Almost all trains in the United States and Western Europe feature security cameras inside the cabs and even externally.
Typically called onboard surveillance cameras, their use is intended to help prevent crime and improve safety for passengers.
The requirement for trains to have security cameras onboard varies by country and by train operator. In some countries, such as the United States, there is no federal mandate for trains to have security cameras, but some individual train operators have implemented them voluntarily.
In other countries, such as the United Kingdom, there is a legal requirement for trains to have security cameras. The decision to install security cameras on trains is typically made by the train operator or the governing body responsible for transportation in a particular country or region.
What are the advantages of security cameras on trains
The advantages of having security cameras in trains include:
Deterring criminal activity: The presence of cameras can act as a deterrent for potential criminals, such as thieves or vandals. When they see the cameras, they’ll think twice before going into action.
Identifying suspects: In the event of a crime, security cameras can provide footage that can be used to identify suspects. In New York City, the police release videos of the suspect right away because there are so many cameras everywhere. No one can actually hide.
Assisting in investigations: Footage from security cameras can be used to investigate crimes or accidents that occur on or near the train. The clips can be used in court in front of a judge or jury.
Increasing passenger safety: Security cameras can help ensure the safety of passengers by providing added security and peace of mind. You have been a passenger and we know you feel a little bit safe if you see cameras monitoring the area.
Monitoring track and platform areas: External cameras can be used to monitor track and platform areas for potential hazards, such as trespassing or debris on the tracks. The information may be useful for the train conductor.
Improving operational efficiency: Cameras can be used to monitor the performance of train staff and improve operational efficiency. Employers tend to be less lazy when there are cameras recording.
Remote monitoring: Camera systems can be connected to the internet and can be accessed remotely by the monitoring team. Usually, big companies have a whole department dedicated to monitoring and maintaining the cameras.
What types of cameras are installed in trains
There are three main types of cameras that are commonly installed in passenger trains, freight trains, subways, or metro:
Dome cameras: These cameras are mounted on the ceiling and have a dome-shaped housing that allows for a wide-angle view. They are often used for monitoring large areas such as train interiors and platforms.
Bullet cameras: These cameras are small and cylindrical in shape, making them ideal for discreet surveillance. They can be mounted on walls or ceilings and can be used to monitor specific areas such as train cars or ticket gates.
PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras: These cameras have the ability to move horizontally, vertically and zoom in and out, allowing them to cover a wide area and capture detailed footage.
They are often used in train stations and subway platforms to monitor activity in multiple areas. Moreover, the security team can remotely control them improving their coverage and response time.
Another difference between the train cameras and other cameras regularly installed in residential or commercial facilities is that they are meant to have a highly durable and weather-resistant design for the exterior and a small form for the interior (not to bother the passengers).
Additionally, these cameras are designed to resist contact vibrations and other factors caused by the train’s operation.
Where are security cameras installed in trains?
Passenger trains feature cameras installed in multiple locations. Some common places where cameras are installed include:
Entrances and exits: Cameras are often placed near train entrances and exits to monitor passenger activity and prevent unauthorized access.
Train interiors: Cameras are installed inside train cars to monitor passenger activity and deter criminal activity.
Platforms and boarding areas: Cameras are installed in platform and boarding areas to monitor passenger activity, ensure the safety of passengers, and monitor the whole train operation,
Driver’s cab: Cameras are installed inside the driver’s cab to monitor the driver’s activity.
The exterior of the train: Cameras are installed on the exterior of the train to monitor track and platform areas.
On-board toilets: Some trains have even cameras in the toilets to deter any kind of inappropriate behavior.
As we said, these cameras are typically connected to a centralized monitoring system that allows for real-time surveillance, which can be used to improve security and investigate incidents.
For freight trains, the placement is pretty simple, the security cameras are installed in the driver’s car and in the exterior part to the tracks ahead, in the loading/unloading area, etc.
How long do trains keep CCTV recordings?
The length of time that trains keep security videos varies depending on the company and the specific regulations they must follow.
Some companies may keep videos for a certain amount usually for at least one month, while others may retain them for up to a year.
In general, the duration of footage retention can range from a month to six months, but in some cases, it can be up to 1 year (even more than that). It can also depend on the legal requirements of the country or region the train operates in.
