Beyond Policing: Body Cams in Retail Settings

Body cams, once associated largely with law enforcement, are garnering more use in industries like private security and retail for the accountability and transparency they can provide. In fact, they have become more popular in industries like retail and private security. There are a few reasons for this, including the fact that body cams are so compact and promote accountability and transparency. In fact, body cams have proven their value in improving safety, resolving disputes, and reducing liability for large retail chains, small businesses, and private security firms. Keep reading to explore the reasons behind the growing popularity of body cams in fields beyond policing.

The Rise of Body Cams in Retail

The private security industry has witnessed an increase in body cam adoption over the years. In fact, CNN reports on one study in which 35% of retailers in the United States claimed to be researching body cameras for store employees. One retailer that ran a trial using cameras reported a 53% reduction in incidents compared to shops in which cameras were not used.

There are a few reasons why so many companies are eyeing body cams for private use. Body cams provide an objective record of interactions, allowing for more transparency and reduced misconduct. Body cams foster accountability for everybody involved. Additionally, video footage from these cameras provides valuable evidence in investigations into theft, trespassing, and violent interactions. 

Retail shops aren't the only location where cameras are beneficial. Body cams are especially beneficial for large events, where crowd incidents are more likely, and corporate locations, where high-value areas require monitored access. With the integration of cloud-based solutions, managing and storing this body cam footage is easier than ever for any kind of business.

Body Cams in Retail: A Growing Trend

Retailers are looking for innovative ways to combat loss prevention and address security concerns. Shoplifting rose by 24% in the first six months of 2024, and many more incidents go unreported because retailers believe that law enforcement may not take appropriate action. 

As a result, major retail chains have implemented body cam programs to address theft as well as other issues:

Loss Prevention

Body cams can deter theft, reducing shoplifting and employee theft. In high-risk retail shops, like jewelry stores, bodycams can help prevent targeting.

Customer Dispute Resolution

Retailers can also use body cams to resolve disputes between customers and employees. Recorded footage can clarify misunderstandings, diffuse situations, and protect employees from false accusations. Body cams also provide evidence if violent incidents occur as well as act as a deterrent:  Boots stores, where body-worn cameras were worn consistently, have seen a 45% reduction in incidents of violence and aggression towards store team members.

Employee Safety

Retail employees, including those working late at night or in high-risk areas, benefit from additional protection. Body cams may help employees feel more secure in their roles, knowing that interactions are being recorded—80% of retail workers report feeling unsafe on the job, and over 60% of retail store employees favor body-worn cameras due to feeling safer and more empowered to manage difficult customers. 

Why Body Cams Have Become Popular in These Settings

Several factors have contributed to the rising popularity of body cams in private security and retail settings.  For many reasons, body cams are expected to grow more popular in certain industries.

Technological Advancements

Modern body cams are equipped with more features than ever before. Cloud storage and integration with other applications make cameras extremely versatile. For example, businesses can automatically upload and secure footage, ensuring data is always accessible.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to many traditional security measures, like hiring additional security guards or installing extensive surveillance systems, body cams are often more cost-effective.

Dual Benefits

Additionally, cameras offer the dual benefit of enhancing security while also supporting customer service. Body cams promote safety, transparency, accountability, and professionalism.

Public Acceptance

The general public is growing more supportive of body cam usage, viewing it as a way to ensure fairness and transparency. This growing acceptance makes it easier for businesses to integrate body cams into their operations without facing any sort of pushback.

Legal Considerations

Having recorded footage protects companies from liability and helps support their defenses. Whether it's a customer claim or an employee-related issue, body cams can help manage risks by providing clear evidence.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the many benefits associated with body cams in private industry, there are challenges with implementing bodycams in retail and security settings. These are a few considerations associated with body cams.

Privacy Concerns

Body cams raise legitimate privacy concerns, particularly in environments that involve customers. Businesses must develop clear policies regarding when and where body cameras are used to ensure everybody is informed they are being used.

Data Protection

Storing and managing body cam footage securely is critical to maintaining privacy and compliance with data protection regulations. Cloud-based storage solutions offer convenience but must also be paired with strong data security protocols.

Employee Training

Proper training is essential to ensure that body cams are effective and used ethically. Employees should know not only about the technical aspects of using the cameras but also about privacy considerations and appropriate use.

Usage Policies

In order to train employees properly, it's crucial to develop and enforce clear policies for using these cameras. Your company can avoid misuse by establishing strong protocols.

Implementing the HALOS Body Camera Solution Into Your Business

Body cams are becoming an integral part of retail operations as the demand for accountability and transparency grows, because they have the ability to enhance safety, resolve disputes, and reduce liability for businesses. HALOS offers a comprehensive and secure solution for these needs. Thanks to our evidence management software, you can easily upload and access the audio or video footage you need on a secure cloud server. Our subscription model also means that you don’t have to worry about maintenance or repair on your body cams.

See the difference cloud-based bodyworn cameras can make for your business. Explore HALOS  today.