## Woolworths NZ Implements Body Cameras for Staff Safety
Woolworths stores across New Zealand are introducing body cameras for staff to wear in an effort to enhance safety. This initiative comes amidst a concerning rise in physical assaults and serious reportable events at the supermarket chain.
The decision to implement body cameras follows a 75% increase in physical assaults and a 148% increase in serious reportable events at Woolworths stores across New Zealand over the past three years. This alarming trend prompted the company to invest in additional security measures, including body cameras, anti-sweep shelves, push-to-talk radios, and trolley lock systems.
Woolworths New Zealand director of stores, Jason Stockill, expressed concern over the need for these measures but acknowledged the importance of strengthening security in stores. He emphasized that staff deserve to feel safe at work and that the abuse and aggression they face from shoplifters and other offenders is unacceptable.
The rollout of body cameras is part of a three-year, $NZD45 million investment program for security measures across all Woolworths stores in New Zealand. The cameras will only be activated during security incidents, and footage will not be released unless requested by police for investigations. Staff are required to inform customers before recording them with the body cameras.
In addition to body cameras, Woolworths NZ is exploring other measures to enhance security. Over the next few months, stores will install secure knife cabinets in produce, deli, butchery, and bakery departments to reduce visibility and accessibility to potential offenders.
This initiative follows a similar move by Woolworths Australia, which reported over 2,000 acts of violence and abuse across its stores since July 2023. The company attributed this rise to the post-COVID era and has invested $40 million in security upgrades, including CCTV, team safety cameras, headsets, and personal duress devices.
Both Woolworths NZ and Woolworths Australia are committed to providing a safe working environment for their staff and are taking proactive steps to address the increasing issue of violence and aggression in their stores.