Tesco is set to equip its delivery drivers with body-cams.

The supermarket retailer successfully trialled the cameras in Hull, which reduced the number of incidents against delivery drivers, and is set to roll out more in the upcoming year.

Ashwin Prasad, Tesco UK‘s chief executive, said: “Nobody should have to face verbal or physical abuse at work, and the rollout of body-worn cameras will help us protect our drivers, deter would-be offenders and reduce the number of serious incidents.

“The safety of our customers and colleagues will always be our first priority, and we are making significant investments to make sure we lead the way in tackling retail crime and ensure everyone feels safe whenever they shop with Tesco.”

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Trade union Usdaw welcomed the decision as part of Tesco’s commitment to keeping staff safe.

The retailer worked with its delivery driver colleagues to respond to their need for additional technology to help them feel safer while making deliveries.

Daniel Adams, national officer for the trade union Usdaw, added: “Usdaw regularly engages with Tesco on its ongoing efforts to protect retail workers from the continued threat of abuse and violence.

“Our customer delivery driver reps have consistently pointed out that this is an issue that extends beyond stores, with drivers being particularly vulnerable. Therefore, this investment in bodycams is to be welcomed given the clear evidence that they significantly reduce the risks of abuse and violence for those that wear them.”

Additionally, Usdaw and Tesco welcomed the changes to the Government’s Crime and Policing Bill, which includes the singular offence of assaulting a retail worker.