The body worn cameras now form part of an inspector’s operational equipment during worksite visits or while undertaking compliance and investigation activities.

The use of the cameras brings SafeWork SA in line with similar agencies and will:

• support the safety of inspectors by encouraging safe and mutually respectful interactions
• reduce disputes and enable complaints to be easily investigated and resolved by reviewing relevant footage
• support transparency and accountability for Inspectors while administering their duties and exercising their powers.

The body worn cameras can be fitted to the front of inspectors’ uniforms and will be clearly visible during an interaction.

The footage captured by the camera will assist inspectors with their enquiries and investigations involving workplace incidents.

Inspectors have been trained in the use of the cameras and they will clearly advise the person(s) of the presence of the camera and the intention to record video and audio of their actions and conversations.

The recordings will be stored in a secure evidence management system with controlled access.

SafeWork SA Executive Director Glenn Farrell said the vision and audio recorded by the cameras will help strengthen the agency's investigation capabilities.

'The use of body worn cameras is an extension to our inspector’s function of monitoring and securing compliance as well as increasing their personal safety by encouraging civil interactions,' he said.

Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector Kyam Maher said the use of body worn cameras brings SafeWork SA into line with other investigative agencies.

'Body worn cameras are another tool to help keep South Australian workers, as well as SafeWork SA inspectors, safe at work,' he said.