In recent years, violence in public spaces, especially on public transport, has increased at an alarming rate. Employees of transport companies and passengers are increasingly becoming victims of verbal or even physical assaults. To counteract this development, more and more transport companies are turning to body-cams – small cameras worn on the body that record events and serve both to de-escalate situations and to preserve evidence. ## Alarming figures on the increase in violence Current statistics paint a worrying picture: In 2023, around 85,400 violent crimes were reported in Austria alone – another record high. In Germany, there were even more than 200,000 registered violent crimes. Professional groups that work in safety-critical areas on a daily basis are particularly affected, including drivers, inspectors and security personnel in public transport.
A recent study by the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) highlights the problem: 67% of public sector employees in Germany have been insulted, verbally abused, threatened or even attacked while at work in the last two years. Similar trends can also be observed in Austria and Switzerland. The rising number of incidents makes it clear that new security concepts are urgently needed.
Body-Cams as a solution The use of body-cams is considered an effective measure to prevent violence on public transport and to document attacks on staff. Back in 2018, Wiener Linien launched a pilot project in which employees were equipped with body-cams. Experience shows that simply wearing a visible camera is often enough to deter potential aggressors. In Germany, too, more and more transport companies are following suit: in cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, Munich and Frankfurt, body-cams are now an integral part of the security strategy. Numerous studies and experience reports show that body-cams help to defuse conflicts and reduce attacks.
The advantages of body-cams in public transport at a glance De-escalation: The visible camera acts as a deterrent and can prevent potential attacks. Preservation of evidence: In serious cases, the recordings provide valuable evidence for investigations. Protection of staff: Employees feel safer and can work with less stress.
Increased conviction rate: The video recordings can help bring perpetrators to justice. Better working conditions: Fewer assaults lead to a more pleasant working environment for public transport staff.
Data protection and legal aspects: What to consider when using body-cams However, the use of body-cams also raises questions about data protection. It is important that the cameras are not activated permanently, but only in dangerous situations. In Germany and Austria, there are strict regulations governing the storage and use of recordings.
Data protection experts emphasise that body-cams must be used in accordance with applicable laws. Clear regulations on the storage and processing of videos are crucial to prevent misuse while ensuring the protection of passengers and staff.
Conclusion: Body-Cams as an important step towards greater safety on public transport The alarming statistics from Germany and Austria make it clear that violence on public transport is no longer an isolated incident. Innovative security concepts are needed to protect both passengers and staff. Body-Cams have proven to be an effective preventive measure in many cities – and could play an even more important role in the future.
Transport companies should therefore not only rely on traditional security measures, but also use modern technologies to curb violence and make public transport safer for everyone. Secure a free consultation