Several grocery stores under the ownership of Sobeys Inc. in Toronto are currently testing the implementation of body-worn cameras.
The retailer confirmed the initiation of a trial program following the identification of bodycams on FreshCo cashiers at a store situated at Sherbourne and Isabella streets.
According to Sobeys spokesperson Caitlin Gray, the cameras are being utilized to address instances of harassment, assault towards employees, deter shoplifting, and prevent other criminal activities.
However, James Turk, the director of the Centre for Free Expression at Toronto Metropolitan University, expressed concerns that the cameras might have an adverse effect by making employees more susceptible to harm rather than enhancing their safety.
Gray mentioned in a statement that Sobeys has observed a notable decrease in violent incidents and aggression towards both employees and customers since the introduction of the cameras in selected locations. She clarified that the bodycams only record when activated during specific incidents and are not used for constant monitoring of employees.
Sobeys has not provided details on the official commencement date of the pilot program.
This initiative aligns with a broader trend, as Loblaw Companies Ltd. also acknowledged conducting a bodycam pilot in some of its stores over the past two years.
Despite this, Turk remains apprehensive about the potential risks posed to employees wearing the bodycams, suggesting that fixed surveillance cameras directed at strategic locations could serve a similar surveillance purpose.
Experts Stress the Importance of Customer Awareness Regarding Bodycam Usage
Privacy experts have raised concerns regarding this practice.
While the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario does not oversee private sector organizations such as grocery stores, they expressed worries that body-worn cameras may collect excessive information.
It was highlighted that informing the public about the use of cameras, the retention period of footage, and the necessity of data destruction were crucial aspects to consider.
The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada emphasized that organizations subject to the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act should ensure public awareness of video surveillance activities and proper handling of recordings.
Sobeys confirmed that stores participating in the pilot program comply with all relevant privacy laws, including the display of appropriate signage.
(Jason Viau/CBC)
On the other hand, Rui Rodrigues, the executive advisor for loss prevention and risk management at the Retail Council of Canada (RCC), expressed support for the adoption of bodycams in retail environments.
Rodrigues highlighted that retailers have experienced rising losses and incidents of violence, indicating a need for enhanced security measures.
Bodycams as a Visible Deterrent Compared to CCTV
Data from a Toronto police dashboard revealed a surge in shoplifting incidents exceeding $5,000 from 32 cases in 2020 to 105 cases in 2024.
Rodrigues emphasized that increased camera presence could deter potential criminals, leveraging the visibility and deterrent effect of the technology.
He emphasized the importance of public visibility monitors and similar tactics that have been utilized by retailers to enhance security.
Rodrigues argued that bodycams offer a distinct perspective in documenting incidents, particularly in capturing images of individuals attempting to conceal their identities during criminal activities.
Despite differing opinions, employees uncomfortable with wearing bodycams were encouraged to communicate their concerns with employers, union representatives, or the Ministry of Labour.
