BVG — Berliner Verkehsbetriebe
The organization
Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG), the public transport organization for Germany’s capital Berlin, is launching a twelve-month pilot project to introduce body cams for security staff. The use of body cams at key stations and throughout the entire subway network is intended to prevent and defuse conflict situations and better clarify incidents. The aim is to make public transport in Berlin safer and cleaner. The pilot phase initially comprises 18 body cams.
Body-Cam application
Start:
2024
Main objective:
Improving safety and cleanliness on public transport.
Area of application:
Main stations of the subway lines U7 and U8, as well as in the entire subway network
Feedback:
In 2023, the BVG recorded a decrease of 88 cases of assaults on employees compared to the previous year. Assaults on security staff also decreased by around 54 percent. Nevertheless, every attack is one too many. BVG therefore relies on innovative technologies such as body-cams to optimize the deployment of its security staff.
The effect of body-cams has been proven in an evaluation study. Find out more from Dipl.-Psych. Dipl. oec. Udo Kluttig from LOGO Bochum: LOGO Bochum
During the twelve-month test phase, at least one person in each pre-trained team will be equipped with a body-cam. The small and lightweight devices weigh only around 180 grams and record video sequences. The cameras are not activated continuously, but are only switched on after an audible signal and only in necessary situations. The data is stored for up to 48 hours in accordance with data protection regulations.
More on the use from the BVG itself: Well equipped with safety
Article on the deployment from RBB: BVG to equip security service with bodycams from Monday