Cameras worn on the body, also known as BWCs, have become increasingly popular amongst those working in the police or security services. They provide invaluable evidence in cases of violence or abuse to the wearer. Now, those working in emergency medical services, or EMS, are taking up the use of BWCs for protection and documentation of incidents. This comes in handy particularly when the service have to get in a property that is locked and someone needs help inside. If they get inside without consent then they have it on camera why they have chosen to do that. The best way to gain entry is a Locksmith Dublin company located on sites including locksafe.ie who will then be able to re install new locks.
For those working in the medical profession, especially paramedics or care providers, wearing BWCs can prove useful, but there are five things that users should consider.
1. Improved reporting and documentation
Video from BWCs offers a much more accurate picture of an incident or scenario than word of mouth or written documentation. For those EMS users looking to provide clear, concise and unbiased evidence, BWCs with their video functionality, offers a vastly improved reporting solution. Crucially, with video and audio recording, there’s no chance of error, misinterpretation or misremembering of events or facts.
2. A vital training tool
Video captured from BWCs can offer medical trainees an opportunity to learn first-hand about the job, especially those scenarios that may be high-risk or occur infrequently. According to Training Journal, in training, video provides a unique learning experience unlike any other medium.
3. User policy
It’s essential that EMS users of BWCs understand exactly when they should be wearing the device, and when it should or shouldn’t be activated. Policies regarding this should be devised so that there’s a clear and consistent approach to who uses the cameras and when. Ideally, BWCs should be activated whenever they are worn, so that if the camera is needed, all the necessary information is captured.
4. Data protection concerns
EMS staff will need to consider the security of information when wearing body worn cameras. Patient information is strictly controlled, so EMS organisations need to ensure they have data protection policies in place that prevent the misuse or improper release of video content from BWCs.
5. Storage of video data
EMS leaders will need to think about how they store the video data and files from the cameras, whilst carefully considering the costs and complexities that this may involve. Video storage can be expensive, so seeking the appropriate solution and making sure that this aspect features highly in discussions with other leaders is essential, to ensure the most cost-effective solution all round.