Air travellers and airport staff have had to endure a lot lately: strike-related flight cancellations, delays and long queues have put a strain on everyone involved. Prior to this, coronavirus measures had already created potential for escalation at airports and posed a safety risk for staff and fellow travellers.
In addition, the pandemic has led to a growing shortage of skilled workers at German airports: between 2019 and 2021, the number of employees in aviation fell by 4%. According to Verdi, there is a 20% shortage of ground staff, compounded by a high sickness rate – partly due to the increase in psychological and physical violence ([source: Fuldainfo](http://Mehr Schutz für Mitarbeitende an deutschen Flughäfen benötigt)). This is because, especially during holiday periods, high travel demand coincides with low staffing levels, which provides a breeding ground for conflicts and escalations. Disrespectful behaviour, threats and physical assaults against staff are therefore becoming more common at airports. Frustration and anger turn into violence: flight cancellations, delays, invalid PCR test certificates or intoxicated passengers are just a few examples of why conflicts arise.
The shortage of ground staff, who are responsible for enforcing strict security measures at airports, also includes federal police officers specialising in aviation security and aviation security assistants employed by private security companies, some of whom take on the tasks of the federal police (passenger and baggage checks). The latter in particular are defenseless against attacks by aggressors. ## More protection needed for employees at German airports In order to nip violent attacks in the bud, a broad-based security network has been established at transport hubs over the years. Video surveillance in places with large crowds and the avoidance of “dark corners” through bright lighting are just a few examples. Body cameras can also be part of this package of measures. At railway stations, on local transport and in municipal law enforcement, it has long been proven that wearing body cameras deters aggressors from further escalating a conflict. What works well at other transport and traffic locations can also make everyday work easier for airport staff. ## Why should body cameras be used at airports?
Body cameras are non-violent tools for all employees in the security sector, offering many functions and advantages: De-escalation instead of mere documentation: In the last of three de-escalation stages, body cameras can not only record conflict situations, but are primarily intended to ensure that video recording is not necessary in the first place. The mere presence of a body cam on the uniform of an airport security employee is intended to deter aggressors and dissuade them from carrying out a planned assault – for example, in conflicts at baggage control.
To further de-escalate a conflictual situation, security personnel can also activate the front display of the body camera so that the other person is reflected in the display – the inappropriate behaviour is held up like a mirror to the troublemaker. Only when the situation gets out of hand is the body camera recording started (after prior warning). Further information on the three de-escalation levels of body cameras can be found here: Body cameras: A non-violent means of de-escalation? (netco.de)
Employee protection: Body cameras can make German airports even safer. The proven de-escalating and deterrent effect of body cameras leads to fewer assaults and accidents at work. This gives staff a greater sense of security in their everyday work, reduces psychological stress and also lowers the sickness rate.
Compensating for staff shortages and absences: If a security employee at the airport is equipped with a body cam, there is no longer a need for two-person shifts, as the body cam provides the employee with protection and evidence preservation at the same time.
Prosecution and admissibility in court: False accusations are often made against staff – it is one person’s word against another’s. Body camera recordings provide concrete evidence as an “objective third party”. Body camera recordings are also tamper-proof and can therefore be used in court.
Data protection compliance: Body cams are only used for specific purposes, so that uninvolved third parties are not filmed (continuously). In addition, the video material cannot be manipulated. It is sent directly to a server, where it can only be viewed by a few authorised persons. If no criminal offence has been committed, videos are irrevocably deleted within a very short time. To ensure that the use of a body camera achieves the desired de-escalating effect, security personnel are trained in its correct use beforehand, for example as part of comprehensive de-escalation training. This training also covers the legal aspects of body camera use.
Private security companies that want to try out a complete body camera solution can also rent the body cameras and accessories on a trial basis. We have compiled further information and a rental calculator here: Contact Body Cam – NetCo Professional Services Ltd
We would like to express our sincere thanks to all participants who contributed to the successful implementation of the 2nd Body Cam Conference. As a long-standing body cam developer, it is our pleasure not only to support our customers and interested parties with technical and organisational questions, but also to offer a platform where users can share their experiences. Find out more about the 2nd Body Cam Conference 2023 here.