introducing over 350 body-worn cameras for staff in the North of England.
Although the cameras will not be recording all the time, they will be used to capture ongoing incidents, or to help secure evidence for British Transport Police.
Staff will be able to take photos as well as video, and will provide enhanced protection for railway staff who may come across threatening behaviour.
A trial of body cameras with British Transport Police and Cambridge University was carried out in 2017.
Following that trial, staff at 20 railway stations, plus conductors and revenue staff, can now volunteer to use the cameras.
Mark Powles, Commercial and Customer Director at Northern, said: “We have already improved CCTV at many of our stations, and on our trains, to enhance security. The use of body-worn cameras is the next step to tackle any potential anti-social or criminal behaviour.”
“Thankfully, the rail network is relatively crime free, yet we are absolutely committed to making our trains and stations as safe as possible and the new cameras will help us achieve this.”
Chief Inspector Lorna McEwan of BTP said: “A trial using body-worn video cameras showed a significant reduction in assaults against rail staff.”
“This is really positive step by Northern. As well as reducing incidents of assault on rail staff, by helping to diffuse situations, body worn cameras also reassure the public as they travel through stations and on trains.”
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Will there be more cameras added in the future?
That is a brilliant idea. Especially when being confronted by abusive passengers whilst on the train and at railway stations.