How CrossCountry Trains is advancing rail security. 

Overview

CrossCountry Trains, a leading Train Operating Company (TOC) in the UK, is committed to ensuring passenger safety, employee well-being, and operational efficiency across its rail network. Facing rising staff assaults and declining confidence among employees and customers, the company sought a modern solution to address these challenges. In March 2023, CrossCountry Trains adopted HALOS Body Cameras, setting a new standard for safety and transparency in the rail industry.

Problem

The rail industry poses unique safety and operational challenges, and CrossCountry Trains faced several pressing issues. Staff assaults had become an increasing concern, jeopardizing the physical and mental well-being of employees. These incidents not only undermined morale but also created a sense of insecurity that impacted overall job satisfaction and productivity.

Customer and employee confidence was another key issue. Antisocial behavior, delays, and incidents of poor service had eroded trust, highlighting the need for visible measures to rebuild assurance in the company’s commitment to safety and service quality.

Compounding these issues was an outdated body camera system that failed to meet their safety and security needs. Problems with reliability, usability, and supplier support left staff with inadequate tools to navigate challenging situations. Darren Hanley, Safety and Security Lead at CrossCountry Trains, explained:

“Our previous body camera system was outdated, supplies became problematic, and we experienced issues with our provider. By seeking a new solution, we hoped to enhance employee confidence, reduce assaults, and increase customer assurance.”

Solution

To address these challenges, CrossCountry Trains implemented the HALOS Body Camera solution, selecting the technology after a rigorous evaluation process. The rollout prioritized employee safety, customer confidence, and operational efficiency through innovative features and exceptional support.

HALOS Body Cameras provided a reliable way to record incidents, deter aggressive behavior, and ensure transparency. The HALOS Vault cloud-based evidence management platform allowed footage to be uploaded and accessed in real-time, facilitating swift action and collaboration with third parties, including British Transport Police.

Key elements of the solution included:

• Advanced Technology: High-quality video recording and seamless data uploads ensured every interaction was captured securely and efficiently.
• Training and Support: Comprehensive employee training and ongoing technical support ensured smooth adoption and integration into daily operations.
• Cost-Effective Implementation: The scalable and flexible approach allowed the company to equip 250 employees with cameras without hidden costs or upfront financial strain.

Results

Since implementing HALOS body cameras, CrossCountry Trains has seen transformative outcomes:

• Safer Work Environment: The cameras served as a deterrent to aggressive behavior, reducing incidents of staff assaults.
• Enhanced Confidence: Both employees and customers reported increased trust in the company’s safety measures and commitment to transparency.
• Streamlined Prosecutions: Recorded footage provided clear evidence for legal proceedings, improving the success rate of prosecutions and strengthening accountability.
• Operational Efficiency: Automated uploads and user-friendly tools streamlined data management and improved response times.