Refuse workers wear body cams
BODY cameras have been issued to staff at two Leicestershire rubbish tips after an increase in abuse and threats from members of the public.
Workers at Oadby and Barwell recycling and household waste centres are trialling the cameras after 39 reported “incidents of aggression” towards county council staff in the past 12 months.
Staff in the department’s highways delivery and infrastructure planning teams have also been given the devices.
The cameras are visible and staff will be able to warn people that the camera is going to be switched on in the event of threats or other loutish behaviour.
The trial started in August and will run until February 2019, following which an evaluation will take place to assess the impact.
Cabinet member for environment, Councillor Blake Pain said: “The rise of assaults on public sector staff is to be deplored and we’re responding to that.
“We have staff that do unfortunately receive abuse from a small minority of members of the public and we’re seeking to protect them by issuing these body cameras.
“The Ministry of Justice have just changed the sentencing with regards to police officers and paramedics. I’m not entire- ly sure if the changes apply to staff at public service centres, but I hope they do.
“The cameras mean we’ll be able to get evidence of those assaults and take necessary action.”
Depending on the success of the trial, the cameras may be rolled out more widely across the department.
A Leicestershire County Council spokesman said: “Following a rise in incidents of abuse and threatening behaviour, we are trialling the use of body-worn cameras for frontline staff in our environment and transport department.
“As well as providing evidence of criminal activity and threatening behaviour, it is hoped that the cameras will act as a deter- rent to potential offenders to stop events from escalating, improving the safety of staff and members of the public.”