Thirteen Tips for Implementing a Bodycam Program in Prisons
Implementing body-worn cameras in the prison industry can significantly enhance safety, accountability, and transparency. Combined with fixed cameras, they offer optimal and varied viewpoints, providing comprehensive coverage and improved oversight. To assist correctional professionals in making informed decisions during the purchasing process, here are thirteen comprehensive tips to consider.
1. Set Clear Goals
Determine the primary objectives of your body-worn camera programme. Whether enhancing officer safety, reducing incidents, or improving transparency, having clear goals will guide the implementation process. Measure goals with before-and-after metrics, such as the number of incidents or complaints.
2. Conduct a Needs Assessment
Identify your facility’s specific needs. This assessment will assist you in customising your body-worn camera programme to meet your environment’s distinct challenges and requirements. Additionally, it is crucial to consider the specific requirements of prisons and prisoner transport. For prisoner transport, a live-streaming solution is optimal, providing real-time monitoring and enhanced safety.
3. Select Comprehensive Solutions
Choose a body-worn camera solution with a robust camera, user-friendly video management software, and secure hosting options. Ensure the equipment is durable and reliable and the software is adaptable to your procedures, facilitating easy data management and retrieval. The hosting solution should meet military-grade security standards, whether cloud-based or on-premise. Opt for a provider that offers an open platform for (future) integrations with Video Management Systems, combining CCTV with fixed cameras and bodycam footage.
4. Consider Your IT Setup
Decide between cloud-based or on-premise hosting solutions. Each option has unique benefits and challenges, so choose the one that best fits your facility’s infrastructure and security needs. For on-premise options, determine the methods for system monitoring and software updates.
5. Develop Clear Policies and Conduct a DPIA
Establish comprehensive policies for camera usage, data storage, and access. Conduct a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) to identify and mitigate privacy risks. Ensure policies comply with legal standards and respect privacy rights.
6. Provide Comprehensive Training
Offer thorough training for all staff members who will use the bodycams. Training should cover camera operation, data management, and recording interactions’ legal and ethical considerations. Regular refresher courses will help maintain high standards.
7. Ensure Data Security
Implement robust data security measures to protect recorded footage from unauthorised access. Secure storage and the highest military encryption standards safeguard sensitive information.
8. Offer Flexible Mounting Options
Choose versatile mounting options to ensure staff can securely and comfortably wear cameras. This flexibility promotes consistent and effective use of the cameras.
9. Conduct Regular Reviews and Audits
Review and audit the body-worn camera programme regularly to ensure compliance with policies and identify areas for improvement. Continuous oversight helps achieve the programme’s objectives.
10. Engage Stakeholders
Involve all relevant stakeholders in the planning and implementation process, including officers, administrative staff, inmates, and legal representatives. Open communication builds trust and supports successful implementation.
11. Evaluate and Adapt
Continuously evaluate the bodycam programme’s effectiveness by collecting and analysing data on incidents, usage patterns, and feedback. Use this information to make necessary adjustments and improvements.
12. Consider Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
Evaluate the total cost of ownership (TCO) when selecting a body-worn camera solution. Although initial costs may seem attractive, consider ongoing expenses such as subscriptions, storage, maintenance and software updates. Assess the cost per year to ensure the programme remains financially sustainable.
13. Choose an Experienced Supplier
Select a supplier with proven experience in the corrections industry. Ensure they comply with relevant laws such as GDPR and NIS2. The supplier should offer comprehensive, prompt support and flexible solutions to meet your facility’s requirements. Also, please make sure they provide an open platform for future integrations with systems like CCTV and emerging technologies.
ZEPCAM: Excellence in Bodycam Technology and Service Across 40 Countries
ZEPCAM’s bodycams, serving over 600 customers in 40 countries, combine advanced technology with excellent service, all while adhering to EU GDPR standards. Discover ZEPCAM’s commitment to elevating frontline operations and get in touch with one of our experts to guide you.
Explore further
“Choosing the Right Bodycam: The 12 Most Important Software Requirements” for a comprehensive overview of essential software considerations.
