ScotRail extends body camera use

ScotRail is planning to tackle anti-social passenger behaviour across its network through a £1.6 million investment.

It has tripled the number of body-worn cameras by staff (from 350 to 1,000).

It also plans to increase the number of frontline staff, particularly on late night trains on key routes for added security.

Body-worn cameras were introduced in 2017, with ScotRail finding that customers positively changed their behaviour when they were informed that they were being recorded.

In providing evidence on assaults on staff, the devices also result in successful prosecutions.

David Lister, ScotRail Safety, Engineering and Sustainability Director, said: “By increasing the number of units available to our people, it means that anyone who wants to use a body camera has the option to do so. 

“Safety is our top priority, and together with our Travel Safe Team, these cameras play a crucial role in ensuring a secure work environment for our customers and colleagues.” 

Jim Gray, RMT ScotRail Co-ordinator, added: “It’s great to see ScotRail increasing the number of units available for frontline staff to more than 1,000, meaning a camera is available for anyone who wants one."